Safeguarding the Use of the National Guard Act; SUN Act
Summary
The Safeguarding the Use of the National Guard Act (SUN Act) aims to increase congressional oversight of the domestic use of the National Guard. It mandates that the President submit a report to Congress within 15 days of deploying the National Guard domestically under specific legal authorities. This report must include the legal basis, goals, effects, local law enforcement reports, cost estimates, and a certification regarding disaster response capabilities.
Expected Effects
The SUN Act would increase transparency and accountability regarding the deployment of the National Guard within the United States. It could lead to more informed congressional decision-making related to such deployments. However, the reporting requirements could also create additional administrative burdens for the executive branch.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in the deployment of the National Guard.
- Enhanced congressional oversight of executive actions.
- Improved understanding of the costs associated with National Guard deployments.
- Greater awareness of the impact of deployments on local communities.
- Assurance that National Guard deployments do not compromise disaster response capabilities.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for delays in National Guard deployments due to reporting requirements.
- Increased administrative burden on the executive branch.
- Risk of political gridlock if Congress disagrees with the President's justification for deployment.
- Possible chilling effect on the President's willingness to deploy the National Guard in certain situations.
- The act does not define what constitutes 'interference' with disaster response, potentially leading to disputes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the principle of checks and balances, as it seeks to enhance congressional oversight of executive action, consistent with Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to raise and support armies and provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining the Militia. The requirement for reporting on the legal basis of deployments also reinforces the principle of the rule of law. However, the President also has powers as Commander in Chief.
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).