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S 2342

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

119th Congress Introduced by Tom Cotton

S. 2342 funds U.S. intelligence operations, boosts employee pay, enhances security measures, and improves efficiency to tackle national security challenges effectively.

By Senator Cotton from Select Committee on Intelligence filed written report. Report No. 119-51. Minority views filed.
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Bill Summary · S 2342

Summary of S. 2342 - Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

Overview

The Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 2342) is a legislative proposal introduced in the Senate on July 17, 2025. The bill aims to authorize appropriations for various intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States government, including funding for the Intelligence Community Management Account and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Retirement and Disability System.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of S. 2342 is to ensure that the United States intelligence community is adequately funded and equipped to address national security challenges. This includes enhancing operational capabilities, improving employee compensation, and ensuring the protection of sensitive information and assets.

Key Provisions

The bill is structured into several titles, each addressing different aspects of intelligence operations:

Title I - Intelligence Activities

  • Authorization of Appropriations: Establishes funding levels for intelligence activities.
  • Classified Schedule of Authorizations: Details specific funding allocations.
  • Employee Compensation: Authorizes increases in employee compensation and benefits.
  • Limitations on Fund Transfers: Sets restrictions on the transfer and reprogramming of allocated funds.

Title II - CIA Retirement and Disability System

  • Authorization of Appropriations: Provides funding for the CIA's retirement and disability system.

Title III - Intelligence Community Matters

  • Unauthorized Access: Addresses issues related to unauthorized access to intelligence community property.
  • Protection from Drones: Enhances security measures against unmanned aircraft near CIA facilities.
  • Acquisition Authorities: Modifies procurement processes for intelligence-related acquisitions.
  • Analytic Standards: Mandates annual surveys and training to ensure analytic objectivity within the intelligence community.
  • Counterintelligence Support: Strengthens counterintelligence efforts, particularly concerning the Department of the Treasury.

Title IV - Intelligence Community Efficiency and Effectiveness

  • Reforms to Leadership: Modifies responsibilities and authorities of the Director of National Intelligence, including the appointment of key positions.
  • Transfer of Centers: Transfers certain intelligence centers to improve operational efficiency.

Title V - Matters Concerning Foreign Countries

  • Declassification of Information: Facilitates the declassification of information related to foreign governments aiding fugitives.
  • Countering Foreign Threats: Enhances intelligence sharing and assessments related to threats from countries like China and Russia.

Who Would Be Affected

The bill primarily impacts:
- Members of the Intelligence Community, including agencies like the CIA and NSA.
- Employees within these agencies, particularly regarding compensation and training.
- Foreign relations and national security strategies, particularly concerning adversarial nations.

Procedural Aspects

  • Status: The bill is currently placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar as Calendar No. 120.
  • Committee Review: Reported to the Senate by Senator Tom Cotton from the Select Committee on Intelligence without a written report.

Conclusion

S. 2342 is a comprehensive legislative effort to secure funding and implement reforms within the U.S. intelligence community for the fiscal year 2026. By addressing various operational, financial, and strategic aspects, the bill aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of intelligence operations in safeguarding national security.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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