H.R.1535 - Bolstering America’s Democracy and Demanding Oversight and Government Ethics Act; BAD DOGE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1535, also known as the BAD DOGE Act, aims to repeal President Trump's Executive Order 14158, which established the 'Department of Government Efficiency' and related entities like the USDS and USDSTO. The bill expresses concern that these entities, allegedly under the direction of Elon Musk, have exceeded their authorized scope. It cites actions such as freezing payments, accessing personnel data, and attempting to dismantle agencies without congressional approval.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would dissolve the 'Department of Government Efficiency' and nullify Executive Order 14158. This would likely reverse any actions taken by the USDS and USDSTO under the executive order. It would also restore the previous organizational structures and authorities of the affected federal agencies.
Potential Benefits
- Reassertion of Congressional authority over federal agencies and spending.
- Protection of federal employees' data and job security.
- Prevention of unauthorized changes to government programs and services.
- Upholding constitutional principles of separation of powers and presentment clause.
- Reinforcement of established federal statutes and regulations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential disruption of any beneficial software modernization initiatives undertaken by the USDS.
- Possible loss of efficiency gains if the 'Department of Government Efficiency' had achieved positive results.
- Political conflict and potential gridlock if the bill faces strong opposition.
- Could be perceived as hindering innovation in government operations.
- Risk of slowing down improvements to government IT systems.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill seeks to address potential violations of the Constitution, specifically Article I, Section 1 (Separation of Powers), Article I, Section 7 (Presentment and Appropriations Clause), Article I, Section 8 (Spending Clause), and Article II, Section 3 (Take Care Clause). It aims to prevent the executive branch from overstepping its authority and infringing on the powers of Congress. The bill also addresses concerns related to due process and the rule of law, ensuring that changes to government operations are conducted within the bounds of established legal frameworks.
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).