H.R.202 - Commission to Relocate the Federal Bureaucracy Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.202, the "Commission to Relocate the Federal Bureaucracy Act," proposes establishing a commission to study the feasibility and potential benefits of relocating certain federal agencies outside of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The commission would be composed of various high-ranking government officials. It is tasked with submitting a report to Congress within one year, considering factors like financial efficiency, infrastructure, and telework participation.
The bill aims to explore cost savings and potentially stimulate economic activity in other regions of the country. However, it also raises concerns about the disruption of government operations and the potential loss of expertise.
The commission's report would inform future decisions regarding agency relocation, but the bill itself does not mandate any specific relocation actions.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.202 would lead to the creation of a commission that would study and report on the potential relocation of federal agencies. This could lead to a shift in the geographic distribution of federal jobs and resources.
The immediate effect would be the allocation of resources to conduct the study and the engagement of various government officials in the commission's work. The long-term effect would depend on the commission's findings and any subsequent actions taken by Congress or the executive branch based on the report.
Potential Benefits
- Potential cost savings through relocation to areas with a lower cost of living.
- Economic stimulus for regions outside of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
- Improved access to federal agencies for citizens in other parts of the country.
- Increased opportunities for public-private partnerships in new locations.
- Reduced concentration of federal power and influence in the D.C. area.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Disruption of government operations and potential loss of institutional knowledge during relocation.
- Costs associated with relocating agencies, including infrastructure development and employee relocation expenses.
- Potential negative impact on the D.C. area economy.
- Logistical challenges in coordinating agency operations across different locations.
- Difficulty in attracting and retaining qualified personnel in new locations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to be constitutionally sound. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to "exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular States, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the Government of the United States." This implies Congress has broad authority over the location and operation of the federal government.
The establishment of a commission to study agency relocation falls within Congress's power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18). The bill does not appear to infringe on any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).