PATHS Act

This bill lets the Department of Homeland Security keep using a faster, more flexible way to fund research and test new tools through 2028. This approach, called “other transactions,” skips some of the usual federal buying rules so DHS can move quicker on prototypes and new technology. When DHS uses this fast-track for projects that involve artificial intelligence, it must tell Congress within 72 hours and offer to explain why it was used. The bill also increases transparency by lowering the dollar level for contracts DHS must publicly report online, from $4 million to $1 million.

Key points

• Who is affected: DHS, tech companies, researchers, and the public who rely on secure, up‑to‑date homeland security tools.
• What changes: Faster funding for research and prototypes continues; special 72‑hour notice to Congress for AI‑related uses; more contract awards must be posted online due to the lower reporting threshold.
• When: Authority continues through fiscal year 2028.