Government Accountability Office District of Columbia Home Rule Act
Summary
H.R. 5754, the "Government Accountability Office District of Columbia Home Rule Act," aims to amend Title 31 of the United States Code to repeal the Government Accountability Office's (GAO) authorities over the District of Columbia government. This includes removing the District government from the definition of a federal agency for GAO oversight purposes. The bill also repeals the requirement for annual audits by the GAO and removes the GAO's role in evaluating programs, activities, and reports related to the District of Columbia.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 5754 would grant the District of Columbia greater autonomy in its financial and programmatic operations by removing federal oversight from the GAO. This could lead to increased local control over DC's budget and operations. However, it could also reduce transparency and accountability in the absence of federal monitoring.
Potential Benefits
- Increased local control over District of Columbia's finances and programs.
- Reduced federal intervention in DC's governance.
- Potential for streamlined operations without GAO oversight.
- Alignment with the principle of home rule for the District.
- May allow DC to allocate resources previously used for GAO compliance to other priorities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced transparency and accountability in DC government operations.
- Potential for increased financial mismanagement or waste without GAO oversight.
- Loss of an independent federal entity monitoring DC's compliance with laws and regulations.
- May weaken the ability of Congress to oversee DC's affairs.
- Could lead to decreased public trust in the DC government.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 grants Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation over the District of Columbia. This bill could be seen as a delegation of some of that power back to the District, which is permissible as long as Congress retains ultimate authority. However, the removal of GAO oversight could be viewed as weakening Congress's ability to fulfill its constitutional duty to legislate for the District.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).