H.R.143 - Unauthorized Spending Accountability Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 143, the "Unauthorized Spending Accountability Act," aims to establish a budgetary level reduction schedule for unauthorized programs. It mandates a three-year cycle of reductions for programs lacking current authorization, starting in fiscal year 2026. The bill defines an "unauthorized program" as one listed in the Congressional Budget Office's report on expired and expiring authorizations.
Expected Effects
The bill would lead to automatic budget cuts for programs without reauthorization. After three years without reauthorization, programs would be terminated. Reauthorization with a sunset provision of no more than three years would exempt a program from these reductions.
Potential Benefits
- Could lead to greater fiscal discipline by forcing Congress to regularly review and reauthorize programs.
- May reduce wasteful spending on programs that are no longer effective or necessary.
- Could free up funds for other priorities by eliminating or reducing funding for unauthorized programs.
- Increases transparency and accountability in government spending.
- Incentivizes Congress to conduct oversight and ensure programs are properly authorized.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could disrupt essential government services if programs are terminated without adequate alternatives.
- May lead to unintended consequences if budget cuts are applied indiscriminately.
- Could create uncertainty for agencies and organizations that rely on federal funding.
- May disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who depend on certain programs.
- Could lead to political gridlock if Congress is unable to agree on reauthorizations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with Congress's power of the purse, as outlined in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 of the Constitution, which states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." By establishing a process for reducing and terminating funding for unauthorized programs, the bill reinforces Congress's control over federal spending. However, the specific mechanisms for budgetary reduction and termination could potentially raise concerns about the separation of powers if they unduly restrict the executive branch's ability to implement laws.
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).