The Senate’s plan for UFO disclosure. It’s called ‘UAP Disclosure Act of 2023’
The Senate recently approved an amendment mandating government agencies to share UFO-related information within 300 days, unless national security risks are evident.
What is the UAP Disclosure Act?
Known as the UAP Disclosure Act, this amendment, part of the National Defense Authorization Act for 2024, outlines a systematic process for handling reports of Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) or UFOs. It not only demands the disclosure of information but also designates government ownership of any retrieved technology.
This act gained traction following whistleblower David Grusch’s revelations about a secretive Pentagon UFO retrieval program during a House hearing.
What information is the government required to turn over?
Agencies are required to submit UFO-related records, potential samples, or recovered technology within the stipulated time frame. (300 days)
Can any records be kept secret?
Certain records can be withheld if their disclosure poses national security threats. The President can delay such disclosures, with periodic reviews mandated for declassification possibilities. Any postponed records must have a publicly available, unclassified explanation for the delay, citing reasons such as protection of intelligence personnel identities.
What if a government agency refuses to turn over records?
The legislation doesn’t specify measures to enforce disclosure if government agencies deliberately withhold information from Congress.
What is the UAP Records Review Board?
The legislation establishes the UAP Records Review Board within 90 days of the act’s implementation. This independent nine-member board, excluding individuals linked to ongoing UAP research, aims to investigate submitted data within 180 days and publish findings soon after.
Furthermore, the act claims eminent domain over unknown technology or biological remnants from non-human intelligence, allowing the government to possess such findings for the public good.
Who sponsored the legislation?
Senators Chuck Schumer and Mike Rounds co-sponsored this bipartisan bill to enhance transparency on a subject often mocked despite public interest. It mirrors previous efforts to declassify records, akin to those involving President Kennedy’s assassination.
Who’s paying for this?
Funding, a part of the National Defense Authorization Act, earmarks $20 million for fiscal year 2024. Meanwhile, the President can utilize discretionary funds to cover interim expenses.
What else is the government doing about UFOs?
Besides legislative actions, NASA established a Director of UAP Research role, aiming to transition UFO investigation from stigma to science. Simultaneously, the Pentagon launched a website to compile civilian-reported UFO sightings.
