[House Report 119-236]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
119th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
1st Session } { 119-236
======================================================================
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL, 2026
_______
September 5, 2025.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on
the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mr. Joyce of Ohio, from the Committee on Appropriations,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
together with
DISSENTING VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 5166]
The Committee on Appropriations submits the following
report in explanation of the accompanying bill making
appropriations for the Department of the Treasury, Executive
Office of the President, the Federal Judiciary, District of
Columbia, Administrative Conference of the United States,
Consumer Product Safety Commission, Election Assistance
Commission, Federal Communications Commission, Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, Federal Election Commission, Federal
Labor Relations Authority, Federal Permitting Improvement
Steering Council, Federal Trade Commission, General Services
Administration, Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation, Merit
Systems Protection Board, Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall
Foundation, National Archives and Records Administration,
National Credit Union Administration, Office of Government
Ethics, Office of Personnel Management, Office of Special
Counsel, Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, Public
Buildings Reform Board, Securities and Exchange Commission,
Selective Service System, Small Business Administration, United
States Postal Service, and the United States Tax Court for the
fiscal year ending September 30, 2026, and for other purposes.
INDEX TO BILL AND REPORT
Page Number
Bill Report
Introduction and Highlights of the Bill....................
2
Title I--Department of the Treasury........................ 2
6
Title II--Executive Office of the President and Funds
Appropriated to the President.......................... 34
25
Title III--The Judiciary................................... 50
35
Title IV--District of Columbia............................. 59
40
Title V--Independent Agencies.............................. 71
46
Administrative Conference Of The United States..... 71
46
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau...............
46
Consumer Product Safety Commission................. 71
47
Election Assistance Commission..................... 76
48
Federal Communications Commission.................. 77
49
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.............. 80
53
Federal Election Commission........................ 81
53
Federal Labor Relations Authority.................. 81
54
Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council.... 82
54
Federal Trade Commission........................... 82
55
General Services Administration.................... 86
58
Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation.............. 96
69
Merit Systems Protection Board..................... 97
69
Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation.... 97
69
National Archives and Records Administration....... 99
70
National Credit Union Administration............... 100
72
Office of Government Ethics........................ 101
72
Office of Personnel Management..................... 101
73
Office of Special Counsel.......................... 105
75
Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board........ 105
76
Public Buildings Reform Board...................... 105
76
Securities and Exchange Commission................. 105
77
Selective Service System........................... 109
80
Small Business Administration...................... 110
81
United States Postal Service....................... 117
86
United States Tax Court............................ 118
90
Title VI--General Provisions--This Act..................... 119
90
Title VII--General Provisions--Government-Wide............. 141
95
Title VIII--General Provisions--District of Columbia....... 186
99
Title IX--Additional General Provisions.................... 203
102
House of Representatives Reporting Requirements............
102
Introduction
The jurisdiction of the Financial Services and General
Government (FSGG) bill is broad. The bill's appropriations
support the Department of the Treasury, the Executive Office of
the President, Federal payments to the District of Columbia,
and the Federal Judiciary. In addition, the bill funds more
than a dozen independent agencies and commissions, each of
which serves the public with a distinct mission.
Within this Committee report, certain organizations,
offices, and institutions are referred to as follows: the
Government Accountability Office as GAO; the Office of
Management and Budget as OMB; the Office of Personnel
Management as OPM; the Internal Revenue Service as IRS; the
General Services Administration as GSA; and full-time
equivalent as FTE. References to ``the Committee'' means the
Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives,
unless otherwise noted. In addition, any reference to the
``budget request'' or ``the request'' should be interpreted to
mean the Budget of the U.S. Government, Fiscal Year 2026,
submitted to Congress by OMB on May 30, 2025.
Separately, OMB's budget request for fiscal year (FY) 2026
includes several important proposals to reform and reorganize
the federal government. The Committee supports efforts to
improve efficiency as well as reduce waste, fraud, and abuse.
Such reforms are long overdue. However, the authorizing
committees of jurisdiction should have the opportunity to
consider these reorganization proposals. Accordingly, the FY
2026 bill and report reflect the current organizational
structure of the agencies funded herein. The Committee looks
forward to working with the authorizing committees of
jurisdiction as they review and incorporate the OMB's proposed
organizational reforms.
Highlights of the Bill
The FSGG FY 2026 total discretionary allocation is
$23,341,000,000. This is approximately 1.7 percent or
$410,000,000 less than the FY 2025 allocation. The bill
supports the President's goals of promoting fiscal
responsibility, ending divisive social policies, strengthening
our national security, and leveraging technology to ensure the
federal government is working smarter, faster, and more
efficiently.
The bill reinforces the Administration's efforts to root
out waste, fraud, and abuse, and prevent improper payments that
occur within the federal government by codifying Executive
Order No. 14249 titled ``Protecting America's Bank Account from
Waste, Fraud and Abuse'' and Executive Order No. 14240 titled
``Eliminating Waste and Saving Taxpayer Dollars by
Consolidating Procurement.'' Relatedly, the bill continues
critical oversight of remaining COVID era programs and funding
streams to ensure taxpayer dollars are used as intended.
The bill stops government-funded programs and training
related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, critical race
theory, and other socially divisive programs. It also defunds
the disastrous climate rule and other climate and ESG
initiatives. The bill preserves critical pro-life riders,
including prohibiting the Federal Employees Health Benefit
Program from covering puberty blockers, hormone therapy, or
surgical procedures for gender affirming care.
The bill strengthens national security by fully funding the
Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to ensure
it has the tools to adequately scrutinize foreign investment by
adversaries like China. The bill maintains funding for the
Department of the Treasury's Office of Terrorism and Financial
Intelligence to strengthen efforts to stop and deter
terrorists, criminals and other bad actors from using the
financial system. The bill also strengthens cybersecurity
initiatives across the federal government to stop foreign
adversaries and other criminals from hacking into our nation's
critical infrastructure. The bill funds the High Intensity Drug
Trafficking Area program to strengthen interdiction efforts to
stop fentanyl and other narcotics from coming across the border
and into our communities, as well as supports other critical
drug programs and trainings, including the Drug Free
Communities program.
Finally, the bill prioritizes the deployment of advanced
technology to strengthen security tools and enhance information
technology (IT) modernization efforts across the federal
government, including at the Department of Treasury, Executive
Office of the President, and the Judiciary.
Reprogramming and Operating Plan Procedures
Section 608 and Section 739 of this Act detail department
and agency responsibilities and procedures relating to the
reprogramming of funds among programs, projects, and
activities. Each department and agency funded by this bill
shall follow the directions set forth in this Act and its
accompanying report and shall not reallocate resources or
reorganize activities except as provided herein. The Committee
expects that agencies or entities that fulfill the requirements
of Section 608 will also follow the requirements set out in
Section 739.
Section 608 requires agencies and entities funded by this
Act to receive prior approval from the Committees on
Appropriations of the House of Representatives and the Senate
for any reprogramming of funds that (1) creates a new program;
(2) eliminates a program, project, or activity; (3) increases
funds or personnel for any program, project, or activity for
which funds have been denied or restricted by Congress; (4)
proposes to use funds directed for a specific activity by the
Committee on Appropriations of either the House of
Representatives or the Senate for a different purpose; (5)
augments existing programs, projects, or activities in excess
of $5,000,000 or 10 percent, whichever is less; (6) reduces
existing programs, projects, or activities by $5,000,000 or 10
percent, whichever is less; or (7) creates or reorganizes
offices, programs, or activities. In addition, prior to any
significant reorganization, restructuring, relocation, or
closing of offices, programs, or activities, each agency or
entity funded by this Act shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations.
Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this
Act, each agency shall submit a report to establish the
baseline for application of reprogramming and transfer
authorities for fiscal year 2026. The amount appropriated for
agencies shall be reduced by $100,000 per day for each day
after the required date that the report has not been submitted
to the Committees.
Reprogramming procedures shall apply to funds provided in
this bill, unobligated balances from previous appropriations
Acts that are available for obligation or expenditure in FY
2026, and non-appropriated resources such as fee collections
that are used to meet program requirements in FY 2026.
To adequately assess a reprogramming request, the Committee
requires the following information: a thorough justification
for the reprogramming; a description of the reprogramming's
impact on budget requirements for future fiscal years; and a
description of the impact of the reprogramming on carryover
funding. These requirements also apply to significant
reorganizations or restructurings of programs, projects, or
activities, even if such reorganization or restructuring does
not involve reprogramming of funding. The Committee also
expects prompt notification of any reprogramming that does not
meet the above criteria but may have significant impacts on
budgetary requirements for future fiscal years. The Committee
reserves the right to request additional information to
evaluate a reprogramming request.
The Committee directs that for purposes of this report and
the bill the term ``consult'' means a pre-decisional engagement
between a relevant Federal agency and the Committee during
which time the Committee has the opportunity to provide facts
and opinions to inform: (1) the use of funds; (2) the
development, content, or conduct of a program or activity; or
(3) allow a decision to be taken.
Except in emergency situations, reprogramming requests
should be submitted no later than June 30, 2026. Moreover, in
the event an agency or entity submits a reprogramming or
transfer request to the Committees on Appropriations and does
not receive identical responses from the House and Senate, it
is the responsibility of the Department or agency to reconcile
the House and Senate differences before proceeding. If
reconciliation is not possible, the request to reprogram funds
should not be considered approved.
Other Matters and Directives
Reports.--The Committee directs that all reports are
required to be completed and submitted within the timeframe
outlined for each respective directive. Furthermore, it is the
Committee's expectation that the specifications and conditions
associated with funding appropriated by this Act shall be
accomplished in the manner directed in the report.
Budget Justifications.--Budget justifications are the
primary tool used by the Committees on Appropriations to
evaluate the resource requirements, including the funding needs
of agencies. The Committee is aware that the format and
presentation of budget materials is largely left to the agency
within the framework set by OMB. However, agencies should
consult with congressional committees prior to submission as
set out in OMB Circular A-11, part 1. All agencies funded under
this bill are expected to comply with this directive.
Like previous years, agency justifications submitted with
the FY 2027 budget request funded under this bill shall contain
the requisite level of detailed data and explanatory statements
to support the appropriations requests at the level of detail
contained in the funding table included at the end of this
report. Agencies shall provide a detailed discussion of
proposed new initiatives, proposed changes in the agency's
financial plan from prior year enactment, detailed data on all
programs, and comprehensive information on any office or agency
restructuring. At a minimum, each agency must also provide
adequate justification for funding and staffing changes for
each individual office and materials that compare programs,
projects, and activities that are proposed for FY 2027 to FY
2026 enacted levels.
American Flag Purchases.--The Committee once again urges
all Federal agencies to only purchase flags that contain 100
percent American-made materials notwithstanding the requirement
in the All-American Flag Act that the Federal government only
purchase flags made of only 50 percent American-made materials.
TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
Departmental Offices
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $287,576,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 292,476,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 239,424,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -48,152,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -53,052,000
The Departmental Offices support the Secretary of the
Treasury (Secretary) as the chief operating executive of the
Department of the Treasury (Department) and his role in
determining the tax, economic, national security, and financial
management policies of the Federal government. The Secretary's
responsibilities funded by the Salaries and Expenses
appropriation include: recommending and implementing domestic
and international economic and tax policy; recommending fiscal
policy; maintaining the fiscal operations of the government;
managing the public debt; managing development of financial
policy; representing the U.S. on international monetary, trade,
and investment issues; overseeing the Department's
international operations; directing the administrative
operations of the Department; and providing executive oversight
of the bureaus within the Department.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $239,424,000 for Departmental
Offices, Salaries and Expenses. The recommendation includes
$3,000,000 for the Office of Tribal and Native American Affairs
for engagement with Tribes and Native Communities.
Treasury Forfeiture Fund.--The Department is directed to
submit a detailed table each month reporting the interest
earned, forfeiture revenue collected, unobligated balances,
recoveries, expenses to date, and expenses estimated for the
remainder of the fiscal year. The table should also include any
diversions from the Forfeiture Fund to the Bitcoin Strategic
Reserve and/or the digital asset stockpile.
Financial Literacy for Students.--The Committee is
encouraged by the Department's work to help promote financial
literacy, particularly among the school-age population. The
Department's goals in this area are aligned with the States,
where 33 States have a high-school personal finance
requirement. The Committee strongly encourages the Department
to partner with entities offering financial literacy programs,
where appropriate, to broaden the scope of the Financial
Literacy Education Commission (FLEC) to reach more students to
encourage economic inclusion and lasting financial resilience.
Cybersecurity in the Financial Services Sector.--The
Committee encourages the Office of Cybersecurity and Critical
Infrastructure Protection (OCCIP) to improve resilience to
cyberattacks by expanding risk assessment and mitigation
capabilities as a part of its role as a Sector Risk Management
Agency. OCCIP is further encouraged to engage in efforts to map
third-party dependencies in the financial sector, provide
analysis of domestic and international cybersecurity threats
and vulnerabilities, and support bilateral and multilateral
engagement on financial sector cybersecurity in strategically
important regions, including Eastern Europe and East Asia. The
Committee directs the OCCIP to report to the House and Senate
Appropriations Committees on any resources provided by the
cybersecurity enhancement account and the overall strategic
plan for addressing cyber threats to the Department within 180
days.
Digital Payment Competitiveness.-- The Committee recognizes
the critical nature of digital payments, with 82 percent of
Americans now using such tools. Modernizing the United States'
payment infrastructure is imperative to ensure that U.S.
businesses remain competitive, and consumers benefit from
faster, more cost-effective, and more convenient transactions.
Accordingly, the Committee directs the Secretary to submit a
report within 90 days that analyzes the payment system. The
report should include a comparative analysis of international
payment systems, including those of the United Kingdom, the
European Union, Australia, and Japan, an assessment of the
barriers limiting the broader deployment of FedNow among
financial institutions, and recommendations to increase access
for third-party service providers within the U.S. payments
ecosystem.
Consumer Fraud.--As technology evolves to benefit
consumers, so do the ways in which fraudsters and other bad
actors use technology. According to the Federal Trade
Commission, in 2024, the number of consumer complaints
involving imposter scams where criminals impersonate business
enterprises, government agencies, or other well-known entities
or individuals to defraud Americans increased by 25 percent.
This trend will only continue as criminals and other bad actors
become more sophisticated. Accordingly, the Committee urges the
Department to facilitate public-private partnerships to
strengthen Americans' financial security and prevent the rise
in schemes and other financial crimes. The partnerships should
include the relevant Federal and State financial regulators,
consumer protection agencies, law enforcement, financial
institutions, trade associations, consumer and privacy
advocates, and other stakeholders. The effort should encourage
information sharing among participants; the development of best
practices for relevant stakeholders, including the public; the
development of educational materials to enhance awareness of
financial fraud schemes across sectors; the disclosure of
leading practices and tools, and encouragement of innovations
in counter-fraud technologies, data-analytics, and approaches.
