Congressman Ryan Mackenzie of Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District introduced the Special Events Program Alignment Act of 2026 on Mar. 27, alongside Congressman Eugene Vindman of Virginia. The bipartisan bill aims to improve coordination and information sharing within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ahead of major public events this year by transferring the Special Events Program (SEP) from the Office of Intelligence and Analysis to the Office of Homeland Security Situational Awareness.
The legislation is intended to help safeguard large gatherings such as FIFA World Cup matches in Philadelphia and America 250 celebrations throughout Pennsylvania. The SEP manages the National Special Event Data Call, which collects over 40,000 voluntary event submissions annually and applies a risk assessment rating for planned public events.
Mackenzie said, “With our nation hosting major events this year, it’s more important than ever that programs and agencies within the Department of Homeland Security have optimal coordination and efficiency. As a co-chair of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus, I’m committed to ensuring that this year’s public gatherings are as safe as possible. Transferring SEP to its more appropriate home under OSA will help to ensure that DHS will be well-positioned to respond to risks and threats at public gatherings.”
Vindman also commented on the need for better preparedness: “As the United States prepares to host the FIFA World Cup this summer and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, ensuring the safety of large public gatherings has never been more critical. By aligning the Special Events Program within the Office of Homeland Security Situational Awareness, this legislation strengthens DHS’s ability to share critical information and respond proactively to potential risks. I’m proud to work with Congressman Mackenzie on this bipartisan effort to improve preparedness and protect communities across the country.”
Mackenzie serves constituents in Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon counties, as well as part of Monroe County according to his official website. He supports community programs including art competitions, commendations, grant assistance according to his official website, offers Spanish-language services by appointment in Downtown Allentown according to his official website, focuses on issues such as healthcare improvements, workforce development, taxpayer protection according to his official website, environmental conservation according to his official website, veteran support according to his official website and government reform according to his official website. During his time in Pennsylvania’s state House he authored similar legislation addressing these priorities according to his official website.
The introduction of this bill reflects ongoing efforts by lawmakers from both parties aimed at enhancing security measures for high-profile national events.
