SAFE Act

Enhanced Protections for Sensitive Queries: The bill requires the FBI to obtain prior approval from an attorney before conducting queries involving sensitive groups, such as elected officials, judges, or religious organizations. (Section 101(b)(1)(A)(ii))

Increased Accountability for FBI Employees: The act establishes procedures to hold FBI employees accountable for violations of law or procedure, including consequences like suspension of access or personnel file documentation. (Section 103(a)(b)(2))

Stricter Rules for Government Data Acquisition: The bill limits the ability of the intelligence community to acquire "covered data" belonging to United States persons, except under specific circumstances like emergencies or court orders. (Section 501(a))

Restrictions on Law Enforcement Purchasing Personal Data: It prohibits law enforcement agencies from obtaining covered personal data from data brokers in exchange for anything of value, with certain exceptions. (Section 502(a)(2))

Improved Judicial Oversight: The bill expands the authority of the amicus curiae to assist the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court and allows them to petition for the review of decisions. (Section 301(a))

Mandatory Accuracy Procedures: New requirements are established to ensure that applications for court orders are accurate and include all material information that could call the findings into question. (Section 201(a)(2))

Technical and Personnel Readiness: Under Section 701(b), the Attorney General can delay implementation to "develop and implement technical systems" or "to hire or train personnel." This could ensure that new laws are functional and properly managed before they are fully active.

Restrictions on Intelligence Acquisition: The limitations on the intelligence community's ability to acquire and query certain datasets could impact the effectiveness of intelligence gathering. (Section 501(a))

Limitations on Law Enforcement Data Access: By restricting the ability of law enforcement to purchase personal data from data brokers, the bill may impact existing investigative methods. (Section 502(a))

Compliance Burdens for Service Providers: The bill introduces new obligations and potential limitations for electronic communication service providers and those acting as intermediaries or ancillary service providers. (Section 503 and Section 505)

Delayed Accountability: Under Section 701(b), the Attorney General has the authority to delay the implementation of a provision or amendment for "a period of not more than 180 days." This delay is permitted if a showing is made to the appropriate committees that it is necessary for technical systems or staffing.