Representative Adriano Espaillat Introduces the Responsibility and Integrity in Security Clearance (RISC) Act

Press Release

Today, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) introduced the Responsibility and Integrity in Security Clearance (RISC) Act to further measures to counter Presidential abuse of power by preventing family members and financial associates of the President of the United States from receiving a security clearance without going through appropriate protocols or channels.

"Congress has a responsibility to conduct oversight over the executive branch, and the previous administration proved that we can never take for granted this responsibility or the implications it may have when overlooked," said Rep. Espaillat. "We have witnessed how fragile democracy is around the world, including here at home during the January 6th insurrection. During the previous administration, several of the former President's family members and associates were given unprecedented access to our nation's secrets by bypassing appropriate security clearance channels and protocols. My bill advances our national security by closing this loophole and avoiding the associated risks that come with unqualified, unvetted, and unscrupulous persons gaining such access simply due to their proximity or relation with the President."

The RISC Act prevents abuse of power in providing security clearances to family members and other financial associates of the President of the United States. The bill includes the following:

· The White House Chief of Staff must notify Congress if the President grants security access to a family member or financial associate against or before the recommendation of agencies like the FBI.

· Notification must be given in writing by Chief of Staff within five days of the individual or group receiving security clearance.

· Revokes security clearances given to family members or financial associates of the President against or before the recommendation of federal agencies like the FBI.

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