H.R.1692 - Producing Advanced Technologies for Homeland Security Act; PATHS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1692, the PATHS Act, amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to extend the research and development acquisition pilot program until September 30, 2028. It also modifies reporting requirements for the use of other transaction authority involving artificial intelligence and reduces the amount of covered contract awards under certain conditions.
The act aims to enable secure and trustworthy technology development for homeland security purposes. This is achieved through streamlined contracting processes and increased oversight of AI-related projects.
By extending the pilot program and adjusting contract award amounts, the bill seeks to foster innovation and efficiency in the Department of Homeland Security's technology acquisition process.
Expected Effects
The PATHS Act will likely result in the Department of Homeland Security having more flexibility in acquiring advanced technologies. This includes AI, through streamlined contracting processes.
It will also increase congressional oversight of AI-related projects by requiring notification and briefings. The reduction in the amount of covered contract awards may lead to more opportunities for smaller businesses to participate in homeland security projects.
Ultimately, the Act could lead to faster development and deployment of technologies aimed at enhancing national security.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Homeland Security: Facilitates the acquisition of advanced technologies, including AI, to improve national security.
- Increased Innovation: Streamlines contracting processes, encouraging innovation in the development of security technologies.
- Greater Oversight: Requires notification and briefings for AI-related projects, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Opportunities for Small Businesses: Reduces the amount of covered contract awards, potentially opening doors for smaller businesses.
- Improved Efficiency: Extends the pilot program, allowing for continued evaluation and refinement of acquisition processes.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Abuse: Streamlined contracting processes could lead to less rigorous oversight and potential misuse of funds.
- Increased Bureaucracy: While aiming to reduce red tape, the notification requirements for AI projects could add bureaucratic layers.
- Unintended Consequences: The reduction in contract award amounts may negatively impact larger, more established technology firms.
- Dependence on AI: Over-reliance on AI technologies could create vulnerabilities if these systems are compromised.
- Privacy Concerns: The use of AI in homeland security could raise concerns about data privacy and civil liberties if not properly regulated.
Constitutional Alignment
The PATHS Act appears to align with the Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and ensuring domestic tranquility, as outlined in the Preamble. Congress's power to legislate in matters of national security is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the authority to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
The Act's focus on technology acquisition and development falls within the scope of these enumerated powers. However, the implementation of AI technologies must be carefully monitored to ensure compliance with constitutional protections, particularly those related to privacy and due process as outlined in the Fourth and Fifth Amendments.
Specifically, the government must ensure that the use of AI does not infringe on individual liberties or lead to unwarranted surveillance.
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).