Department of Homeland Security Accountability Act of 2026

Increased Congressional Oversight: The Secretary of Homeland Security must submit notifications to appropriate congressional committees and Members of Congress regarding serious bodily injuries or deaths (Section 2(a)). This provides transparency to elected officials about incidents occurring in DHS custody.

Standardized Incident Reporting: Notifications must include specific details like the date, time, location, nationality, and the use of force or de-escalation tactics (Section 2(a)(1)-(5)). This ensures that a complete record of the event is established.

Impartial Investigations: The bill requires investigations to be conducted by Department employees who are outside the chain of command of the individuals being investigated (Section 2(b)(1)(A)). This aims to prevent bias in the investigative process.

Evidence Preservation: The Act requires that video recordings of individuals who suffered serious bodily injury or death be preserved for at least five years after an investigation is completed (Section 2(b)(1)(B)).

Accountability for Personnel: The bill mandates that any employee who inflicted serious bodily injury or used lethal force be placed on administrative leave until the investigation is complete (Section 2(b)(1)(C)).

Medical Standard Reviews: Investigations must include a review of medical assistance provided to ensure treatment complied with Department standards (Section 2(b)(1)(E)-(F)).