H.R. 4691: Responsive Counterterrorism Policy Act

This bill, known as the Responsive Counterterrorism Policy Act, aims to enhance the United States’ approach to counterterrorism in areas identified as having significant terrorist threats or ongoing U.S. counterterrorism efforts. The key provisions of the bill include:

Establishment of Counterterrorism Strategies

The Secretary of State is tasked with directing the Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism to create and maintain written counterterrorism strategies for each country or region facing a notable terrorist threat or where there is U.S. involvement in counterterrorism activities. These strategies are intended to improve coordination, effectiveness, and accountability of U.S. counterterrorism policies.

Purpose of the Strategies

These strategies are separate from the Department of State’s annual Country Reports on Terrorism. They will act as forward-looking operational planning documents specifically designed for the Bureau of Counterterrorism.

Contents of the Strategies

Each counterterrorism strategy must include:

• Identification of specific threats and setting clear objectives.
• Outlining coordinated actions with other U.S. government and international partners, with defined roles and collaboration mechanisms.
• Consideration of local political, economic, and social factors, aligning with broader U.S. foreign policy goals.
• Designation of the Bureau of Counterterrorism as the lead entity in these strategies.

Involvement of Partners

The bill specifies that coordination in these efforts should involve:

• Interagency partners: All relevant bureaus, offices, and components of U.S. government departments that participate in counterterrorism efforts.
• International partners: Foreign governmental institutions and local entities actively engaged in counterterrorism efforts in their regions.

Updating the Strategies

The strategies will need to be reviewed and updated at least annually, or more frequently depending on changes in threat dynamics or policy priorities. Each update should incorporate lessons learned and reflect current operational contexts or strategic objectives.

Congressional Briefings

The Bureau of Counterterrorism is required to provide briefings to Congress:

• Within 90 days of the bill’s enactment, regarding the countries and regions for which the strategies will be developed, including the criteria for prioritization.
• Annually, on the development, implementation, and updates of the strategies, as well as how these strategies inform programmatic funding and diplomatic engagement.

Relevant Companies

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