DHS Special Events Program and Support Act

HR 6229, the DHS Special Events Program and Support Act, creates a new program within the Department of Homeland Security to assess security threats at pre-planned special events not already designated as National Special Security Events. It allows state, local, tribal, and territorial officials to voluntarily request a security rating for events, which could lead to DHS providing direct security and situational awareness support. The program uses a risk-based approach considering factors like event size, attendance of officials, venue, and credible threats, with expedited reassessment options. DHS must report annually on the program’s usage and support provided, and conduct research on technologies for mass gathering security. This directly affects event organizers seeking federal security assistance for non-NSS events.