H.R.2523 - State-Level Departments of Government Efficiency Establishment Act; State-Level DOGE Establishment Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2523, the State-Level Departments of Government Efficiency Establishment Act, aims to improve the efficiency of federal fund usage by states. It mandates that states establish a department, agency, or commission focused on government efficiency to receive discretionary federal appropriations. This requirement would take effect in fiscal year 2026. The goal is to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer funds at the state level.
Expected Effects
The bill would condition the receipt of federal funds on states establishing government efficiency entities. States would need to create and maintain these entities, which must meet specific criteria regarding membership and reporting. This could lead to increased scrutiny of state spending and potentially more efficient use of federal funds.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced oversight of federal fund usage at the state level.
- Potential reduction in waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer funds.
- Improved efficiency in state administration of federal programs.
- Increased transparency through public reporting requirements.
- Encourages states to proactively identify and address inefficiencies.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and administrative costs at the state level.
- Risk of political gridlock within the state-level entities due to equal representation of majority and minority parties.
- Possible delays in the disbursement of federal funds if states fail to comply with the requirements.
- Could lead to unfunded mandates if federal funding does not cover the costs of establishing and maintaining the required entities.
- Potential for inconsistent implementation and effectiveness across different states.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality hinges on the Spending Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1), which grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. Congress can use this power to attach conditions to the receipt of federal funds by states. However, these conditions must be clear, unambiguous, and related to the federal interest in the programs funded. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and the bill could be argued as infringing upon state sovereignty if the conditions are unduly coercive.
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).