The DOGE POUND Act restricts who can access Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) systems that contain patients' personal health information. Generally, only current HHS employees and contractors who had access before January 20, 2025, and maintained that access can continue using these systems. New individuals seeking access must meet strict requirements: holding an appropriate security clearance, having at least one year of continuous federal civil service, completing privacy and cybersecurity training, signing an ethics agreement, and meeting other conflict-of-interest standards. Anyone knowingly accessing these systems or authorizing access in violation of these rules faces criminal penalties up to 5 years in prison and fines, with a 10-year statute of limitations for prosecution. The bill also requires the HHS Inspector General to investigate and report to Congress any unauthorized access within 30 days, detailing what information was accessed and any risks posed to privacy or security.
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