PlainBillCongress, translated.Legislation. Context. Public interest.Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Congressional Research Service
Version 00 · Introduced in Senate · Sep 12, 2005
National Security Letter Reform Act of 2005 - Establishes procedures for judicial review of national security letters (NSLs). Authorizes: (1) the recipient of a request for records or other information under federal criminal code provisions concerning counterintelligence access to telephone toll and electronic communication transactional records, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Right to Financial Privacy Act, or the National Security Act of 1947 to petition the U.S. district court for an order modifying or setting aside the request; and (2) the court to modify or set aside a request if compliance would be unreasonable or oppressive.
Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) challenges to NSL nondisclosure requirements; (2) compelling compliance; and (3) closed hearings, filings under seal, and court review of classified information.
Prohibits a wire or electronic communications service provider from disclosing that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has sought or obtained access to information or records if the Director of the FBI certifies that such disclosure may result in a danger to national security, interference with a criminal counterterrorism or counterintelligence investigation, interference with diplomatic relations, or a danger to the life or physical safety of any person.
Showing the opening paragraphs of the official summary.
Sets penalties for violations of NSL nondisclosure provisions where committed with intent to obstruct an investigation or judicial proceeding.
People & committees
Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX] · R–TX
Legislative record
A procedural vote is different from passage. Passage in one chamber does not establish enactment. Explore the glossary.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S9939-9940)
Introduced in Senate
Primary sources
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No related bills are listed in this snapshot. This does not establish whether the proposal has appeared in earlier Congresses.
Source last updated: Aug 10, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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