Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act

3/14/2025, 3:38 AM

Summary of Bill HR 901

Bill 119 hr 901, also known as the "Research and Development Safeguarding Act," aims to enhance the protection of sensitive information in research and development acquisitions within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The bill specifically requires the Under Secretary of the Science and Technology Directorate of DHS to establish a comprehensive policy and process to prevent unauthorized access to or disclosure of sensitive information.

The primary goal of this legislation is to safeguard research and development projects from potential threats and ensure that valuable information remains secure. By implementing a Department-wide policy, DHS can better protect its research and development acquisitions and prevent any unauthorized access that could compromise national security.

In addition to safeguarding sensitive information, the bill also aims to enhance transparency and accountability within DHS. By establishing clear guidelines and procedures for protecting research and development projects, the department can ensure that all activities are conducted in a responsible and secure manner. Overall, the Research and Development Safeguarding Act seeks to strengthen the security measures surrounding research and development acquisitions within DHS, ultimately enhancing the department's ability to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access or disclosure.

Congressional Summary of HR 901

Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act

This bill requires the Science and Technology Directorate in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop a department-wide policy for safeguarding research and development from unauthorized access or disclosures of sensitive information in related acquisitions.

Additionally, the Government Accountability Office must report on the compliance of DHS with a 2021 presidential memorandum and related guidance that required certain disclosures about government-funded research and development (e.g., conflicts of interest involving foreign governments).

Current Status of Bill HR 901

Bill HR 901 is currently in the status of Introduced to Senate since March 11, 2025. Bill HR 901 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 31, 2025.  Bill HR 901's most recent activity was Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. as of March 11, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 901

Total Number of Sponsors
8
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
8
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 901

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 901

To require the Under Secretary of the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security to develop a Department-wide policy and process to safeguard research and development from unauthorized access to or disclosure of sensitive information in research and development acquisitions, and for other purposes.To require the Under Secretary of the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security to develop a Department-wide policy and process to safeguard research and development from unauthorized access to or disclosure of sensitive information in research and development acquisitions, and for other purposes.
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