Border Security Search Accountability Act of 2011
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (31 Jan 2011): Referred to the Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global Counterterrorism.
What this bill does
The Border Security Search Accountability Act of 2011, introduced in the House of Representatives, would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a formal rule for conducting searches of electronic devices at U.S. borders. This rule would specify the scope of these searches, as well as procedures for how they are carried out and how any information is recorded and managed. The legislation also mandates that appropriate training be provided to agents involved in these searches.
The rule would cover aspects such as how to handle privileged or commercially sensitive information found on devices, requirements for conducting searches in the presence of a supervisor or the device owner, and limits on how long devices or their data can be retained. It would also establish protocols for notifying individuals if their information is copied or shared, providing receipts for seized devices, and informing individuals about how to report abuses or seek redress.
This bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced and referred to a House committee. For it to become law, it would need to be approved by both the House and the Senate and then signed by the President.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
Border Security Search Accountability Act of 2011 - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) issue a rule regarding the scope of, and procedural and recordkeeping requirements associated with, border security searches of electronic devices; and (2) provide related officer training.
Sets forth rule contents.
Timeline
31 Jan 2011
Referred to the Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global Counterterrorism.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 216 do?
- The Border Security Search Accountability Act of 2011, introduced in the House of Representatives, would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish a formal rule for conducting searches of electronic devices at U.S. borders. This rule would specify the scope of these searches, as well as procedures for how they are carried out and how any information is recorded and managed. The legislation also mandates that appropriate training be provided to agents involved in these searches. The rule would cover aspects such as how to handle privileged or commercially sensitive information found on devices, requirements for conducting searches in the presence of a supervisor or the device owner, and limits on how long devices or their data can be retained. It would also establish protocols for notifying individuals if their information is copied or shared, providing receipts for seized devices, and informing individuals about how to report abuses or seek redress. This bill is currently in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced and referred to a House committee. For it to become law, it would need to be approved by both the House and the Senate and then signed by the President.
- Has H.R. 216 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 216. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 216?
- H.R. 216 was sponsored by Rep. Sanchez, Loretta [D-CA-47] (D-CA), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 216?
- Referred to the Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global Counterterrorism. (31 Jan 2011).
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