H.R.2905 - Ensuring Agency Service Quality Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2905, the "Ensuring Agency Service Quality Act," aims to ensure that Executive agencies maintain employment levels consistent with appropriated funding. The bill amends Title 5 of the United States Code, making it mandatory for Executive agencies and military departments to adhere to employment levels aligned with budgetary allocations. It also requires agencies to notify Congress if they cannot comply, providing reasons for noncompliance.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is increased accountability and potentially greater efficiency in government spending. Agencies would be compelled to justify any deviations from staffing levels dictated by their allocated budgets. This could lead to a reduction in unnecessary positions or a reallocation of resources to better serve the public.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced fiscal responsibility by aligning agency staffing with approved funding.
- Increased transparency through mandatory reporting of non-compliance.
- Potential for improved service quality by ensuring adequate staffing levels where funding is provided.
- Streamlined government operations by reducing potential for overstaffing.
- Better allocation of resources to meet public needs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for reduced flexibility in agency staffing to respond to unforeseen circumstances.
- Risk of understaffing if appropriations are insufficient to meet actual service demands.
- Increased administrative burden due to compliance reporting requirements.
- Possible negative impact on employee morale if positions are cut.
- Difficulty in adapting to changing priorities or emerging needs if staffing is rigidly tied to appropriations.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with the constitutional principle of congressional control over appropriations, as outlined in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7, which states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." By requiring agencies to adhere to employment levels consistent with appropriations, the bill reinforces Congress's power of the purse. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or liberties.
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).