Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.189 - Securities and Exchange Commission Real Estate Leasing Authority Revocation Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R. 189, the Securities and Exchange Commission Real Estate Leasing Authority Revocation Act, aims to amend Title 40 of the United States Code to eliminate the SEC's independent authority to lease general-purpose office space. The bill mandates that the General Services Administration (GSA) handle such leasing activities for the SEC. It also requires the Comptroller General to update a 2016 report on federal entities with independent leasing authorities.

Expected Effects

The primary effect of this bill would be to centralize the leasing of office space for the SEC under the GSA. This could potentially lead to greater efficiency and cost savings through standardized leasing practices. The updated report from the Comptroller General would provide further insight into independent leasing authorities across the federal government.

Potential Benefits

  • Potential Cost Savings: Centralizing leasing under the GSA could lead to better negotiation and reduced costs.
  • Increased Oversight: The GSA's involvement may provide greater transparency and accountability in leasing practices.
  • Standardized Procedures: Uniform leasing procedures could streamline the process and reduce administrative burdens.
  • Improved Resource Allocation: The updated Comptroller General report could identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement in federal leasing practices.
  • Better Use of Expertise: The GSA specializes in real estate management, potentially leading to better leasing decisions.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential Delays: Transferring leasing authority to the GSA could introduce bureaucratic delays.
  • Reduced Flexibility: The SEC may lose some flexibility in quickly securing office space to meet its needs.
  • Transition Costs: There may be costs associated with transferring leasing responsibilities from the SEC to the GSA.
  • GSA Overload: The GSA may face increased workload and potential strain on its resources.
  • Loss of SEC Expertise: The SEC may have developed specific expertise in leasing relevant to its unique needs, which could be lost.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including managing government property. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.

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).