National Threat Evaluation and Reporting Program Reassignment and Funding Reform Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Evans, Gabe [R-CO-8]
- Committees
- Homeland Security Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 14, 2026
Bottom line
The bill reorganizes the NTER Program within DHS to better align its management and funding with its primary mission of supporting State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement partners.
What it actually does
This bill mandates the transfer of the National Threat Evaluation and Reporting (NTER) Program from the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) to its Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE). It also prohibits the use of National Intelligence Program (NIP) funds for NTER activities and directs DHS to identify alternative non-NIP funding sources to support the program's continued operation and expansion.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the NTER Program primarily serves non-Federal stakeholders and is operationally distinct from national intelligence priorities, making OSLLE the most appropriate component to manage it. This transfer will improve coordination with State, local, Tribal, and territorial partners and ensure the program's funding is consistent with its mission and scope.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that while the intent is to improve alignment, any organizational transfer carries inherent risks of disruption to ongoing operations, potential loss of institutional knowledge, or a temporary decrease in efficiency during the transition period. There could also be concerns about the stability and adequacy of alternative funding sources compared to the established National Intelligence Program appropriations.
The bill is short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for a quick evaluation by an informed reader.
Section 3(a)
Transfer of National Threat Evaluation and Reporting Program
This provision directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to transfer the National Threat Evaluation and Reporting (NTER) Program from the Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) to the Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE) within 180 days of the bill's enactment. It mandates that this transfer ensures continuity of the program's mission and operations, maintains engagement with State, local, Tribal, and territorial (SLTT) partners, and includes the transfer of necessary personnel, assets, and funds. Crucially, it prohibits any reduction in the capabilities or services provided to SLTT partners as a result of this transfer.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that placing the NTER Program under OSLLE, which is the primary DHS component for coordination with SLTT law enforcement, will better align the program's management with its core mission. This move is expected to enhance operational effectiveness and streamline engagement with the non-federal stakeholders it primarily serves.
Critics contend
Critics might express concern that any significant organizational transfer, even with explicit continuity clauses, carries inherent risks of temporary disruption, potential loss of institutional knowledge, or a temporary decrease in efficiency during the transition period, potentially impacting service delivery.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the perceived benefits of better organizational alignment and improved stakeholder coordination against the inherent risks of disruption and administrative challenges associated with a major program transfer.
Section 3(b)
Prohibition on Use of National Intelligence Program Funds and Alternative Funding
This provision prohibits the Department of Homeland Security from using funds appropriated or made available under the National Intelligence Program (NIP) for the NTER Program after its transfer to OSLLE. It further directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to actively identify and allocate alternative, non-NIP funding sources to ensure the NTER Program's continued operation and potential expansion. These alternative sources may include existing DHS appropriations for State and local programs, preparedness grants, or other relevant non-intelligence funding streams.