H.R.es195 - Of inquiry requesting the President of the United States to furnish certain information to the House of Representatives relating to the operations of the Social Security Administration after January 20, 2025, including information on the Department of Government Efficiency’s access to the Social Security Administration and to information in the possession of such Administration. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.195 is a House Resolution of inquiry directed to the President of the United States. It requests the President to furnish the House of Representatives with information pertaining to the operations of the Social Security Administration (SSA) after January 20, 2025.
The inquiry specifically seeks details regarding the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) access to the SSA and its data. The resolution was submitted in the House of Representatives on March 5, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means; it was later reported adversely and placed on the House Calendar.
Expected Effects
If the resolution is adopted, the President would be compelled to provide the House with documents and information related to the specified areas of inquiry within 14 days. Failure to comply could lead to further congressional action, potentially including subpoenas or other measures to compel the release of information.
The resolution's adverse reporting suggests that the Committee on Ways and Means does not support the inquiry in its current form. This could lead to amendments or the resolution being blocked from further consideration.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency regarding the operations of the Social Security Administration.
- Potential oversight of the Department of Government Efficiency's access to sensitive data.
- Ensuring compliance with relevant Executive Orders.
- Providing the public with more information about changes to SSA services and staffing.
- Facilitating informed decision-making by Congress regarding the SSA.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution was reported adversely, suggesting potential issues with its scope or justification.
- Compliance with the resolution could divert resources from the SSA's primary functions.
- The request for information is broad and could potentially encompass sensitive or confidential data.
- The 14-day deadline for compliance may be challenging to meet.
- The resolution could be perceived as politically motivated, potentially undermining its credibility.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 1, which grants all legislative powers to Congress. This includes the power to oversee the executive branch and request information necessary for informed legislation. The resolution also aligns with the principle of checks and balances, allowing Congress to hold the executive branch accountable.
However, the scope of the inquiry must be balanced against the executive branch's legitimate need to protect confidential information and maintain operational independence. The resolution's potential impact on individual privacy and data security must also be considered in light of constitutional protections.
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).