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 regarding the operations of the Social Security Administration (SSA) after January 20, 2025. The request specifically targets information related to the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) access to the SSA and its data.
The resolution seeks documents, records, and communications pertaining to DOGE's access to SSA's IT systems, visits to SSA offices, and SSA's compliance with specific Executive Orders. It also requests data on call volumes to SSA's national toll-free number and visits to SSA field offices, as well as information on office closures and staff reductions within the SSA in 2025.
The resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 5, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.
Expected Effects
If adopted, this resolution would compel the President to provide the House of Representatives with the requested information within 14 days. This could lead to increased oversight of the SSA's operations and the activities of the Department of Government Efficiency.
The information obtained could be used to inform future legislation or investigations related to the SSA and government efficiency initiatives. Failure to comply with the resolution could result in political tension between the executive and legislative branches.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency regarding the operations of the Social Security Administration.
- Potential for improved oversight of government efficiency initiatives.
- Opportunity for Congress to make more informed decisions regarding the SSA.
- Possible identification of inefficiencies or areas for improvement within the SSA.
- Ensuring compliance with relevant executive orders.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for political disputes between the executive and legislative branches if the President refuses to comply.
- The resolution could be used for political purposes rather than genuine oversight.
- The information request could place a burden on the SSA and the President's office.
- The focus on specific individuals (Elon Musk) could be perceived as politically motivated.
- The resolution may not lead to any meaningful changes in the SSA's operations.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the US Constitution, specifically 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 legislative purposes.
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's oversight function, which is implied in its enumerated powers. The power of inquiry is vital to the legislative function, allowing Congress to obtain information needed to legislate effectively.
However, the executive branch may assert executive privilege to withhold certain information, potentially leading to a constitutional conflict.
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).