Research Security and Accountability in Dhs Act

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that we are here today to consider H.R. 9748, the Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act.

This legislation aims to improve security policies by requiring the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate to develop a department-wide policy and process to safeguard research and development from unauthorized access to or disclosure of sensitive information in research and development acquisitions.

Further, the bill would task the Government Accountability Office with reporting how DHS has complied with the National Science and Technology Council's 2022 implementation guidance and a 2021 National Security Presidential Memorandum relating to protecting U.S. research against foreign interference.

I am particularly pleased that this legislation includes a briefing to Congress by the Secretary of Homeland Security about the bill's implementation.

We have seen time and time again where bad actors have attempted to access sensitive information. This measure will strengthen the Department's abilities against those who wish to do us harm. This bill is an important step in ensuring that DHS prioritizes policies and procedures safeguarding research and development.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R.

Mr. Speaker, passage of this legislation is an important step to ensuring DHS research and development capabilities are safeguarded from bad actors.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 9748, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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