H.R.708 - Strategic Homeland Intelligence and Enforcement Legislation to Defend Against the CCP Act; SHIELD Against CCP Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.708, the SHIELD Against CCP Act, directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish a working group focused on countering threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). These threats include terrorism, cybersecurity breaches, border and port security vulnerabilities, and transportation security risks. The working group will assess DHS efforts, account for dedicated resources, identify policy gaps, and facilitate inter-departmental cooperation.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to enhance the United States' ability to detect, prevent, and respond to security threats emanating from the CCP. This will be achieved through improved intelligence gathering, analysis, and information sharing among federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners. The working group will also conduct research and development of new technologies and techniques to bolster security measures.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security through improved threat detection and response.
- Strengthened border and port security, reducing illegal activities.
- Improved cybersecurity defenses against CCP-sponsored attacks.
- Increased cooperation and information sharing among government agencies.
- Development of new technologies to counter CCP threats.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for overreach and infringement on civil liberties if not properly implemented.
- Risk of increased surveillance and data collection on individuals and organizations.
- Possible strain on resources within the Department of Homeland Security.
- Duplication of efforts if not properly coordinated with existing agencies.
- Potential for increased tensions with China due to perceived targeting.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's focus on national security and border protection aligns with the federal government's constitutional responsibilities. However, the implementation of the Act must adhere to constitutional protections, particularly the First Amendment's guarantee of free speech and the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. Section 2(g) explicitly states that all activities must be carried out in accordance with applicable constitutional, privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections, and may not infringe upon the lawful exercise of free speech by United States persons.
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).