# Plain Language Summary: DHS Special Events Program and Support Act

This bill creates a new federal program that allows the Department of Homeland Security to help protect large public events from terrorism and other security threats. Currently, the government only provides this kind of coordinated security support for events officially designated as "National Special Security Events"—think major events like presidential inaugurations or the Super Bowl. This bill expands that system to cover other significant public gatherings that don't have that official designation, like major concerts, sporting events, festivals, or conventions.

Here's how it would work in practice: If a city is planning a large event, local officials can now submit a request to the Department of Homeland Security asking for a security assessment. The federal government would evaluate the event based on factors like how many people are expected to attend, whether important government officials or foreign dignitaries will be there, the specific location, and any known security threats. Based on that assessment, the event gets a risk rating. If the rating indicates a significant threat, the federal government can then provide direct support—things like security personnel, intelligence sharing, emergency planning assistance, and real-time situational awareness during the event.

The bill also requires the Department of Homeland Security to research new technologies and techniques to better protect large gatherings, while respecting people's privacy and civil rights. Additionally, the government must submit annual reports to Congress detailing how many events participated in the program, what kind of federal support was provided, and whether any events requested to have their security rating changed. This transparency requirement helps ensure the program is being used appropriately and effectively.

DHS Special Events Program and Support Act

Titus, Dina

DHS Special Events Program and Support ActThis bill provides statutory authority for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct security assessments and provide security and situational awareness support for pre-planned special events that are not designated as National Special Security Events. (National Special Security Events are major federal government or public events so designated by the President or&nbsp;DHS, such as presidential inaugurations, major international summits, and major sporting events.)&nbsp;Under the bill, DHS must establish a standard process for federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial officials to voluntarily submit requests to DHS for event assessment and possible security and situational awareness support. DHS must assess such requests using a risk-based methodology and include a process for expedited consideration and, where appropriate, for reassessment.DHS must also carry out research and development of technologies and techniques for enhancing DHS's security and situational awareness support to such officials relating to mass gatherings in a manner consistent with constitutional, privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections.