H.R.4 - Rescissions Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, aims to rescind specific budget authority as proposed by the President on June 3, 2025. The act targets unobligated balances across various international programs and assistance initiatives. These rescissions are intended to take effect immediately upon the act's enactment.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect of this act would be a reduction in funding for international organizations, global health programs, migration and refugee assistance, and other bilateral economic assistance programs. This could lead to a decrease in the scope and effectiveness of these programs.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces the national debt.
- May free up funds for other domestic priorities.
- Could signal a shift towards greater fiscal conservatism.
- May reduce reliance on US funding by international organizations, encouraging self-sufficiency.
- Could lead to greater scrutiny and accountability in how international funds are spent.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May weaken international cooperation and diplomatic relations.
- Could negatively impact global health initiatives and humanitarian aid efforts.
- May undermine U.S. influence in international organizations.
- Could destabilize regions reliant on U.S. economic assistance.
- May harm vulnerable populations who depend on these programs.
Constitutional Alignment
The Rescissions Act falls under Congress's power of the purse, as granted by Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 of the Constitution, which states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." The act rescinds previously appropriated funds, which is a legislative action subject to presidential approval (or a congressional override of a veto). The act itself doesn't appear to violate any specific constitutional provision, assuming it follows established legislative procedures.
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).