Summary

Amends the federal espionage statute to insert the word “video” wherever the statute refers to “such term,” thereby explicitly covering taking, possessing, or transmitting video of defense-related information. The change is a narrow text amendment and does not include funding, new agencies, or implementation deadlines.

• Adds the word "video" into 18 U.S.C. § 793 wherever the phrase "such term" appears, explicitly covering video under the espionage statute.
• Is a narrow, text-only amendment with no funding, agencies, or deadlines attached.
• Likely broadens the explicit statutory reach to recorded visual media tied to defense information.
• Creates legal uncertainty because "video" is not defined and no exceptions or safeguards are included.
• Could affect journalists, drone operators, researchers, contractors, hobbyists, and others who record defense-related sites or activities.
• May make it easier for prosecutors to cite the statute in cases involving recorded video of defense subjects.
• Courts will likely be asked to interpret scope, intent requirements, and applicability to lawful newsgathering or public observation.
• Does not change penalties stated in the existing statute; it only alters the covered media type.
• No appropriations, authorizations, or operational agencies are created or changed.