What does ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMISSION. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

This section establishes the "United States Commission on an Open Society with Security." The Commission will consist of 21 members representing diverse fields, including architecture, technology, and law. The President will designate a Chairperson from among the appointed members. Members are appointed for the life of the Commission. A quorum for the Commission is nine members, but a smaller number can hold hearings. Nine members are appointed by the President, three by the Speaker of the House, three by the House minority leader, three by the Senate majority leader, and three by the Senate minority leader. The Commission can begin operations, including hiring staff, 90 days after enactment if at least nine members are appointed.

What does FUNCTIONS OF COMMISSION. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

The Commission is tasked with studying and recommending ways to balance security and public access to Federal buildings and property. The Commission will examine security practices, building design, public space management, and counterterrorism needs. The examination includes assessing the impact of public access on constitutional rights, economic factors, aesthetics, traffic, and employee job performance. The Commission will consider the use of technology for security purposes. The Commission will analyze practices of other entities and nations. The Commission will evaluate methods for assessing terrorism risks while considering the need for open access. The Commission is directed to avoid duplicating efforts already underway by other entities.

What does POWERS OF COMMISSION. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

The Commission has the authority to hold hearings, take testimony, and receive evidence to carry out the Act. The Commission can obtain information directly from U.S. government entities to fulfill its duties. Commission members and staff must hold appropriate security clearances to access classified information. Access to classified records requires an approved security agreement and clearance for Commission members and staff. Commission members and staff are restricted from using official information for non-official purposes. Commission members and staff are deemed to have a 'need to know' for classified information related to national security. The Commission can use the U.S. mails and accept gifts or donations. The Administrator of General Services will provide administrative support services to the Commission on a reimbursable basis.

What does PERSONNEL MATTERS. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

Commission members will not receive compensation for their service. Commission members are authorized travel expenses, including per diem, at rates applicable to federal employees under 5 U.S.C. chapter 57. The Commission Chairperson can appoint a staff director and other personnel without regard to certain civil service restrictions and General Schedule pay rates, with pay capped at the GS-15 maximum. Federal agencies may detail personnel to the Commission on a nonreimbursable basis at the request of the Chairperson. The Chairperson can hire temporary and intermittent experts and consultants, with rates not exceeding the GS-15 equivalent.

What does TERMINATION OF COMMISSION. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

This section establishes the termination date of the Commission. The Commission will terminate 90 days after submitting its final report under section 7(a).

What does AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

This section authorizes appropriations for carrying out the Act. $5,000,000 is authorized for fiscal year 2027. $5,000,000 is authorized for fiscal year 2028.

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United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026

Q: What does Preamble of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled 'To establish the United States Commission on an Open Society with Security.'

Q: What does SHORT TITLE. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

This bill is formally titled the United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026.

Q: What does FINDINGS. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

This section outlines findings related to public safety and democratic values. It asserts that an open society with free access and open discussion is fundamental to American governance. The text identifies a unique challenge to the safety and security of the public, public employees, and public facilities. It states the need to assemble expert thinking to address this challenge without harming democratic principles. The section concludes that a commission of experts is necessary to balance public safety and open access.

Q: What does REPORT. of United States Commission on an Open Society with Security Act of 2026 do?

The Commission is required to submit a final report to the President within two years of its initial meeting. The report must include the Commission's findings, conclusions, and recommendations for legislative, administrative, or other actions. The President must transmit the Commission's report to Congress within six months of receiving it. The President may include comments or recommendations, including proposed legislation, when transmitting the report to Congress.

Last updated: 6/22/2026 · Introduced: 6/22/2026

Author: Eleanor Norton (D-DC)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill establishes a 21-member United States Commission on an Open Society with Security to study and recommend ways to balance security and public access to federal buildings and property.
The Commission will analyze security practices, building design, and counterterrorism needs, while considering impacts on constitutional rights, economic factors, and other relevant areas.
The bill authorizes a total of $10 million in funding over two years to support the Commission’s operations and the creation of a final report with recommendations for Congress.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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