50 USC CHAPTER 36, SUBCHAPTER VI: ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES REGARDING CERTAIN PERSONS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES

From Title 50—WAR AND NATIONAL DEFENSECHAPTER 36—FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE

SUBCHAPTER VI—ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES REGARDING CERTAIN PERSONS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES

§1881. Definitions

(a) In general

In this subchapter, the terms "agent of a foreign power", "Attorney General", "contents", "electronic surveillance", "foreign intelligence information", "foreign power", "person", "United States", and "United States person" have the meanings given such terms in section 1801 of this title, except as specifically provided in this subchapter.

(b) Additional definitions

In this subchapter:

(1) Congressional intelligence committees

The term "congressional intelligence committees" means—

(A) the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate; and

(B) the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives.

(2) Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court; Court

The terms "Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court" and "Court" mean the court established under section 1803(a) of this title.

(3) Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review; Court of Review

The terms "Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review" and "Court of Review" mean the court established under section 1803(b) of this title.

(4) Electronic communication service provider

The term "electronic communication service provider" means—

(A) a telecommunications carrier, as that term is defined in section 153 of title 47;

(B) a provider of electronic communication service, as that term is defined in section 2510 of title 18;

(D) any other communication service provider who has access to wire or electronic communications either as such communications are transmitted or as such communications are stored;

(E) any other service provider who has access to equipment that is being or may be used to transmit or store wire or electronic communications, but not including any entity that serves primarily as—

(i) a public accommodation facility, as that term is defined in section 1861(4) of this title;

(ii) a dwelling, as that term is defined in section 3602 of title 42;

(iii) a community facility, as that term is defined in section 1592n of title 42; or

(iv) a food service establishment, as that term is defined in section 1638 of title 7; or

(F) an officer, employee, custodian, or agent of an entity described in subparagraph (A), (B), (C), (D), or (E).

(5) Intelligence community

The term "intelligence community" has the meaning given the term in section 3003(4) of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §701, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2437; amended Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §205(a)(5), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 21; Pub. L. 118–49, §25(a), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 893.)

Repeal of Section

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a note under section 1801 of this title, effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024, this section is repealed.

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 701 of Pub. L. 95–511 was set out as a note under section 1801 of this title, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 110–261.

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (b)(4)(D). Pub. L. 118–49, §25(a)(2), struck out "or" at end.

Subsec. (b)(4)(E). Pub. L. 118–49, §25(a)(3), added subpar. (E). Former subpar. (E) redesignated (F).

Subsec. (b)(4)(F). Pub. L. 118–49, §25(a)(1), (4), redesignated subpar. (E) as (F), inserted "custodian," after "employee," and substituted "(C), (D), or (E)" for "(C), or (D)".

2018—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 115–118, §205(a)(5)(A), substituted "In this subchapter, the terms" for "The terms".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 115–118, §205(a)(5)(B)(i), inserted introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 115–118, §205(a)(5)(B)(ii), made technical amendment to reference in original act which appears in text as reference to section 3003(4) of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2017 Amendment

Pub. L. 115–96, div. A, §1002, Dec. 22, 2017, 131 Stat. 2045, which temporarily extended the effective date of the amendments made by section 403(b) of Pub. L. 110–261 to Jan. 19, 2018, was repealed by its own terms upon the enactment, on Jan. 19, 2018, of section 201(a) of Pub. L. 115–118, which amended the dates specified in section 403(b) of Pub. L. 110–261, and by Pub. L. 115–120, div. B, §2002, Jan. 22, 2018, 132 Stat. 31, which was effective on Jan. 22, 2018.

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

[Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(c), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19, provided that: "The amendments made to the FISA Amendments Act of 2008 (Public Law 110–261) by this section [amending sections 1881 to 1881g of this title and provisions set out as notes under section 1801 of this title and section 2511 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure] shall take effect on December 31, 2017."]

§1881a. Procedures for targeting certain persons outside the United States other than United States persons

(a) Authorization

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, upon the issuance of an order in accordance with subsection (j)(3) or a determination under subsection (c)(2), the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence may authorize jointly, for a period of up to 1 year from the effective date of the authorization, the targeting of persons reasonably believed to be located outside the United States to acquire foreign intelligence information.

(b) Limitations

An acquisition authorized under subsection (a)—

(1) may not intentionally target any person known at the time of acquisition to be located in the United States;

(2) may not intentionally target a person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States if the purpose of such acquisition is to target a particular, known person reasonably believed to be in the United States;

(3) may not intentionally target a United States person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States;

(4) may not intentionally acquire any communication as to which the sender and all intended recipients are known at the time of the acquisition to be located in the United States;

(5) may not intentionally acquire communications that contain a reference to, but are not to or from, a target of an acquisition authorized under subsection (a); and

(6) shall be conducted in a manner consistent with the fourth amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

(c) Conduct of acquisition

(1) In general

An acquisition authorized under subsection (a) shall be conducted only in accordance with—

(A) the targeting and minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e); and

(B) upon submission of a certification in accordance with subsection (h), such certification.

(2) Determination

A determination under this paragraph and for purposes of subsection (a) is a determination by the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence that exigent circumstances exist because, without immediate implementation of an authorization under subsection (a), intelligence important to the national security of the United States may be lost or not timely acquired and time does not permit the issuance of an order pursuant to subsection (j)(3) prior to the implementation of such authorization.

(3) Timing of determination

The Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence may make the determination under paragraph (2)—

(A) before the submission of a certification in accordance with subsection (h); or

(B) by amending a certification pursuant to subsection (j)(1)(C) at any time during which judicial review under subsection (j) of such certification is pending.

(4) Construction

Nothing in subchapter I shall be construed to require an application for a court order under such subchapter for an acquisition that is targeted in accordance with this section at a person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States.

(d) Targeting procedures

(1) Requirement to adopt

The Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall adopt targeting procedures that are reasonably designed to—

(A) ensure that any acquisition authorized under subsection (a) is limited to targeting persons reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(B) prevent the intentional acquisition of any communication as to which the sender and all intended recipients are known at the time of the acquisition to be located in the United States.

(2) Judicial review

The procedures adopted in accordance with paragraph (1) shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to subsection (j).

(e) Minimization procedures

(1) Requirement to adopt

The Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall adopt minimization procedures that meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) of this title or section 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate, for acquisitions authorized under subsection (a).

(2) Judicial review

The minimization procedures adopted in accordance with paragraph (1) shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to subsection (j).

(3) Publication

The Director of National Intelligence, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall—

(A) conduct a declassification review of any minimization procedures adopted or amended in accordance with paragraph (1); and

(B) consistent with such review, and not later than 180 days after conducting such review, make such minimization procedures publicly available to the greatest extent practicable, which may be in redacted form.

(f) Queries

(1) Procedures required

(A) Requirement to adopt

The Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall adopt querying procedures consistent with the requirements of the fourth amendment to the Constitution of the United States for information collected pursuant to an authorization under subsection (a).

(B) Record of United States person query terms

The Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall ensure that the procedures adopted under subparagraph (A) include a technical procedure whereby a record is kept of each United States person query term used for a query.

(C) Judicial review

The procedures adopted in accordance with subparagraph (A) shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to subsection (j).

(2) Prohibition on conduct of queries that are solely designed to find and extract evidence of a crime

(A) Limits on authorizations of United States person queries

The querying procedures adopted pursuant to paragraph (1) for the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall prohibit queries of information acquired under subsection (a) that are solely designed to find and extract evidence of criminal activity.

(B) Exceptions

The restriction under subparagraph (A) shall not apply with respect to a query if—

(i) there is a reasonable belief that such query may retrieve information that could assist in mitigating or eliminating a threat to life or serious bodily harm; or

(ii) such query is necessary to identify information that must be produced or preserved in connection with a litigation matter or to fulfill discovery obligations in criminal matters under the laws of the United States or any State thereof.

(3) Restrictions imposed on Federal Bureau of Investigation

(A) Limits on authorizations of United States person queries

(i) In general

Federal Bureau of Investigation personnel must obtain prior approval from a Federal Bureau of Investigation supervisor (or employee of equivalent or greater rank) or attorney who is authorized to access unminimized contents or noncontents obtained through acquisitions authorized under subsection (a) for any query of such unminimized contents or noncontents made using a United States person query term.

(ii) Exception

A United States person query to be conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation of unminimized contents or noncontents obtained through acquisitions authorized under subsection (a) using a United States person query term may be conducted without obtaining prior approval as specified in clause (i) only if the person conducting the United States person query has a reasonable belief that conducting the query could assist in mitigating or eliminating a threat to life or serious bodily harm.

(B) Notification requirement for certain FBI queries

(i) Requirement

The Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall promptly notify appropriate congressional leadership of any query conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation using a query term that is reasonably believed to be the name or other personally identifying information of a member of Congress, and shall also notify the member who is the subject of such query.

