Congress took a step toward creating a database of UFO reports with the passing of a measure by the House that would establish a “secure system” to receive information about unidentified aerial phenomena.

The House voted Wednesday to adopt a bipartisan change to the National Defense Enabling Act. The measure was approved by vote, signaling little to no opposition, and there was no floor debate.

Under the law, the UFO reporting system would provide for “immediate exchange” of information with certain scientists, analysts and government personnel.

The amendment would allow exceptions to reporting when “the sighted object and associated events and activities are likely to relate to” restricted programs reported to congressional defense and intelligence committees.

The amendment, tabled by Representatives Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., and Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., was approved more than a year after the Office of the Director of National Intelligence intelligence report that indicated the agency didn’t have enough data to explain 143 of the 144 cases of unidentified flying objects reported by military aircraft from 2004 to 2021.

The number had grown to “about 400 reports” of unidentifiable objects this year, according to Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence, Scott W. Bray, who provided an update in mid-May at Congress’ first public hearing on UFOs in the United States. over 50 years. year.

Legislation was signed in late December to create an agency to study the “unidentified aerial phenomenon.”

The House has yet to pass this year’s National Defense Authorization Act, which the Senate will consider next. After the Senate passage, the two chambers are likely to attend a conference to resolve the differences, with final passage expected this year.