S.371 - SBA Disaster Transparency Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The SBA Disaster Transparency Act (S.371) mandates the Small Business Administration (SBA) to publish reports on small business disaster assistance on its website. This bill amends Section 12091 of the Small Business Disaster Response and Loan Improvements Act of 2008, requiring the SBA to publish reports previously submitted to Congress. The goal is to enhance transparency regarding disaster assistance provided to small businesses.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill will be increased transparency in the SBA's disaster assistance programs. Small businesses and the public will have easier access to information about the SBA's disaster relief efforts. This could lead to greater accountability and potentially improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these programs.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in SBA disaster assistance programs.
- Easier access to information for small businesses seeking aid.
- Greater accountability for the SBA in its disaster relief efforts.
- Potential for improved efficiency and effectiveness of disaster assistance.
- Informed decision-making by policymakers and stakeholders.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential increase in administrative burden for the SBA to publish the reports.
- Costs associated with maintaining the website and ensuring accessibility of the reports.
- Risk of information overload if the reports are not presented in a user-friendly manner.
- Possible delays in the dissemination of information due to the publication requirement.
- No direct impact on the amount of disaster assistance provided, only on its transparency.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the principle of government transparency and accountability, which are implicit in the Constitution's emphasis on a government of the people. While the Constitution does not explicitly mandate the publication of reports, it supports the idea of an informed citizenry. Article I, Section 9, Clause 7, which requires a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money, aligns with the spirit of transparency promoted by this bill.
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).