H.R. 1508 — DHS Special Events Program and Support Act

This section establishes a DHS special events program to assess threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of terrorism or other security threats at pre-planned special events not designated as National Special Security Events (i.e., high-profile events coordinated by the Secret Service). The program requires (1) a standard process for Federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial officials to voluntarily request special event ratings that may result in security and situational awareness support; (2) a risk-based methodology considering anticipated attendance by U.S. officials or foreign dignitaries, event size and venue, credible threats, and homeland security information; and (3) processes for expedited consideration and reassessment of ratings. The Secretary may provide such support at the request of an appropriate official. This section further directs the Secretary, in coordination with the Undersecretary for Science and Technology and the program official, to conduct research and development on technologies and techniques for enhancing security and situational awareness at mass gatherings, consistent with constitutional, privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections, not later than one year after enactment. This section requires annual reports to the House and Senate Homeland Security Committees, beginning one year after enactment, detailing event submissions and ratings, Federal support provided, and reassessment requests (including requesting entity, event details, rating changes, and justifications); periodic program assessments every five years thereafter; and a clerical amendment to the Homeland Security Act table of contents.