Repeal the Smith-Mundt Modernization Act of 2013
Summary
H.R. 5704, the "Repeal the Smith-Mundt Modernization Act of 2013," aims to prohibit domestic propagandization by the Federal Government. The bill seeks to repeal the Smith-Mundt Modernization Act of 2013, amending the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948. It restricts the dissemination of information within the United States and reinforces the ban on using government funds to influence public opinion domestically.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would significantly limit the ability of the Department of State and the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to disseminate information domestically. It would reinforce existing prohibitions on using government funds for domestic propaganda. The bill also introduces stricter archival requirements for materials produced for foreign dissemination.
Potential Benefits
- Reduces the risk of government propaganda influencing public opinion within the United States.
- Increases transparency by requiring materials to be available for examination by the press and Congress.
- Strengthens restrictions on the domestic distribution of USAGM program material.
- Ensures that archival materials are accessible to the public after a 20-year period, with clear identification of their origin and purpose.
- Reinforces the separation between information intended for foreign audiences and domestic consumption.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit the ability of the government to provide factual information about its operations and policies to the American public.
- Could hinder the government's ability to respond effectively to misinformation or disinformation campaigns originating from abroad.
- Might reduce public awareness of U.S. foreign policy initiatives and international affairs.
- Could create bureaucratic hurdles in disseminating information, even when it serves the public interest.
- The 20-year delay on archival material release may limit timely access to historical information.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the First Amendment by safeguarding freedom of speech and the press by preventing government propaganda from unduly influencing public opinion. By limiting the government's ability to disseminate information domestically, it reduces the potential for the government to shape public discourse, which could be seen as an infringement on individual liberties. The bill also reinforces the principle of transparency, allowing the press and Congress to review materials intended for foreign audiences, promoting accountability.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).