To amend title 10 to shorten breach reporting timelines, increase program transparency, and improve congressional oversight of Department of Defense cost overruns with respect to the cost growth for major systems, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 4372 aims to amend Title 10 of the United States Code to improve oversight and transparency of Department of Defense (DoD) spending. The bill focuses on shortening breach reporting timelines for cost overruns, increasing transparency in major defense acquisition programs, and enhancing congressional oversight. It also addresses issues related to major subprogram designations and critical cost growth termination.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in quicker reporting of cost overruns within the DoD. It will also lead to greater transparency through public availability of reports and stricter rules regarding program termination due to cost increases. These changes are intended to improve accountability and efficiency in defense spending.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Transparency: Publicly available reports on cost overruns.
- Faster Reporting: Shorter timelines for reporting cost breaches.
- Enhanced Oversight: Increased congressional oversight of DoD spending.
- Cost Control: Stricter rules for program termination due to cost growth.
- Better Resource Allocation: More informed decisions on defense spending.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Delays: Shorter reporting timelines may strain DoD resources.
- Increased Bureaucracy: More reporting requirements could add to administrative burden.
- Program Termination Challenges: Terminating programs could lead to sunk costs and capability gaps.
- Limited Flexibility: Stricter rules may reduce flexibility in managing defense programs.
- Unintended Consequences: Focus on cost may overshadow other important factors.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's emphasis on congressional oversight and control of appropriations, 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; and a regular Statement and Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of all public Money shall be published from time to time." The bill seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the use of public funds, which is consistent with this constitutional principle.
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).