The Department is directed to study and report to the Committee
within 120 days on the resources, including any appropriations
or statutory recommendations, necessary to achieve this
directive.
RESTORE Act.--The Committee is concerned that the
Department is undertaking administrative changes for Resources
and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities, and
Revised Economies of the Gulf Coast States (RESTORE) Act
projects, diverting from its previous actions and well-
established processes, and broadening its scope beyond its
historic role by imposing new metrics on states' projects. To
ensure the Department complies with the Congressional intent of
the RESTORE Act, the Committee directs the Department to codify
its previous metrics established over the last twelve years and
defer to the Gulf Coast states in the implementation of
projects included in accepted Multi-Year Implementation Plans.
Income Tax Treaties.--The committee encourages the
Secretary of the Treasury, in coordination with other relevant
Federal agencies as appropriate, to reexamine the potentially
negative impacts that altering, suspending, or eliminating
established income tax treaties has on NATO allies.
COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES FUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $21,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 21,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 21,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States
(CFIUS) was established in 1975 to monitor the impact of
foreign investment in the United States and to coordinate and
implement Federal policy on such investment. The Foreign
Investment Risk Review Modernization Act of 2018 (FIRRMA)
expanded the jurisdiction of CFIUS to address growing national
security concerns over foreign exploitation of certain national
security structures that traditionally have fallen outside of
the Committee's jurisdiction as well as modernized CFIUS
processes to better enable timely and effective reviews of
covered transactions. FIRRMA also established the CFIUS Fund to
support these expanded functions and responsibilities, and to
collect filing fees.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $21,000,000 for the CFIUS Fund.
Spending Plan.--The Department is directed to provide a
detailed accounting of planned expenditures of the Department
and member agencies prior to obligating or transferring amounts
available in the CFIUS Fund to CFIUS agencies. The Committee
expects funding provided to be used for CFIUS program
activities in Fiscal Year 2026.
CFIUS Case Work.--The Committee is concerned by the
transfer of funds to the Department for non-CFIUS case work
given the significant rise in CFIUS cases. The Committee
therefore prohibits the Department from transferring funds for
non-CFIUS work.
OFFICE OF TERRORISM AND FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $226,862,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 237,662,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 230,533,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +3,671,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -7,129,000
The Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI)
was established in 2004 to strengthen the Department's policy,
enforcement, regulatory, and intelligence functions. It is
responsible for safeguarding the financial system. TFI is
comprised of the Office of Terrorist Financing and Financial
Crimes (TFFC), the Office of Intelligence and Analysis (OIA),
the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Financial
Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), and the Treasury Executive
Office for Asset Forfeiture (TEOAF).
TFFC is responsible for the policy development and outreach
office for TFI. OIA, which is a formal member of the U.S.
Intelligence Community, contributes all-source financial threat
assessments and products. OFAC administers multiple sanctions
programs to block transactions and freeze assets within the
United States of specified foreign terrorist, criminal, and
political entities, including specially designated individuals
and nation states.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $230,533,000 for TFI.
Use of Technology.--Terrorists, criminals, and other
illicit actors are using technology to exploit the financial
system to further their criminal activity. Of the amount
provided, the Committee directs $500,000 to be used by the
Department to establish a pilot program focused on using
artificial intelligence and machine learning to help strengthen
its programs, including intelligence gathering and sanctions
enforcement. The Committee further directs the Department to
issue a report within 270 days on the steps taken to establish
the pilot program.
Econometrics.--The analysis of economic data is a crucial
component of our intelligence gathering activities. The
Committee directs the Department to strengthen its activities
related to econometrics within the OIA.
Russian Sanctions.--The Committee is concerned that high-
ranking Russian officials and affiliated oligarchs are evading
sanctions by transferring assets to family members. This
undermines the effectiveness of sanctions targeting those
responsible for Russia's aggression in Ukraine and who have
committed human rights violations. The Committee urges OFAC to
review such asset transfers and impose sanctions on relatives,
where appropriate. This includes cases involving gross human
rights abuses, including the illegal detainment of prisoners of
war and pro-democracy activists.
Chinese Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) Technology.--
The Committee is concerned about the ongoing national security
threat posed by Chinese LIDAR manufacturers, including those
seeking to operate within U.S. markets. The Committee directs
OFAC to investigate Chinese LIDAR companies to ensure
appropriate steps are taken to confront companies that are
supporting the People's Liberation Army and posing a national
security risk to the United States. This includes adding such
entities to the Department's Non-Specially Designated Nationals
Chinese Military-Industrial Complex Companies List.
Global Magnitsky Sanctions.--The Committee is concerned by
the ongoing reports of religious freedom violations around the
world. The Committee encourages the Department to pay
particular attention to reported and documented gross
violations of internationally recognized human rights,
including violations of religious freedom and consider
sanctions when appropriate under the Global Magnitsky Human
Rights Accountability Act.
CYBERSECURITY ENHANCEMENT ACCOUNT
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $36,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 59,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 99,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +62,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +40,000,000
The Cybersecurity Enhancement Account (CEA) is the only
dedicated funding source for cybersecurity at the Department.
It is designed to identify and support Department-wide
investments for critical IT improvements, including the systems
identified as High Value Assets.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $99,000,000 for the CEA. The
recommendation includes an increase for Zero Trust Architecture
implementation, Low Code Application Development, and cloud
enterprise cybersecurity enhancements.
Quarterly Reports.--The Committee is concerned by the
infiltration of Chinese hackers into the Department's
information technology systems, which resulted from
vulnerabilities associated with the Department's third-party
service provider. Within 60 days of enactment of this Act, the
Department is directed to submit a plan for the obligation of
funds by quarter for each CEA investment to the House and
Senate Appropriations Committees. The plan shall include prior
year unobligated balances and identify planned obligations by
source year of appropriation. The plan shall also include
anticipated unobligated balances at the close of the fiscal
year and the planned obligation of carryover in future years by
quarter until all funds are obligated. The Department is
directed to submit quarterly updates on the status of
implementing this plan. The plan shall also identify any
agreement or areas of cooperation with members of the
intelligence community to strengthen its cybersecurity
platform.
DEPARTMENT-WIDE SYSTEMS AND CAPITAL INVESTMENTS PROGRAMS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $11,007,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 11,007,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 9,400,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -1,607,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -1,607,000
The Department-wide Systems and Capital Investments
Programs account funds capital investments that support the
missions of all Treasury bureaus and programs.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $9,400,000 for Department-wide
Systems and Capital Investments Programs. The recommendation
includes an increase for an updated alarm system, replacement
of the chillers and cooling tower, and maintenance of the outer
shell of the Main Treasury and Freedman's Bank Building
facilities. Funding is not provided for electric vehicle leases
and associated infrastructure.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $48,389,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 47,160,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 47,887,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -502,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +727,000
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) provides agency-wide
audit and investigative functions to identify and correct
operational and administrative deficiencies that create
conditions for fraud, waste, and mismanagement. The audit
function provides contract, program, and financial statement
audit services. Contract audits provide professional advice to
agency contracting officials on accounting and financial
matters relative to negotiation, award, administration,
repricing, and settlement of contracts. Program audits review
and evaluate all facets of agency operations. Financial
statement audits assess whether financial statements fairly
present the agency's financial condition and results of
operations, the adequacy of accounting controls, and compliance
with laws and regulations. The investigative function provides
for the detection and investigation of improper and illegal
activities involving programs, personnel, and operations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $47,887,000 for the OIG to conduct
audits of the Department's highest risk programs and continue
its investigative work to prevent, detect, and investigate
complaints of waste, fraud, and abuse impacting Department
programs and operations.
CARES Act and American Rescue Plan Act Oversight.--The
Committee continues to direct the OIG to use remaining funding
balances provided under the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief, and
Economic Security (CARES) Act to be used for oversight into
Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) programs established in the
Consolidated Appropriations Act, FY 2021 and in the American
Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
The OIG is directed to provide quarterly reports to the
Committee and the relevant authorizing Committees on the status
of the CARES Act funding and programs established in the
Consolidated Appropriations Act, FY 2021 and ARPA, including
ERA and Coronavirus Relief Payments (CRF). The report shall
include the complaints and resulting investigations into both
the ERA and CRF programs, including (1) the number of
complaints filed, (2) the number of complaints pending
investigation, (3) the number of open investigations, (4) the
number of cases that have been resolved and the terms of such
resolution, (5) the cumulative cost of investigations, (6) the
balance of the remaining funding for oversight purposes, and
(7) any impediments the OIG faces in investigating complaints.
The Committee encourages the Inspector General to take all
possible actions to recoup funds used impermissibly or not
obligated by the deadline.
TREASURY INSPECTOR GENERAL FOR TAX ADMINISTRATION
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $172,508,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 137,661,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 170,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -2,508,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +32,339,000
The Office of Treasury Inspector General for Tax
Administration (TIGTA) conducts audits, investigations, and
evaluations to assess the operations and programs of the
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and its related entities, the
IRS Oversight Board, and the Office of Chief Counsel. The
purpose of those audits and investigations is as follows: (1)
to promote the economic, efficient, and effective
administration of the Nation's tax laws and to detect and deter
fraud and abuse in IRS programs and operations; and (2) to
recommend actions to resolve fraud and other serious problems,
abuses, and deficiencies in these programs and operations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $170,000,000 for TIGTA.
The Committee recognizes TIGTA's work in assessing IRS's
information technology. The Committee encourages TIGTA to
ensure that the IRS takes further steps to improve its
information technology program.
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).--The Committee appreciates
TIGTA's oversight and review of the IRS's IRA quarterly and
cumulative spending reports. These reports are essential for
Congress and the public to better understand and evaluate IRS's
strategic plans.
Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $190,193,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 190,192,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 180,193,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -10,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -9,999,000
The mission of FinCEN is to safeguard the financial system
from illicit use; combat money laundering; and promote national
security through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of
financial intelligence and strategic use of financial
authorities. FinCEN supports federal, state, local, and
international law enforcement agency investigations of money
laundering and other financial crimes and fosters interagency
and global cooperation against domestic and international
financial crimes. As transnational criminal organizations and
rogue regimes increasingly exploit gaps in our financial
defenses, the tools and resolve necessary to stop them must be
available. FinCEN plays a central role in identifying,
disrupting and countering the financing of terrorism,
cybercrimes, and other illicit financial activities. FinCEN's
efforts are foundational to supporting law enforcement
investigations and maintaining the integrity of the U.S. and
global financial systems.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $180,193,000 for FinCEN.
Countering the Financing of Online Child Sexual
Exploitation (CSE).--The Committee is concerned with increased
online child sexual exploitation being monetized through the
U.S. financial sector. The Committee recommends up to
$5,000,000 to improve FinCEN's ability to oversee and
investigate under Title 31 child sexual exploitation (CSE) and
child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The Committee encourages
FinCEN to ensure the U.S. financial sector is adequately
complying with existing regulatory requirements mandated
through the ``Anti-Money Laundering Requirement'' of the USA
PATRIOT Act (31 U.S.C. Sec. 5318(h)(1), 31 CFR Sec. 1028.210,
and 31 CFR Sec. 1020.210) to prevent the facilitation of online
child exploitation and sex trafficking through the U.S.
financial sector. Such efforts are consistent with FinCEN's
anti-money laundering priorities, which were published in June
2021 and listed combatting human trafficking and human
smuggling as a top priority, including combatting crimes
against children.
Asia-Pacific Region.--The Committee recognizes the
importance of FinCEN's support of law enforcement cases in
Hawaii and the U.S. Pacific territories as part of the Bureau's
broader mission to combat money laundering and promote national
security. FinCEN is expected to keep the Committee apprised of
current trends and methods of money laundering in the Asia-
Pacific Region and ongoing efforts to counter this activity.
Bank Secrecy Act.--The Committee strongly encourages FinCEN
to provide guidance to the legal online gaming industry on its
anti-money laundering (AML) obligations under the Bank Secrecy
Act (BSA) and directs FinCEN to provide a briefing to the
Committee within 90 days of enactment of this act on its
progress toward clarifying AML responsibilities for legal
online gaming operators and licensees.
Illegal Gambling.--The Committee is concerned about the
continued rise of illegal gambling, both online and in
communities, and the risk it poses for illicit finance and
money laundering. While the BSA provides AML controls for legal
gambling, offshore online operators and unregulated gaming
machines in the United States have no such controls, which
allows for billions of dollars to move undetected. The
Committee strongly supports due diligence and source of funds
protocols that protect the Nation's financial system and the
public. The Committee is not aware of any such protocols used
by illegal or unregulated gambling operators and agrees with
the Department's 2024 National Money Laundering Risk
Assessment's (NMLRA) that illegal online sites utilize virtual
assets to obfuscate sources of funds. The Committee encourages
the Department to prioritize enforcement actions against
illegal gambling operators and the financial tools they employ.
Further, the Committee strongly encourages FinCEN to increase
its coordination with other agencies such as the Departments of
Justice, State, and Homeland Security regarding illegal and
unregulated gambling.
Anti-Money Laundering Regulations.--Within 90 days after
the enactment of this Act, FinCEN is directed to conduct a
study and submit a report to the House and Senate
Appropriations Committees and the Committee on Financial
Services and the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and
Urban Development on implementing the ``Anti-Money Laundering
Regulations for Residential Real Estate Transfers'' (89 Fed.
Reg. 12424 (February 16, 2024)) assessing options to reduce the
cost on small businesses while maintaining access to highly
useful information for the Department, law enforcement, and
national security agencies. The study should be conducted among
a representative group of reporting real estate entities, and
the report should include: (1) metrics Treasury, law
enforcement, and national security agencies plan to use to
determine the value of this data collection; (2) obstacles for
small businesses collecting and reporting such data; (3) areas
of where real estate entities will need to submit data that is
duplicative of that already collected by FinCEN or that would
be contained in another governmental record such as a payment
order for use in a wire transfer through the Federal Reserve;
(4) increases to attempted real estate fraud as a result of
collecting additional required data; (5) data comparing law
enforcement's identification of potentially illicit actors for
investigation under the new reporting requirements versus with
prior reporting; and (6) an assessment of whether requiring
reporting of known employee identification numbers (EIN) could
support identification of potentially illicit actors as at a
similar rate.
