Authority of the Bureau of Counterterrorism to access certain information

(a) In general The Bureau of Counterterrorism of the Department is authorized to access, obtain, and use information maintained by any other Federal department or agency for formulation, implementation, or oversight of international counterterrorism policies, programs, operations, or assistance. Such access may be used for the purposes of— (1) identifying and anticipating current and emerging threats; (2) collecting and verifying information to support policy decisions and terrorism-related designations; (3) detecting, countering, or preventing terrorism-related activity, including terrorist travel; (4) improving coordination between Federal agencies on international counterterrorism efforts; and (5) supporting national security objectives. (b) Interagency agreements The Secretary may enter into memoranda of understanding or other agreements with the heads of other Federal departments and agencies to facilitate the timely and secure exchange of information under this section, including access to intelligence and law enforcement data, as necessary, to support the Bureau of Counterterrorism’s counterterrorism mission, consistent with applicable laws governing the handling of sensitive or classified information. (c) Privacy and security The Bureau of Counterterrorism shall implement appropriate technical, administrative, and policy safeguards to ensure that any information accessed or shared under this section is collected, stored, and used in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, including those governing the protection of privacy, civil liberties, and classified or sensitive information.