(ii) Appropriate congressional leadership defined

In this subparagraph, the term "appropriate congressional leadership" means the following:

(I) The chairs and ranking minority members of the congressional intelligence committees.

(II) The Speaker and minority leader of the House of Representatives.

(III) The majority and minority leaders of the Senate.

(iii) National security considerations

In submitting a notification under clause (i), the Director shall give due regard to the protection of classified information, sources and methods, and national security.

(iv) Waiver

(I) In general

The Director may waive a notification required under clause (i) if the Director determines such notification would impede an ongoing national security or law enforcement investigation.

(II) Termination

A waiver under subclause (I) shall terminate on the date the Director determines the relevant notification would not impede the relevant national security or law enforcement investigation or on the date that such investigation ends, whichever is earlier.

(C) Consent required for FBI to conduct certain queries for purpose of defensive briefing

(i) Consent required

The Federal Bureau of Investigation may not, for the exclusive purpose of supplementing the contents of a briefing on the defense against a counterintelligence threat to a member of Congress, conduct a query using a query term that is the name or restricted personal information (as such term is defined in section 119 of title 18) of that member unless—

(I) the member provides consent to the use of the query term; or

(II) the Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation determines that exigent circumstances exist sufficient to justify the conduct of such query.

(ii) Notification

(I) Notification of consent sought

Not later than three business days after submitting a request for consent from a member of Congress under clause (i), the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall notify the appropriate congressional leadership, regardless of whether the member provided such consent.

(II) Notification of exception used

Not later than three business days after the conduct of a query under clause (i) without consent on the basis of the existence of exigent circumstances determined under subclause (II) of such clause, the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall notify the appropriate congressional leadership.

(iii) Rule of construction

Nothing in this subparagraph may be construed as—

(I) applying to matters outside of the scope of the briefing on the defense against a counterintelligence threat to be provided or supplemented under clause (i); or

(II) limiting the lawful investigative activities of the Federal Bureau of Investigation other than supplementing the contents of a briefing on the defense against a counterintelligence threat to a member of Congress.

(iv) Appropriate congressional leadership defined

In this subparagraph, the term "appropriate congressional leadership" means the following:

(I) The chairs and ranking minority members of the congressional intelligence committees.

(II) The Speaker and minority leader of the House of Representatives.

(III) The majority and minority leaders of the Senate.

(D) Querying procedures applicable to Federal Bureau of Investigation

For any procedures adopted under paragraph (1) applicable to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall include the following requirements:

(i) Training

A requirement that, prior to conducting any query, personnel of the Federal Bureau of Investigation successfully complete training on the querying procedures on an annual basis.

(ii) Additional prior approvals for sensitive queries

A requirement that, absent exigent circumstances, prior to conducting certain queries, personnel of the Federal Bureau of Investigation receive approval, at minimum, as follows:

(I) Approval from the Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation if the query uses a query term reasonably believed to identify a United States elected official, an appointee of the President or a State governor, a United States political candidate, a United States political organization or a United States person prominent in such organization, or a United States media organization or a United States person who is a member of such organization.

(II) Approval from an attorney of the Federal Bureau of Investigation if the query uses a query term reasonably believed to identify a United States religious organization or a United States person who is prominent in such organization.

(III) Approval from an attorney of the Federal Bureau of Investigation if such conduct involves batch job technology (or successor tool).

(iii) Prior written justification

A requirement that, prior to conducting a query using a United States person query term, personnel of the Federal Bureau of Investigation provide a written statement of the specific factual basis to support the reasonable belief that such query meets the standards required by the procedures adopted under paragraph (1). For each United States person query, the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall keep a record of the query term, the date of the conduct of the query, the identifier of the personnel conducting the query, and such written statement.

(iv) Storage of certain contents and noncontents

Any system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation that stores unminimized contents or noncontents obtained through acquisitions authorized under subsection (a) together with contents or noncontents obtained through other lawful means shall be configured in a manner that—

(I) requires personnel of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to affirmatively elect to include such unminimized contents or noncontents obtained through acquisitions authorized under subsection (a) when running a query; or

(II) includes other controls reasonably expected to prevent inadvertent queries of such unminimized contents or noncontents.

(v) Waiver authority for Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court

If the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court finds that the procedures adopted under paragraph (1) include measures that are reasonably expected to result in similar compliance outcomes as the measures specified in clauses (i) through (iv) of this subparagraph, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court may waive one or more of the requirements specified in such clauses.

(vi) Prohibition on political appointees within the process to approve Federal Bureau of Investigation queries

The procedures shall prohibit any political personnel, such as those classified by the Office of Personnel Management as Presidential Appointment with Senate Confirmation, Presidential Appointment (without Senate Confirmation), Noncareer Senior Executive Service Appointment, or Schedule C Excepted Appointment, from inclusion in the Federal Bureau of Investigation's prior approval process under clause (ii).

(4) Minimum accountability standards

The Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall issue minimum accountability standards that set forth escalating consequences for noncompliant querying of United States person terms within the contents of communications that were acquired under this section. Such standards shall include, at minimum, the following:

(A) Zero tolerance for willful misconduct.

(B) Escalating consequences for unintentional noncompliance, including the threshold for mandatory revocation of access to query information acquired under this section.

(5) Definitions

In this subsection:

(A) The term "contents" has the meaning given that term in section 2510(8) of title 18.

(B) The term "query" means the use of one or more terms to retrieve the unminimized contents or noncontents located in electronic and data storage systems of communications of or concerning United States persons obtained through acquisitions authorized under subsection (a).

(6) Vetting of non-United States persons

For any procedures for one or more agencies adopted under paragraph (1)(A), the Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall ensure that the procedures enable the vetting of all non-United States persons who are being processed for travel to the United States using terms that do not qualify as United States person query terms under this chapter.

(g) Guidelines for compliance with limitations

(1) Requirement to adopt

The Attorney General, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, shall adopt guidelines to ensure—

(A) compliance with the limitations in subsection (b); and

(B) that an application for a court order is filed as required by this chapter.

(2) Submission of guidelines

The Attorney General shall provide the guidelines adopted in accordance with paragraph (1) to—

(A) the congressional intelligence committees;

(B) the Committees on the Judiciary of the Senate and the House of Representatives; and

(h) Certification

(1) In general

(A) Requirement

Subject to subparagraph (B), prior to the implementation of an authorization under subsection (a), the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence shall provide to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court a written certification and any supporting affidavit, under oath and under seal, in accordance with this subsection.

(B) Exception

If the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence make a determination under subsection (c)(2) and time does not permit the submission of a certification under this subsection prior to the implementation of an authorization under subsection (a), the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence shall submit to the Court a certification for such authorization as soon as practicable but in no event later than 7 days after such determination is made.

(2) Requirements

A certification made under this subsection shall—

(A) attest that—

(i) there are targeting procedures in place that have been approved, have been submitted for approval, or will be submitted with the certification for approval by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court that are reasonably designed to—

(I) ensure that an acquisition authorized under subsection (a) is limited to targeting persons reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(II) prevent the intentional acquisition of any communication as to which the sender and all intended recipients are known at the time of the acquisition to be located in the United States;

(ii) the minimization procedures to be used with respect to such acquisition—

(I) meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate; and

(II) have been approved, have been submitted for approval, or will be submitted with the certification for approval by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court;

(iii) guidelines have been adopted in accordance with subsection (g) to ensure compliance with the limitations in subsection (b) and to ensure that an application for a court order is filed as required by this chapter;

(iv) the procedures and guidelines referred to in clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) are consistent with the requirements of the fourth amendment to the Constitution of the United States;

(v) a significant purpose of the acquisition is to obtain foreign intelligence information;

(vi) the acquisition involves obtaining foreign intelligence information from or with the assistance of an electronic communication service provider; and

(vii) the acquisition complies with the limitations in subsection (b);

(B) include the procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e);

(i) appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate; or

(ii) the head of an element of the intelligence community;

(D) include—

(i) an effective date for the authorization that is at least 30 days after the submission of the written certification to the court; or

(ii) if the acquisition has begun or the effective date is less than 30 days after the submission of the written certification to the court, the date the acquisition began or the effective date for the acquisition; and

(E) if the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence make a determination under subsection (c)(2), include a statement that such determination has been made.

(3) Change in effective date

The Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence may advance or delay the effective date referred to in paragraph (2)(D) by submitting an amended certification in accordance with subsection (j)(1)(C) to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court for review pursuant to subsection (i).¹

(4) Limitation

A certification made under this subsection is not required to identify the specific facilities, places, premises, or property at which an acquisition authorized under subsection (a) will be directed or conducted.

(5) Maintenance of certification

The Attorney General or a designee of the Attorney General shall maintain a copy of a certification made under this subsection.

(6) Review

A certification submitted in accordance with this subsection shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to subsection (j).

