Promoting Accountability and Security in Transitions Act of 2023 PAST Act of 2023
If enacted, HB1653 would reinforce existing laws on the management of Presidential records, increasing the responsibilities of the Archivist of the United States. Key legislative changes include requiring timely communication and cooperation between the Executive Office and the Archivist to ensure proper record transition during presidential transitions. The bill emphasizes that any alteration, destruction, or non-compliance with these record-keeping obligations could result in serious penalties. This could significantly enhance the public's access to and understanding of presidential communications and historical decisions.
House Bill 1653, also known as the Promoting Accountability and Security in Transitions Act of 2023 (PAST Act), seeks to amend chapter 22 of title 44, United States Code, concerning the preservation and handling of Presidential records. The primary aim of the bill is to ensure that all Presidential communications created on non-official electronic messaging accounts are preserved, thus enhancing transparency and accountability in the executive branch. This initiative addresses concerns that informal communication methods could lead to the loss of critical governmental records, affecting national security and the historical record of presidential actions.
The bill has sparked debate regarding the practicality of enforcing stringent record-keeping practices, particularly with respect to modern communication technologies. Critics might argue that the requirement for all electronic messaging, including texts and social media, to be maintained could be overly burdensome or intrusive. Additionally, there are concerns about balancing transparency with executive privilege, especially in matters related to national security. Supporters of the legislation argue it is vital for accountability and ensuring that every presidential action is documented for future analysis and learning.