H.R. 1508 · Where this bill is now
In committee
Introduced in the House, sent to the Committee on Homeland Security, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned, Feb 21, 2025
What this bill does
In plain words · AI-written from the official summaryDHS gains authority to support special event security
Ever wondered who helps keep watch at local events like concerts or festivals. This bill gives the Department of Homeland Security official legal authority to provide security assessments and support for special events that aren't designated as major national events. DHS would set up a standard process where state, local, and tribal officials can ask for help, and DHS would evaluate requests using a risk-based approach. The bill also directs DHS to research new technologies and methods to better support security at mass gatherings while protecting privacy and civil rights.
How it affects you
If you attend local or regional special events, DHS could potentially provide additional security monitoring and support through this new program. Event organizers and local officials in your area may have access to federal security resources they can request on a voluntary basis. Most people won't notice a direct change in their daily lives, but communities hosting significant gatherings might see enhanced security coordination between local and federal authorities.
Read the official summary (Introduced in House, Feb 21, 2025)
DHS Special Events Program and Support Act
This 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 DHS, such as presidential inaugurations, major international summits, and major sporting events.)
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.
Written by AI (Claude) using only the official summary by the Congressional Research Service, the Library of Congress’s nonpartisan research staff. It can miss nuance, so check the official summary and the bill text for details.
1st SessionH. R. 1508
A BILL
DHS Special Events Program and Support Act
Sponsor: Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV-1) · Introduced Feb 21, 2025 · Government Operations and Politics · 1 version of the text
Sources: Congress.gov actions and votes · bill text from GovInfo · latest official action Apr 9, 2025: “Ordered to be Reported by Voice Vote.”