Pelosi Statement on Senate Passage of Intelligence Authorization Bill

[ProSense]

Pelosi, Feinstein deal releases intel hold

By Alexander Bolton

Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Senate Intelligence Committee Chairwoman Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) have a deal on an intelligence authorization bill that would establish new oversight rules for the intelligence community.

The Senate passed a new version of the intelligence authorization bill Monday night by voice vote. A Democratic aide said the House could approve it this week.

Congress has not approved an intelligence authorization bill in nearly six years.

Pelosi had held up the intelligence authorization bill because of concerns over whether it would give members of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence enough oversight of covert operations.

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Pelosi Statement on Senate Passage of Intelligence Authorization Bill

Washington, D.C. -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today on Senate passage last night of the intelligence authorization bill, would require the executive branch to share more information with Congress about intelligence activities. The House is expected to approve the bill this week and send it to President Obama for his signature into law.

“In passing the Intelligence Authorization Act last night, the Senate upheld our first responsibility – to ensure the security of the American people – while addressing two key objectives. It expands and improves the Congressional notification process for covert action and provides the framework for GAO access to intelligence community information so that the GAO can conduct investigations, audits, and evaluations as requested by Congress.

"This legislation demonstrates Congress' commitment to the dedicated men and women of the intelligence community, who play a key role in ensuring the safety and security of the American people."

"I look forward to the House passing the legislation this week. It will enhance the ability of Congress to oversee intelligence activities and it will allow us to keep our intelligence agencies strong and our families safe.”