Establishes a legislative intelligence committee to provide oversight, review, approval and audits of appropriations and expenditures of counterterrorism agencies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Parker

Bill S 4138 establishes a legislative committee to oversee and audit counterterrorism funding, ensuring transparency and accountability in spending by related agencies.

REFERRED TO VETERANS, HOMELAND SECURITY AND MILITARY AFFAIRS

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 4138

Title: Establishes a legislative intelligence committee to provide oversight, review, approval, and audits of appropriations and expenditures of counterterrorism agencies

Status: Referred to Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs

Introduced On: February 03, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 4138 is to enhance oversight and accountability of counterterrorism agencies through the establishment of a legislative intelligence committee. This committee would be responsible for reviewing, approving, and auditing the appropriations and expenditures related to counterterrorism efforts, ensuring that funds are utilized effectively and transparently.

Key Provisions

Establishment of a Legislative Intelligence Committee:

The bill proposes the creation of a new committee dedicated to intelligence oversight specifically focused on counterterrorism agencies.

Oversight Responsibilities:

The committee would have the authority to conduct reviews and audits of financial appropriations and expenditures made by counterterrorism agencies.
It would ensure that funds allocated for counterterrorism are spent in accordance with legislative intent and are subject to rigorous scrutiny.

Approval Process:

The committee would be tasked with approving budget requests from counterterrorism agencies before funds are allocated, thereby adding a layer of legislative control over spending.

Affected Parties

Counterterrorism Agencies:

The bill directly impacts federal and state agencies involved in counterterrorism efforts by subjecting their financial activities to legislative oversight.

Legislators and Government Officials:

Members of the legislative intelligence committee will be responsible for oversight, which may involve additional duties for legislators involved in national security and budgetary matters.

Procedural Aspects

Current Status:

As of February 03, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs committee for further consideration.

Related Legislation:

The bill is part of a series of related bills from prior sessions, including S 1773, S 2407, S 6272, S 6643, S 3430, S 4546, S 4752, and S 5697, indicating ongoing legislative interest in enhancing oversight of counterterrorism funding.

Conclusion

Bill S 4138 aims to strengthen the oversight of counterterrorism funding through the establishment of a dedicated legislative committee. By ensuring that appropriations and expenditures are subject to thorough review and approval, the bill seeks to promote transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for national security purposes. The bill is currently under consideration and may undergo further amendments as it progresses through the legislative process.

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