H.R.3428 - Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions Review Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3428, the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions Review Act, mandates a review by the Comptroller General of the United States of the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions. The review will focus on ethics, public communication, federal responsibilities, funding, potential duplication of efforts, and reporting activities. The Act also requires the Commissions to submit plans detailing actions taken to comply with the Comptroller General's recommendations.
Expected Effects
This act aims to increase transparency and congressional oversight of the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions. It could lead to changes in the commissions' policies, practices, and potentially their funding or responsibilities. The intended outcome is improved efficiency and accountability in managing the river basins.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency and accountability of the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions.
- Identification of potential redundancies and overlaps in responsibilities.
- Improved communication with the public regarding the commissions' activities.
- Enhanced ethics policies and practices within the commissions.
- Potential for more efficient use of federal and state funding.
Potential Disadvantages
- The review process could be costly and time-consuming.
- The recommendations from the Comptroller General may be difficult or impractical to implement.
- The Act may lead to increased bureaucracy and paperwork for the commissions.
- Potential for political interference in the commissions' operations.
- The Act may not address the underlying issues facing the river basins.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, including interstate waterways. The requirement for a GAO report and subsequent compliance plans falls under Congress's oversight responsibilities. There are no apparent infringements on individual rights or liberties.
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).