H.R.1187 - UAP Transparency Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1187, the UAP Transparency Act, mandates the public release of all documents, reports, and records pertaining to unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) held by federal departments and agencies. The bill requires the President to direct these agencies to declassify and make the information available on their websites within 270 days of enactment. Additionally, the President must submit quarterly reports to relevant congressional committees detailing the progress of each agency in implementing these declassification efforts.
The Act aims to increase government transparency regarding UAPs, leveraging the definition provided in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Burchett and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
Ultimately, this bill seeks to inform the public and foster greater understanding of UAPs through the mandated release of government information.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of the UAP Transparency Act will be the declassification and public release of government documents related to unidentified anomalous phenomena. This will likely lead to increased public awareness and discussion of UAPs.
It will also place a burden on federal agencies to review, declassify, and publish these records within the specified timeframes. The quarterly reporting requirement will ensure ongoing oversight and accountability.
Furthermore, the Act could spur further research and investigation into UAPs by both governmental and non-governmental entities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased government transparency and accountability regarding UAPs.
- Greater public awareness and understanding of UAPs.
- Potential for new scientific discoveries and technological advancements.
- Enhanced public trust in government institutions.
- Fulfillment of the public's right to know about matters of significant public interest.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for the release of sensitive information that could compromise national security.
- Burden on federal agencies to review and declassify large volumes of documents.
- Risk of misinterpretation or sensationalism of UAP-related information by the public.
- Possible privacy concerns related to individuals mentioned in UAP reports.
- Uncertainty about the true nature and implications of UAPs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The UAP Transparency Act aligns with the principles of government transparency and accountability, which are implicit in the Constitution's emphasis on a government of the people. While the Constitution does not explicitly address the declassification of UAP-related documents, the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of speech and the press supports the public's right to access information held by the government.
However, the Act must be implemented in a manner that does not compromise national security, as the Constitution also tasks the government with providing for the common defense. Striking a balance between transparency and national security is crucial to ensure the Act's constitutionality.
Ultimately, the Act's alignment with the Constitution depends on how it is implemented and whether it adequately protects sensitive information while promoting transparency.
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).