Tampa Republic

Today, the House of Representatives approved a bill introduced by Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15), titled H.R. 8664, the DHS Intelligence and Analysis Oversight and Transparency Act. The legislation mandates an audit of bulk data transfers involving the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A). This measure aims to ensure that personnel access and searches are appropriately limited to safeguard civil liberties, privacy rights, and civil rights.

"Congress must conduct oversight and ensure government agencies are being transparent with the American people. My bill will ensure the handling of data and searches by the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Intelligence and Analysis are conducted properly to protect America’s rights and privacy," said Rep. Laurel Lee. "I am glad to see this bill pass the House today and I urge the Senate to take this legislation up to ensure our government’s information systems and bulk data collection activities are properly administered."

The proposed bill seeks to amend the Homeland Security Act by directing the Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis at DHS to perform an annual audit of I&A's information systems and bulk data. Additionally, it requires that a report detailing each annual audit's findings be submitted to Congress.