Rep. Gabe Evans Introduces Bill to Improve Transparency, Efficiency at DHS Intel Office

Congressman Gabe Evans, Congressman August Pfluger, and Congresswoman Laurel Lee introduced The DHS Intelligence and Analysis Oversight and Transparency Act, legislation requiring the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) to conduct an annual audit of I&A’s information systems and bulk data, in a manner consistent with I&A’s intelligence oversight guidelines.

“As a veteran and former law enforcement officer, I understand the importance of optimizing systems to better protect our communities,” Rep. Evans said. “A significant portion of the Department of Homeland Security’s data does not have intelligence or operational value, which bogs down the efficiency of operations and distracts from the larger mission of protecting our nation. This bipartisan effort will improve government efficiency and direct resources to better protect Americans.”

I&A is already required to audit bulk data transferred to or from the office to assess whether personnel’s access to are appropriately limited to protect Americans’ civil liberties. However, a 2023 report found that the office has not fully implemented oversight guidelines regarding bulk data collection activities and has not conducted an audit of the bulk data collections that are outlined in the Intelligence Oversight Guidelines. 

Background:

• This legislation was first introduced in the 118th Congress and was passed by the House of Representatives in December.

• The Homeland Committee has conducted extensive oversight of I&A in an effort to address the shortcomings of the office in providing intelligence and information to state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement partners.

• Congressman Gabe Evans sits on the Homeland Security Committee.