Strengthening Oversight of DHS Intelligence Act

Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.

Bill 119 HR 2261, also known as the Strengthening Oversight of DHS Intelligence Act, aims to enhance the oversight of intelligence activities within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 9, 2021, by Representative Elissa Slotkin from Michigan.

The main purpose of this legislation is to ensure that the intelligence activities conducted by DHS are in compliance with the law and respect the civil liberties of individuals. The bill seeks to strengthen the role of the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) by requiring regular reporting to Congress on its activities and ensuring that any intelligence products produced by DHS are thoroughly reviewed for accuracy and legality.

Additionally, the bill calls for the establishment of an independent oversight board to provide additional scrutiny of DHS intelligence activities. This board would be composed of experts in intelligence and civil liberties and would have the authority to review and assess the effectiveness of DHS intelligence programs. Overall, the Strengthening Oversight of DHS Intelligence Act aims to improve transparency and accountability within DHS intelligence operations, ensuring that they are conducted in a lawful and ethical manner. The bill is currently under consideration in the House of Representatives and has garnered bipartisan support for its efforts to enhance oversight of DHS intelligence activities.