Intelligence Community Technology Bridge Act of 2025
Summary
The Intelligence Community Technology Bridge Act of 2025 aims to establish a fund to help transition research and development projects into prototype or production phases. This fund, managed by the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), will provide financial assistance to businesses and nonprofit organizations working with the intelligence community. The goal is to advance government acquisitions of innovative products and services, particularly from small businesses and nontraditional contractors.
The fund will consist of appropriated amounts and will remain available until expended. The DNI will consult with intelligence community heads and other relevant agencies in administering the fund. Annual reports will be submitted to congressional intelligence committees detailing expenditures, obligations, and outcomes.
An authorization of $75 million is set for fiscal year 2026 and each year thereafter, with a fund limit of $75 million at any time.
Expected Effects
This act is likely to accelerate the development and deployment of new technologies within the intelligence community. It will provide financial incentives for businesses and nonprofits to engage in research and development with the government. This could lead to enhanced capabilities and increased competitiveness for the federal government.
Small businesses and nontraditional contractors will likely benefit from prioritized access to the fund. This may foster innovation and diversify the supplier base for the intelligence community. The annual reporting requirement ensures transparency and accountability in the fund's administration.
Potential Benefits
- Accelerated Technology Development: Facilitates quicker transition of research into practical applications.
- Support for Small Businesses: Prioritizes assistance to small businesses and nontraditional contractors.
- Enhanced Intelligence Capabilities: Aims to improve the intelligence community's technological resources.
- Increased Innovation: Encourages innovation by providing financial support for prototype and production phases.
- Transparency and Accountability: Requires annual reports to congressional intelligence committees.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Misallocation of Funds: There is a risk that funds may not be allocated to the most effective projects.
- Limited Scope: The fund's focus is limited to projects already under contract with the intelligence community, potentially excluding other valuable innovations.
- Administrative Burden: The administration of the fund may create additional bureaucratic processes.
- Risk of Favoritism: There is a potential risk of favoritism in the selection of projects to receive assistance.
- Fund Cap: The fund is capped at $75 million which may limit the scope of projects that can be supported.
Constitutional Alignment
The Intelligence Community Technology Bridge Act appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The act aims to enhance national security by promoting technological advancements within the intelligence community.
The establishment of the fund and its oversight by the Director of National Intelligence are within the powers delegated to the legislative and executive branches. The reporting requirements to congressional intelligence committees ensure accountability and transparency, aligning with the principle of checks and balances.
No specific constitutional conflicts are apparent in the text of the bill. The act does not infringe upon individual liberties or rights as defined in the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).