S.181 - To require agencies submit zero-based budgets. (119th Congress)
Summary
S.181 mandates that federal agencies submit zero-based budgets to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and relevant congressional committees every six years. It also requires agencies (excluding the Department of Defense and the National Nuclear Security Administration) to recommend potential spending cuts amounting to at least 2% of their prior year's discretionary appropriations. The bill aims to enhance fiscal responsibility and efficiency within the federal government by requiring a thorough review of agency spending.
Expected Effects
The implementation of zero-based budgeting could lead to a more critical evaluation of government programs and activities. This could result in the identification of inefficiencies and potential cost savings. The required recommendations for spending cuts may lead to reduced funding for some programs, potentially impacting their effectiveness or scope.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Fiscal Transparency: Zero-based budgeting promotes a more transparent and accountable budgeting process.
- Improved Resource Allocation: By requiring agencies to justify their budget requests from the ground up, resources can be allocated more efficiently to programs with the highest priority and effectiveness.
- Potential Cost Savings: Identifying and eliminating wasteful spending can lead to significant cost savings for taxpayers.
- Enhanced Congressional Oversight: The submission of zero-based budgets to Congress provides greater insight into agency operations and spending priorities.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Encourages agencies to use data and analysis to support their budget requests and program evaluations.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Administrative Burden: Preparing zero-based budgets can be time-consuming and resource-intensive for agencies.
- Potential for Short-Term Focus: The emphasis on short-term cost savings may lead to underinvestment in long-term strategic priorities.
- Risk of Arbitrary Cuts: The requirement to recommend specific spending cuts may lead to arbitrary reductions that are not based on sound policy analysis.
- Political Challenges: Implementing zero-based budgeting can be politically challenging, as agencies may resist efforts to reduce their funding.
- Disproportionate Impact: Spending cuts may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations or essential government services.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional principle of congressional power of the purse, as outlined in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7, which states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." By requiring agencies to submit zero-based budgets and recommendations for spending cuts, Congress can exercise greater oversight and control over federal spending. The bill does not appear to infringe upon 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).