Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act

# Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to create a department-wide policy to protect research and development projects from unauthorized access and disclosure of sensitive information. It also mandates that the Government Accountability Office (an independent watchdog agency) investigate whether DHS is following a 2021 presidential order requiring disclosure of certain details about government-funded research, particularly regarding potential conflicts of interest involving foreign governments. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects DHS, its research partners, and contractors involved in government-funded research projects.

It also has indirect implications for researchers and institutions that work with DHS on sensitive research, as new security requirements may apply to their work. **Key Provisions:** The main provisions include creating a safeguarding policy for DHS research to prevent unauthorized access, and requiring a compliance review of existing disclosure requirements related to foreign conflicts of interest in government research. The bill focuses on national security concerns around protecting sensitive research information. **Current Status:** The bill has passed the House of Representatives and awaits further action in the Senate.