Scams.--The Secretary and the Director of the FinCEN, in
consultation with the Attorney General, the Secretary of
Homeland Security, the appropriate Federal banking agencies,
and Federal functional regulators, are directed to submit a
report to Congress on the state of scams in the United States
that estimates (1) the number of financial fraud, pig
butchering, elder financial fraud, and scams committed against
American consumers each year, including: (a) attempted scams,
including through social media, online dating services, email,
phone, or text impersonation of financial institutions and non-
bank financial institutions; (b) successful scams, including
through social media, online dating services, email, phone, or
text impersonation of financial institutions and non-bank
financial institutions; (2) the number of consumers each year
who lose money to one or more scams; (3) the dollar amount of
consumer losses to scams each year; (4) the percentage of scams
each year that can be attributed to: (a) overseas actors; and
(b) organized crime; (5) the number of attempted scams each
year that involve the impersonation of phone numbers associated
with financial institutions and non-bank financial
institutions; (6) an estimate of the number of synthetic
identities impersonating American consumers each year; and (7)
an overview of the Federal civil and criminal enforcement
actions brought against the recipients of the proceeds of
financial fraud, pig butchering, elder financial fraud, and
scams in the period covered by the report that includes: (a)
the number of such enforcement actions; (b) an evaluation of
the effectiveness of such enforcement actions; (c) an
identification of the types of claims brought against the
recipients, including the recipients of the proceeds of
financial fraud, pig butchering, elder financial fraud, and
scams.
Bureau of the Fiscal Service
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $391,109,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 391,109,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 343,511,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -47,598,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -47,598,000
The mission of the Bureau of the Fiscal Service (Fiscal
Service) is to promote the financial integrity and operational
efficiency of the U.S. Government through accounting,
borrowing, collections, payments, and shared services. The
Fiscal Service is the Federal government's central financial
agent. The Fiscal Service also develops and implements reliable
and efficient financial methods and systems to operate the
government's cash management, credit management, and debt
collection programs to maintain government accounts and report
on the status of the government's finances. In addition, the
Fiscal Service is the primary agency for collecting Federal
non-tax debt owed to the government and is responsible for all
public debt operations and the promotion of the sale of U.S.
securities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $343,511,000 for the Fiscal
Service.
Cybersecurity in the Fiscal Service.--The Committee notes
with interest the enhanced cybersecurity needs of the Fiscal
Service and encourages the Department to account for the
heightened risk and need to protect the Bureau's work as it
relates to the Department's core mission. Strengthening the
cybersecurity capabilities of the Fiscal Service is essential
to our national security interests as well as safeguarding our
ability to execute fiscal obligations, such as servicing the
national debt. Within 180 days, the Department shall issue a
report back to the Committee on the protocols in place to track
and prevent cybersecurity intrusions.
Improving Efficiency.--The Committee recognizes the
importance of improving the efficiency, integrity, and
transparency of the federal government's financial operations.
The Committee supports the OMB's April 2019 Memorandum (M-19-
16) titled ``Centralized Mission Support Capabilities for the
Federal Government'' and Executive Order No. 14249 titled
``Protecting America's Bank Account Against Fraud, Waste, and
Abuse,'' which emphasizes the consolidation of core financial
management systems across the federal government. The Committee
encourages the Fiscal Service to continue engaging federal
agencies to leverage the Centralized Receivables Service (CRS)
offering within the FM Marketplace Catalog with the goal of
consolidating fedeal government accounts receiveable
management, which in turn will achieve greater operational
efficiency as well as improve federal government collection
rates. The Committee directs the Department to submit a report
within 180 days of enactment of this Act detailing the current
level of CRS adoption, measurable outcomes achieved and plans
for further expansion of this and other core financial
management services under the Quality Service Management
Offices framework.
Transparency in Federal Spending.--The Committee expects
the Fiscal Service to continue to coordinate with OMB to
publish all unclassified vendor contracts and grant awards
agreements for all Federal agencies, as well as to begin
publishing the relevant Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
identifiers related to the issuance of the NOFO for each grant
online at USAspending.gov. The Committee looks forward to
receiving an update on the expected timing for including NOFO
information on USAspending.gov and the report on updating all
financial and award spending information on at least a monthly
basis.
Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $157,795,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 157,795,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 158,506,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +711,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +711,000
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is
responsible for the enforcement of laws designed to eliminate
certain illicit activities and the regulation of lawful
activities relating to distilled spirits, beer, wine, non-
beverage alcohol products, and tobacco. TTB focuses on
collecting revenue, reducing taxpayer burden and improving
service while preventing diversion, and protecting the public
and preventing consumer deception in certain regulated
commodities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $158,506,000 for the TTB.
Trade Practice Enforcement and Education.--The American
beverage alcohol system continues to experience unprecedented
growth across the United States. The entry of new products and
businesses into the three-tier beverage alcohol system requires
a robust TTB with the capacity to enforce the provisions of the
Federal Alcohol Administration (FAA) Act that keep the
marketplace safe, fair, and competitive. The recommendation
includes $5,000,000 for TTB to continue its education and
enforcement efforts for industry trade practice violations.
Enforcement of basic trade practice functions, required under
the FAA Act, is critical to ensuring a competitive, fair, and
safe marketplace. The Committee urges the TTB to increase its
outreach to educate and inform the industry on trade practice
laws and regulations.
Cannabis Regulatory Framework.--The Committee notes that
over 20 States and territories now permit the use of adult use
cannabis, while over 35 States and territories permit the use
of cannabis for medicinal purposes. The Committee directs TTB
in coordination with the Department, and other agencies, which
may have relevant regulatory expertise, to coordinate an
assessment of the adequacy of State marijuana regulatory
frameworks, including commonalities and novel approaches to
enforcement and oversight. The assessment shall include
recommendations to improve data sharing and coordination
between State and Federal authorities. The Department shall
provide a briefing to the Committee on the findings of the
assessment within one year of enactment of this Act.
United States Mint
UNITED STATES MINT PUBLIC ENTERPRISE FUND
The United States Mint (the Mint) manufactures coins,
receives deposits of gold and silver bullion, and safeguards
the Federal government's holdings of monetary metals. In 1997,
Congress established the United States Mint Public Enterprise
Fund (Public Law 104-52), which authorized the Mint to use
proceeds from the sale of coins to finance the costs of its
operations and consolidated all existing Mint accounts into a
single fund. Public Law 104-52 also provided that, in certain
situations, the levels of capital investments for circulating
coins and protective services shall factor into the decisions
of Congress.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a spending level for capital
investments by the Mint for circulating coinage and protective
services of $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2026.
Mutilated Coin Redemption Program.--The Committee
encourages the U.S. Mint to reconsider its decision to
terminate the Mutilated Coin Redemption Program. The Program
has played an important role in streamlining coin circulation,
reducing economic waste and strengthening national security.
The Committee directs the U.S. Mint to provide a briefing not
later than 180 days of enactment of this Act on its analysis of
the program; opportunities to strengthen the Program including
updating security measures, enhancing fraud prevention, and
improving oversight mechanisms; and resources needed to restart
it.
Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Program Account
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $324,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 133,146,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 276,600,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -47,400,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +143,454,000
The Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI)
Fund provides grants, loans, equity investments, and technical
assistance, on a competitive basis, to new and existing CDFIs
such as community development banks, community development
credit unions, and housing and microenterprise loan funds.
Recipients use the funds to support mortgages, small
businesses, and economic development lending in underserved and
distressed neighborhoods. The availability of financial
services in these neighborhoods is critical. The CDFI Fund is
also responsible for implementation of the New Markets Tax
Credits.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $276,600,000 for the CDFI Fund
program. Of the amounts recommended, $170,000,000 is for
financial and technical assistance grants, $35,000,000 is for
Native Initiatives, $35,000,000 is for the Bank Enterprise
Award Program, and $33,600,000 is for administrative expenses.
New Markets Tax Credit.--The Committee encourages a focus
on areas in Appalachia affected by flooding in 2024.
Rural CDFIs.--The CDFI Fund shall study and issue a report
to the Appropriations Committee of the House of Representatives
and the Senate within 180 days of enactment of this Act that
assesses: (a) the barriers and challenges faced by CDFIs in
expanding services to rural areas; and (b) strategies to
encourage CDFI investment and expansion to rural areas,
particularly those areas that are not already served by the
Fund.
Internal Revenue Service
The Committee recommends $9,531,432,000 for the Internal
Revenue Service (IRS), which is a decrease of $2,787,622,000 or
23 percent, below the fiscal year 2025 enacted level, to
administer the nation's tax systems.
User Fee and Spending Reports.--The Committee directs the
IRS to submit a user fee spending plan within 60 days of
enactment of this Act detailing planned spending on its four
appropriations accounts. Additionally, the Committee directs
the IRS to submit on a quarterly basis FTE usage and
obligations by account and anticipated FTE usage and spending
through fiscal year 2026.
Obligations and Employment.--Within 45 days of the end of
each quarter for calendar year 2026, the IRS is directed to
submit to the Committee an obligation and personnel report. The
report shall include information about the obligations made
during the previous quarter by appropriation, object class,
office, and activity; the estimated obligations for the
remainder of the fiscal year by appropriation, object class,
office, and activity; the number of FTE within each office
during the previous quarter; and the estimated number of FTE
within each office for the remainder of the fiscal year.
501(c)(3) Organizations Supporting Terrorist Activities.--
Within 90 days after the enactment of this Act, the IRS is
directed to provide the Committee a complete list of any
501(c)(3) organizations found to be involved in supporting
terrorist activities.
A description of the Committee's recommendation by
appropriation is provided below.
TAXPAYER SERVICES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $2,780,606,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 3,633,338,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 2,780,606,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -852,732,000
The Taxpayer Services appropriation provides funding for
taxpayer services, including forms and publications; processing
of tax returns and related documents; filing and account
services; taxpayer advocacy services; and assistance to
taxpayers to understand their tax obligations, correctly file
their returns, and pay taxes due in a timely manner. The budget
includes $45,000,000 for the Community Volunteer Income Tax
Assistance Matching Grants Program to support free tax
preparation and other services.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $2,780,606,000 for Taxpayer
Services.
Identity Theft.--The Committee continues to support IRS's
efforts to reduce identity theft. Identity theft remains a
persistent obstacle to accurate, fair, and efficient tax
collection. Innocent taxpayers, who otherwise comply with their
tax obligations, have been subject to the IRS examination
process delaying their refund because their identity was stolen
and misused. The Committee recognizes the progress that has
been made in reducing the backlog of Theft Victim Assistance
cases. The Committee encourages the IRS to more fully utilize
data analytics and other technology solutions to achieve
greater efficiencies in identifying fraud, expeditiously assist
victims, and work toward reducing taxpayer identity theft.
Taxpayer Data.--In response to TIGTA's report, Sensitive
Business and Individual Tax Account Information Stored on
Microfilm Cannot be Located, finding the IRS did not properly
safeguard sensitive taxpayer information and comply with its
record-storage requirements, the IRS is directed to report to
Congress on its compliance with the Federal Records Act of
1950, the steps the IRS has taken to improve its storage of
business and individual tax records, and the number of tax
records for which the IRS is unable to account.
Form W-2G-Threshold.--The Committee recognizes that the IRS
Advisory Council (IRSAC) Public Report published in November
2023 recommends the reporting threshold for Form W-2G be
increased to $5,000. The IRSAC report also notes, and the
Committee agrees, that the IRS is authorized to modify
reporting thresholds for Form W-2G, that the IRS
administratively set the current threshold in 1977, and that
the IRS has not modified it since that time. The Committee
directs the IRS to update this threshold in accordance with the
recommendation of the IRSAC.
Health Savings Accounts.--The Committee remains concerned
that IRS's rules governing the eligibility of toothpaste and
other oral rinses addressing medical conditions or diagnoses
imposes an undue burden on patients with health savings
accounts. These products are often the first line of prevention
to stay healthy and fight disease. The Administration should
incorporate this work into the Make America Healthy Again
Commission and streamline pathways so that patients have access
to these products.
ENFORCEMENT
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $5,437,622,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 3,600,006,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,000,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -2,437,622,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -600,006,000
The Enforcement appropriation provides for the examination
of tax returns, both domestic and international; the
administrative and judicial settlement of taxpayer appeals of
examination findings; technical rulings; monitoring of employee
pension plans; determinations of qualifications of
organizations seeking tax-exempt status; examinations of tax
returns of exempt organizations; enforcement of statutes
relating to detection and investigation of criminal violations
of the internal revenue laws; identification of underreporting
of tax obligations; securing of unfiled tax returns; and
collecting of unpaid accounts.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $3,000,000,000 for Enforcement.
The Committee recommends not less than $65,257,000 to support
IRS activities for the Interagency Crime and Drug Enforcement
program.
Pass-Through Entity Compliance.--The Committee is concerned
with efforts by the Large Business and International Division
(LB&I) to target businesses for audits based primarily on their
status as a pass-through entity. Many businesses choose to
structure as a pass-through for increased liability protection,
operational flexibility, and simplified tax filing. LB&I's
directive to examine pass-throughs ``regardless of entity
size'' could subject many small businesses to overly burdensome
and time-consuming audits. The IRS is encouraged to determine
which businesses are audited based on evidence of improper
compliance with the law and not their chosen legal business
structure.
TECHNOLOGY AND OPERATIONS SUPPORT
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $4,100,826,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 2,598,024,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,750,826,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -350,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +1,152,802,000
The Technology and Operations Support appropriation
provides for overall planning and direction of the IRS,
including shared service support related to facilities
services, rent payments, printing, postage, and security.
Specific activities include headquarters management activities
such as strategic planning, communications and liaison,
finance, human resources, Equal Employment Opportunity and
diversity, research, information technology, and
telecommunications.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $3,750,826,000 for Technology and
Operations Support.
Information Technology Reports.--Within 30 days of the end
of each quarter for calendar year 2026, the IRS is required to
submit a report on major information technology project
activities to the Committee and to GAO. The Committee expects
the reports to include detailed, plain English explanations of
the cumulative expenditures and schedule performance to date,
specified by fiscal year; the costs and schedules for the
previous three months; the anticipated costs and schedules for
the upcoming three months; and the total expected costs to
complete IRS's top five major information technology project
activities. In addition, the quarterly report should include
the date the project was started; the expected date of
completion; the percentage of work completed as compared to
planned work; the current and expected state of functionality;
any changes in schedule; and current risks unrelated to funding
amounts and mitigation strategies. The Committee directs the
Department to conduct a semi-annual review of IRS's IT
investments to ensure the cost, schedule, and scope of the
projects' goals are transparent.
In addition, the Committee directs GAO to review and report
annually to the Committee an evaluation of the cost and
schedule of activities for all major IRS information technology
projects for the year, with a particular focus on the projects
included in IRS's quarterly reports.
Inventory.--The Committee is aware the IRS is in possession
of a large quantity of weapons and ammunition. The Committee
directs the IRS to submit a report to the Committee within 90
days of enactment of this Act to disclose the quantity and
type(s) of: weapons, weapons systems, ammunition, explosive
devices, armored vehicles, drones/unmanned aerial vehicles, and
chemical weapons such as tear gas and calming agents.
Electronic Filing.--Additionally, the Committee recognizes
that paper-based processes have hampered the IRS and frustrated
taxpayers, which has led, in part, to delays and backlogs of
processing payroll tax credits and returns. The Committee
encourages the IRS to transition from paper-based forms,
specifically 941-X forms along with Schedule R, and toward an
electronic filing system by January 24, 2026. The IRS is
directed to brief the Committee on its approach to digitizing
941-X and Schedule R forms within 30 days after enactment of
this Act.
