01 — The Text
What.
- Authorizes federal spending for CIA, NSA, FBI intelligence divisions, and related spy agencies through fiscal 2027.
- Sets budget ceilings and operational authorities for classified intelligence programs lawmakers will vote on behind closed doors.
- Detailed specifics remain classified; public summary not yet released by Congressional Research Service.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Taxpayers fund spy operations but never see the dollar amounts—Congress votes on classified figures only committee members access.
- Intelligence agencies can't legally operate without this annual authorization; failure to pass halts some intelligence gathering.
- Partisan disagreements over surveillance scope, foreign operations, or oversight standards could delay or block passage.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Senate Intelligence Committee approved it in May 2026; filed written report August 2026. Awaits full Senate floor vote—no timeline set.
- Bill has zero cosponsors and filed minority views, signaling internal committee disagreement on specific provisions.
- Track votes at Congress.gov or contact your senator's office to ask their stance on intelligence oversight.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Aug 5, 2026 — By Senator Cotton from Select Committee on Intelligence filed written report. Report No. 119-133. Additional and Minority views filed.
- Aug 5, 2026 — By Senator Cotton from Select Committee on Intelligence filed written report. Report No. 119-133. Additional and Minority views filed.
- May 20, 2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 420.
- May 20, 2026 — Select Committee on Intelligence. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Cotton. Without written report.
- May 20, 2026 — Select Committee on Intelligence. Original measure reported to Senate by Senator Cotton. Without written report.