1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to consider introducing or supporting legislation that would increase accountability for knowingly, false or misleading statements made by federal officials in their official capacity. Currently laws such as 18 USC section 1001 criminalized false statements made to the government, but not by the government officials to the public. Additionally while the first amendment protects most speech, including falsehoods, there is a growing concern that this protection is being exploited to mislead the public on critical issues, such as elections, public health and national security. I respectfully propose that Congress explore: Amending section 1001 to include intentional, materially false statements made by federal officials to the public, particularly when such statements caused measurable harm or misinformation. Establishing a limited exception to first amendment protections for government speech that is knowingly, false, and made in an official capacity. Creating a federal office of public integrity to investigate and report on disinformation originating from within the government. These reforms would not infringe on free speech, but would instead uphold the public’s right to truthful information from those trusted with power. I would be grateful for your leadership on this issue.