Summary of HR 4000: Prohibition on Non-Citizen Access to Department of Energy Sites

Bill Number: HR 4000

Introduced: June 12, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: W. Gregory Steube

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 4000 is to enhance national security by restricting access to Department of Energy (DOE) sites and facilities. The bill aims to prohibit individuals who are not citizens of the United States from entering or accessing these sensitive locations, with specific exemptions for citizens of certain allied nations.

Key Provisions

1. Access Restrictions:

   • General Prohibition: The bill states that, with certain exceptions, non-citizens of the United States are barred from accessing or entering any DOE-owned, operated, or leased sites and facilities.
   • Exemptions: Citizens from the "Five Eyes" countries—Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom—are exempt from this prohibition.

2. Implementation Timeline:

   • The prohibition will take effect 60 days after the enactment of the bill.
   • The Secretary of Energy is required to revise any relevant regulations, guidelines, policies, and procedures within 60 days following the enactment to ensure compliance with the new law.

Impact

• Who is Affected:

  • The bill primarily affects non-citizens seeking access to DOE facilities, which may include foreign researchers, contractors, and employees.
  • Citizens from the Five Eyes countries will not be impacted by this legislation and will retain their access rights.

• National Security:

  • By limiting access to sensitive energy sites, the bill aims to mitigate potential risks associated with espionage or unauthorized access to critical infrastructure.

Legislative Actions

• The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on the same day, June 12, 2025.

Conclusion

HR 4000 seeks to bolster the security of the Department of Energy's facilities by restricting access to non-citizens, while allowing continued collaboration with key allies. The bill reflects ongoing concerns regarding national security and the protection of sensitive information and infrastructure.