Austin News

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA) have successfully passed the Sensible Classification Act, a bill aimed at reforming the security classification system. The legislation, which increases accountability and oversight of the classification system, limits overclassification, and directs federal agencies to justify security clearance requirements, was signed into law as part of the Intelligence Authorization Act included in the National Defense Authorization Act.

Senator Cornyn emphasizes the delicate balance between transparency and secrecy when it comes to sensitive information. He states, "By modernizing and streamlining the declassification process, this legislation will help the U.S. stay one step ahead of our adversaries while also being transparent with the American people and our allies."

Senator Warner, highlighting the role of the intelligence committee in handling government secrets appropriately, expresses the need for continued bipartisan effort in improving the classification system. He mentions the recent case of unauthorized disclosures on the Discord media platform, which underscores the importance of this legislation.

The Sensible Classification Act is cosponsored by Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), James Lankford (R-OK), and Bob Casey (D-PA). Additionally, companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Brad Wenstrup (OH-02) and Abigail Spanberger (VA-07).

The classification system is in urgent need of reform due to advancements in technology. While technology has made it easier to classify files, greater accountability and oversight are necessary to ensure appropriate and timely declassification. This will help rebuild trust between the government and the American people. Overclassification and lack of accountability have become prevalent issues, partly due to the number of people with access to classified information.

The Sensible Classification Act addresses these concerns by promoting efficient declassification for records under the Freedom of Information Act or Mandatory Declassification Review. It also requires training to promote sensible classification and improves the Public Interest Declassification Board (PIDB) by allowing for the hiring of 12 staff members. Furthermore, it directs the federal government to develop a technology solution for classification and declassification issues and provides a recommendation to the President and Congress within one year.

Additionally, federal agencies are directed to conduct a study on the necessity of the number and types of security clearances, ensuring that there is sufficient justification for each clearance.

The signing of the Sensible Classification Act into law marks a significant step towards reforming the security classification system. It is expected to bring much-needed accountability, transparency, and efficiency to the process of classifying and declassifying sensitive information. With the bipartisan support behind this legislation, there is hope for continued progress in improving the classification system in the years to come.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-warner-bill-to-reform-security-classification-system-signed-into-law/