H.R.1036 - Ensuring Accountability and Dignity in Government Contracting Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1036, the "Ensuring Accountability and Dignity in Government Contracting Act of 2025," aims to strengthen measures against human trafficking in government contracting. The bill amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 to enhance compliance and reporting requirements related to trafficking prevention. It also mandates a report from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on further improvements to anti-trafficking efforts.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased scrutiny of government contractors and subcontractors to ensure they are not involved in human trafficking. This includes more rigorous compliance plans, mandatory incident reporting, and investigations by Inspectors General. The OMB report could result in further legislative or regulatory changes to combat trafficking.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Accountability: Requires contractors to be more proactive in preventing and reporting trafficking.
- Improved Oversight: Mandates investigations of reported trafficking incidents.
- Increased Transparency: Requires agencies to track anti-trafficking training for contracting personnel.
- Streamlined Reporting: Aims to make agency reporting more efficient.
- Focus on High-Risk Areas: Directs assessment of compliance in high-risk product/service categories and locations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Compliance Costs: Contractors may face higher costs to implement and maintain compliance plans.
- Potential for Bureaucracy: Additional reporting requirements could create bureaucratic hurdles.
- Risk of False Accusations: The reporting requirement could lead to false accusations that require investigation.
- Limited Scope: The bill primarily focuses on government contracting, potentially overlooking trafficking in other sectors.
- Enforcement Challenges: Effective enforcement will depend on adequate resources and agency commitment.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to protect vulnerable populations from exploitation. Congress has the power to regulate commerce and spending, which includes setting standards for government contractors. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).