Summary of H. Res. 113
Bill Information
- Bill Number: H. Res. 113
- Title: Directing the Secretary of Homeland Security to transmit to the House of Representatives certain documents relating to Department of Homeland Security policies and activities related to the security of Department information and data and the recruitment and retention of its workforce.
- Status: Reported adversely by the Committee on Homeland Security (H. Rept. 119-11).
- Introduced: February 5, 2025
- Classification: Resolution
Purpose and Intent
H. Res. 113 aims to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide the House of Representatives with specific documents concerning:
- The security of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) information and data.
- The recruitment and retention of DHS personnel.
The resolution seeks to enhance transparency regarding DHS policies and practices, particularly in light of recent concerns about workforce management and data security.
Key Provisions
The resolution mandates the Secretary of Homeland Security to transmit the following documents within 14 days of adoption:
1. Documentation related to requests from the Department of Government Efficiency for access to DHS information systems.
2. Records of any access granted to the Department of Government Efficiency by DHS.
3. Data supplied to the Department of Government Efficiency by DHS.
4. Evaluation processes for access requests by the Department of Government Efficiency.
5. Policies regarding access to DHS information systems by non-employees or contractors.
6. Investigative efforts concerning unauthorized access to employee data by the Office of Personnel Management.
7. Documentation related to a hiring freeze memorandum signed by President Trump on January 20, 2025.
8. Information on pending job offers and accepted positions within DHS as of January 20, 2025.
9. Details on employees who accepted deferred resignation offers and their job titles.
Impact
The resolution primarily affects the Department of Homeland Security and its operations. By requiring the transmission of these documents, the resolution aims to:
- Ensure accountability and oversight of DHS practices.
- Address concerns regarding data security and workforce management.
- Facilitate legislative scrutiny of DHS policies and their implications for national security and employee management.
Procedural Aspects
- The resolution was introduced on February 5, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Homeland Security.
- On February 26, 2025, the Committee met to consider the resolution and reported it adversely, recommending that it not be agreed to.
- The resolution was placed on the House Calendar on March 5, 2025.
Conclusion
H. Res. 113 is a legislative effort aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within the Department of Homeland Security regarding its information security and workforce management practices. The resolution's adverse report by the Committee on Homeland Security indicates potential challenges in its passage.