Modernizing IRS IT Systems.--The Committee is aware ofthe
IRS's success leveraging a fixed-price, outcome-based approach
to IT managed services contracts. The adoption of this model
allows the IRS to achieve efficient outcomes and enable rapid,
continuous digital modernization.This IT managed services
approach is well suited to help the agency retire and replace
outdated legacy systems, which will modernize internal
workflows and improve services available to taxpayers.
Therefore, as the IRS continues to replace legacy IT systems
and services, the agency is directedto expand the use of this
fixed-price, outcome-based approach and brief the Committee no
later than 90 days after enactment of this Act on its
implementation plans, including how this contracting approach
can be used to improve IRS workforce performance, onboarding,
and personnel management.
Real Time Access to and Portability of Taxpayer Data.--The
Committee is concerned the IRS has not done enough to
prioritize resources to improve system enhancements that allow
the IRS to effectively utilize and make taxpayer data--for
which the IRS is in possession--available to taxpayers in a
timely manner. As recommended in the June 2023 IRS Electronic
Tax Administration Advisory Committee's Annual Report to
Congress, the IRS should have the capability to provide real-
time access and data portability to Americans' tax data. To
accomplish this goal, the Committee directs the IRS to submit a
report no later than 270 days after enactment of this Act on
how to architect and build a centralized data platform or
application programming interface (API) to provide real time
access and data portability to taxpayer data, including but not
limited to tax transcripts, information returns,
correspondence, notices for the purposes of tax return
preparation, and streamlined import to tax preparation
software. The report shall also include an expected timeline to
build and deploy such a platform or API, as well as identify
any existing impediments.
Fraudulent Tax Returns.--The Committee encourages the IRS
to implement measures to electronically provide real-time or
near real-time data on suspected fraudulent tax returns to tax
software providers and tax professionals. Such measures may
utilize, as determined by the Commissioner, an authenticated
application programming interface or the Information Sharing
and Analysis Center platform.
Artificial Intelligence.--The Committee is aware of the IRS
using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve
taxpayer customer service, including the availability of
expanded AI chatbot technology to assist with basic inquiries.
Within 180 days of enactment of this Act, the IRS shall brief
the Committee on how it plans to use AI technologies to help
taxpayers handle more complex tax issues, modernize its paper
processing through digitalization, and efforts to improve AI
chatbots and collect customer service feedback.
Administrative Provisions--Internal Revenue Service
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Section 101. Provides transfer authority.
Section 102. The Committee continues a provision that
requires the IRS to maintain a training program to include
taxpayer rights, dealing courteously with taxpayers, cross-
cultural relations, and the impartial application of tax law.
Section 103. The Committee continues a provision that
requires the IRS to institute and enforce policies and
procedures that will safeguard the confidentiality of taxpayer
information and protect taxpayers against identity theft.
Section 104. The Committee continues a provision that makes
funds available for improved facilities and increased staffing
to provide efficient and effective 1-800 number help line
service for taxpayers.
Section 105. The Committee continues a provision that
requires the IRS to notify employers of any address change
request and to give special consideration to offers-in-
compromise for taxpayers who have been victims of payroll tax
preparer fraud.
Section 106. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the IRS from targeting U.S. citizens for exercising
their First Amendment rights.
Section 107. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the IRS from targeting groups based on their
ideological beliefs.
Section 108. The Committee continues a provision that
requires the IRS to comply with procedures and policies on
conference spending as recommended by the Treasury Inspector
General for Tax Administration.
Section 109. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits funds for giving bonuses to employees or hiring
former employees without considering conduct and compliance
with Federal tax law.
Section 110. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits funds from being used to contravene section 6103 of
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (preserving the
confidentiality of tax returns).
Section 111. The Committee continues a provision that
provides direct hiring authorities for certain IRS positions.
Section 112. The Committee continues a provision that
extends current home to work transportation for the IRS
Commissioner for fiscal year 2026.
Section 113. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the IRS from developing its own Free File software
before seeking Congressional approval.
Section 114. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the IRS from purchasing firearms or ammunition
above specified levels.
Administrative Provisions--Department of the Treasury
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Section 115. The Committee continues a provision that
authorizes the Department to purchase uniforms, insurance for
motor vehicles that are overseas, and motor vehicles that are
overseas without regard to the general purchase price
limitations; to enter into contracts with the State Department
for health and medical services for Treasury employees who are
overseas; and to hire experts or consultants.
Section 116. The Committee continues a provision that
authorizes transfers, up to two percent, between ``Departmental
Offices--Salaries and Expenses'', ``Office of Inspector
General'', ``Financial Crimes Enforcement Network'', ``Bureau
of the Fiscal Service'', and ``Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau'' appropriations under certain circumstances.
Section 117. The Committee continues a provision that
authorizes transfers, up to two percent, between the Internal
Revenue Service and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax
Administration under certain circumstances.
Section 118. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the Department of the Treasury from undertaking a
redesign of the one-dollar Federal Reserve note.
Section 119. The Committee continues a provision that
provides for transfers from the Bureau of the Fiscal Service to
the Debt Collection Fund as necessary for the purposes of debt
collection.
Section 120. The Committee continues a provision requiring
Congressional approval for the construction and operation of a
museum by the United States Mint.
Section 121. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits funds in this or any other Act from being used to
merge the United States Mint and the Bureau of Engraving and
Printing without the approval of the House and the Senate
committees of jurisdiction.
Section 122. The Committee continues a provision deeming
that funds for the Department's intelligence-related activities
are specifically authorized in fiscal year 2026 until enactment
of the Intelligence Authorization Act for fiscal year 2026.
Section 123. The Committee continues a provision permitting
the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to use $5,000 from the
Industrial Revolving Fund for reception and representation
expenses.
Section 124. The Committee continues a provision requiring
the Department to submit a Capital Investment Plan.
Section 125. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the Department from finalizing any regulation
related to the standards used to determine the tax-exempt
status of a 501(c)(4) organization.
Section 126. The Committee continues a provision requiring
a report on the Department's Franchise Fund.
Section 127. The Committee continues a provision requiring
quarterly reports from the Office of Financial Research as well
as testimony if requested.
Section 128. The Committee includes a new provision with
respect to the so-called people-to-people category of travel.
As set forth in title 31, section 515.565(b)(2) of the Code of
Federal Regulations, this category of travel contravenes the
explicit prohibition against tourist activities as provided in
section 910(b) of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export
Enhancement Act of 2000. Because Cuba's tourism industry is run
mostly by the Cuban military, the people-to-people category of
travel is also inconsistent with the prohibition on financial
transactions with Cuban military, with its affiliated entities
as maintained on the State Department's Cuba Restricted List.
Furthermore, the stated purpose of people-to-people travel,
which is to promote the Cuban people's independence from Cuban
authorities, cannot be accomplished through itineraries that
mainly feature interactions with representatives of a
dictatorship that actively oppresses the Cuban people, nor can
it be accomplished through itineraries that do not require
meetings with pro-democracy activists or independent members of
Cuban civil society.
Section 129. The Committee includes a new provision that
requires a report on certain categories of travel to Cuba.
Section 130. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the Department from advising or participating in
the design, build, or establishment of a United States Central
Bank Digital Currency and prohibits discontinuation of paper
currency as legal tender in the United States.
Section 131. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funding for FinCEN to promulgate beneficial
ownership reporting rules that have been found unconstitutional
or do not reflect Congressional intent. Because more than 16
million domestic small business entities submitted beneficial
ownership information to FinCEN prior to its decision to
require only foreign entity reporting, the Committee is
concerned about the use of the existing beneficial ownership
information. The Committee directs FinCEN to issue a report to
the House and Senate Appropriations Committee and the House
Committee on Financial Services and the Senate Committee on
Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs on the status of that
beneficial ownership information within 90 days.
Section 132. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funding for the rulemaking related to Coronavirus
State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.
Section 133. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funding for the subpoena authority of the Federal
Insurance Office and Office of Financial Research.
Section 134. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funding for environmental, social, or governance
aspects of the Department.
Section 135. The Committee includes a new provision
allowing for the use of CARES Act Funds to conduct oversight
into the Emergency Rental Assistance by the Office of Inspector
General.
Section 136. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds for amendments made to U.S. policy
relating to Cuba under the previous Administration.
Section 137. The Committee includes a new provision
requiring the Department to submit a report to the House and
Senate Committees on Appropriations and the House Committee on
Financial Services and the Senate Committee on Banking,
Housing, and Urban Affairs within 90 days of enactment on the
implementation of Executive Order No. 14233 of March 6, 2025
(90 Fed. Reg. 11789), which has implications for the
Department's Forfeiture Fund, agency transfer authority, and
the federal government's balance sheet.
Section 138. Custody of Digital Assets. --The Committee
directs the Department to submit a report within 90 days of
enactment outlining its plan for the secure custody of digital
assets acquired by the Federal Government, including assets
held under the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and the U.S. Digital
Asset Stockpile. The report shall describe the custody
architecture, legal authorities, security protocols, and
interagency procedures for transferring and holding digital
assets. The Committee emphasizes the importance of maintaining
strong safeguards to prevent loss, unauthorized access, or
liquidation of these assets.
Section 139. The Committee includes a new provision
requiring a classified report on the cooperation between the
Department and the National Security Agency within 90 days.
TITLE II--EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT AND FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO
THE PRESIDENT
Funds appropriated in this title provide for the staff and
operations of the White House, along with other organizations
within the Executive Office of the President (EOP) that
formulate and coordinate policy on behalf of the President,
such as the National Security Council and the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB). The title also includes funding
for the Office of National Drug Control Policy and certain
expenses of the Vice President.
The White House
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $78,904,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 80,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 71,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -7,904,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -9,000,000
The White House Salaries and Expenses account supports
staff and administrative services necessary for the direct
support of the President.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $71,000,000 for the White House.
Executive Residence at the White House
OPERATING EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $15,453,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 16,100,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 16,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +547,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -100,000
The Executive Residence at the White House Operating
Expenses account provides for the care, maintenance, staffing,
and operations of the Executive Residence, including official
and ceremonial functions of the President.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $16,000,000 for the Operating
Expenses of the Executive Residence. The bill continues the
same restrictions on reimbursable expenses for use of the
Executive Residence as have been included in past years.
White House Repair and Restoration
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $2,475,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 2,475,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 2,475,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The White House Repair and Restoration account provides for
the repair, alteration, and improvement of the Executive
Residence at the White House.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $2,475,000 for White House Repair
and Restoration.
Council of Economic Advisers
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $4,854,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 4,854,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 4,200,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -654,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -654,000
The Council of Economic Advisers analyzes the national
economy and its various segments, advises the President on
economic developments, recommends policies for economic growth
and stability, appraises economic programs and policies of the
Federal government, and assists in preparation of the annual
Economic Report of the President.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $4,200,000 for the Council of
Economic Advisers.
National Security Council and Homeland Security Council
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $19,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 16,800,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 12,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -6,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -4,300,000
The National Security Council and the Homeland Security
Council have been combined to form the National Security Staff,
which advises and assists the President on the integration of
domestic, foreign, military, intelligence, and economic aspects
of national security policy and serves as the principal means
of coordinating executive departments and agencies in the
development and implementation of national security and
homeland security policies.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $12,500,000 for the National
Security Council and Homeland Security Council.
Office of Administration
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $114,308,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 124,308,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 105,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -8,808,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -18,808,000
The Office of Administration is responsible for providing
administrative services to the Executive Office of the
President. These services include financial, personnel,
procurement, information technology, records management, and
general office services.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $105,500,000 for the Office of
Administration. Of the recommended amount, not to exceed
$12,800,000 is available until expended for modernization of
information technology infrastructure within the Executive
Office of the President.
Office of Management and Budget
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $129,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 146,147,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 129,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -17,147,000
The OMB assists the President in the discharge of
budgetary, economic, management, and other executive
responsibilities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $129,000,000 for OMB.
Budget Submission.--The Committee requires OMB to submit
the President's fiscal year 2027 budget request by the first
Monday in February as required by section 1105(a) of title 31,
United States Code and includes a restriction on the obligation
of funds until the budget is submitted. The Committee
encourages OMB to provide an appropriate number of printed
copies of the submission to Congressional committees, including
documents such as the Appendix, Historical Tables, and
Analytical Perspectives.
Personnel and Obligations Report.--The Committee directs
OMB to provide the Committee with quarterly reports on
personnel and obligations consisting of on-board staffing
levels, estimated staffing levels by office for the remainder
of the fiscal year, total obligations incurred to date,
estimated total obligations for the remainder of the fiscal
year, and a narrative description of current hiring
initiatives.
Unobligated Balances Report.--OMB is directed to report to
the Committee within 45 days of the end of each fiscal quarter
on available balances at the start of the fiscal year, current
year obligations, and resulting unobligated balances for each
discretionary account within the jurisdiction of this Act.
Improper Payments.--The Committee remains concerned by the
prevalence of improper payments across multiple Federal
agencies, which totaled over $161 billion in fiscal year 2024.
The Committee encourages OMB to continue working with agencies
across the Federal Government to develop plans and processes to
eliminate improper payments and ensure compliance with existing
law, such as the Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 and
the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act of 2010.
Improvements to Federal Government Service Delivery.--The
Committee supports OMB's efforts to improve customer
experiences with Federal agencies. The Committee directs OMB to
work with agencies to develop standards in improving customer
experience and incorporate these standards into the performance
plans required under 31 U.S.C. 1115. The Committee directs all
agencies funded by this Act to report on their implementation
plans no later than 180 days after enactment of this Act.
NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity.--The Committee
directs OMB to issue guidance for federal agencies to assess,
track, and report on the qualifications of personnel identified
as members of the civilian cyberspace workforce, in alignment
with the NICE Workforce Framework for Cybersecurity. Not later
than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, OMB, in
coordination with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security
Agency (CISA), shall brief the Committee on its progress toward
issuing this guidance.
Federal Agency Data for Artificial Intelligence
Applications.--The Committee recognizes the critical need for
AI-ready data to enable the adoption of artificial intelligence
(AI) and machine learning (ML) solutions across the federal
government. To ensure agencies can fully leverage AI
capabilities, the Committee directs OMB to develop guidance
requiring agencies to assess, structure, and modernize their
datasets for AI applications. Not later than 180 days after the
date of enactment of this Act, OMB shall brief the Committee on
its progress toward issuing this guidance.
Cloud Computing Costs.--The Committee recognizes the
advances brought by modern information technology (IT)
systems--including cloud computing and AI--can help researchers
in their efforts to identify cures to disease, discover new
energy sources, improve cyber security, and promote scientific
discovery. However, the Committee is aware that there is
ambiguity in Federal regulations concerning the cost treatment
of tangible equipment versus cloud computing. This ambiguity
deprives researchers of a competitive choice between the two IT
solutions and can result in higher total costs to taxpayers.
