US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HR316

Introduced
4/9/25  

Caption

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit certain documents relating to the use of insecure electronic communication platforms, including Signal, for official communications and to the compliance of the Administration with all Federal records laws.

Impact

The passage of HR316 could impact how federal agencies manage their communications, potentially mandating stricter adherence to recordkeeping laws. If enacted, it would require agencies to provide clear plans and practices for preserving communications that utilize insecure platforms, thereby enhancing oversight on how sensitive information is handled. This elaboration of recordkeeping requirements may demand additional resources and updates to current practices within federal agencies, promoting more robust compliance checks and procedures.

Summary

HR316 is a resolution of inquiry that requests the President to transmit certain documents regarding the use of electronic communication platforms for official communications. The resolution specifically emphasizes platforms considered insecure, such as Signal, and seeks clarity on adherence to federal recordkeeping laws. The bill aims to ensure that all communications, especially those containing sensitive national security information, are preserved in compliance with existing legal frameworks and are not automatically deleted. This inquiry highlights the importance of proper documentation and transparency in governmental communications.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HR316 include the debate over privacy versus transparency. Supporters argue that heightened scrutiny of communications using insecure platforms is necessary for national security and accountability within government. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding the implications for personal privacy and the operational efficiency of government officials who rely on these platforms for communication. The balance between maintaining sensitive communications and ensuring public accountability through proper records management will be a key area of discussion as the bill progresses.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR825

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit certain information to the House of Representatives referring to United States Government agencies sharing certain communications with the public and Federal employees.

US HR344

Of inquiry requesting the President, and directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to transmit respectively, to the House of Representatives certain documents relating to the elimination of the Administration for Community Living-.

US HR186

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit certain documents to the House of Representatives relating to the conflicts of interest of Elon Musk and related information.

US HR1001

Of inquiry requesting the President and directing the Secretary of State to transmit to the House of Representatives certain documents in their possession relating to the Administration's stance on Greenland.

US HR286

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit certain documents relating to the dangerous, unaccountable use of AI by the United States DOGE Service to jeopardize the private information and essential services of the American people.

US HR1078

Of inquiry requesting the President and directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to transmit, respectively, certain documents to the House of Representatives relating to the "Defend the Spend" freeze on child care payments to all States, Tribes, and Territories.

US HR187

Of inquiry requesting the President to transmit certain information to the House of Representatives referring to the termination, removal, placement on administrative leave, moved to another department of Federal employees and Inspectors General of agencies.

US HR302

Of inquiry requesting the President and directing the Secretaries of the Treasury and Labor to transmit, respectively, certain documents to the House of Representatives relating to the effect on local economies and communities of the Department of Government Efficiency and newly-imposed tariffs.

US HR237

Of inquiry requesting the President and directing the Secretary of Education to transmit, respectively, certain documents to the House of Representatives relating to the reduction in force and other downsizing measures at the Department of Education.

US HR264

Of inquiry requesting the President transmit certain documents in his possession to the House of Representatives relating to the security clearances held by Elon Musk, members of the United States Department of Government Efficiency Service, and any other individual considered to be a member of the DOGE team.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.