Protecting Our Democracy Act
Latest action (6 Jan 2017): Introduced
What this bill does
The "Protecting Our Democracy Act" would establish a National Commission on Foreign Interference in the 2016 Election. This commission would be tasked with examining attempts or activities, whether by the Russian government or other foreign entities, to influence or sow distrust in U.S. elections using electronic means. This includes investigating alleged hacks into political committees and campaign staff, as well as the dissemination of false news.
The commission would consist of 12 members, appointed by House and Senate leadership from both parties. Members would not be current government employees and are expected to have significant experience in fields such as law enforcement, intelligence, and cybersecurity. The commission would have the power to hold hearings, subpoena witnesses and documents, and receive information from federal agencies. It is authorized to spend up to $3 million and would terminate 60 days after submitting its final report.
This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 6, 2017, during the 115th Congress. Its current status is "Introduced," and it did not receive a vote in that session.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill was introduced on January 6, 2017, in a previous session of Congress, but it did not receive a vote.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 356 do?
- The "Protecting Our Democracy Act" would establish a National Commission on Foreign Interference in the 2016 Election. This commission would be tasked with examining attempts or activities, whether by the Russian government or other foreign entities, to influence or sow distrust in U.S. elections using electronic means. This includes investigating alleged hacks into political committees and campaign staff, as well as the dissemination of false news. The commission would consist of 12 members, appointed by House and Senate leadership from both parties. Members would not be current government employees and are expected to have significant experience in fields such as law enforcement, intelligence, and cybersecurity. The commission would have the power to hold hearings, subpoena witnesses and documents, and receive information from federal agencies. It is authorized to spend up to $3 million and would terminate 60 days after submitting its final report. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 6, 2017, during the 115th Congress. Its current status is "Introduced," and it did not receive a vote in that session.
- Has H.R. 356 become law?
- Not yet. As of 6 Jan 2017, H.R. 356 is introduced.
- Who sponsored H.R. 356?
- H.R. 356 was sponsored by Rep. Eric Swalwell [D-CA14, 2023-2026] (Democrat-CA), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 356?
- Introduced (6 Jan 2017).
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