Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence

Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence

The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) is a special committee of the United States House of Representatives that oversees the activities and budgets of the United States Intelligence Community. It was established in 1977 by a special resolution of the House of Representatives and has since then been tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that the intelligence activities of the United States are carried out in accordance with the law and in the best interest of national security.

Introduction
The HPSCI is responsible for overseeing the activities of 17 intelligence agencies, which include the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The committee’s mandate includes reviewing and authorizing intelligence activities, conducting oversight of intelligence operations and budgets, and providing congressional authorization for intelligence activities carried out by the government.

Body
Authorization and Oversight
The HPSCI has the power to authorize and oversee intelligence activities carried out by the government. This means that it reviews and authorizes the budgets, plans, and policies of intelligence agencies. Additionally, the committee conducts regular oversight of intelligence operations to ensure that they are consistent with legal and policy frameworks. The HPSCI also has the power to investigate allegations of wrongdoing within the intelligence agencies and provides recommendations to the government on ways to improve the intelligence community’s operations.

Role in Intelligence Gathering and Sharing
The HPSCI is responsible for overseeing the coordination and sharing of intelligence among the various agencies. The committee is tasked with ensuring that intelligence agencies work together effectively and share intelligence information in a timely and efficient manner. It also ensures that sensitive intelligence information is properly safeguarded to prevent unauthorized access or use.

Protection of Civil Liberties
The HPSCI is also responsible for ensuring that intelligence activities are carried out in accordance with the law and that civil liberties are protected. The committee reviews surveillance activities to determine that they are conducted in accordance with the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution. The HPSCI also provides oversight and examines measures to protect the privacy of Americans and their data.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the HPSCI plays a critical role in overseeing the United States Intelligence Community’s operations. It ensures that intelligence activities are consistent with legal frameworks and national security interests, oversees the budgets and operations of intelligence agencies, coordinates intelligence gathering and sharing among multiple agencies, and protects civil liberties. By working to achieve these objectives, the HPSCI enables the United States Intelligence Community to fulfill its vital role in keeping the nation safe.