(i) Directives and judicial review of directives

(1) Authority

With respect to an acquisition authorized under subsection (a), the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence may direct, in writing, an electronic communication service provider to—

(A) immediately provide the Government with all information, facilities, or assistance necessary to accomplish the acquisition in a manner that will protect the secrecy of the acquisition and produce a minimum of interference with the services that such electronic communication service provider is providing to the target of the acquisition; and

(B) maintain under security procedures approved by the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence any records concerning the acquisition or the aid furnished that such electronic communication service provider wishes to maintain.

(2) Compensation

The Government shall compensate, at the prevailing rate, an electronic communication service provider for providing information, facilities, or assistance in accordance with a directive issued pursuant to paragraph (1).

(3) Release from liability

No cause of action shall lie in any court against any electronic communication service provider for providing any information, facilities, or assistance in accordance with a directive issued pursuant to paragraph (1).

(4) Challenging of directives

(A) Authority to challenge

An electronic communication service provider receiving a directive issued pursuant to paragraph (1) may file a petition to modify or set aside such directive with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, which shall have jurisdiction to review such petition.

(B) Assignment

The presiding judge of the Court shall assign a petition filed under subparagraph (A) to 1 of the judges serving in the pool established under section 1803(e)(1) of this title not later than 24 hours after the filing of such petition.

(C) Standards for review

A judge considering a petition filed under subparagraph (A) may grant such petition only if the judge finds that the directive does not meet the requirements of this section, or is otherwise unlawful.

(D) Procedures for initial review

A judge shall conduct an initial review of a petition filed under subparagraph (A) not later than 5 days after being assigned such petition. If the judge determines that such petition does not consist of claims, defenses, or other legal contentions that are warranted by existing law or by a nonfrivolous argument for extending, modifying, or reversing existing law or for establishing new law, the judge shall immediately deny such petition and affirm the directive or any part of the directive that is the subject of such petition and order the recipient to comply with the directive or any part of it. Upon making a determination under this subparagraph or promptly thereafter, the judge shall provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for such determination.

(E) Procedures for plenary review

If a judge determines that a petition filed under subparagraph (A) requires plenary review, the judge shall affirm, modify, or set aside the directive that is the subject of such petition not later than 30 days after being assigned such petition. If the judge does not set aside the directive, the judge shall immediately affirm or affirm with modifications the directive, and order the recipient to comply with the directive in its entirety or as modified. The judge shall provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for a determination under this subparagraph.

(F) Continued effect

Any directive not explicitly modified or set aside under this paragraph shall remain in full effect.

(G) Contempt of Court

Failure to obey an order issued under this paragraph may be punished by the Court as contempt of court.

(5) Enforcement of directives

(A) Order to compel

If an electronic communication service provider fails to comply with a directive issued pursuant to paragraph (1), the Attorney General may file a petition for an order to compel the electronic communication service provider to comply with the directive with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, which shall have jurisdiction to review such petition.

(B) Assignment

(C) Procedures for review

A judge considering a petition filed under subparagraph (A) shall, not later than 30 days after being assigned such petition, issue an order requiring the electronic communication service provider to comply with the directive or any part of it, as issued or as modified, if the judge finds that the directive meets the requirements of this section and is otherwise lawful. The judge shall provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for a determination under this paragraph.

(D) Contempt of Court

Failure to obey an order issued under this paragraph may be punished by the Court as contempt of court.

(E) Process

Any process under this paragraph may be served in any judicial district in which the electronic communication service provider may be found.

(6) Appeal

(A) Appeal to the Court of Review

The Government or an electronic communication service provider receiving a directive issued pursuant to paragraph (1) may file a petition with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review for review of a decision issued pursuant to paragraph (4) or (5). The Court of Review shall have jurisdiction to consider such petition and shall provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for a decision under this subparagraph.

(B) Certiorari to the Supreme Court

The Government or an electronic communication service provider receiving a directive issued pursuant to paragraph (1) may file a petition for a writ of certiorari for review of a decision of the Court of Review issued under subparagraph (A). The record for such review shall be transmitted under seal to the Supreme Court of the United States, which shall have jurisdiction to review such decision.

(j) Judicial review of certifications and procedures

(1) In general

(A) Review by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court shall have jurisdiction to review a certification submitted in accordance with subsection (g) ¹ and the targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1), and amendments to such certification or such procedures.

(B) Time period for review

The Court shall review a certification submitted in accordance with subsection (g) ¹ and the targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) and shall complete such review and issue an order under paragraph (3) not later than 30 days after the date on which such certification and such procedures are submitted.

(C) Amendments

The Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence may amend a certification submitted in accordance with subsection (g) ¹ or the targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) as necessary at any time, including if the Court is conducting or has completed review of such certification or such procedures, and shall submit the amended certification or amended procedures to the Court not later than 7 days after amending such certification or such procedures. The Court shall review any amendment under this subparagraph under the procedures set forth in this subsection. The Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence may authorize the use of an amended certification or amended procedures pending the Court's review of such amended certification or amended procedures.

(2) Review

The Court shall review the following:

(A) Certification

A certification submitted in accordance with subsection (h) to determine whether the certification contains all the required elements.

(B) Targeting procedures

The targeting procedures adopted in accordance with subsection (d) to assess whether the procedures are reasonably designed to—

(i) ensure that an acquisition authorized under subsection (a) is limited to targeting persons reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(ii) prevent the intentional acquisition of any communication as to which the sender and all intended recipients are known at the time of the acquisition to be located in the United States.

(C) Minimization procedures

The minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsection (e) to assess whether such procedures meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) of this title or section 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate.

(D) Querying procedures

The querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsection (f)(1) to assess whether such procedures comply with the requirements of such subsection.

(3) Orders

(A) Approval

If the Court finds that a certification submitted in accordance with subsection (h) contains all the required elements and that the targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) are consistent with the requirements of those subsections and with the fourth amendment to the Constitution of the United States, the Court shall enter an order approving the certification and the use, or continued use in the case of an acquisition authorized pursuant to a determination under subsection (c)(2), of the procedures for the acquisition.

(B) Correction of deficiencies

If the Court finds that a certification submitted in accordance with subsection (h) does not contain all the required elements, or that the procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) are not consistent with the requirements of those subsections or the fourth amendment to the Constitution of the United States, the Court shall issue an order directing the Government to, at the Government's election and to the extent required by the Court's order—

(i) correct any deficiency identified by the Court's order not later than 30 days after the date on which the Court issues the order; or

(ii) cease, or not begin, the implementation of the authorization for which such certification was submitted.

(C) Requirement for written statement

In support of an order under this subsection, the Court shall provide, simultaneously with the order, for the record a written statement of the reasons for the order.

(D) Limitation on use of information

(i) In general

Except as provided in clause (ii), if the Court orders a correction of a deficiency in a certification or procedures under subparagraph (B), no information obtained or evidence derived pursuant to the part of the certification or procedures that has been identified by the Court as deficient concerning any United States person shall be received in evidence or otherwise disclosed in any trial, hearing, or other proceeding in or before any court, grand jury, department, office, agency, regulatory body, legislative committee, or other authority of the United States, a State, or political subdivision thereof, and no information concerning any United States person acquired pursuant to such part of such certification or procedures shall subsequently be used or disclosed in any other manner by Federal officers or employees without the consent of the United States person, except with the approval of the Attorney General if the information indicates a threat of death or serious bodily harm to any person.

(ii) Exception

If the Government corrects any deficiency identified by the order of the Court under subparagraph (B), the Court may permit the use or disclosure of information obtained before the date of the correction under such minimization procedures as the Court may approve for purposes of this clause.

(4) Appeal

(A) Appeal to the Court of Review

The Government may file a petition with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review for review of an order under this subsection. The Court of Review shall have jurisdiction to consider such petition. For any decision under this subparagraph affirming, reversing, or modifying an order of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, the Court of Review shall provide for the record a written statement of the reasons for the decision.

(B) Continuation of acquisition pending rehearing or appeal

Any acquisition affected by an order under paragraph (3)(B) may continue—

(i) during the pendency of any rehearing of the order by the Court en banc; and

(ii) if the Government files a petition for review of an order under this section, until the Court of Review enters an order under subparagraph (C).

(C) Implementation pending appeal

Not later than 60 days after the filing of a petition for review of an order under paragraph (3)(B) directing the correction of a deficiency, the Court of Review shall determine, and enter a corresponding order regarding, whether all or any part of the correction order, as issued or modified, shall be implemented during the pendency of the review.

(D) Certiorari to the Supreme Court

The Government may file a petition for a writ of certiorari for review of a decision of the Court of Review issued under subparagraph (A). The record for such review shall be transmitted under seal to the Supreme Court of the United States, which shall have jurisdiction to review such decision.

(5) Schedule

(A) Reauthorization of authorizations in effect

If the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence seek to reauthorize or replace an authorization issued under subsection (a), the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence shall, to the extent practicable, submit to the Court the certification prepared in accordance with subsection (h) and the procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) at least 30 days prior to the expiration of such authorization.

