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Enhancing US Research Security: Mandatory Polygraphs for Foreign Nationals in DOE Labs.

This Act tightens security protocols within the Department of Energy and National Laboratories to protect critical government research from foreign theft. It mandates qualifying polygraph examinations for foreign nationals from "countries of concern" who have access to nonpublic research data. Refusal to undergo the examination results in immediate termination or ineligibility for employment at the DOE.
Key points
Mandatory polygraph examinations are introduced for foreign nationals (who are not permanent residents) from designated "countries of concern" working in National Laboratories.
These examinations are required before hiring, transfer, and at least once every 5 years to maintain access to nonpublic research data.
Refusal to submit to a polygraph examination leads to immediate termination of employment at the Department of Energy and revocation of access to sensitive information.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1734
Sponsor: Sen. Barrasso, John [R-WY]
Process start date: 2023-05-18
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

SARFA Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_1734.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-05-18.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Mandatory polygraph examinations are introduced for foreign nationals (who are not permanent residents) from designated "countries of concern" working in National Laboratories.
  • These examinations are required before hiring, transfer, and at least once every 5 years to maintain access to nonpublic research data.
  • Refusal to submit to a polygraph examination leads to immediate termination of employment at the Department of Energy and revocation of access to sensitive information.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Barrasso, John [R-WY].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Security