Intelligence Reform After Five Years: The Role of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI)
"The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (P.L. 108-458) was the most
significant legislation affecting the U.S. intelligence community since the National Security Act
of 1947. Enacted in the wake of the 9/11 Commission’s final report, the 2004 act attempted to
ensure closer coordination among intelligence agencies especially in regard to counterterrorism
efforts. Most notably, the Intelligence Reform Act established the position of Director of National
Intelligence (DNI) with more extensive authorities to coordinate the nation’s intelligence effort
than those formerly possessed by Directors of Central Intelligence. The DNI speaks for U.S.
intelligence, he briefs the President, has authority to develop the budget for the national
intelligence effort and manage appropriations made by Congress, and, to some extent, can
transfer personnel and funds from one agency to another. The Office of the DNI (ODNI), a staff
of some 1,600 officials along with additional contract personnel, works to carry out the DNI’s
responsibilities..."