H.R.1591 - Security Clearance Review Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1591, the Security Clearance Review Act, aims to amend the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. It seeks to authorize the Director of the FBI to make security clearance and access determinations for political appointees and special Government employees within the Executive Office of the President. The bill mandates FBI Director notification to the President and Congress if a security clearance is denied, suspended, or revoked.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would centralize security clearance determinations for political appointees and special government employees in the Executive Office of the President under the FBI Director. This could lead to more stringent vetting processes and potentially reduce the risk of security breaches. It also introduces a mechanism for Congressional oversight of presidential decisions regarding security clearances.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security through stricter vetting.
- Increased accountability in security clearance decisions.
- Reduced potential for conflicts of interest in clearance determinations.
- Improved public trust in government integrity.
- Greater Congressional oversight of Executive Branch security practices.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for political interference in security clearance processes.
- Possible delays in appointments due to increased scrutiny.
- Risk of over-centralization of power in the FBI Director.
- Increased bureaucratic hurdles for qualified individuals.
- Potential for disputes between the Executive Branch and the FBI.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's emphasis on national security and the separation of powers. Article II outlines the President's role in the Executive Branch, but Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to national security. The requirement for Presidential notification to Congress aligns with the principle of checks and balances.
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).