(B) Reauthorization of orders, authorizations, and directives

If the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence seek to reauthorize or replace an authorization issued under subsection (a) by filing a certification pursuant to subparagraph (A), that authorization, and any directives issued thereunder and any order related thereto, shall remain in effect, notwithstanding the expiration provided for in subsection (a), until the Court issues an order with respect to such certification under paragraph (3) at which time the provisions of that paragraph and paragraph (4) shall apply with respect to such certification.

(k) Judicial proceedings

(1) Expedited judicial proceedings

Judicial proceedings under this section shall be conducted as expeditiously as possible.

(2) Time limits

A time limit for a judicial decision in this section shall apply unless the Court, the Court of Review, or any judge of either the Court or the Court of Review, by order for reasons stated, extends that time as necessary for good cause in a manner consistent with national security.

(l) Maintenance and security of records and proceedings

(1) Standards

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court shall maintain a record of a proceeding under this section, including petitions, appeals, orders, and statements of reasons for a decision, under security measures adopted by the Chief Justice of the United States, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence.

(2) Filing and review

All petitions under this section shall be filed under seal. In any proceedings under this section, the Court shall, upon request of the Government, review ex parte and in camera any Government submission, or portions of a submission, which may include classified information.

(3) Retention of records

The Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence shall retain a directive or an order issued under this section for a period of not less than 10 years from the date on which such directive or such order is issued.

(m) Assessments and reviews

(1) Semiannual assessment

Not less frequently than once every 6 months, the Attorney General and Director of National Intelligence shall assess compliance with the targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) and the guidelines adopted in accordance with subsection (g) and shall submit each assessment to—

(A) the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court; and

(B) consistent with the Rules of the House of Representatives, the Standing Rules of the Senate, and Senate Resolution 400 of the 94th Congress or any successor Senate resolution—

(i) the congressional intelligence committees; and

(ii) the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

(2) Agency assessment

The Inspector General of the Department of Justice and the Inspector General of each element of the intelligence community authorized to acquire foreign intelligence information under subsection (a), with respect to the department or element of such Inspector General—

(A) are authorized to review compliance with the targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1) and the guidelines adopted in accordance with subsection (g);

(B) with respect to acquisitions authorized under subsection (a), shall review the number of disseminated intelligence reports containing a reference to a United States-person identity and the number of United States-person identities subsequently disseminated by the element concerned in response to requests for identities that were not referred to by name or title in the original reporting;

(C) with respect to acquisitions authorized under subsection (a), shall review the number of targets that were later determined to be located in the United States and, to the extent possible, whether communications of such targets were reviewed; and

(D) shall provide each such review to—

(i) the Attorney General;

(ii) the Director of National Intelligence; and

(iii) consistent with the Rules of the House of Representatives, the Standing Rules of the Senate, and Senate Resolution 400 of the 94th Congress or any successor Senate resolution—

(I) the congressional intelligence committees; and

(II) the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

(3) Annual review

(A) Requirement to conduct

The head of each element of the intelligence community conducting an acquisition authorized under subsection (a) shall conduct an annual review to determine whether there is reason to believe that foreign intelligence information has been or will be obtained from the acquisition. The annual review shall provide, with respect to acquisitions authorized under subsection (a)—

(i) an accounting of the number of disseminated intelligence reports containing a reference to a United States-person identity;

(ii) an accounting of the number of United States-person identities subsequently disseminated by that element in response to requests for identities that were not referred to by name or title in the original reporting;

(iii) the number of targets that were later determined to be located in the United States and, to the extent possible, whether communications of such targets were reviewed; and

(iv) a description of any procedures developed by the head of such element of the intelligence community and approved by the Director of National Intelligence to assess, in a manner consistent with national security, operational requirements and the privacy interests of United States persons, the extent to which the acquisitions authorized under subsection (a) acquire the communications of United States persons, and the results of any such assessment.

(B) Use of review

The head of each element of the intelligence community that conducts an annual review under subparagraph (A) shall use each such review to evaluate the adequacy of the minimization procedures utilized by such element and, as appropriate, the application of the minimization procedures to a particular acquisition authorized under subsection (a).

(C) Provision of review

The head of each element of the intelligence community that conducts an annual review under subparagraph (A) shall provide such review to—

(i) the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court;

(ii) the Attorney General;

(iii) the Director of National Intelligence; and

(iv) consistent with the Rules of the House of Representatives, the Standing Rules of the Senate, and Senate Resolution 400 of the 94th Congress or any successor Senate resolution—

(I) the congressional intelligence committees; and

(II) the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

(n) Restriction on certain information available to Federal Bureau of Investigation

(1) Restriction

The Federal Bureau of Investigation may not ingest unminimized information acquired under this section into its analytic repositories unless the targeted person is relevant to an existing, open, predicated full national security investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

(2) Exception for exigent circumstances

Paragraph (1) does not apply if the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation decides it is necessary due to exigent circumstances and provides notification within three business days to the congressional intelligence committees, the Speaker and minority leader of the House of Representatives, and the majority and minority leaders of the Senate.

(3) Exception for assistance to other agencies

Paragraph (1) does not apply where the Federal Bureau of Investigation has agreed to provide technical, analytical, or linguistic assistance at the request of another Federal agency.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §702, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2438; amended Pub. L. 114–23, title III, §301, June 2, 2015, 129 Stat. 278; Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §§101(a)(1), (b)(1), 103, formerly 103(a), (b)(5), 104, title II, §205(a)(6), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 4, 6, 10, 12, 13, 21, renumbered §103, Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(2)(B), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 892; Pub. L. 118–49, §§2(a), (b), (d), (e), (f), 3, 16(a)(1), 22(a), (b)(1), 24, Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 862, 863, 865-867, 883, 891-893.)

Repeal of Section

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This chapter, referred to in subsecs. (f)(1)(B), (6) and (g)(2)(A)(iii), was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L. 95–511, Oct. 25, 1978, 92 Stat. 1783, which is classified principally to this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1801 of this title and Tables.

Subsection (i), referred to in subsec. (h)(3), was redesignated subsection (j) of this section by Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §101(a)(1)(A), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 4.

Subsection (g), referred to in subsec. (j)(1), was redesignated subsection (h) of this section by Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §101(a)(1)(A), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 4.

Senate Resolution 400 of the 94th Congress, referred to in subsec. (l), was agreed to May 19, 1976, and was subsequently amended by both Senate resolution and public law. The Resolution, which established the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, is not classified to the Code.

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 118–49, §22(a), struck out ", except as provided under section 103(b) of the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act of 2017" after "subsection (a)".

Subsec. (f)(2). Pub. L. 118–49, §3(a), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) related to access to results of certain queries conducted by FBI.

Subsec. (f)(3). Pub. L. 118–49, §2(a)(2), added par. (3). Former par. (3) redesignated (5).

Subsec. (f)(3)(B). Pub. L. 118–49, §2(e), added subpar. (B).

Subsec. (f)(3)(C). Pub. L. 118–49, §2(f), added subpar. (C).

Subsec. (f)(3)(D). Pub. L. 118–49, §2(d), added subpar. (D).

Subsec. (f)(3)(D)(vi). Pub. L. 118–49, §2(b), added cl. (vi).

Subsec. (f)(4). Pub. L. 118–49, §16(a)(1), added par. (4).

Subsec. (f)(5). Pub. L. 118–49, §2(a)(1), redesignated par. (3) as (5).

Subsec. (f)(6). Pub. L. 118–49, §24, added par. (6).

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(1)(A), substituted "and reviews" for "reviews, and reporting" in heading.

Subsec. (m)(4). Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(1)(B), struck out par. (4) which related to reporting of material breach.

Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 118–49, §3(b), added subsec. (n).

2018—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(A), substituted "with subsection (j)(3)" for "with subsection (i)(3)".

Subsec. (b)(5), (6). Pub. L. 115–118, §103, formerly §103(a), as renumbered by Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(2)(B), added par. (5) and redesignated former par. (5) as (6).

Subsec. (c)(1)(B). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(B)(i), substituted "with subsection (h)" for "with subsection (g)".

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(B)(ii), substituted "to subsection (j)(3)" for "to subsection (i)(3)".

Subsec. (c)(3)(A). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(B)(iii)(I), substituted "with subsection (h)" for "with subsection (g)".

Subsec. (c)(3)(B). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(B)(iii)(II), substituted "to subsection (j)(1)(C)" for "to subsection (i)(1)(C)" and "under subsection (j)" for "under subsection (i)".

Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(C), substituted "to subsection (j)" for "to subsection (i)".

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(D), substituted "to subsection (j)" for "to subsection (i)".

Subsec. (e)(3). Pub. L. 115–118, §104, added par. (3).

Subsecs. (f) to (h). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(a)(1), added subsec. (f) and redesignated former subsecs. (f) and (g) as (g) and (h), respectively. Former subsec. (h) redesignated (i).