Differential treatment, where Federal guidelines may
incentivize the use of on-premise hardware, limits researchers'
ability to use technology necessary to deliver novel insights
and societal impact. To remove impediments, the Committee
instructs the Director to clarify that technology investments,
whether for hardware or cloud computing, procured in support of
projects funded by Federal grants should be subject to the same
cost treatment and not subject to Facilities and Administration
costs.
Additionally, the Committee expects an interoperable multi-
cloud environment that provides flexibility, security,
redundancy, and resiliency and saves taxpayer dollars by
encouraging competition and innovation.
Zero Trust Architecture.--Not later than 180 days after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Office of the National Cyber
Director (ONCD) and OMB, in coordination with the Cybersecurity
and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) within the Department
of Homeland Security, shall provide a comprehensive assessment
report of Federal agency progress toward adopting Zero Trust
Architectures, as outlined in Federal government-wide policy
memoranda and standards. The assessment shall include a
strategy to proactively engage Federal agencies on leveraging
CISA's Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM) program to
upgrade to zero trust solutions in fiscal year 2026 and beyond.
Direct Support Professionals.--The Committee recognizes the
integral role that Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) play in
the care provided to individuals with intellectual and
developmental disabilities (I/DD), but that right now a
workforce shortage among DSPs leaves individuals with I/DD
without access to essential community-based services. The
Committee urges OMB to revise the Standard Occupational
Classification system to establish a distinct code for DSPs and
provide an update to the Committee no more than 60 days after
the next revision process to better align the system with
related classification systems and to provide more accurate
data in addressing the pressing workforce challenges.
Public Safety Telecommunicators.--The Committee directs the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget to, as part of
the first revision process of the Standard Occupational
Classification system, consider the feasibility of establishing
a separate code for public safety telecommunicators as a subset
of protective service occupations. If the Director decides not
to establish the separate code for public safety
telecommunicators, the Director shall, not later than 90 days
after the Director announces in the Federal Register the final
decision of the revision process described in such subsection,
submit to the Committee a report explaining why such separate
code was not established.
Procurement of American-Made Drones.--The Committee shares
concerns about the acquisition and application of foreign-made
unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) technology. However, domestic
manufacturing of drone technology has evolved rapidly in recent
years and American-made, unarmed drones are in use in State and
local law enforcement agencies across the country. The
Committee is encouraged that OMB is working to establish a
government-wide policy for the procurement of UAS as directed
by the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal
Year 2024. As part of this policy, the Committee directs OMB to
assess the use of American-made, unarmed drone technology among
State and local law enforcement agencies and report to the
Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act the
feasibility of permitting the use of agency grant dollars for
the purchase of NDAA-certified, American-made UAS.
Operationalizing Metrics to Drive Cybersecurity Outcomes.--
The Committee recognizes that with rapidly evolving cyber
threats from sophisticated adversaries like China and Russia,
accurate barometers of cyber resilience are critical to most
effectively identify where better security investment and
process improvements across Federal Civilian Executive Branch
(FCEB) agencies are needed. Two of the most effective metrics
for cyber resilience are Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean
Time to Respond (MTTR) to cyber incidents. While FCEB agencies
are required to report some incident detection and response
metrics as part of annual FISMA reporting, these metrics have
yet to be automated beyond static, point-in-time reporting, or
effectively leveraged to drive cybersecurity performance and
investment. Therefore, the Director in consultation with the
Director of CISA and the ONCD, shall establish clear MTTD and
MTTR goals for FCEB agencies, provide guidance to FCEB agencies
around leveraging automated tools to best capture and report
metrics against these goals, and hold FCEB agencies accountable
for achieving those goals. Not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act, OMB shall report to the Committee on its
progress against these directives and plans to help FCEB
agencies to achieve established MTTD and MTTR goals by the end
of FY26.
Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing.--The Committee
supports the Administration's effort to bring manufacturing
back to the United States. This includes the domestic
production of essential protective personal equipment, like
nitrile gloves, to continue protecting our frontline workers.
The Committee directs OMB to issue a report within 180 days of
enactment of this Act on the status of current PPE stockpiles
in the United States, including the current inventory of
nitrile gloves, isolation gowns and other PPE. The report
should include: an assessment of where current PPE stockpiles
are purchased; the sufficiency of current stockpiles; current
manufacturing capacity for PPE, including nitrile gloves; and
the funding necessary to bring PPE equipment, such as nitrile
gloves, fully online in the United States.
Endpoint Detection & Response.--The Committee recognizes
that with rapidly evolving cyber threats from sophisticated
adversaries like China and Russia, accurate barometers of cyber
resilience are critical to most effectively identify where
better security investment and process improvements across
Federal Civilian Executive Branch (FCEB) agencies are needed.
The Committee directs OMB to work with CISA and the ONCD to
submit to Congress a report no later than 180 days of the date
of enactment of this Act on the status of the deployment of
endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions and a timeline
for full coverage, including for cloud environments that
includes: (1) how FCEB agencies plan to budget for EDR
deployment and sustainment for the next two years; (2) specify
which costs are anticipated to be covered by CISA or the
Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM) program, if any;
and (3) plans to modernize and upgrade existing EDR deployments
for future technologies such as the industry standard next-
generation Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
solutions.
Government Spending/Apportionment Transparency.--Congress
enacted the first statutory obligation to apportion budgetary
resources more than 120 years ago. The purpose of this
directive was to ensure the Administration worked with Congress
to execute spending laws as intended. Moreover, timely access
to apportionment information by Congress has been and continues
to be a critical check and balance within our federal system of
government. The Committee encourages the Administration to work
with Congress to fulfill its commitment to transparency and
accountability with respect to apportionment information.
DNS Deployment Guide.--Within 90 days of enactment, the
Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall review
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special
Publication (SP) 800-81, the Secure Domain Name System (DNS)
Deployment Guide, and issue requirements for Federal Executive
Departments and Agencies to adopt SP 800-81 guidance and
recommendations.
Office of the National Cyber Director
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $21,707,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 20,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 18,126,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -3,581,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -1,874,000
The Office of the National Cyber Director (ONCD) was
created in the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283) to
advise the President on cybersecurity and related emerging
technology issues and to coordinate cybersecurity strategy and
policy, including Executive Branch development of an integrated
national cybersecurity.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $18,126,000 for the ONCD.
Federal Data Security.--A significant portion of today's
cybersecurity vulnerabilities occur outside of traditional
legacy and enterprise investments made for localized agency
network protections when data is in transit, due to various
automated routing and switching protocols via systems and
infrastructure potentially controlled or subject to
manipulation by adversarial threats. The ONCD is encouraged to
work with CISA to ensure best practices are followed with
lessons learned from the Department of Defense's mapping
methodology and data format.
Office of National Drug Control Policy
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $21,785,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 21,785,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 19,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -2,785,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -2,785,000
The Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) was
established by the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. As the
President's primary source of support for counter-drug policy
development and program oversight, ONDCP is responsible for
developing and updating a National Drug Control Strategy,
developing a National Drug Control Budget, and coordinating and
evaluating the implementation of Federal drug control
activities. In addition, ONDCP manages several counter-drug
programs, including the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas
(HIDTA) and Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant programs.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $19,000,000 for ONDCP Salaries and
Expenses.
Rural Non-Profits in Drug-Free Communities Program.--The
Committee supports the DFC program's efforts to involve local
communities in finding solutions and helping youth at risk for
substance use. The Committee encourages the program to
prioritize the efforts of regional non-profit organizations in
rural areas utilizing holistic approaches to fight substance
abuse, including education, treatment, and investigations.
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program Oversight.--
The Committee recognizes that the HIDTA program, established
under the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, has been effectively
administered by ONDCP since its inception. As the lead agency
coordinating the nation's drug control strategy, ONDCP is
uniquely positioned to ensure HIDTA resources are strategically
deployed and integrated to combat drug trafficking.
Transferring oversight of the program to another agency would
risk undermining HIDTA's core mission and diminishing the
effectiveness of its locally driven enforcement model.
Therefore, it is the sense of the Committee that the HIDTA
program should remain under the jurisdiction of ONDCP.
FEDERAL DRUG CONTROL PROGRAMS
HIGH INTENSITY DRUG TRAFFICKING AREAS PROGRAM
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $298,579,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 299,600,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +1,021,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +299,600,000
The HIDTA Program provides resources to Federal, State,
local, and Tribal agencies in designated HIDTAs to combat the
production, transportation, and distribution of illegal drugs;
to seize assets derived from drug trafficking; to address
violence in drug-plagued communities; and to disrupt the drug
marketplace.
There are 33 HIDTAs operating in all 50 States plus the
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Each HIDTA is managed by an Executive Board comprised of equal
numbers of Federal, State, local, and Tribal officials. Each
HIDTA Executive Board is responsible for designing and
implementing initiatives for the specific drug trafficking
threats in its region. Intelligence and information sharing are
key elements of all HIDTA programs.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $299,600,000 for the HIDTA
Program.
OTHER FEDERAL DRUG CONTROL PROGRAMS
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $136,150,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 136,150,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +136,150,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $136,150,000 for Other Federal
Drug Control Programs. The recommended level for fiscal year
2026 is distributed among specific programs and activities as
follows:
Drug-Free Communities................................. $110,200,000
Drug Court Training and Technical Assistance.......... 3,000,000
Anti-Doping Activities................................ 14,000,000
World Anti-Doping Agency.............................. 2,500,000
Model Acts Program.................................... 1,250,000
Community-Based Coalition Enhancement Grants (CARA 5,200,000
Grants)..............................................
World Anti-Doping Agency Drug Testing Concerns.--The
Committee is disheartened to learn from press reports that the
World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the global authority that
oversees athlete drug-testing programs, is facing allegations
that it improperly concealed the positive test results of 23
People's Republic of China swimmers in 2021 and allowed the
athletes to compete in the Tokyo Olympic Games. The Committee
is very concerned that the resources U.S. taxpayers have
provided in the form of annual U.S. dues to WADA are not being
used to ensure transparency, accountability, and competitive
fairness in elite sports. ONDCP is directed to provide, within
30 days of enactment of this Act, a briefing to the Committee
on the steps taken to advise WADA on the need for an external
audit. The external audit is necessary to ensure WADA follows
its own mission and duties of providing independent anti-doping
oversight in global athletic competition. The external audit
shall be including in the spending plan, which is required
prior to the obligation of funds for United States membership
dues to WADA.
Unanticipated Needs
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $990,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 990,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 545,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -445,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -445,000
The Unanticipated Needs account enables the President to
meet unanticipated exigencies in support of the national
interest, security, or defense.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $545,000 for Unanticipated Needs.
Information Technology Oversight and Reform
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $8,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 19,629,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 10,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +2,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -9,629,000
The Information Technology Oversight and Reform (ITOR)
account supports efforts to make the Federal government's
investments in information technology more efficient, secure,
and effective.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $10,000,000 for ITOR, of which
$5,000,000 is provided to the Office of the Chief Information
Officer and $5,000,000 to the United States DOGE Service
(DOGE). The Committee further directs the Administrator of DOGE
to submit quarterly reports to the House and Senate Committees
on Appropriations on the number of hires for DOGE, including
the use of detailees, and transfers to and from an agency for
personnel.
Special Assistance to the President
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $6,015,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 6,015,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 6,015,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
These funds support the executive functions of the Office
of the Vice President.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $6,015,000 for the Office of the
Vice President.
Official Residence of the Vice President
OPERATING EXPENSES
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $318,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 318,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 315,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -3,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -3,000
The Official Residence of the Vice President Operating
Expenses account supports the care and operation of the Vice
President's residence and supports equipment, furnishings,
dining facilities, and services required to perform and
discharge the Vice President's official duties, functions, and
obligations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $315,000 for the Operating
Expenses of the Vice President's residence.
Administrative Provisions--Executive Office of the President and Funds
Appropriated to the President
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Section 201. The Committee continues a provision permitting
the transfer of not to exceed 10 percent of funds among various
accounts within the EOP, with advance approval of the
Committee. The amount of an appropriation shall not be
increased by more than 50 percent.
Section 202. The Committee continues a provision requiring
the OMB Director to include a statement of budgetary impact
with any Executive Order or Presidential Memorandum issued or
rescinded during fiscal year 2026 where the regulatory cost
exceeds $100,000,000.
Section 203. The Committee continues a provision requiring
the OMB Director to issue a memorandum to all Federal
departments, agencies, and corporations directing compliance
with title VII of this Act.
TITLE III--THE JUDICIARY
The funds in title III are for the operation and
maintenance of United States Courts and include the salaries of
judges, probation and pretrial services officers, public
defenders, court clerks, law clerks, and other supporting
personnel, as well as security costs, information technology,
and other expenses of the Federal Judiciary (Judiciary). The
Committee recommends a total of $8,936,341,000 in discretionary
funding for the Judiciary in FY 2026.
In addition to direct appropriations, the Judiciary
collects various fees and has certain multiyear funding
authorities. The Judiciary uses these non-appropriated funds to
offset its direct appropriation requirements. Consistent with
prior year practices and section 608 of this Act, the Committee
expects the Judiciary to submit a financial plan, within 60
days of enactment of this Act, allocating all sources of
available funds including appropriations, fee collections, and
carryover balances. This financial plan will be the baseline
for purposes of reprogramming notification.
Supreme Court of the United States
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $129,323,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 163,127,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 148,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +18,677,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -15,127,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $148,000,000 for fiscal year 2026
for the salaries and expenses of personnel and for the cost of
operating the Supreme Court, excluding the care of the building
and grounds. The Committee directs the Court to include with
its budget justification materials a report showing information
technology carryover balances and describing expenditures made
in the previous fiscal year and planned expenditures in the
budget year. The Committee includes $18,000,000 to be used for
the Justices of the Supreme Court and their personal security.
CARE OF THE BUILDING AND GROUNDS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $20,688,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 11,388,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 11,388,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -9,300,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $11,388,000 for Care of Buildings
and Grounds, to remain available until expended. The Architect
of the Capitol has responsibility for these functions and
supervises the use of this appropriation.
United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $36,735,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 38,622,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 36,735,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -1,887,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has exclusive
national jurisdiction over many diverse subject areas,
including government contracts, patents, trademarks, Federal
personnel, and veterans' benefits. The Committee recommends
$36,735,000 for the United States Court of Appeals for the
Federal Circuit.
United States Court of International Trade
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $21,260,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 22,375,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 21,260,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -1,115,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Court of International Trade has exclusive nationwide
jurisdiction over civil actions against the United States and
certain civil actions brought by the United States arising out
of import transactions and administration and enforcement of
the U.S. customs and international trade laws. The Committee
recommends $21,260,000 for the United States Court of
International Trade.
