DHS Intelligence Transparency and Oversight Program Office and Ombuds Act

# DHS Intelligence Transparency and Oversight Program Office and Ombuds Act - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would establish two new oversight mechanisms within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS): a dedicated Program Office for Intelligence Transparency and an Ombudsman position. These entities would work to increase transparency in DHS intelligence operations and provide a mechanism for the public, employees, and other stakeholders to raise concerns about DHS intelligence activities without going through traditional bureaucratic channels. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill would primarily affect DHS and its various agencies (including Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Secret Service), as well as members of the public who interact with or are subject to DHS intelligence gathering.

The Ombudsman would serve as an independent point of contact for complaints and concerns, while the Program Office would focus on making DHS intelligence operations more transparent and accountable. **Current Status** As of now, the bill remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Seth Magaziner (D-RI) in the 119th Congress and has not advanced further in the legislative process.