Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB8746

Introduced
6/13/24  

Caption

SHIELD Act of 2024 The Strategic Homeland Information Education and Learning Defense Act of 2024

Impact

The enactment of HB 8746 would support the Department of Defense's ongoing efforts to mitigate threats related to misinformation and disinformation that can affect both individuals and national security. The proposed training program outlines not only the necessity for identifying credible information sources but also the importance of protecting personal data online. Such measures are particularly relevant given the rise of cyber threats and the impact of online actions, which have been emphasized by military leadership as critical areas for personnel development.

Summary

House Bill 8746, also known as the SHIELD Act of 2024, proposes to establish a pilot program aimed at educating members of the Armed Forces on how to interact with digital information responsibly and safely. The bill directs the Secretary of Defense to develop and implement a curriculum that addresses critical topics such as identifying fact-based versus opinion-based journalism, recognizing disinformation, and understanding various online threats. The intent is to enhance the digital literacy of military personnel in a world where information is increasingly available but often misleading or harmful.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, some concerns might arise around the practicality, effectiveness, and implementation of the pilot program. Issues of engagement and retention of information taught during the training could prove challenging, especially with a diverse participant pool. There may also be debates regarding the methods of delivery explored in the pilot program, such as in-person, virtual, or hybrid approaches. Furthermore, the effectiveness of any required subsequent training for military personnel remains a point of contention, as ongoing updates to the curriculum will be necessary to keep pace with the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB5703

SHIELD Act Strategic Homeland Investment in Economic and Logistical Defense Act

US HB9402

NSF AI Education Act of 2024

US HB8752

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025

US HB9933

LINK Act Learning Integrated National Knowledge for the Abraham Accords Act of 2024

US HB8249

ASTIP Act of 2024 U.S.-Africa Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership Act of 2024

US HB8774

Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025

US HB8996

Railroad Safety Enhancement Act of 2024 Safe Freight Act of 2023

US HB7175

Human Rights Defenders Protection Act of 2024

US SB4394

NSF AI Education Act of 2024

US HB8981

Supporting Trauma-Informed Education Practices Act of 2024

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.