Clermont Times

Washington, D.C. - Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-OH) and Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) have introduced the bipartisan Sensible Classification Act in the House of Representatives, a companion to the Senate bill sponsored by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Mark Warner (D-VA). The purpose of this legislation is to streamline and modernize the security classification system, which is in urgent need of reform. The Sensible Classification Act aims to increase accountability and oversight while limiting overclassification.

According to Rep. Wenstrup, "Our classified information systems are critical to the nation's security and secrets, and technology has helped increase our capabilities over recent years. At the same time, the government too often overclassifies information, which has led the American people to distrust their government. This bill strikes that balance and will enhance accountability and oversight."

Rep. Spanberger, a former CIA case officer, also expressed her support for the bill, stating, "As a former CIA case officer who routinely handled classified information, I know that America's current classification system needs reform. That's why I'm proud to be a part of this bipartisan, bicameral effort to increase accountability, protect classified information from bad actors, and prevent overclassification."

The Sensible Classification Act of 2023 has companion legislation introduced in the Senate in May, led by Senators Cornyn, Warner, Jerry Moran (R-KS), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM). The bill includes several measures to improve the classification system:

1. Codifying classification authority: The bill specifies that the President, Vice President, head of an agency, or the individual to whom such authority has been delegated will have classification authority. It also outlines the process of delegation and the required training for individuals with this authority.

2. Promoting efficient declassification: The legislation aims to streamline the declassification process for records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or Mandatory Declassification Review.

3. Training for sensible classification: The bill requires training programs to promote sensible classification practices, ensuring that those responsible for classifying information are well-equipped to make informed decisions.

4. Improving the Public Interest Declassification Board (PIDB): The PIDB will be enhanced by allowing for the hiring of additional staff and permitting members to serve until a successor is appointed. This will strengthen the board's ability to provide recommendations on declassification matters.

5. Integrated technology solution: The bill directs the Federal government to develop an integrated technology solution that aids in classification and declassification processes, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

6. Study on security clearances: Federal agencies will be required to conduct a study on the necessity of the number and types of security clearances, providing sufficient justification for each clearance.

The Sensible Classification Act of 2023 aims to bring much-needed reform to the security classification system. By increasing accountability, promoting efficient declassification, and incorporating technology solutions, this legislation seeks to strike a balance between transparency and national security. With bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, it is hoped that this bill will address the shortcomings of the current classification system and restore trust in the government's handling of classified information.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://wenstrup.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407905