DHS Special Events Program and Support Act
DHS Special Events Program and Support Act
Plain Language Summary
# DHS Special Events Program and Support Act (HR 1508) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would give the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official legal authority to help secure and monitor smaller special events that don't rise to the level of major national events (like presidential inaugurations or the Super Bowl). Currently, DHS provides some of this support without clear statutory backing. The bill would require DHS to create a formal process where state, local, tribal, and territorial officials can request federal help assessing security risks and providing situational awareness support for their events. **Key Details:** The bill establishes that DHS must use a "risk-based" approach when deciding which requests to help with—meaning they'd prioritize events based on actual security threats. It also includes a faster approval process for urgent requests and allows for reassessment if circumstances change.
Additionally, the bill directs DHS to conduct research into new technologies and techniques for improving event security and situational awareness. **Who It Affects and Status:** This would primarily affect state and local event organizers, security officials, and DHS. The bill is currently in committee (as of the 119th Congress), meaning it hasn't yet been voted on by the full House. It was introduced by Representative Dina Titus (D-Nevada).
CRS Official Summary
DHS Special Events Program and Support ActThis bill provides statutory authority for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct security assessments and provide security and situational awareness support for pre-planned special events that are not designated as National Special Security Events. (National Special Security Events are major federal government or public events so designated by the President or DHS, such as presidential inaugurations, major international summits, and major sporting events.)Under the bill, DHS must establish a standard process for federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial officials to voluntarily submit requests to DHS for event assessment and possible security and situational awareness support. DHS must assess such requests using a risk-based methodology and include a process for expedited consideration and, where appropriate, for reassessment.DHS must also carry out research and development of technologies and techniques for enhancing DHS's security and situational awareness support to such officials relating to mass gatherings in a manner consistent with constitutional, privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections.
Latest Action
Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.