This bill sets clear rules for when the government can add a secrecy order (a nondisclosure “gag” order) to certain record requests called administrative subpoenas. It would require officials to formally certify the need for secrecy and create a way for a judge to review these secrecy orders to make sure they are proper.

Key points:

• Who is affected: Government investigators who use administrative subpoenas, and the people or businesses that receive them.
• What changes: A required certification process for adding a nondisclosure order, plus a new path for judicial review of those orders (a new section on “judicial review of nondisclosure requirements”).
• When: These changes would apply if the bill becomes law.