S.2044 - Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Relocation Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2044, the "Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Relocation Act of 2025," mandates the Secretary of Energy to relocate the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management from Washington, D.C., to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, by December 31, 2026. The bill also requires a report to Congress one year after the relocation, detailing employee attrition, its causes, mitigation strategies, and the relocation's impact on employee negotiations. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. McCormick and Mr. Fetterman on June 12, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be the physical relocation of the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management to Pittsburgh. This could lead to a shift in focus and priorities of the office, potentially aligning it more closely with the region's energy sector. The required report will provide insights into the relocation's impact on the office's operations and workforce.
Potential Benefits
- Economic Boost to Pittsburgh: The relocation could bring jobs and investment to the Pittsburgh area.
- Regional Expertise: Pittsburgh's history in energy production could provide valuable expertise to the office.
- Increased Focus on Fossil Energy: The relocation might lead to a greater emphasis on fossil energy and carbon management technologies.
- Potential for Innovation: The move could foster innovation in carbon capture and other related technologies.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Closer proximity to energy companies and research institutions in Pittsburgh could improve collaboration.
Potential Disadvantages
- Employee Attrition: Relocation could lead to loss of experienced staff who are unwilling to move.
- Disruption of Operations: The relocation process could temporarily disrupt the office's operations.
- Increased Costs: The move itself and potential attrition replacements could increase costs.
- Reduced Access to Policymakers: Being outside of Washington D.C. could reduce access to key policymakers.
- Potential for Biased Research: The relocation could lead to research and policy recommendations that are biased towards the fossil fuel industry.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, specifically Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including regulating commerce and promoting the general welfare. The relocation of a government office falls within Congress's authority to organize and manage the executive branch. There are no apparent violations of individual rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
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).