Courts of Appeals, District Courts,
and Other Judicial Services
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $6,005,030,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 6,350,138,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 6,079,030,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +74,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -271,108,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $6,069,055,000 for the operations
of the regional Courts of Appeals, District Courts, Bankruptcy
Courts, the Court of Federal Claims, and probation and pretrial
services offices. This funding includes $74,000,000 for the
Judiciary's multi-year cybersecurity and information technology
plan.
In addition, the Committee recommends a reimbursement of
$9,975,000 from the Vaccine Injury Compensation Trust Fund to
cover expenses of the United States Court of Federal Claims
associated with processing cases under the National Childhood
Vaccine Injury Act of 1986.
Continuum of Care for Individuals Under Post-Release
Supervision.--The Committee recognizes the importance of
providing mental health, substance misuse, and other behavioral
health support to individuals leaving the custody of the
Federal Bureau of Prisons and entering the Judiciary's
Probation and Pretrial Services program for a term of court-
ordered post-release supervision. Creating a continuum of care
can help certain offenders adhere to and continue engagement
with their behavioral health treatment plans, obtain gainful
employment, and avoid committing future crimes. The Committee
is aware that there is a continuum of care collaboration
between Judiciary's Probation and Pretrial Services program and
the Federal Bureau of Prisons but encourages both entities to
strengthen that collaboration to include better information
sharing, including electronic data sharing, on the treatment
needed of individuals coming out of Federal prison.
DEFENDER SERVICES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $1,450,680,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 1,766,010,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 1,570,213,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +119,533,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -195,797,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
This account provides funding for the operation of the
Federal Public Defender and Community Defender organizations
and for compensation and reimbursement of expenses of panel
attorneys appointed pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act for
representation in criminal cases. The Committee recommends
$1,570,213,000 for Defender Services.
FEES OF JURORS AND COMMISSIONERS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $58,239,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 19,108,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 19,108,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -39,131,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $19,108,000 for payments to jurors
and commissioners.
COURT SECURITY
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $750,163,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 892,032,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 892,032,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +141,869,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $892,032,000 for Court Security to
provide for necessary expenses of security and protective
services in courtrooms and adjacent areas. The recommendation
will provide for the highest priority security needs identified
by the courts and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Administrative Office of the United States Courts
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $102,673,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 110,500,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 102,673,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -7,827,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Administrative Office of the United States Courts (AO)
provides administrative and management support to the United
States Courts, including the probation and bankruptcy systems.
It also supports the Judicial Conference of the United States
in determining Judiciary policies, in developing methods to
assist the courts to conduct business efficiently and
economically, and in enhancing the use of information
technology in the courts. The Committee recommends $102,673,000
for the AO.
Administrative Office of the Courts.--The Committee expects
that the Judiciary to implement the recommendations provided by
the Government Accountability Office and the Judiciary's
Workplace Conduct Working Group) to improve the processes and
procedures in place to prevent workplace misconduct, or report
to the Committee the barriers to implementation that prevent
the Judiciary from completing these reforms. The Committee
requests an update to the 1996 report requested by Public Law
104-1 on the application to the judicial branch of specified
Federal labor laws.
The Judiciary is further directed to report to the
Committee on Judicial Conduct and Disability (JC&D) Act orders
that result in a finding of misconduct for any judge no later
than 30 days after an order of the relevant judicial council
becomes final or, for those orders where review by the Judicial
Conference's Committee on Judicial Conduct and Disability (JC&D
Committee) has been requested, no later than 30 days after the
JC&D Committee's review has been completed. The Committee looks
forward to the Judiciary's compliance with the Courthouse
Ethics and Transparency Act.
Federal Judicial Center
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $34,261,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 34,929,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 34,261,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -668,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Federal Judicial Center (FJC) improves the management
of Federal Judicial dockets and court administration through
education for judges and staff and through research,
evaluation, and planning assistance for the courts and the
Judicial Conference. The Committee recommends $34,261,000 for
the FJC.
Third-Party Litigation Funding.--The Committee recognizes
that investor-funded litigation has grown significantly in
recent years and raises complex legal, ethical, national
security, and economic competition concerns. A nationwide
disclosure requirement has not been promulgated through the
federal judiciary's rulemaking process. No later than 180 days
after the enactment of this Act, the Federal Judicial Center is
directed to report to the Committee on its plans to incorporate
discussion of third-party litigation funding into educational
activities for all federal judges.
United States Sentencing Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $21,641,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 22,513,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 21,641,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -872,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The purpose of the U.S. Sentencing Commission is to
establish, review, and revise sentencing guidelines, policies,
and practices for the Federal criminal justice system. The
Commission is also required to monitor the operation of the
guidelines and to identify and report necessary changes to
Congress. The Committee recommends $21,641,000 for the
Commission.
Administrative Provisions--The Judiciary
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Section 301. The Committee continues language to permit
funds for salaries and expenses to be available for employment
of experts and consultant services as authorized by 5 U.S.C.
3109.
Section 302. The Committee continues language that permits
up to five percent of any appropriation made available for
fiscal year 2026 to be transferred between Judiciary
appropriations provided that no appropriation shall be
decreased by more than five percent or increased by more than
ten percent by any such transfer except in certain
circumstances. In addition, the language provides that any such
transfer shall be treated as a reprogramming of funds under
sections 604 and 608 of the accompanying bill and shall not be
available for obligation or expenditure except in compliance
with the procedures set forth in those sections.
Section 303. The Committee continues language authorizing
not to exceed $11,000 to be used for official reception and
representation expenses incurred by the Judicial Conference of
the United States.
Section 304. The Committee continues language through
fiscal year 2026 regarding the delegation of authority to the
Judiciary for contracts for repairs of less than $100,000.
Section 305. The Committee continues language to authorize
a court security pilot program.
TITLE IV--DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Federal Funds
District of Columbia Maternity Care Access Report.--The
Committee directs the District of Columbia (the District or
D.C.) to submit a report no later than 30 days after the
enactment of this Act, regarding maternity care access for
District residents. The report should be organized by ward,
birth rate, pregnancy-related death rate, and maternal death
rate. The report should also include, organized by ward, the
number of facilities providing prenatal care, the number of
facilities with maternity units, the number of facilities with
neonatal intensive care units, and the number of facilities of
each type that accept Medicaid.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR RESIDENT TUITION SUPPORT
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $40,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 20,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -20,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +20,000,000
The Resident Tuition Support program, also known as the
D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant program, provides annual awards
for undergraduate District students to address the difference
between in state and out-of-state tuition rates and makes it
possible for them to attend eligible four-year public
universities and colleges nationwide. Grants are also available
for students to attend private universities and colleges in the
D.C. metropolitan area, private Historically Black Colleges and
Universities nationwide, and public two-year community colleges
nationwide.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $20,000,000
for the Resident Tuition Support program. The Committee notes
the current balance in the Residential Tuition Support Program
Fund, amid a decrease in applicants in recent years. The
Committee encourages the District's Chief Financial Officer
(CFO) to utilize existing funds in the account for the program
if demand is higher than the appropriated level. Further, the
District can contribute local funds to this program and is
authorized to prioritize applications based on income and need
if there is demand for the program beyond the available level
of Federal funds.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR EMERGENCY PLANNING AND SECURITY COSTS IN THE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $90,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 30,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 70,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -20,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +40,000,000
The District is the seat of the Federal Government. The
Federal Payment for Emergency Planning and Security Costs is
provided to help address the impact of the Federal Government's
presence in the District.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $70,000,000
for emergency planning and security costs and additional costs
incurred by the District.
FEDERAL PAYMENT TO THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COURTS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $292,068,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 273,977,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 292,068,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +18,091,000
Under the National Capital Revitalization and Self-
Government Improvement Act of 1997, the Federal government is
required to finance the District of Columbia Courts. This
Federal payment to the District of Columbia Courts funds the
operations of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals,
Superior Court, Court System, and Capital Improvement Program.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $292,068,000
for operation of the District of Columbia Courts.
The amount recommended by the Committee includes
$15,283,000 for the Court of Appeals, $142,571,000 for the
Superior Court, $91,896,000 for the Court System, and
$42,318,000 for capital improvements to courthouse facilities.
Funds for capital improvements are provided to improve life
safety compliance, conduct general repair projects and
upgrades, and move the various court offices into owned space
and out of leased space.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR DEFENDER SERVICES
IN DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COURTS
(INCLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $46,005,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 46,005,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 46,005,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The District of Columbia Courts appoint and compensate
attorneys to represent persons who are financially unable to
obtain such representation.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $46,005,000
for Defender Services in the District of Columbia Courts. The
Committee notes the inclusion of a one-time cancellation of
$12,000,000 in unobligated balances for Defender Services.
FEDERAL PAYMENT TO THE COURT SERVICES AND OFFENDER SUPERVISION AGENCY
FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $286,016,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 277,004,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 286,016,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +9,012,000
The Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA)
for the District is an independent Federal agency created by
the National Capital Revitalization and Self-Government
Improvement Act of 1997. CSOSA acquired operational
responsibilities for the former District agencies in charge of
probation and parole and houses the Pretrial Services Agency
for the District within its framework.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $286,016,000
for CSOSA. Of the amounts provided, $203,542,000 is for
Community Supervision and Sex Offender Registration and
$82,474,000 is for pretrial services.
FEDERAL PAYMENT TO THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
PUBLIC DEFENDER SERVICE
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $53,629,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 53,382,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 53,629,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +247,000
The Public Defender Service (PDS) for the District is an
independent organization authorized by the National Capital
Revitalization and Self-Government Improvement Act of 1997.
PDS's purpose is to provide legal representation services
within the District's justice system.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $53,629,000
for PDS for the District.
FEDERAL PAYMENT TO THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE
COORDINATING COUNCIL
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $2,450,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 2,450,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 4,750,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +2,300,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +2,300,000
The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) provides a
forum for District and Federal law enforcement to identify
criminal justice issues and solutions and improve the
coordination of their efforts. In addition, the CJCC developed
and maintains the Justice Integrated Information System, which
provides for the seamless sharing of information with Federal
and local law enforcement.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $4,750,000 to
the CJCC, of which $2,300,000 is to be used for JUSTIS
modernization efforts.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR JUDICIAL COMMISSIONS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $630,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 630,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 630,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
This appropriation provides funding for two judicial
commissions. The first is the Judicial Nomination Commission
(JNC), which recommends a panel of three candidates to the
President for each judicial vacancy in the District of Columbia
Court of Appeals and Superior Court. From the panel selected by
the JNC, the President nominates a person for each vacancy and
submits his or her name for confirmation to the Senate. The
second commission is the Commission on Judicial Disabilities
and Tenure (CJDT), which has jurisdiction over all judges of
the Court of Appeals and Superior Court to determine whether a
judge's conduct warrants disciplinary action and whether
involuntary retirement of a judge for health reasons is
warranted. In addition, the CJDT conducts evaluations of judges
seeking reappointment and judges who retire and wish to
continue service as a senior judge.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $330,000 for
the CJDT and $300,000 for the JNC.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $52,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 52,500,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 52,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Act
authorizes funds to be evenly divided between District of
Columbia Public Schools, Public Charter Schools, and
Opportunity Scholarships.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $52,500,000
for school improvement. Based on the statutory funding formula,
$17,500,000 is provided for District of Columbia Public
Schools, $17,500,000 is provided for Public Charter Schools,
and $17,500,000 is provided for Opportunity Scholarships.
Opportunity Scholarships.--The Committee is concerned by
the decline in the number of children able to access
opportunity scholarships due to the rise of inflation. The
Committee reminds the third-party scholarship administrator of
its authority to award scholarships below the statutory
maximum.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA NATIONAL GUARD
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $600,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 600,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 600,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The Major General David F. Wherley, Jr. District of
Columbia National Guard Retention and College Access Program
pays the costs of a tuition assistance program for guard
members.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $600,000 for
the Major General David F. Wherley, Jr. District of Columbia
National Retention and College Access Program. The Committee
acknowledges the unique role the D.C. National Guard plays in
addressing emergencies that may occur as a result of the
presence of the Federal government.
FEDERAL PAYMENT FOR TESTING AND TREATMENT OF HIV/AIDS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $4,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 4,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 4,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
Approximately two percent of the population of the District
has been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. This percentage surpasses the
generally accepted definition of an epidemic, which is one
percent of the population.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $4,000,000
for testing, education, and treatment of HIV/AIDS.
FEDERAL PAYMENT TO THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $8,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 5,700,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -2,300,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +5,700,000
The Federal Payment to the District of Columbia Water and
Sewer Authority supports the D.C. Clean Rivers Project, which
is designed to reduce combined sewer overflows to the Anacostia
and Potomac Rivers and Rock Creek.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a Federal payment of $5,700,000
for implementation of the D.C. Clean Rivers project.
District of Columbia Funds
The Committee continues to appropriate local funds to the
District of Columbia in accordance with and required by Article
I, Section 8, clause 17 and Article I, Section 9, clause 7 of
the Constitution. The bill provides local funds for the
operation of the District of Columbia as submitted by the
District of Columbia Council and the Mayor.
TITLE V--INDEPENDENT AGENCIES
Administrative Conference of the United States
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $3,430,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 3,430,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,430,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS)
is an independent agency that studies Federal administrative
procedures and processes to recommend improvements to the
President, Congress, and other agencies.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $3,430,000 for ACUS.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) was
established under title X of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform
and Consumer Protection Act (P.L. 111-203) as a bureau under
the Federal Reserve System. The Act consolidated authorities
previously shared by seven Federal agencies under Federal
consumer protection laws in the CFPB and provided CFPB with
additional authorities to conduct rulemaking, supervision, and
enforcement with respect to Federal consumer financial laws.
The CFPB is funded through a mechanism that allows the Bureau
to draw from the earnings of the Federal Reserve system.
In addition to its supervisory, rulemaking and enforcement
authorities, the CFPB has oversight over a wide range of
consumer financial products. As such, the CFPB's activities
have the potential to significantly impact consumers' access to
credit and the operations of both banks and non-banks. The
Committee believes that the current statutory structure
provides insufficient checks on the CFPB's powers. For example,
the Committee's experience overseeing the Federal
Communications Commission, the Federal Trade Commission, the
Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Consumer Product
Safety Commission, and other Federal agencies with powers to
protect consumers and investors all are led by a commission
rather than a single director. This leads the Committee to
conclude that a five-member commission is a more appropriate
structure for the CFPB. This ensures that multiple disciplines,
experiences, and perspectives are integrated into CFPB rules,
policies, and enforcement actions. The appointment and removal
process and staggered terms of commissioners is a more
appropriate check and balance on an agency's operations and
priorities, as well as its continuity than a single director.
The Committee recognizes the work currently being done by
the authorizing committee to address CFPB's current funding
mechanism and looks forward to working with them to begin
moving the CFPB to the discretionary appropriation cycle.
