Restricting Ex-Vetted Officials from Knowledge Exploitation Act; REVOKE Act
Summary
The Restricting Ex-Vetted Officials from Knowledge Exploitation Act (REVOKE Act) aims to revoke security clearances for former Department of Defense (DoD) personnel who engage in lobbying activities on behalf of entities identified as Chinese military companies. This bill targets individuals who, after leaving their government positions, use their knowledge and connections to benefit foreign adversaries. The Act includes a waiver provision allowing the Secretary of Defense to temporarily suspend the prohibition if it's deemed in the national security interest.
Expected Effects
The REVOKE Act will likely reduce the influence of Chinese military companies by limiting their access to former DoD personnel with valuable knowledge and connections. It may also deter former DoD personnel from lobbying for such entities. The waiver provision provides flexibility but could also be a source of potential abuse if not carefully managed.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthened national security by limiting foreign influence.
- Reduced risk of sensitive information being exploited by adversaries.
- Increased accountability for former DoD personnel.
- Potential deterrent effect on lobbying for foreign military entities.
- Addresses a potential conflict of interest.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for overly broad application, impacting legitimate career opportunities.
- Risk of chilling effect on post-government employment for DoD personnel.
- Possible legal challenges based on due process or freedom of speech.
- The waiver provision could be used to circumvent the intent of the law.
- May strain relationships with individuals who are legitimately working within legal and ethical boundaries.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The REVOKE Act's constitutionality is complex. While Congress has broad authority over national security and defense under Article I, Section 8, the Act could potentially infringe upon First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and association. The waiver provision and the specific definitions of lobbying activities are crucial for ensuring the Act is narrowly tailored and avoids overreach. Due process considerations under the Fifth Amendment would also need to be addressed to ensure fair application of the revocation process.
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).