HR-5977 : Still Just a Bill

The Sensible Classification Act of 2023 (H.R. 5977) aims to reform the federal government's classification system for national security information. Key provisions include:

• Classification Authority: Limits who can originally classify information and requires training for those with classification authority.
• Efficient Declassification Review: Mandates agencies to review and process records older than 25 years for declassification.
• Sensible Classification Training: Requires agencies to train employees with classification authority to avoid over-classification.
• Public Interest Declassification Board: Allows board members to continue serving after their term expires until a successor is appointed and permits the hiring of additional staff.
• Technology Implementation: Directs the development of technology-based solutions, using machine learning and AI, to improve classification and declassification processes.
• Security Clearance Reviews: Requires agencies to conduct studies and provide recommendations on the necessity of security clearances to reduce the number of individuals with access to classified information.

The bill seeks to balance national security with the public's interest in government transparency by reforming the classification system to ensure that it is limited to what is necessary to protect national security.