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 made publicly available.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be increased transparency and oversight of the Department of Energy's decisions regarding cost-sharing for energy projects. This increased transparency could influence future decisions on cost-sharing, potentially leading to more accountable and strategic allocation of resources. The public will also have access to this information, promoting greater awareness of energy-related spending.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in the Department of Energy's cost-sharing decisions.
- Improved oversight by Congress through regular reporting.
- Potential for more efficient allocation of resources in energy projects.
- Greater public awareness of how taxpayer money is used in energy initiatives.
- Enhanced accountability of the Department of Energy.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative burden on the Department of Energy to prepare the reports.
- Risk of political influence in the reporting process.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to increased scrutiny.
- The reports themselves may be complex and difficult for the average citizen to understand fully.
- No direct impact on energy production or affordability.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional principle of checks and balances, as it enhances congressional oversight of the executive branch. Specifically, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and spend for the general welfare, implying the power to oversee how those funds are spent. The reporting requirements ensure that Congress can effectively monitor the Department of Energy's activities.
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).