Surveillance Accountability Act
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (23 Apr 2026): Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
What this bill does
H.R. 8470, the proposed Surveillance Accountability Act, would amend federal law to require law enforcement to obtain a warrant based on probable cause for searches that significantly intrude on a person's privacy or security. This includes accessing data held by third parties, such as internet providers or financial institutions. The bill outlines several exceptions where a warrant would not be required, including plain-view searches, vehicle identification checks during stops, and information lawfully published or voluntarily made public without circumventing privacy settings. It also specifies that certain data, like biometric information or license plate data, cannot be collected or analyzed without consent, even if publicly visible, if gathered in public places or by patrons of businesses open to the public.
Additionally, the bill would create a pathway for individuals to sue for violations of their Fourth Amendment rights. This would allow people to seek legal or equitable relief if they believe their rights have been infringed upon by government action. The bill also includes a provision for awarding attorney's fees to the prevailing party in such cases.
As of April 23, 2026, this bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Thomas Massie and co-sponsored by Representative Boebert. It has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Following committee review, the bill could be scheduled for a vote in the House, and if passed, would then proceed to the Senate.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
23 Apr 2026
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 8470 do?
- H.R. 8470, the proposed Surveillance Accountability Act, would amend federal law to require law enforcement to obtain a warrant based on probable cause for searches that significantly intrude on a person's privacy or security. This includes accessing data held by third parties, such as internet providers or financial institutions. The bill outlines several exceptions where a warrant would not be required, including plain-view searches, vehicle identification checks during stops, and information lawfully published or voluntarily made public without circumventing privacy settings. It also specifies that certain data, like biometric information or license plate data, cannot be collected or analyzed without consent, even if publicly visible, if gathered in public places or by patrons of businesses open to the public. Additionally, the bill would create a pathway for individuals to sue for violations of their Fourth Amendment rights. This would allow people to seek legal or equitable relief if they believe their rights have been infringed upon by government action. The bill also includes a provision for awarding attorney's fees to the prevailing party in such cases. As of April 23, 2026, this bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Thomas Massie and co-sponsored by Representative Boebert. It has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Following committee review, the bill could be scheduled for a vote in the House, and if passed, would then proceed to the Senate.
- Has H.R. 8470 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 8470. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 8470?
- H.R. 8470 was sponsored by Rep. Massie, Thomas [R-KY-4] (R-KY), with 1 cosponsor.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 8470?
- Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. (23 Apr 2026).
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