PATHS Act

# PATHS Act Summary **What it does:** The PATHS Act gives the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended flexibility through 2028 to use alternative procurement methods called "other transactions" (OTs) for research and technology projects. These OTs are faster and less bureaucratic than traditional government contracts because they're exempt from many federal procurement rules. The bill adds a new requirement: DHS must notify Congress within 72 hours whenever it uses this authority for artificial intelligence research and offer to brief lawmakers on why. The bill also requires DHS to publicly report smaller contracts—lowering the reporting threshold from $4 million to $1 million. **Who it affects:** Primarily technology companies, research institutions, and contractors that work with DHS on advanced projects.

Congress gains more visibility into AI-related research spending. The general public may be indirectly affected since DHS uses these technologies for border security, cybersecurity, and other homeland security functions. **Current status:** The bill passed the House and is now moving through the legislative process. Its goal is to help DHS innovate faster in critical areas like artificial intelligence while maintaining some congressional oversight, particularly for AI projects.