H.R.359 - Cost-Share Accountability Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.359, the Cost-Share Accountability Act of 2025, amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005. It mandates the Secretary of Energy to report on the Department's use of authority to reduce or eliminate cost-sharing requirements for energy projects. These reports must be submitted quarterly to specific committees in both the House and Senate, and also made publicly available.
Expected Effects
The Act aims to increase transparency and oversight of the Department of Energy's cost-sharing practices. This increased scrutiny may lead to more responsible allocation of resources. It could also influence future decisions regarding cost-share waivers.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in the Department of Energy's cost-sharing practices.
- Improved oversight by Congress through regular reporting.
- Potential for more informed decision-making regarding energy project funding.
- Greater public awareness of how taxpayer money is being used in energy initiatives.
- Could lead to more efficient use of government funds in energy projects.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The reporting requirements could create an additional administrative burden for the Department of Energy.
- The Act does not address the underlying reasons for cost-share reductions or eliminations, only the reporting of them.
- Public availability of reports could potentially expose sensitive information about energy projects.
- There might be a delay in project implementation due to the additional reporting requirements.
- The Act does not guarantee that the information will be easily understandable or accessible to the general public.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional principle of legislative oversight, as it requires the executive branch (Department of Energy) to report to Congress on its activities. This aligns with Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare, implying oversight responsibilities. The reporting requirements do 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).