H.R.200 - Federal Freeze Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.200, the Federal Freeze Act, proposes a one-year freeze on federal hiring and salaries, followed by mandated reductions in the federal workforce over the subsequent two years. The bill aims to limit the growth of the federal government and reduce its costs. Exceptions are provided for appointments deemed necessary for law enforcement, public safety, or national security.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect would be a halt to most new federal hiring and salary increases. Over time, the bill would lead to a smaller federal workforce through attrition or reduction in force (RIF). This could impact the delivery of government services and potentially increase the workload on remaining employees.
Potential Benefits
- Potential cost savings for taxpayers through reduced federal spending.
- Could incentivize greater efficiency within federal agencies.
- May lead to a smaller, more focused federal government.
- Could encourage automation and technological upgrades to compensate for workforce reductions.
- May reduce the size and scope of government intervention in the economy.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential reduction in the quality and availability of government services.
- Increased workload and stress on existing federal employees.
- Possible negative impact on the economy due to job losses.
- Difficulty in attracting and retaining qualified federal employees in the long term.
- Disproportionate impact on certain agencies or departments.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to be constitutionally permissible under Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including managing the federal workforce and controlling federal spending. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections. However, the implementation of workforce reductions must adhere to due process requirements outlined in the Fifth Amendment.
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).