Subsec. (h)(2)(A)(i). Pub. L. 115–118, §205(a)(6), inserted "targeting" before "procedures in place" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (h)(2)(A)(iii). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(E)(i), substituted "with subsection (g)" for "with subsection (f)".

Subsec. (h)(3). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(E)(ii), substituted "with subsection (j)(1)(C)" for "with subsection (i)(1)(C)".

Subsec. (h)(6). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(E)(iii), substituted "to subsection (j)" for "to subsection (i)".

Subsecs. (i), (j). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(a)(1)(A), redesignated subsecs. (h) and (i) as (i) and (j), respectively. Former subsec. (j) redesignated (k).

Subsec. (j)(1). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(F)(i), substituted "targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1)" for "targeting and minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e)" in subpars. (A) to (C).

Subsec. (j)(2)(A). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(F)(ii)(I), substituted "with subsection (h)" for "with subsection (g)".

Subsec. (j)(2)(D). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(F)(ii)(II), added subpar. (D).

Subsec. (j)(3)(A). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(F)(iii)(I), substituted "with subsection (h)" for "with subsection (g)" and "targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1)" for "targeting and minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e)".

Subsec. (j)(3)(B). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(F)(iii)(II), substituted "with subsection (h)" for "with subsection (g)" and "with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1)" for "with subsections (d) and (e)" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (j)(5)(A). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(F)(iv), substituted "with subsection (h)" for "with subsection (g)" and "with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1)" for "with subsections (d) and (e)".

Subsecs. (k), (l). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(a)(1)(A), redesignated subsecs. (j) and (k) as (k) and (l), respectively. Former subsec. (l) redesignated (m).

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 115–118, §103(b)(5)(A), substituted "reviews, and reporting" for "and reviews" in heading. Section 103(b) of Pub. L. 115–118 was struck out by Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(2)(B).

Pub. L. 115–118, §101(a)(1)(A), redesignated subsec. (l) as (m).

Subsec. (m)(1). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(G)(i), substituted "targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1)" for "targeting and minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e)" and "with subsection (g)" for "with subsection (f)" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (m)(2)(A). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(1)(G)(ii), substituted "targeting, minimization, and querying procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), and (f)(1)" for "targeting and minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e)" and "with subsection (g)" for "with subsection (f)".

Subsec. (m)(4). Pub. L. 115–118, §103(b)(5)(B), added par. (4). Section 103(b) of Pub. L. 115–118 was struck out by Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(2)(B).

2015—Subsec. (i)(3)(D). Pub. L. 114–23 added subpar. (D).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2024 Amendment

Pub. L. 118–49, §18(d)(2), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that: "Subsection (f) of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881a), as amended by this Act, shall apply with respect to certifications submitted under subsection (h) of such section to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court after January 1, 2024."

Effective Date of 2018 Amendment

Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §101(a)(2), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 6, provided that: "Subsection (f) of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881a), as added by paragraph (1), shall apply with respect to certifications submitted under subsection (h) of such section to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court after January 1, 2018."

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

Mandatory Audits of United States Person Queries Conducted by Federal Bureau of Investigation

Pub. L. 118–49, §2(c), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 863, provided that:

"(1) Audits required.—For each query identified by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a United States person query against information acquired pursuant to subsection (a) of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881a) conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, not later than 180 days after the conduct of such query, the Department of Justice shall conduct an audit of such query.

"(2) Applicability.—The requirement under paragraph (1) shall apply with respect to queries conducted on or after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 20, 2024].

"(3) Sunset.—This section [probably should be "subsection"] shall terminate on the earlier of the following:

"(A) The date that is 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 20, 2024].

"(B) The date on which the Attorney General submits to the appropriate congressional committees a certification that the Federal Bureau of Investigation has implemented a process for the internal audit of all queries referred to in paragraph (1).

"(4) Appropriate congressional committees defined.—In this section [probably should be "subsection"], the term 'appropriate congressional committees' means—

"(A) the congressional intelligence committees, as such term is defined in subsection (b) of section 701 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881); and

"(B) the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and of the Senate."

Targeting Decisions Under Section 702

Pub. L. 118–49, §4, Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 867, provided that:

"(a) Sense of Congress on the Targeted Collection of United States Person Information.—It is the sense of Congress that, as proscribed in section 702(b)(2) [50 U.S.C. 1881a(b)(2)], section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 [50 U.S.C. 1881a] has always prohibited, and continues to prohibit, the intelligence community from targeting a United States person for collection of foreign intelligence information. If the intelligence community intends to target a United States person for collection of foreign intelligence information under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978, the Government must first obtain an individualized court order based upon a finding of probable cause that the United States person is a foreign power, an agent of a foreign power, or an officer or employee of a foreign power, in order to conduct surveillance targeting that United States person.

"(b) Annual Audit of Targeting Decisions Under Section 702.—

"(1) Mandatory review.—Not less frequently than annually, the Department of Justice National Security Division shall review each person targeted under section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 in the preceding year to ensure that the purpose of each targeting decision is not to target a known United States person. The results of this review shall be submitted to the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General, the congressional intelligence committees, and the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and of the Senate, subject to a declassification review.

"(2) Inspector general audit.—Not less frequently than annually, the Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General shall audit a sampling of the targeting decisions reviewed by the National Security Division under paragraph (1) and submit a report to the congressional intelligence committees and the Committees on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives and of the Senate.

"(3) Certification.—Within 180 days of enactment of this Act [Apr. 20, 2024], and annually thereafter, each agency authorized to target non-United States persons under section 702 shall certify to Congress that the purpose of each targeting decision made in the prior year was not to target a known United States person.

"(4) Application.—The requirements under this subsection apply for any year to the extent that section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 was in effect during any portion of the previous year."

Minimum Accountability Standards

Pub. L. 118–49, §16(a)(2), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 883, provided that: "Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 20, 2024], the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation shall issue the minimum accountability standards required under subsection (f)(4) of section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881a)."

Notification to Congress of Certain Unauthorized Disclosures

Pub. L. 118–49, §18(a), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 884, provided that: "If the Director of National Intelligence becomes aware of an actual or potential significant unauthorized disclosure or compromise of information acquired under section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881a), as soon as practicable, but not later than 7 days after the date on which the Director becomes so aware, the Director shall notify the congressional intelligence committees of such actual or potential disclosure or compromise."

Requirement for Recertification

Pub. L. 118–49, §21, Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 892, provided that: "Notwithstanding any orders or authorizations issued or made under section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1881a) during the period beginning on January 1, 2024 and ending on April 30, 2024, no later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Apr. 20, 2024], the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence shall be required to seek new orders consistent with the provisions of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 [50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.], as amended by this Act, and thereafter to issue new authorizations consistent with such new orders."

Congressional Review and Oversight of Abouts Collection

Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §103(b), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 10, which required the Attorney General and Director of National Intelligence to provide written notice to Congress of the intent to implement authorization of the intentional acquisition of abouts communication and provided for a 30-day congressional review period and exception for emergency acquisition, was repealed by Pub. L. 118–49, §22(b)(2)(A), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 892.

¹ See References in Text note below.

§1881b. Certain acquisitions inside the United States targeting United States persons outside the United States

(a) Jurisdiction of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court

(1) In general

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court shall have jurisdiction to review an application and to enter an order approving the targeting of a United States person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States to acquire foreign intelligence information, if the acquisition constitutes electronic surveillance or the acquisition of stored electronic communications or stored electronic data that requires an order under this chapter, and such acquisition is conducted within the United States.

(2) Limitation

If a United States person targeted under this subsection is reasonably believed to be located in the United States during the effective period of an order issued pursuant to subsection (c), an acquisition targeting such United States person under this section shall cease unless the targeted United States person is again reasonably believed to be located outside the United States while an order issued pursuant to subsection (c) is in effect. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Government to seek an order or authorization under, or otherwise engage in any activity that is authorized under, any other subchapter of this chapter.

