Department of Homeland Security Climate Change Research Act
Impact
Should HB2674 be enacted, it would significantly influence the policies and operational capabilities of the Department of Homeland Security. By mandating research and evaluation of climate change's effects on emergency preparedness, the bill seeks to ensure that federal responses to disasters are adequately funded and structured to address the emerging challenges posed by climate change. This could lead to a more proactive stance in disaster management, aligning federal funding and resources with the realities of climate impact, thus enhancing the effectiveness of disaster response strategies.
Summary
House Bill 2674, known as the Department of Homeland Security Climate Change Research Act, aims to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 by requiring the Under Secretary for Science and Technology of the Department of Homeland Security to research and develop strategies to mitigate the identified and potential negative effects of climate change on homeland security. The bill is a response to growing concerns about the impact of climate change on national preparedness and response capabilities, particularly in the context of natural disasters and emergency planning.
Contention
Despite its focus on national security and disaster preparedness, the bill may encounter debate regarding the scope of research and the allocation of federal resources. Critics may argue about the prioritization of climate change research over other pressing security issues or existing operational needs within the department. Furthermore, the bill's requirement for consultation with various agencies, states, and local governments may also invite discussions on how effectively these relationships can facilitate meaningful research and actionable insights.
To require the Secretary of Defense to enhance the readiness of the Department of Defense to challenges relating to climate change and to improve the energy and resource efficiency of the Department, and for other purposes.
Research Security and Accountability in DHS ActThis bill requires the Science and Technology Directorate in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop a department-wide policy for safeguarding research and development from unauthorized access or disclosures of sensitive information in related acquisitions.Additionally, the Government Accountability Office must report on the compliance of DHS with a 2021 presidential memorandum and related guidance that required certain disclosures about government-funded research and development (e.g., conflicts of interest involving foreign governments).
DHS Biodetection Improvement ActThis bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to assess how it has utilized Department of Energy national laboratories and sites for research and development in carrying out DHS missions and to report to Congress a strategy for how DHS will conduct biodetection research and development in coordination with such laboratories and sites.
Economic development: Michigan strategic fund; procurement technical assistance center (PTAC); update to APEX Accelerator. Amends sec. 2 of 2006 PA 317 (MCL 125.1972).
Economic development: Michigan strategic fund; procurement technical assistance center (PTAC); update to APEX Accelerator. Amends sec. 2 of 2006 PA 317 (MCL 125.1972).
Relating to the homeland security activities of certain entities, including the establishment and operations of the Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety.