H.R.1370 - Unobligated Spending Adjustment to Focus Investment on Relief and Support for Taxpayers Act; USA FIRST Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1370, also known as the USA FIRST Act, proposes to transfer unobligated funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the Disaster Relief Fund. The bill aims to bolster the Disaster Relief Fund, which is used to carry out the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. This act provides aid for major disasters declared under section 401 of the Stafford Act.
The bill is sponsored by Representatives Brecheen, Norman, and Donalds. It was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 14, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Appropriations.
The intended effect is to redirect funds towards domestic disaster relief efforts, potentially reducing reliance on foreign aid in certain circumstances.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of H.R.1370 would be a reduction in the funds available to USAID. Simultaneously, there would be an increase in the funds available for disaster relief within the United States.
This could lead to a shift in priorities, with more resources directed towards domestic needs and potentially fewer resources for international development programs. The long-term effects would depend on the scale of the transfer and the ongoing needs of both USAID and the Disaster Relief Fund.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for disaster relief efforts within the United States, potentially leading to faster and more effective responses to major disasters.
- Reduced reliance on supplemental appropriations for disaster relief, providing more predictable funding for these critical needs.
- A potential signal to taxpayers that Congress is prioritizing domestic needs and being fiscally responsible with foreign aid spending.
- Could lead to greater efficiency in government spending by reallocating funds from areas where they are not currently obligated to areas of immediate need.
- May improve public perception of government responsiveness to disasters.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential reduction in the effectiveness of USAID programs, particularly in areas such as humanitarian aid, global health, and economic development.
- Could harm the United States' international standing and relationships with countries that rely on USAID assistance.
- May create uncertainty and instability in USAID's budget, making it difficult to plan and implement long-term development projects.
- The definition of "unobligated funds" may be subject to interpretation, potentially leading to disputes over which funds can be transferred.
- Could lead to a decrease in the United States' ability to respond to international crises and disasters.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The reallocation of funds from one government agency to another falls within this broad power.
However, the bill's impact on international relations could be debated in the context of the President's role in foreign policy. The power to appropriate funds rests with Congress, but the execution of foreign policy is primarily the responsibility of the Executive Branch.
There are no apparent violations of individual rights or liberties guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).