The measure was passed in a closed session of the Senate Intelligence Committee by a 15-2 vote and is part of a broader reform bill meant to improve efficiency within the intelligence community. If enacted, it would end the long-standing requirement for Senate confirmation of general counsels at the CIA (since 1996) and ODNI (since 2004), while adding confirmation requirements for three deputy director positions across the CIA, NSA, and Department of Energy’s intelligence unit.

Supporters argue that the bill streamlines bureaucratic delays, but Wyden called the decision “inexcusable” in light of the sensitive legal roles these officials play in shaping secret surveillance and covert operations. “It’s a meaningful check on the president’s power, and a lever for the Senate to push for transparency,” Wyden said.

Oversight Concerns Amid Trump Restructuring

The proposed rollback comes as President Trump seeks to downsize ODNI and has already appointed Tulsi Gabbard to lead a 25% staff reduction. Critics worry that removing Senate confirmation could leave top legal officials less accountable to democratic oversight and more susceptible to political influence. Wyden warned that in an era when the president is “demolishing protections of Americans’ rights,” Senate checks are more vital than ever.

The Intelligence Authorization Act also includes whistleblower protections, restrictions on commercial data use near intelligence facilities, and visa denials for suspected foreign agents seeking UN employment. The bill must still pass the full Senate and be reconciled with the House version before reaching Trump’s desk.