Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012
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| Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 | |
|---|---|
| Name | Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 |
| Enacted by | 112th United States Congress |
| Effective date | January 10, 2013 |
| Cite public law | Public Law 112-238 |
Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012. The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 is a United States law that amended the Smith-Mundt Act of 1965 and the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. It was signed into law by President Barack Obama on January 10, 2013. The law aimed to modernize the United States Information Agency and enhance the dissemination of information about the United States abroad. The law also clarified the Secretary of State's role in overseeing the International Broadcasting Bureau.
Background
The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 was introduced in response to the changing global communication landscape and the need for the United States to adapt its international broadcasting strategy. The original Smith–Mundt Act of 1965 established the United States Information Agency to promote American culture and values abroad. However, with the advent of the internet and social media, the way information was consumed and disseminated had significantly changed. The new law aimed to update the framework to reflect these changes and improve the effectiveness of United States international broadcasting.
The United States Information Agency was abolished in 1999, and its functions were transferred to the Broadcasting Board of Governors, which oversaw the International Broadcasting Bureau. The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 aimed to clarify the role of the Secretary of State in overseeing the International Broadcasting Bureau and to enhance the dissemination of information about the United States abroad.
Provisions
The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 had several key provisions. It amended the Smith–Mundt Act of 1965 to allow for the International Broadcasting Bureau to make its content available to the public in the United States. It also clarified the role of the Secretary of State in overseeing the International Broadcasting Bureau and required the Secretary of State to develop a strategy for United States international broadcasting. Additionally, the law established a Board for International Broadcasting to oversee the International Broadcasting Bureau.
The law also made changes to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act to allow for greater transparency in the use of Foreign Intelligence Surveillance.
Passage and Impact
The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 was passed by the House of Representatives on November 30, 2012, and by the Senate on December 11, 2012. It was signed into law by President Barack Obama on January 10, 2013. The law had a significant impact on United States international broadcasting, as it allowed for greater transparency and accessibility of information about the United States abroad.
The law also had implications for freedom of information and transparency in government. It required the Secretary of State to develop a strategy for United States international broadcasting and to make information about the United States available to the public in a timely and accessible manner.
Controversy and Criticism
The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 was not without controversy. Some critics argued that the law could be used to propagate information about the United States abroad and to influence foreign public opinion. Others expressed concerns about the potential for the law to be used to suppress information about the United States.
However, supporters of the law argued that it was necessary to adapt to the changing global communication landscape and to promote American culture and values abroad. They also pointed out that the law included safeguards to prevent the use of propaganda and to ensure transparency in government.
Legacy and Aftermath
The Smith–Mundt Modernization Act of 2012 has had a lasting impact on United States international broadcasting and freedom of information. It has allowed for greater transparency and accessibility of information about the United States abroad and has promoted American culture and values.
The law has also been seen as a model for future legislation on international broadcasting and freedom of information. It has highlighted the importance of adapting to the changing global communication landscape and of promoting transparency and accessibility in government.