Appropriations panel bars DHS from funding a ‘disinformation governance board’

The House Appropriations subcommittee approved an amendment that bars funds in the bill from being used to establish or support a so-called Disinformation Governance Board at the Department of Homeland Security.

Rep. Clyde (Representative from Georgia) framed the amendment as a codification of an executive order protecting First Amendment rights. “The government has no role in controlling or censoring Americans’ free speech, including online expression,” the sponsor said in remarks urging adoption.

Supporters pointed to past controversies over CISA’s activities and the disbanded Disinformation Governance Board, saying any future board risked government overreach into domestic speech. Representative Alma Adams spoke in favor and argued the measure prevents return of a failed initiative.

Opponents warned the restriction could limit the federal government’s ability to respond to large-scale disinformation campaigns, especially in emergencies such as threats to elections or public safety. They urged sending such policy questions to authorizing committees for full hearings.

The chair put the question and the amendment was adopted by voice vote.

The vote does not change broader funding levels for DHS in the bill but signals the committee’s intent to limit certain policy structures inside the department.