FR 2025-03856

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the renewal of the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) charter. This notice includes significant changes as well as continuity in the council’s mandate, which involves providing strategic advice on homeland security issues. The current charter will be effective from March 5, 2025, to March 5, 2027. This information is critical for those interested in governmental advisory structures and their influence on national security policies.

Summary of the Document

The Secretary of Homeland Security has decided that continuing the operation of the HSAC is in the public interest. This determination aligns with the guidance from the Committee Management Secretariat within the General Services Administration. Several amendments have been made to the council’s structure. The number of members has been reduced from 40 to 35, and the terms of appointment have been extended from one year to three years. Additionally, the leadership structure has changed from having co-chairs to a single Chair and Vice Chair system.

Significant Issues and Concerns

While the renewal of the HSAC is framed positively as necessary for public interest, there are areas where more transparency would be beneficial:

• Budgetary Concerns: The document does not outline the budget or costs associated with the renewal and operations of the HSAC. Understanding these details is crucial for assessing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the council.

• Membership Reduction: The reduction in total membership appears without a clear explanation of why it is necessary. This lack of justification might raise concerns about transparency and the implications of fewer voices contributing to the council.

• Extended Term Lengths: By extending terms from one to three years, the document does not address potential drawbacks or advantages of having longer-serving members. This could lead to ongoing influence by the same individuals without a clear articulation of the benefits of such a change.

• Lack of Selection Criteria: The criteria for selecting members are not mentioned, potentially leading to concerns around the fairness and impartiality of appointments. Clear criteria are important to maintain trust in the council’s objectivity.

• Leadership Structure Changes: Though the document indicates a shift from co-chairs to a Chair and Vice Chair, it does not provide a rationale for this change. Understanding the intended effects of this amendment could clarify its impact on leadership dynamics.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, the renewal of the HSAC primarily signifies continued government engagement with security experts to guide homeland security policy. The council’s advice can potentially shape decisions that affect national security strategies, which, in turn, impacts public safety and preparedness.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Stakeholders such as current and future advisory council members, government officials, and homeland security practitioners might experience the impact of these changes directly:

• Advisory Council Members: Current and prospective members may experience changes in the dynamics of their roles, more extended commitment periods, and altered responsibilities, especially with the revised leadership structure.

• Government and Policy Makers: The reduced membership and longer terms might streamline decision-making but could also concentrate power and influence among fewer individuals over longer periods.

• Security Experts and Organizations: These groups may need to adjust their engagement strategies with the HSAC, considering its new composition and leadership structure, which could affect how their input is utilized in policy development.

Overall, while the renewal reflects continuity in securing expert guidance for homeland security issues, the lack of transparency in several areas could lead to questions regarding the efficacy and representation within the HSAC.