(b) Application

(1) In general

Each application for an order under this section shall be made by a Federal officer in writing upon oath or affirmation to a judge having jurisdiction under subsection (a)(1). Each application shall require the approval of the Attorney General based upon the Attorney General's finding that it satisfies the criteria and requirements of such application, as set forth in this section, and shall include—

(A) the identity of the Federal officer making the application;

(B) the identity, if known, or a description of the United States person who is the target of the acquisition;

(C) a sworn statement of the facts and circumstances relied upon to justify the applicant's belief that the United States person who is the target of the acquisition is—

(i) a person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(ii) a foreign power, an agent of a foreign power, or an officer or employee of a foreign power;

(D) a statement of proposed minimization procedures that meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate;

(E) a description of the nature of the information sought and the type of communications or activities to be subjected to acquisition;

(F) a certification made by the Attorney General or an official specified in section 1804(a)(6) of this title that—

(i) the certifying official deems the information sought to be foreign intelligence information;

(ii) a significant purpose of the acquisition is to obtain foreign intelligence information;

(iii) such information cannot reasonably be obtained by normal investigative techniques;

(iv) designates the type of foreign intelligence information being sought according to the categories described in section 1801(e) of this title; and

(v) includes a statement of the basis for the certification that—

(I) the information sought is the type of foreign intelligence information designated; and

(II) such information cannot reasonably be obtained by normal investigative techniques;

(G) a summary statement of the means by which the acquisition will be conducted and whether physical entry is required to effect the acquisition;

(H) the identity of any electronic communication service provider necessary to effect the acquisition, provided that the application is not required to identify the specific facilities, places, premises, or property at which the acquisition authorized under this section will be directed or conducted;

(I) a statement of the facts concerning any previous applications that have been made to any judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court involving the United States person specified in the application and the action taken on each previous application;

(J) a statement of the period of time for which the acquisition is required to be maintained, provided that such period of time shall not exceed 90 days per application;

(K) a certification by the applicant that, to the best knowledge of the applicant, the Attorney General or a designated attorney for the Government has been apprised of all information that might reasonably—

(i) call into question the accuracy of the application or the reasonableness of any assessment in the application conducted by the department or agency on whose behalf the application is made; or

(ii) otherwise raise doubts with respect to the findings required under subsection (c); and

(L) non-cumulative information known to the applicant or declarant that is potentially exculpatory regarding the requested legal findings or any assessment in the application.

(2) Other requirements of the Attorney General

The Attorney General may require any other affidavit or certification from any other officer in connection with the application.

(3) Other requirements of the judge

The judge may require the applicant to furnish such other information as may be necessary to make the findings required by subsection (c)(1).

(c) Order

(1) Findings

Upon an application made pursuant to subsection (b), the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court shall enter an ex parte order as requested or as modified by the Court approving the acquisition if the Court finds that—

(A) the application has been made by a Federal officer and approved by the Attorney General;

(B) on the basis of the facts submitted by the applicant, for the United States person who is the target of the acquisition, there is probable cause to believe that the target is—

(i) a person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(ii) a foreign power, an agent of a foreign power, or an officer or employee of a foreign power;

(C) the proposed minimization procedures meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate; and

(D) the application that has been filed contains all statements and certifications required by subsection (b) and the certification or certifications are not clearly erroneous on the basis of the statement made under subsection (b)(1)(F)(v) and any other information furnished under subsection (b)(3).

(2) Probable cause

In determining whether or not probable cause exists for purposes of paragraph (1)(B), a judge having jurisdiction under subsection (a)(1) may consider past activities of the target and facts and circumstances relating to current or future activities of the target. No United States person may be considered a foreign power, agent of a foreign power, or officer or employee of a foreign power solely upon the basis of activities protected by the first amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

(3) Review

(A) Limitation on review

Review by a judge having jurisdiction under subsection (a)(1) shall be limited to that required to make the findings described in paragraph (1).

(B) Review of probable cause

If the judge determines that the facts submitted under subsection (b) are insufficient to establish probable cause under paragraph (1)(B), the judge shall enter an order so stating and provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for the determination. The Government may appeal an order under this subparagraph pursuant to subsection (f).

(C) Review of minimization procedures

If the judge determines that the proposed minimization procedures referred to in paragraph (1)(C) do not meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate, the judge shall enter an order so stating and provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for the determination. The Government may appeal an order under this subparagraph pursuant to subsection (f).

(D) Review of certification

If the judge determines that an application pursuant to subsection (b) does not contain all of the required elements, or that the certification or certifications are clearly erroneous on the basis of the statement made under subsection (b)(1)(F)(v) and any other information furnished under subsection (b)(3), the judge shall enter an order so stating and provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for the determination. The Government may appeal an order under this subparagraph pursuant to subsection (f).

(4) Specifications

An order approving an acquisition under this subsection shall specify—

(A) the identity, if known, or a description of the United States person who is the target of the acquisition identified or described in the application pursuant to subsection (b)(1)(B);

(B) if provided in the application pursuant to subsection (b)(1)(H), the nature and location of each of the facilities or places at which the acquisition will be directed;

(C) the nature of the information sought to be acquired and the type of communications or activities to be subjected to acquisition;

(D) a summary of the means by which the acquisition will be conducted and whether physical entry is required to effect the acquisition; and

(E) the period of time during which the acquisition is approved.

(5) Directives

An order approving an acquisition under this subsection shall direct—

(A) that the minimization procedures referred to in paragraph (1)(C), as approved or modified by the Court, be followed;

(B) if applicable, an electronic communication service provider to provide to the Government forthwith all information, facilities, or assistance necessary to accomplish the acquisition authorized under such order in a manner that will protect the secrecy of the acquisition and produce a minimum of interference with the services that such electronic communication service provider is providing to the target of the acquisition;

(C) if applicable, an electronic communication service provider to maintain under security procedures approved by the Attorney General any records concerning the acquisition or the aid furnished that such electronic communication service provider wishes to maintain; and

(D) if applicable, that the Government compensate, at the prevailing rate, such electronic communication service provider for providing such information, facilities, or assistance.

(6) Duration

An order approved under this subsection shall be effective for a period not to exceed 90 days and such order may be renewed for additional 90-day periods upon submission of renewal applications meeting the requirements of subsection (b).

(7) Compliance

At or prior to the end of the period of time for which an acquisition is approved by an order or extension under this section, the judge may assess compliance with the minimization procedures referred to in paragraph (1)(C) by reviewing the circumstances under which information concerning United States persons was acquired, retained, or disseminated.

(d) Emergency authorization

(1) Authority for emergency authorization

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, if the Attorney General reasonably determines that—

(A) an emergency situation exists with respect to the acquisition of foreign intelligence information for which an order may be obtained under subsection (c) before an order authorizing such acquisition can with due diligence be obtained, and

(B) the factual basis for issuance of an order under this subsection to approve such acquisition exists,

the Attorney General may authorize such acquisition if a judge having jurisdiction under subsection (a)(1) is informed by the Attorney General, or a designee of the Attorney General, at the time of such authorization that the decision has been made to conduct such acquisition and if an application in accordance with this section is made to a judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court as soon as practicable, but not more than 7 days after the Attorney General authorizes such acquisition.

(2) Minimization procedures

If the Attorney General authorizes an acquisition under paragraph (1), the Attorney General shall require that the minimization procedures referred to in subsection (c)(1)(C) for the issuance of a judicial order be followed.

(3) Termination of emergency authorization

In the absence of a judicial order approving an acquisition under paragraph (1), such acquisition shall terminate when the information sought is obtained, when the application for the order is denied, or after the expiration of 7 days from the time of authorization by the Attorney General, whichever is earliest.

(4) Use of information

If an application for approval submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) is denied, or in any other case where the acquisition is terminated and no order is issued approving the acquisition, no information obtained or evidence derived from such acquisition, except under circumstances in which the target of the acquisition is determined not to be a United States person, shall be received in evidence or otherwise disclosed in any trial, hearing, or other proceeding in or before any court, grand jury, department, office, agency, regulatory body, legislative committee, or other authority of the United States, a State, or political subdivision thereof, and no information concerning any United States person acquired from such acquisition shall subsequently be used or disclosed in any other manner by Federal officers or employees without the consent of such person, except with the approval of the Attorney General if the information indicates a threat of death or serious bodily harm to any person.

(e) Release from liability

No cause of action shall lie in any court against any electronic communication service provider for providing any information, facilities, or assistance in accordance with an order or request for emergency assistance issued pursuant to subsection (c) or (d), respectively.

(f) Appeal

(1) Appeal to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review

The Government may file a petition with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review for review of an order issued pursuant to subsection (c). The Court of Review shall have jurisdiction to consider such petition and shall provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for a decision under this paragraph.

(2) Certiorari to the Supreme Court

The Government may file a petition for a writ of certiorari for review of a decision of the Court of Review issued under paragraph (1). The record for such review shall be transmitted under seal to the Supreme Court of the United States, which shall have jurisdiction to review such decision.

(g) Construction

Except as provided in this section, nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require an application for a court order for an acquisition that is targeted in accordance with this section at a United States person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §703, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2448; amended Pub. L. 118–49, §§6(a)(3), 10(a)(5)(A), (b)(5)(A), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 870, 876, 878.)

Repeal of Section

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This chapter, referred to in subsecs. (a), (d)(1), and (g), was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L. 95–511, Oct. 25, 1978, 92 Stat. 1783, which is classified principally to this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1801 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (b)(1)(C). Pub. L. 118–49, §6(a)(3), substituted "a sworn statement of" for "a statement of" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1)(K). Pub. L. 118–49, §10(a)(5)(A), added subpar. (K).