Consumer Product Safety Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $150,975,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 142,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -8,975,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +142,000,000
The Consumer Product Safety Act of 1972 established the
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an independent
Federal regulatory agency, to reduce the risk of injury
associated with consumer products.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $142,000,000 for the CPSC. The
recommendation includes $2,500,000 for the Virginia Graeme
Baker Grant Program and the associated administrative costs to
reduce the number of injuries and deaths associated with pools
and spas. The recommendation includes $2,000,000 for the
Nicholas and Zachary Burt Memorial Grant Program and the
associated administrative costs to ensure that families are
protected from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Pool Safety.--Drownings and near-drownings in pools and
spas pose a significant public health risk to our nation's
children. Drowning is a public health crisis, and it remains
the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages one
to four. The Committee commends the CPSC for establishing the
national and grassroots ``Pool Safely'' campaign, a safety
information and education program designed to reduce child
drownings and near drowning injuries and maintain a zero-
fatality rate for drain entrapments. This multifaceted
initiative includes consumer and industry education efforts,
press events, partnerships, outreach, and advertising. The
Committee includes $2.5 million to further the VGB national
public education campaign to raise awareness about drowning
prevention.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--CONSUMER PRODUCT
SAFETY COMMISSION
Section 501. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds to finalize, implement, or enforce the
proposed rule on recreational off-highway vehicles until a
study is completed by the National Academy of Sciences.
Section 502. The Committee continues a provision that none
of the funds provided may be used to promulgate, implement,
administer, or enforce any regulation issued by the CPSC to ban
gas stoves as a class of products.
Section 503. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds to finalize the proposed rule on table saws.
Section 504. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing the
proposed rule on debris penetration hazards in off-highway
vehicles until a study is completed by the National Academy of
Sciences.
Election Assistance Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $27,720,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 17,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 17,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -10,720,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) is a bipartisan
Federal commission that helps election officials administer,
and voters participate in elections. Established by the Help
America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA), the EAC distributes,
administers, and audits HAVA funds, serves as the Nation's
clearinghouse for information on election administration,
conducts the Election Administration and Voting Survey and
other studies, develops the Voluntary Voting System Guidelines,
accredits testing laboratories and certifies voting systems,
and administers the National Mail Voter Registration Form in
accordance with the National Voter Registration Act of 1993.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $17,000,000 for the Salaries and
Expenses of the EAC.
Budget Oversight.--The Committee is concerned by reports
that the EAC's former Executive Director was improperly
charging the agency's time and management system, expensing
unauthorized training, and abusing critical pay authority. The
Committee directs the EAC to provide a briefing within 90 days
of enactment of this Act on the steps the EAC has taken to
implement administrative and budget control measures to ensure
such activity is not repeated.
ELECTION SECURITY GRANTS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $15,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 15,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +15,000,000
As authorized under sections 101, 103, and 104 of the Help
America Vote Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-252), the EAC makes payments
to states for activities to improve the administration of
elections for Federal office, including to enhance election
technology and make election security improvements.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $15,000,000 for the EAC to make
payments to states for activities to improve the administration
of elections for Federal office and enhance election technology
and make election security improvements.
Federal Communications Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $390,192,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 416,112,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 390,192,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -25,920,000
The mission of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
is to implement and enforce the Communications Act of 1934 and
ensure the availability of high-quality communications services
for all Americans.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $390,192,000 for the Salaries and
Expenses of the FCC, to be derived from offsetting collections.
The Committee also includes a cap of $139,000,000 for the
administration of spectrum auctions. The appropriation includes
funding for continued implementation of the Broadband
Deployment Accuracy and Technology Availability (DATA) Act.
Broadband Maps.--In accordance with the Broadband DATA Act,
Congress has previously appropriated more than $98 million in
funding to cover the FCC's development and implementation of
accurate broadband maps so that the FCC, other Federal
agencies, State, local and Tribal governments, and other
stakeholders have a precise and accurate view of where
broadband is and is not available, across the United States and
territories to better understand which locations are most in
need of funding for high-speed broadband internet
infrastructure investments. The FCC has requested consumers,
State, local and Tribal government entities, and other
stakeholders help verify the accuracy of the data to identify
unserved and underserved locations in communities, which are
most in need of funding for high-speed broadband internet
infrastructure investments. The National Telecommunications and
Information Administration (NTIA) uses a version of the
National Broadband Map--as modified by the FCC to address
accuracy issues identified by stakeholders--to distribute
funding provided by Congress to States and territories to build
broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved eligible
areas. States and territories are then directed to use the
National Broadband Map as the basis, with limited updates from
a challenge process to ensure accuracy, to award funds for
broadband deployments projects. The FCC is directed to brief
the Committee within 90 days of enactment of this Act,
regarding the FCC's approach to resolving filed challenges to
the National Broadband Map, any ongoing accuracy issues with
the National Broadband Map, and plans for ensuring future
accuracy. The briefing should also include a detailed
description of the FCC's expected funding needs moving forward
to maintain accuracy of the map and promote fiscal
responsibility.
Rip and Replace Report.--The Committee is aware of the
FCC's ongoing process to address certain Chinese communications
equipment and services through the Secure and Trusted
Communications Network Act of 2019. This Rip and Replace
program is intended to ensure the removal of equipment on the
Covered List that poses a national security threat. It is
essential to remove this untrusted telecommunications
equipment, including that made by Huawei and ZTE, from our
networks to protect American interests, privacy, and
intellectual property. These companies are subject to the whims
of the Chinese Communist Party and are known to have engaged in
espionage, intellectual property theft, and failures to provide
key security. The Committee requests a briefing from the FCC on
the status of current Chinese technology and equipment eligible
for the Rip and Replace program, including information on the
number of at-risk networks, the number of grant requests
outstanding, and key security vulnerabilities the FCC has
identified through the program within 60 days of enactment of
this Act.
5G Fund.--The Committee continues to recognize the need to
address the digital divide, including the need to bring mobile
5G services to unserved and underserved communities. The
Committee is concerned that the current budget for the 5G Fund
for Rural America will not be sufficient to support nationwide
5G services. The FCC is encouraged to not institute reductions
in universal service high-cost support for competitive eligible
telecommunications carriers until the Commission has, through
notice and comment rulemaking, developed and implemented a new
universal service mechanism to support the ongoing operational
expenses of competitive eligible telecommunications carriers,
to ensure that reasonably comparable mobile voice and broadband
services continue to be available in high-cost rural areas. The
Committee directs the FCC to allocate sufficient resources in
the Universal Service Fund (USF) to establish a greater 5G Fund
budget needed to preserve and expand mobile 5G connectivity
nationwide and update the 5G Fund framework to reflect changes
in technology and service since the FCC established the 5G
Fund.
Supply Chain Reimbursement Program.--In the disbursement of
Supply Chain Reimbursement Program funds, the FCC has a
statutory obligation to disburse funds first to approved
applicants that have 2,000,000 or fewer customers for removal
and replacement of covered communications equipment. The
Committee recommends the FCC prioritize those carriers with the
eligible telecommunications carrier designation. The FCC's
program is intended to support these networks funded under its
High-Cost universal service program in the hardest to serve
areas.
Eligible Telecommunications Carrier Designation.--The
Committee believes the eligible telecommunications carrier
(ETC) requirement continues to play an important role in
safeguarding against waste, fraud, and abuse, and ensuring that
federal high-cost USF support goes to reliable network
providers that are capable of offering high quality broadband
and voice, including 911 service. In the context of the high-
cost USF program specifically, where significant amounts of
ratepayer resources are distributed to a single provider in a
given area, as the recent Rural Digital Opportunity Fund proved
quite clearly, the ETC requirement promotes local
accountability and makes sure states have a role in determining
which carrier will become the provider of last resort in the
rural areas of each state. Moreover, states are uniquely
qualified to examine closely the qualifications of would-be
recipients of USF and to carry out the ETC-designation role
given their proximity to and familiarity with each state's
rural areas and operators.
E-Rate for School Cybersecurity.--The Committee remains
concerned about the increasing number of ransomware and other
cyberattacks on schools and libraries around the country. These
attacks disrupt the ability of these institutions to educate;
steal student, staff, and library patron data; and extort
ransom payments from these institutions. The FCC has proposed
the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program, a $200
million pilot program that would allow the agency to gather
valuable data concerning the cybersecurity services that would
best help K-12 schools and libraries address the growing cyber
threats facing their broadband networks. As soon as possible
and no later than the FCC's publication of its 2026 Eligible
Services List for the agency's E-Rate program, the FCC is
directed to conclude its proceeding by adopting final rules for
the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity Pilot Program.
Universal Service Fund Comment Period.--In recognition of
the ongoing rapidly changing communications industry landscape,
the Committee believes it is imperative that: (1) the FCC seek
public comment this fiscal year on any reform proposals that
have been submitted to the Commission or otherwise previously
considered that would promote the sustainability and viability
of the USF and resolve inequities in the current contributions
structure (the ``Reform Objectives''); and (2) the FCC act as
soon as possible following review of that record to adopt
reforms that will achieve the Reform Objectives.
Affordable Connectivity Program Report.--The Committee is
aware of the end of available funding for the Affordable
Connectivity Program in 2024. Within 60 days of enactment of
this Act, the Committee directs the FCC to provide a briefing
to the Committee on existing programs to ensure that low-income
Americans stay connected.
Rural Broadband Access.--The Committee believes that
deployment of broadband in rural and economically disadvantaged
areas is a driver of economic development, jobs, and new
educational opportunities. The Committee supports the FCC's
efforts to judiciously allocate the USF to these areas.
Economic Analysis For Small Providers.--The Committee is
concerned by the cost of compliance with mounting regulatory
changes including broadband labels, digital discrimination, and
data breach notification requirements for broadband providers
with fewer than 200,000 customers. When promulgating rules, the
Commission is encouraged to consider the aggregated cost of
compliance for such broadband providers.
Digital Discrimination.--The Committee is concerned by the
impact of the final rule entitled ``The Infrastructure
Investment and Jobs Act: Prevention and Elimination of Digital
Discrimination,'' (89 Fed. Reg. 4128 (January 22, 2024)) has on
fixed broadband internet service providers, including broadband
providers with fewer than 200,000 customers, as well as
consumers. The Committee encourages the FCC to conduct outreach
to such providers to gather information on the rule's adverse
impact.
Amateur Radio Services.--Amateur Radio Services are a
critically important component of the nation's communications
infrastructure. The Committee is concerned that private land
use restrictions may inhibit, restrict, and/or impair the
essential functionality of this emergency communications
service. The Committee encourages the FCC to evaluate existing
authorities within the over-the-air-reception devices
regulations and elsewhere that could be utilized to eliminate
or mitigate private land use restrictions on amateur radio.
BEAD and 5G.--The Committee recognizes the importance of
the efficient use of limited Federal funding. As such, the
Committee directs the FCC not to modify, amend, or change the
rules or regulations of the FCC for universal service high-cost
support for competitive eligible telecommunications carriers
before Broadband Equity Access and Development (BEAD) funds are
awarded. The Committee further directs the FCC to ensure BEAD
funding has been awarded before determining eligible areas and
deploying the 5G Fund to ensure the FCC can leverage pressure-
tested maps and BEAD funding decisions to ensure the greatest
likelihood of closing the 5G mobility gap with these funds.
Subsea Cables.--The Committee directs the FCC to provide a
briefing to the Committee on timelines, service-level
agreements, and efficiency of the national security and law
enforcement review process for subsea cable projects within 120
days of enactment of this Act. The briefing shall outline the
gaps with the information-gathering practices of Team Telecom,
any challenges with the current approach to arriving at
mitigation measures, and actions that FCC and Team Telecom can
take to facilitate a more streamlined and transparent review
process.
Spectrum Needs.--The Committee encourages the FCC to
coordinate with the NTIA to consider ways to address the
spectrum needs of all stakeholders to ensure government and
commercial wireless needs are met.
Spam Calls.--The Committee is concerned by the continued
prevalence of spam and robocalls and encourages the Commission
to work alongside the FTC to study the creation of a text-
reporting number to report violations of the Do Not Call
Registry directly to the Commissions.
Cross-Border Radio Jamming.--The Committee is concerned by
persistent incidents of cross-border radio jamming along the
U.S.--Mexico border, including documented disruptions in El
Paso, Brownsville, and San Diego. These interferences have
jeopardized the safety and operational effectiveness of U.S.
law enforcement by disabling radio communications in high-risk
border corridors, including near the site of the March 2024
migrant incursion in El Paso. Such disruptions represent not
only a public safety hazard but a serious national security
threat.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
Section 505. The Committee continues and modifies a
provision extending an exemption from the Antideficiency Act
for the USF.
Section 506. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the FCC from changing rules governing the USF
regarding single connection or primary line restrictions.
Section 507. The Committee includes a new provision on the
Lifeline Minimum Service Standard.
Section 508. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funding for the Digital Discrimination Rule.
Section 509. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funding for environmental, social, or governance
aspects of the FCC.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $47,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 47,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 48,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +1,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +1,500,000
Funding for the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) at
the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is provided
pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 1105(a)(25), which requires a separate
appropriation for each OIG established under section 11(2) of
the Inspector General Act of 1978.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $48,500,000 from the Deposit
Insurance Fund and the Federal Savings and Loan Insurance
Corporation Resolution Fund to finance the OIG. Of that amount,
the Committee is directing $1,500,000 to be available until
expended to respond to unanticipated events such as a large
number of bank failures at one time.
FDIC Audit of Activities Related to Operation Choke Point
2.0 and Digital Assets.--The Committee is concerned by
allegations that federal banking regulators, including the
FDIC, may have engaged in a coordinated effort to effectively
restrict access to banking services, including through the
supervisory process, for lawful digital asset businesses--
actions referred to by industry participants as ``Operation
Choke Point 2.0.'' The Committee directs the FDIC OIG to
investigate the FDIC's communications, policies, and
supervisory practices that may have influenced or resulted in
financial institutions limiting or denying banking services to
firms engaged in digital asset activities and the steps taken
to prevent the denial of banking services in the future. The
Committee looks forward to receiving the results of OIG's
investigation into whether there was a coordinated effort to
debank lawful digital asset businesses.
Federal Election Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $80,857,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 70,883,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 76,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -4,357,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +5,617,000
The Federal Election Commission (FEC) administers the
disclosure of campaign finance information, enforces
limitations on contributions and expenditures, and performs
other tasks related to Federal elections.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $76,500,000 for the Salaries and
Expenses of the FEC.
The Committee appreciates the Federal Elections
Commission's 2021 unanimous recommendation to Congress to
require those soliciting recurring contributions to receive
affirmative consent. The Committee requires the Commission to
report to Congress within 180 days of enactment on the number
of complaints received on the use of pre-checked boxes since
the Commission issued its recommendation in 2021.
