H.R.7930

Daniel Ellsberg Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2026

Introduced·3/12/26

Increases mens rea requirements for Espionage Act offenses and allows defendants to testify about their purpose.

The Daniel Ellsberg Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2026 amends the Espionage Act to increase the mens rea requirements for offenses related to gathering, transmitting, or losing defense information. It requires specific intent to injure the United States or advantage any foreign nation. The bill also allows defendants charged with these offenses to testify about their purpose for engaging in the prohibited conduct.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Mar 12

House

Introduced in House

Mar 12

House

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.