Subsec. (b)(1)(L). Pub. L. 118–49, §10(b)(5)(A), added subpar. (L).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2024 Amendment

Amendment by section 6(a)(3) of Pub. L. 118–49 applicable with respect to applications made on or after the date that is 120 days after Apr. 20, 2024, see section 6(a)(5) of Pub. L. 118–49, set out as a note under section 1804 of this title.

Amendment by section 10(a)(5)(A) of Pub. L. 118–49 applicable with respect to applications made on or after the date that is 120 days after Apr. 20, 2024, see section 10(a)(6) of Pub. L. 118–49, set out as a note under section 1804 of this title.

Amendment by section 10(b)(5)(A) of Pub. L. 118–49 applicable with respect to applications made on or after the date that is 120 days after Apr. 20, 2024, see section 10(b)(6) of Pub. L. 118–49, set out as a note under section 1804 of this title.

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

§1881c. Other acquisitions targeting United States persons outside the United States

(a) Jurisdiction and scope

(1) Jurisdiction

The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court shall have jurisdiction to enter an order pursuant to subsection (c).

(2) Scope

No element of the intelligence community may intentionally target, for the purpose of acquiring foreign intelligence information, a United States person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States under circumstances in which the targeted United States person has a reasonable expectation of privacy and a warrant would be required if the acquisition were conducted inside the United States for law enforcement purposes, unless a judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court has entered an order with respect to such targeted United States person or the Attorney General has authorized an emergency acquisition pursuant to subsection (c) or (d), respectively, or any other provision of this chapter.

(3) Limitations

(A) Moving or misidentified targets

(B) Applicability

If an acquisition for foreign intelligence purposes is to be conducted inside the United States and could be authorized under section 1881b of this title, the acquisition may only be conducted if authorized under section 1881b of this title or in accordance with another provision of this chapter other than this section.

(C) Construction

Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to limit the authority of the Government to seek an order or authorization under, or otherwise engage in any activity that is authorized under, any other subchapter of this chapter.

(b) Application

(1) the identity of the Federal officer making the application;

(2) the identity, if known, or a description of the specific United States person who is the target of the acquisition;

(3) a sworn statement of the facts and circumstances relied upon to justify the applicant's belief that the United States person who is the target of the acquisition is—

(A) a person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(B) a foreign power, an agent of a foreign power, or an officer or employee of a foreign power;

(4) a statement of proposed minimization procedures that meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate;

(5) a certification made by the Attorney General, an official specified in section 1804(a)(6) of this title, or the head of an element of the intelligence community that—

(A) the certifying official deems the information sought to be foreign intelligence information; and

(B) a significant purpose of the acquisition is to obtain foreign intelligence information;

(6) a statement of the facts concerning any previous applications that have been made to any judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court involving the United States person specified in the application and the action taken on each previous application;

(7) a statement of the period of time for which the acquisition is required to be maintained, provided that such period of time shall not exceed 90 days per application;

(8) a certification by the applicant that, to the best knowledge of the applicant, the Attorney General or a designated attorney for the Government has been apprised of all information that might reasonably—

(A) call into question the accuracy of the application or the reasonableness of any assessment in the application conducted by the department or agency on whose behalf the application is made; or

(B) otherwise raise doubts with respect to the findings required under subsection (c); and

(9) non-cumulative information known to the applicant or declarant that is potentially exculpatory regarding the requested legal findings or any assessment in the application.

(c) Order

(1) Findings

Upon an application made pursuant to subsection (b), the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court shall enter an ex parte order as requested or as modified by the Court if the Court finds that—

(A) the application has been made by a Federal officer and approved by the Attorney General;

(B) on the basis of the facts submitted by the applicant, for the United States person who is the target of the acquisition, there is probable cause to believe that the target is—

(i) a person reasonably believed to be located outside the United States; and

(ii) a foreign power, an agent of a foreign power, or an officer or employee of a foreign power;

(C) the proposed minimization procedures, with respect to their dissemination provisions, meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate; and

(D) the application that has been filed contains all statements and certifications required by subsection (b) and the certification provided under subsection (b)(5) is not clearly erroneous on the basis of the information furnished under subsection (b).

(2) Probable cause

(3) Review

(A) Limitations on review

Review by a judge having jurisdiction under subsection (a)(1) shall be limited to that required to make the findings described in paragraph (1). The judge shall not have jurisdiction to review the means by which an acquisition under this section may be conducted.

(B) Review of probable cause

If the judge determines that the facts submitted under subsection (b) are insufficient to establish probable cause to issue an order under this subsection, the judge shall enter an order so stating and provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for such determination. The Government may appeal an order under this subparagraph pursuant to subsection (e).

(C) Review of minimization procedures

If the judge determines that the minimization procedures applicable to dissemination of information obtained through an acquisition under this subsection do not meet the definition of minimization procedures under section 1801(h) or 1821(4) of this title, as appropriate, the judge shall enter an order so stating and provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for such determination. The Government may appeal an order under this subparagraph pursuant to subsection (e).

(D) Scope of review of certification

If the judge determines that an application under subsection (b) does not contain all the required elements, or that the certification provided under subsection (b)(5) is clearly erroneous on the basis of the information furnished under subsection (b), the judge shall enter an order so stating and provide a written statement for the record of the reasons for such determination. The Government may appeal an order under this subparagraph pursuant to subsection (e).

(4) Duration

An order under this paragraph shall be effective for a period not to exceed 90 days and such order may be renewed for additional 90-day periods upon submission of renewal applications meeting the requirements of subsection (b).

(5) Compliance

At or prior to the end of the period of time for which an order or extension is granted under this section, the judge may assess compliance with the minimization procedures referred to in paragraph (1)(C) by reviewing the circumstances under which information concerning United States persons was disseminated, provided that the judge may not inquire into the circumstances relating to the conduct of the acquisition.

(d) Emergency authorization

(1) Authority for emergency authorization

Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, if the Attorney General reasonably determines that—

(A) an emergency situation exists with respect to the acquisition of foreign intelligence information for which an order may be obtained under subsection (c) before an order under that subsection can, with due diligence, be obtained, and

(B) the factual basis for the issuance of an order under this section exists,

the Attorney General may authorize the emergency acquisition if a judge having jurisdiction under subsection (a)(1) is informed by the Attorney General or a designee of the Attorney General at the time of such authorization that the decision has been made to conduct such acquisition and if an application in accordance with this section is made to a judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court as soon as practicable, but not more than 7 days after the Attorney General authorizes such acquisition.

(2) Minimization procedures

If the Attorney General authorizes an emergency acquisition under paragraph (1), the Attorney General shall require that the minimization procedures referred to in subsection (c)(1)(C) be followed.

(3) Termination of emergency authorization

In the absence of an order under subsection (c), an emergency acquisition under paragraph (1) shall terminate when the information sought is obtained, if the application for the order is denied, or after the expiration of 7 days from the time of authorization by the Attorney General, whichever is earliest.

(4) Use of information

If an application submitted to the Court pursuant to paragraph (1) is denied, or in any other case where the acquisition is terminated and no order with respect to the target of the acquisition is issued under subsection (c), no information obtained or evidence derived from such acquisition, except under circumstances in which the target of the acquisition is determined not to be a United States person, shall be received in evidence or otherwise disclosed in any trial, hearing, or other proceeding in or before any court, grand jury, department, office, agency, regulatory body, legislative committee, or other authority of the United States, a State, or political subdivision thereof, and no information concerning any United States person acquired from such acquisition shall subsequently be used or disclosed in any other manner by Federal officers or employees without the consent of such person, except with the approval of the Attorney General if the information indicates a threat of death or serious bodily harm to any person.

(e) Appeal

(1) Appeal to the Court of Review

(2) Certiorari to the Supreme Court

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §704, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2453; amended Pub. L. 118–49, §§6(a)(4), 10(a)(5)(B), (b)(5)(B), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 870, 876, 878.)

Repeal of Section

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This chapter, referred to in subsec. (a)(2), (3)(B), (C), was in the original "this Act", meaning Pub. L. 95–511, Oct. 25, 1978, 92 Stat. 1783, which is classified principally to this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1801 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

2024—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 118–49, §6(a)(4), substituted "a sworn statement of" for "a statement of" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 118–49, §10(a)(5)(B), added par. (8).

Subsec. (b)(9). Pub. L. 118–49, §10(b)(5)(B), added par. (9).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2024 Amendment

Amendment by section 6(a)(4) of Pub. L. 118–49 applicable with respect to applications made on or after the date that is 120 days after Apr. 20, 2024, see section 6(a)(5) of Pub. L. 118–49, set out as a note under section 1804 of this title.

Amendment by section 10(a)(5)(B) of Pub. L. 118–49 applicable with respect to applications made on or after the date that is 120 days after Apr. 20, 2024, see section 10(a)(6) of Pub. L. 118–49, set out as a note under section 1804 of this title.

