Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1583

Introduced
5/11/23  

Caption

A bill to require the Secretary of State to submit to Congress classified dissent cables relating to the withdrawal of the United States Armed Forces from Afghanistan.

Impact

If passed, this bill would potentially alter the current protocols for classified information and dissent within the Department of State. By compelling the Secretary of State to disclose these dissenting opinions, SB1583 aims to bring forth critical perspectives that may have been overlooked during the decision-making process. This increase in transparency may support informed public discourse and scrutiny regarding past military decisions, fostering accountability within government actions.

Summary

SB1583 is a legislative proposal requiring the Secretary of State to submit to Congress any classified dissent cables related to the U.S. Armed Forces' withdrawal from Afghanistan. The bill mandates that within 30 days of enactment, the Secretary must provide Congress with all classified communications that express dissenting opinions or recommendations regarding the withdrawal. Additionally, the legislation specifies that an unclassified version of such dissent cables must be released to the public within 60 days, enhancing government transparency in the decision-making process surrounding military withdrawal.

Contention

The proposal's implications may raise concerns over national security and the handling of sensitive information. Critics might argue that releasing classified dissent cables could endanger individuals or compromise ongoing foreign relations. Additionally, discussions may arise around the revision of existing access to classified information laws and whether this bill reflects an appropriate balance between transparency and security. Supporters may contend that exposing dissenting viewpoints is essential for democracy and accountability, particularly in light of controversial military actions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SB170

A bill to establish a Joint Select Committee on Afghanistan to conduct a full investigation and compile a joint report on the United States withdrawal from Afghanistan.

US HB5006

To direct the Secretary of State to take certain actions for the declassification and publication of materials relating to the Afghanistan withdrawal, and for other purposes.

US SJR44

A joint resolution directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Niger that have not been authorized by Congress.

US HCR30

Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove all United States Armed Forces, other than United States Armed Forces assigned to protect the United States Embassy, from Somalia.

US HB865

United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act

US SJR10

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Veterans Affairs relating to "Reproductive Health Services".

US SJR51

A joint resolution directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Syria that have not been authorized by Congress.

US SJR37

A joint resolution requiring the advice and consent of the Senate or an Act of Congress to suspend, terminate, or withdraw the United States from the North Atlantic Treaty and authorizing related litigation, and for other purposes.

US SJR24

A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat".

US HB4081

Canine Members of the Armed Forces Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.