S.1625 - Strategic Homeland Intelligence and Enforcement Legislation to Defend Against the CCP Act; SHIELD Against CCP Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1625, the SHIELD Against CCP Act, aims to establish a working group within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to counter threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The working group will focus on terrorist, cybersecurity, border and port security, and transportation security threats. It mandates the DHS Secretary to appoint a Director, provide adequate staffing, and accept detailees from the intelligence community and other federal agencies.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would lead to a more coordinated and focused effort within DHS to address specific threats emanating from the CCP. This includes enhanced information sharing with federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners. Annual assessments will be submitted to Congress, providing oversight and accountability.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security through focused threat assessment and response.
- Improved information sharing among federal, state, and local agencies.
- Increased awareness of CCP tactics and exploitation of U.S. systems.
- Development of new technologies and techniques to counter CCP threats.
- Greater accountability and oversight through annual congressional reports.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for overreach and infringement on civil liberties if not properly implemented.
- Risk of duplication with existing efforts if not carefully coordinated.
- Possible strain on DHS resources and personnel.
- Potential for increased tensions with China.
- The working group is set to terminate after seven years, which may not be sufficient to address long-term threats.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandates to provide for the common defense (Preamble) and to protect the nation from external threats. The establishment of a working group within the executive branch (DHS) falls under the powers granted to the President and the executive branch to execute laws and policies related to national security. However, the bill includes provisions to ensure activities are carried out in accordance with constitutional, privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections, and that it does not infringe upon the lawful exercise of free speech (Section 2(g)).
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).