H.R.153 - Post-Disaster Assistance Online Accountability Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 153, the Post-Disaster Assistance Online Accountability Act, aims to enhance transparency in the allocation and utilization of federal disaster assistance. It mandates the creation of a publicly accessible online repository managed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), in collaboration with the Treasury Secretary and heads of covered federal agencies.
The repository will contain detailed information on disaster assistance provided by these agencies, including the total amount disbursed, funds obligated to specific projects, and comprehensive details about those projects.
This act seeks to improve public oversight and accountability in disaster relief efforts by making data easily accessible and machine-readable.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be increased transparency and accountability in how federal disaster assistance is spent. Federal agencies will be required to report detailed information about disaster assistance projects, making it easier for the public to track the use of funds.
This could lead to more efficient allocation of resources and reduced potential for waste or fraud. The public will have access to project names, descriptions, completion status, and locations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Transparency: The public will have access to detailed information on how disaster assistance funds are being used.
- Improved Accountability: Federal agencies will be required to provide regular updates on disaster relief projects.
- Better Resource Allocation: Enhanced transparency can help ensure that funds are directed to the most critical needs.
- Reduced Waste and Fraud: Public oversight can deter misuse of disaster relief funds.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Policymakers can use the data to improve disaster response strategies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Administrative Burden: Federal agencies may face increased administrative costs and workload in collecting and reporting the required data.
- Potential for Delays: The reporting requirements could potentially slow down the disbursement of disaster assistance funds.
- Data Accuracy Concerns: Ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the reported data may be challenging.
- Privacy Concerns: While the bill focuses on project-level data, there might be concerns about inadvertently disclosing sensitive information.
- Cost of Implementation: Developing and maintaining the online repository will require funding and resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution by promoting transparency and accountability in government spending, which is consistent with the principles of representative democracy. While the Constitution does not explicitly address disaster relief, the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18) grants Congress the power to enact laws necessary to carry out its enumerated powers, including providing for the general welfare.
The establishment of an online repository for disaster assistance information supports the public's right to information and oversight of government actions, indirectly supporting the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of speech and the press.
Furthermore, by ensuring funds are properly allocated and used, the bill indirectly supports the principle of equal protection under the law, as outlined in the Fourteenth Amendment, by ensuring that disaster relief reaches those who need it most effectively.
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).