Securing Access from Foreign Entities Visiting Internal Sites in the States Act; SAFE VISITS Act
Summary
The SAFE VISITS Act aims to enhance national security by requiring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide threat analyses and guidance to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments regarding visits from foreign nationals. This includes identifying high-risk targets and providing vetting assistance. The Act mandates annual reports to Congress on these activities.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase scrutiny of foreign nationals seeking access to government officials, information, and facilities at the state, local, tribal, and territorial levels. This could lead to improved threat detection and mitigation. It may also create additional administrative burdens for both DHS and the governments receiving the guidance.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced security for state, local, tribal, and territorial government officials and infrastructure.
- Improved information sharing between DHS and these governments regarding potential threats.
- Tailored outreach and vetting assistance for high-risk targets.
- Increased awareness of potential threats posed by visiting foreign nationals.
- Standardized threat analysis and guidance procedures.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative burden on DHS and recipient governments.
- Risk of profiling or discrimination based on nationality.
- Possible delays or complications in international collaborations and exchanges.
- Costs associated with implementing the new requirements and technologies.
- Potential for overreach and unnecessary restrictions on access.
Constitutional Alignment
The SAFE VISITS Act appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "provide for the common defence" (Preamble). The Act's focus on information sharing and threat analysis supports national security, a core responsibility of the federal government. However, implementation must carefully balance security concerns with individual liberties, ensuring due process and avoiding unwarranted surveillance, as protected by the Fourth Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).