U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) has introduced new legislation aimed at bolstering national security by significantly restricting access to Department of Energy (DOE) facilities and sites, permitting entry only to U.S. citizens and those from a select group of allied nations.
The bill, designated H.R. 11 in the 119th Congress, 1st Session, explicitly prohibits non-citizens from accessing land, sites, and facilities owned, operated, or leased by the DOE.
The sole exceptions carved out are for citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom – nations commonly referred to as the “Five Eyes” intelligence alliance.
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In a statement accompanying the bill’s introduction, Representative Steube emphasized the critical link between America’s energy capabilities and its national security.
“America’s energy dominance is a critical component of our national security,” said Rep. Steube. He highlighted various crucial DOE functions that necessitate stringent security protocols. “Whether it be the National Nuclear Security Administration’s control of our nuclear arsenal, the Office of Secure Transportation tasked with transferring nuclear materials, or the Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence safeguarding vital research and technology, protecting the United States Department of Energy from hostile foreign powers is of the utmost importance.”
Steube further asserted that his proposed bill directly addresses this concern by limiting access to “only American citizens and our most trusted allies.”
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The proposed legislation stipulates that the prohibition would take effect 60 days after the bill’s enactment. Furthermore, it mandates that the Secretary of Energy revise all necessary regulations, guidelines, policies, and procedures within the same 60-day timeframe to ensure effective implementation.
The bill has been referred to an unspecified committee in the House of Representatives for further consideration. The introduction of H.R. 11 signals a continued focus on safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive information within the U.S. government, particularly in sectors vital to national defense and technological advancement.
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