Amendment by section 10(b)(5)(B) of Pub. L. 118–49 applicable with respect to applications made on or after the date that is 120 days after Apr. 20, 2024, see section 10(b)(6) of Pub. L. 118–49, set out as a note under section 1804 of this title.

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

§1881d. Joint applications and concurrent authorizations

(a) Joint applications and orders

If an acquisition targeting a United States person under section 1881b or 1881c of this title is proposed to be conducted both inside and outside the United States, a judge having jurisdiction under section 1881b(a)(1) or 1881c(a)(1) of this title may issue simultaneously, upon the request of the Government in a joint application complying with the requirements of sections 1881b(b) and 1881c(b) of this title, orders under sections 1881b(c) and 1881c(c) of this title, as appropriate.

(b) Concurrent authorization

If an order authorizing electronic surveillance or physical search has been obtained under section 1805 or 1824 of this title, the Attorney General may authorize, for the effective period of that order, without an order under section 1881b or 1881c of this title, the targeting of that United States person for the purpose of acquiring foreign intelligence information while such person is reasonably believed to be located outside the United States.

(c) Emergency authorization

(1) Concurrent authorization

If the Attorney General authorized the emergency employment of electronic surveillance or a physical search pursuant to section 1805 or 1824 of this title, the Attorney General may authorize, for the effective period of the emergency authorization and subsequent order pursuant to section 1805 or 1824 of this title, without a separate order under section 1881b or 1881c of this title, the targeting of a United States person subject to such emergency employment for the purpose of acquiring foreign intelligence information while such United States person is reasonably believed to be located outside the United States.

(2) Use of information

If an application submitted to the Court pursuant to section 1804 or 1823 of this title is denied, or in any other case in which the acquisition pursuant to paragraph (1) is terminated and no order with respect to the target of the acquisition is issued under section 1805 or 1824 of this title, all information obtained or evidence derived from such acquisition shall be handled in accordance with section 1881c(d)(4) of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §705, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2457; amended Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §105, Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 13.)

Repeal of Section

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 115–118 added subsec. (c).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

§1881e. Use of information acquired under this subchapter

(a) Information acquired under section 1881a

(1) In general

Information acquired from an acquisition conducted under section 1881a of this title shall be deemed to be information acquired from an electronic surveillance pursuant to subchapter I for purposes of section 1806 of this title, except for the purposes of subsection (j) of such section.

(2) United States persons

(A) In general

Any information concerning a United States person acquired under section 1881a of this title shall not be used in evidence against that United States person pursuant to paragraph (1) in any criminal proceeding unless—

(i) the Federal Bureau of Investigation obtained an order of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to access such information pursuant to section 1881a(f)(2) of this title; or

(ii) the Attorney General determines that—

(I) the criminal proceeding affects, involves, or is related to the national security of the United States; or

(II) the criminal proceeding involves—

(aa) death;

(bb) kidnapping;

(cc) serious bodily injury, as defined in section 1365 of title 18;

(dd) conduct that constitutes a criminal offense that is a specified offense against a minor, as defined in section 20911 of title 34;

(ee) incapacitation or destruction of critical infrastructure, as defined in section 5195c(e) of title 42;

(ff) cybersecurity, including conduct described in section 5195c(e) of title 42 or section 1029, 1030, or 2511 of title 18;

(gg) transnational crime, including transnational narcotics trafficking and transnational organized crime; or

(hh) human trafficking.

(B) No judicial review

A determination by the Attorney General under subparagraph (A)(ii) is not subject to judicial review.

(b) Information acquired under section 1881b

Information acquired from an acquisition conducted under section 1881b of this title shall be deemed to be information acquired from an electronic surveillance pursuant to subchapter I for purposes of section 1806 of this title.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §706, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2457; amended Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §102(a), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 8.)

Repeal of Section

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 115–118 designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted par. heading, and added par. (2).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

§1881f. Congressional oversight

(a) Semiannual report

Not less frequently than once every 6 months, the Attorney General shall fully inform, in a manner consistent with national security, the congressional intelligence committees and the Committees on the Judiciary of the Senate and the House of Representatives, consistent with the Rules of the House of Representatives, the Standing Rules of the Senate, and Senate Resolution 400 of the 94th Congress or any successor Senate resolution, concerning the implementation of this subchapter.

(b) Content

Each report under subsection (a) shall include—

(1) with respect to section 1881a of this title—

(A) any certifications submitted in accordance with section 1881a(h) of this title during the reporting period;

(B) with respect to each determination under section 1881a(c)(2) of this title, the reasons for exercising the authority under such section;

(D) a description of the judicial review during the reporting period of such certifications and targeting and minimization procedures adopted in accordance with subsections (d) and (e) of section 1881a of this title and utilized with respect to an acquisition under such section, including a copy of an order or pleading in connection with such review that contains a significant legal interpretation of the provisions of section 1881a of this title;

(E) any actions taken to challenge or enforce a directive under paragraph (4) or (5) of section 1881a(i) of this title;

(F) any compliance reviews conducted by the Attorney General or the Director of National Intelligence of acquisitions authorized under section 1881a(a) of this title;

(G) a description of any incidents of noncompliance—

(i) with a directive issued by the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence under section 1881a(i) of this title, including incidents of noncompliance by a specified person to whom the Attorney General and Director of National Intelligence issued a directive under section 1881a(i) of this title; and

(ii) by an element of the intelligence community with procedures and guidelines adopted in accordance with subsections (d), (e), (f)(1), and (g) of section 1881a of this title; and

(H) any procedures implementing section 1881a of this title;

(2) with respect to section 1881b of this title—

(A) the total number of applications made for orders under section 1881b(b) of this title;

(B) the total number of such orders—

(i) granted;

(ii) modified; and

(iii) denied; and

(C) the total number of emergency acquisitions authorized by the Attorney General under section 1881b(d) of this title and the total number of subsequent orders approving or denying such acquisitions; and

(3) with respect to section 1881c of this title—

(A) the total number of applications made for orders under section 1881c(b) of this title;

(B) the total number of such orders—

(i) granted;

(ii) modified; and

(iii) denied; and

(C) the total number of emergency acquisitions authorized by the Attorney General under section 1881c(d) of this title and the total number of subsequent orders approving or denying such applications.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §707, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2457; amended Pub. L. 115–118, title I, §101(b)(2), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 8.)

Repeal of Section

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Senate Resolution 400 of the 94th Congress, referred to in subsec. (a), was agreed to May 19, 1976, and was subsequently amended by both Senate resolution and public law. The Resolution, which established the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, is not classified to the Code.

Amendments

2018—Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(2)(B), substituted "section 1881a(h) of this title" for "section 1881a(g) of this title".

Subsec. (b)(1)(C), (E). Pub. L. 115–118, §102(b)(2)(A), substituted "section 1881a(i) of this title" for "section 1881a(h) of this title".

Subsec. (b)(1)(G)(i). Pub. L. 115–118, §102(b)(2)(A), substituted "section 1881a(i) of this title" for "section 1881a(h) of this title" in two places.

Subsec. (b)(1)(G)(ii). Pub. L. 115–118, §101(b)(2)(C), substituted "subsections (d), (e), (f)(1), and (g)" for "subsections (d), (e), and (f)".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

§1881g. Savings provision

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to limit the authority of the Government to seek an order or authorization under, or otherwise engage in any activity that is authorized under, any other subchapter of this chapter.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §708, as added Pub. L. 110–261, title I, §101(a)(2), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2458.)

Repeal of Section

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.

§1881h. Penalties for unauthorized disclosure

(a) Offense

A person is guilty of an offense under this section if that person knowingly and willfully communicates, furnishes, transmits, or otherwise makes available to an unauthorized person, or publishes, or uses in any manner prejudicial to the safety or interest of the United States or for the benefit of any foreign government to the detriment of the United States any classified information that contains the contents of any communication acquired under this subchapter to which a known United States person is a party.

(b) Penalty

A person guilty of an offense in this section shall be fined under title 18, imprisoned for not more than 8 years, or both.

(c) Jurisdiction

There is Federal jurisdiction over an offense under this section if the person committing the offense was an officer or employee of the United States at the time the offense was committed.

(Pub. L. 95–511, title VII, §709, as added Pub. L. 118–49, §13(c), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 882.)

Repeal of Section

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of Repeal

Pub. L. 110–261, title IV, §403(b)(1), July 10, 2008, 122 Stat. 2474, as amended by Pub. L. 112–238, §2(a)(1), Dec. 30, 2012, 126 Stat. 1631; Pub. L. 115–118, title II, §201(a)(1), Jan. 19, 2018, 132 Stat. 19; Pub. L. 118–31, div. G, title IX, §7902(a)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1108; Pub. L. 118–49, §19(a)(1), Apr. 20, 2024, 138 Stat. 891, provided that, except as provided in section 404 of Pub. L. 110–261, set out as a Transition Procedures note under section 1801 of this title, the repeals made by section 403(b)(1) are effective two years after Apr. 20, 2024.