H.R.1807 - Protecting Federal Agencies and Employees from Political Interference Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1807, the "Protecting Federal Agencies and Employees from Political Interference Act of 2025," aims to prevent the relocation of federal government entities and employee positions located in the National Capital Region (NCR). The bill stipulates that any such relocation would require specific legislation enacted into law. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. Norton on March 3, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
The primary goal is to maintain the current distribution of federal agencies and employees within the NCR. It seeks to ensure stability and prevent politically motivated shifts of federal resources.
By requiring congressional approval for relocations, the bill intends to protect federal employees and agencies from potential disruptions caused by administrative decisions.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would make it more difficult for the executive branch to unilaterally move federal agencies or employee positions out of the National Capital Region. Any relocation would necessitate congressional approval, adding a layer of legislative oversight.
This could lead to greater stability for federal employees in the NCR. It may also preserve the concentration of federal expertise and resources in the region.
However, it could also reduce the executive branch's flexibility in managing federal agencies and responding to changing needs or priorities outside the NCR.
Potential Benefits
- Stability for Federal Employees: Prevents sudden relocations that could disrupt careers and lives.
- Preservation of Expertise: Maintains the concentration of federal expertise and institutional knowledge in the NCR.
- Congressional Oversight: Ensures that significant relocation decisions are subject to legislative review and approval.
- Reduced Political Interference: Limits the potential for politically motivated agency relocations.
- Economic Stability in NCR: Helps maintain the economic base of the National Capital Region.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Executive Flexibility: Limits the executive branch's ability to reorganize and relocate agencies to improve efficiency or address regional needs.
- Potential for Gridlock: Requires congressional action for any relocation, which could be subject to political gridlock.
- Increased Bureaucracy: Adds another layer of approval to relocation decisions, potentially slowing down necessary changes.
- Missed Opportunities for Regional Development: Prevents the dispersal of federal jobs and resources to other parts of the country that could benefit from them.
- Potential for Inefficiency: May force agencies to remain in the NCR even if relocation would be more cost-effective or strategically advantageous.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in Congress. By requiring legislative action for agency relocations, the bill reinforces Congress's role in overseeing the operations of the federal government.
However, some might argue that it could potentially infringe upon the executive branch's authority to manage and direct federal agencies, as implied by Article II, which vests executive power in the President.
Ultimately, the constitutionality of the bill would likely depend on how it is interpreted in relation to the balance of power between the legislative and executive branches.
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).