1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Promoting Accountability and Security in Transitions Act of 2023 or the PAST Act of 2023 . 2. Sense of Congress The sense of Congress is the following: (1) The preservation of Presidential records (as defined in section 2201 of title 44, United States Code) is a legal obligation for every Presidential administration, as Presidential records are the most important and widely used source for studying how the executive branch of the Federal Government works, how it has changed over time, and how it might evolve to serve the needs of a new era. (2) The preservation of Presidential records is therefore vital for— (A) the public to be able to understand and learn from the past; (B) future policymaking to build on the past administration’s successes and experience; (C) ensuring accountability for results, performance, and conduct; and (D) other purposes that serve to strengthen American democracy. (3) Any effort to destroy, alter, or remove Presidential records in violation of chapter 22 of title 44, United States Code— (A) threatens the values described in paragraph (2)