Federal Labor Relations Authority
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $29,500,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 27,643,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 29,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +1,857,000
Established by title VII of the Civil Service Reform Act of
1978, the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) serves as a
neutral arbiter in the labor activities of non-postal Federal
employees, Departments and agencies, and Federal unions on
matters outlined in the Act, including collective bargaining
and the settlement of disputes. Establishment of the FLRA gives
full recognition to the role of the Federal government as an
employer. Under the Foreign Service Act of 1980, the FLRA also
addresses similar issues affecting Foreign Service personnel by
providing staff support for the Foreign Service Impasse
Disputes Panel and the Foreign Service Labor Relations Board.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $29,500,000 for the FLRA.
Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW IMPROVEMENT FUND
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... $10,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 1,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +1,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -9,000,000
This account funds the authorized activities of the
Environmental Review Improvement Fund and the Federal
Permitting Steering Council (FPISC). The FPISC leads ongoing
government-wide efforts to modernize the Federal permitting and
review process for major infrastructure projects and works with
Federal agency partners to implement and oversee adherence to
the statutory requirements set forth in the Fixing America's
Surface Transportation Act.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $1,000,000 for the FPISC.
Federal Trade Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $425,700,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 383,600,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 388,700,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -37,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +5,100,000
The mission of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is to
enforce various Federal antitrust and consumer protection laws.
Appropriations for both the Antitrust Division of the
Department of Justice and the FTC are partially financed by
Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act premerger filing fees. The FTC's
appropriation is also partially offset by Do Not Call Registry
fees.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $388,700,000 for the Salaries and
Expenses of the FTC. The Congressional Budget Office estimates
$310,000,000 of collections from HSR premerger filing fees and
$15,000,000 of collections from Do Not Call fees, which
partially offset the appropriation requirement for this
account. The FTC shall prioritize funding to implement the TAKE
IT DOWN Act (PL 119-12).
Stopping Unethical Domestic Adoption Practices.--The
Committee remains highly concerned by the proliferation of
unlicensed adoption intermediaries increasingly engaging in
fraudulent or deceptive practices concerning domestic private
adoption. The Committee recognizes the work the FTC has done in
researching this matter and sending warning letters to entities
who may have engaged in unlawful behavior. The Committee
directs the FTC to continue to investigate and take action to
enforce the laws against unfair or deceptive business practices
in this area. The FTC shall provide a written report to the
Committee within 120 days of enactment of this Act on the
findings and enforcement actions taken on this issue.
Company Trade Secrets.--The Committee is concerned about
the sharing of company trade secrets as well as commercial and
financial information with third parties and external
stakeholders. The Committee reminds the FTC of numerous
statutes that address this matter including 15 U.S.C.
Sec. 46(f), the Federal Trade Commission Act.
Contact Lenses.--The Committee continues to support the
longstanding regulation and oversight of the contact lens
marketplace, including enforcement of the Contact Lens Rule's
verification and prescription release requirements and
coordination with the Food and Drug Administration to protect
patient safety.
Unfair Practices Enforcement.--The FTC is directed to
include in its FY 2027 budget submission a description of each
enforcement action brought using an administrative or judicial
process for ``unfair or deceptive acts or practices'' under
Section 5(a) of the FTC Act. The description for each
enforcement action shall include a summary of the budgetary
resources used to pursue the case. Each description shall also
provide a brief summary of the evidence and facts used by the
FTC to prove that the (1) practice causes or is likely to cause
substantial injury to consumers, (2) the injury is not
reasonably avoidable by the consumers themselves, and (3) the
injury is not outweighed by countervailing benefits to
consumers or competition.
HSR Aggregation.--The Committee recognizes the importance
of the HSR Improvements Act (HSR Act) to protect consumers from
anticompetitive behavior. The Committee cautions the FTC
against using the HSR Act in a way that was not intended by
Congress, specifically with respect to aggregation requirements
for HSR filings that would apply to registered investment
companies. Mutual funds, including those managed by a common
investment adviser, are by law separate entities with
independent investment objectives and strategies that are
wholly owned by respective fund shareholders. Requiring the
aggregation of holdings across multiple funds that share a
common adviser and other entities will lead to arbitrary
investment caps, increased costs to funds due to additional HSR
filings, and index fund tracking errors due to the required
pause in carrying out transactions, among other detrimental
effects. This will impair the ability of funds to meet their
shareholders' investment objectives, including saving for
retirement and education. Further, aggregation will harm U.S.
issuers who rely on investments by funds and other
institutional investors to raise capital. An aggregation
requirement is inconsistent with how the HSR Act is
fundamentally intended to apply to transactions for investment-
only purposes. The Committee expects the FTC to respect
congressional intent with respect to HSR rulemakings.
Retail Competition.--The Committee recognizes the
importance of robust competition in the food, pharmacy, and
retail sectors. Increased competition can lead to lower prices
for consumers and a level-playing field for businesses. Rural
areas can be particularly impacted by limited competition in
the food industry, resulting in food deserts and fewer healthy
choices for consumers. The Committee reminds the FTC of its
existing statutory authorities to promote competition and
ensure all market participants are treated fairly. Within 180
days of enactment of this Act, the FTC is directed to submit a
report detailing key factors inhibiting competition in the
food, pharmacy, and retail sectors, and any statutory gaps
limiting the FTC's ability to adequately promote competition
and respond to potential monopolistic behavior.
College Loan Scams.--The Committee is concerned by the rise
of student loan forgiveness scams. The Committee directs the
FTC, in coordination with the FCC, to establish a joint agency
task force to strengthen efforts to detect, prevent, and
respond to these fraudulent schemes. The Committee directs the
joint agency task force to report on the status of the task
force activities within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
Regulatory Duplication.--The Committee is concerned with
the potential for duplication of regulatory efforts in the
financial services industry. Regulatory agencies often have
unique fields of expertise, enabling them to more effectively
carry out regulatory responsibilities than other agencies with
whom they may share jurisdiction. The FTC and the Consumer
Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) entered a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) in 2019 to streamline their respective
regulatory efforts and reduce unnecessary burdens on
businesses. Since 2019, new technologies and payment methods
have led to significant changes in the financial services
industry. The Committee directs the FTC and the CFPB to review
the existing MOU and provide a report to Congress within 180
days of enactment of this Act on any changes that are needed to
update the agreement to avoid the duplication of regulatory
efforts and ensure both agencies allocate resources in a way
that considers each agency's areas of expertise.
Fire Truck Consolidation.--The Committee urges the Federal
Trade Commission to report to Congress on consolidation in the
fire apparatus, ambulance, and emergency services market and
its impact on the prices and wait times for local governments
seeking to acquire this equipment.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
Section 510. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds for the implementation and enforcement of the
Combating Auto Retail Scams Trade Regulation Rule.
Section 511. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting further regulatory action on the Earnings Claims
and Business Opportunity Rulemakings until a clear statement of
need is made or other industry analysis is considered.
Section 512. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds from being used to conduct activity with
European Union's European Commission, the United Kingdom's
Competition and Markets Authority, or the Peoples' Republic of
China's State Administration for Market Regulation for any
merger review, investigation, or enforcement action.
Section 513. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds for the implementation and enforcement of any
rule defining or describing unfair methods of competition for
purposes of the FTC Act.
Section 514. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds from being used to implement, administer, or
enforce amendments to part 803 of the premerger notification
rules that implement section 7A of the Clayton Act and to the
premerger notification and report form and instructions.
Section 515. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds from being used to implement, administer, or
enforce the October 25, 2021, Statement of the Commission on
Use of Prior Approval Provisions in Merger Orders.
Section 516. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds from being used to implement, administer, or
enforce the November 10, 2022, ``Policy Statement Regarding the
Scope of Unfair Methods of Competition Under Section 5 of the
Federal Trade Commission Act, Commission File No. P221202''.
Section 517. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the FTC from filing a complaint unless all
Commissioners certify that they have had access to review all
relevant materials at least 10 business days prior to a
Commission Meeting or vote on the matter.
General Services Administration
The Committee continues several reporting requirements for
the General Services Administration (GSA) for fiscal year 2026
and includes new reporting requirements.
Takings and Exchanges.--Using existing statutory
authorities, GSA has been working to dispose of properties that
no longer meet the needs of Federal agencies in exchange for
assets of like value. Some of these exchanges are very complex
in nature and involve multi-year, multi-party, and multi-
billion-dollar contracts. GSA also has the statutory authority
to take properties. The Committee believes that, in some
instances, employing such authorities can result in savings to
the taxpayer when appropriately executed. To provide increased
transparency and remain informed, the GSA Administrator (the
Administrator) is directed to report to the Committee not later
than 30 days after the end of each quarter on the use of these
authorities. The report shall include a description of all
takings and exchange actions that occurred or were considered
during the most recently completed quarter of the fiscal year,
including the costs, benefits, and risks for each action. The
report shall also include the planned or considered use of
takings and exchange authorities during the remainder of the
fiscal year, including the costs, benefits, and risks of each
action.
Spending Report.--Within 50 days of the end of each
quarter, GSA is directed to submit a spending report to the
Committee. The reports shall include actual obligations
incurred and estimated obligations for the remainder of the
fiscal year for each appropriation in the Federal Buildings
Fund (FBF) and regular discretionary appropriations. The
reports must also include obligations by object class, program,
project, and activity.
State of the Portfolio.--Within 45 days of enactment of
this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee a
report on the state of the Public Buildings Service real estate
portfolio for fiscal year 2026. The content included in the
report shall be comparable to the tabular information provided
in past State of the Portfolio reports, including, but not
limited to, the number of leases; the number of buildings;
amount of square feet, revenue, expenses by type, and vacant
space; top customers by square feet and annual rent; and
completed new construction, completed major repairs and
alterations, and disposals, in total and by region where
appropriate. The report should include an estimate on
unoccupied space in Federally owned buildings and privately
owned buildings with Federal leases.
Report on IT Products.--The Committee is concerned about
the continued presence of IT products from companies with ties
to the People's Republic of China on GSA Multiple Award
Schedules. According to GSA Inspector General reports published
in 2023 and 2024, GSA has sold products on the Schedules that
have been banned outright by the U.S. government. Therefore,
the Committee directs the Administrator to conduct an audit and
submit a report to the Committee within 180 days of enactment
that includes a detailed accounting of all IT equipment from
the Schedules that has been prohibited under Sec. 889 of the
John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2019 (Public Law 115-232), placed on the Department of
Defense list of Chinese military companies operating in the
U.S. pursuant to Section 1260H of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, or identified as a
threat to national security by DOD IG-2019-106.
Deferred Maintenance.--The Committee is concerned that
deferred maintenance costs on federal real property are rising
at an unsustainable rate. The Committee recognizes that by
selling federal real property the federal government can save
taxpayers' dollars but the process for disposing of federal
real property is burdensome and bureaucratic. The Committee
directs GSA to conduct a study on the administrative and
regulatory burdens to the disposal process for federal real
property with high levels of deferred maintenance and report
back findings to the Committee.
Rental Rates.--Currently, under Federal law, GSA must
charge fair market rent to Federal agencies. Many Federal
buildings are large, historic, aging, and unique when compared
to average commercial office space. Despite these differences,
the Federal Buildings Fund (FBF) collects prevailing commercial
rents. The Committee is concerned that the current funding
structure of the FBF fails to account for projected long-term
capital replacement or expansion needs of Federal buildings.
The Committee directs GSA, in consultation with OMB, study and
report back to the House and Senate Committees on
Appropriations on the impact to rents paid into the FBF if GSA
were to account for long term capital replacement or expansion
needs within rents, instead of charging fair market value.
Modular AI Development Guidance for Federal Agencies.--The
Committee supports GSA development of generative AI and
encourages GSA to apply lessons learned from this experience
and examine modular, governmentwide AI services. Drawing on
principles of modular programming and component-based software
engineering, the Committee envisions a plug-and-play
architecture in which GSA provides standardized, reusable AI
components--such as chat tools, summarization engines, and data
analysis modules--that can be securely integrated across
federal agencies. This approach would potentially minimize
redundant development, promote technical consistency, and
accelerate responsible AI adoption by allowing agencies to
leverage a shared, scalable foundation instead of building
individual systems. The Committee directs GSA to submit a
report to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations
examining the feasibility of a modular government AI service
within 120 days of enactment outlining required resources,
governance structures, and technical milestones.
REAL PROPERTY ACTIVITIES
FEDERAL BUILDINGS FUND
LIMITATIONS ON AVAILABILITY OF REVENUE
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Limitations on Availability of Revenue:
Limitation on availability, fiscal year 2025.......... *$9,308,000,000
Limitation on availability, budget request, fiscal 10,464,262,000
year 2026............................................
Recommended in the bill............................... 9,197,703,000
Bill compared with:
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2025........... -110,297,000
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2026, request.. -1,266,559,000
*Note, in FY 2025 enacted, $9,308,000,000 was the limitation provided
for the FBF account. Of that amount, $3,272,000,000 was appropriated
for the building operations account. The remaining $6,036,000,000 was
divided up among the remaining accounts at the discretion of GSA.
The FBF finances the activities of the PBS, which provides
space and services for Federal agencies in a relationship
similar to that of landlord and tenant. The FBF, established in
1975, replaces direct appropriations with income derived from
rent assessments, which approximate commercial rates for
comparable space and services. The Committee makes funds
available through a process of placing limitations on
obligations from the FBF as a way of allocating funds for
various FBF activities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a limitation on the availability
of funds of $9,197,703,000 for the FBF.
Historically, prior to obligating funds for prospectus-
level construction, alterations, or leases, GSA has waited for
the project to be authorized through a resolution approved by
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in the House
and the Committee on Environment and Public Works in the Senate
as required by title 40 of the United States Code and in
accordance with the proviso included in the FBF appropriations
limiting the obligation of funds to prospectus-level projects
approved by the authorizing committees. The Committee supports
this process and believes that prospectus-level projects
warrant a thorough review from both the Appropriations
Committee and the authorizing committees. The Committee expects
GSA to continue to follow this process.
Preventing and Addressing Deferred Maintenance and
Repairs.--The Committee is concerned with the substantial
deferred maintenance and repairs backlog in GSA owned and
managed real property. Failing to maintain and repair Federal
buildings can lead to the premature replacement of assets and
to costlier repairs, imposing significant avoidable costs on
the taxpayer. In response to these concerns, the Committee
recommends ample funding for Basic Repairs and Alterations and
Building Operations. The Committee urges GSA to prioritize
addressing and preventing deferred maintenance in Federal
buildings. Further, the Committee directs GSA within 90 days of
enactment of this Act to evaluate deferred maintenance within
its real property portfolio and provide the House and Senate
Committees on Appropriations with a status report on deferred
maintenance within its portfolio and the GSA's plans to prevent
and address deferred maintenance going forward.
Technical Debt Guidance.--The Committee recognizes that
technical debt is a known challenge for the acquisition of
software intensive systems and networking hardware
infrastructure. The Committee is concerned with the level of
technical debt in the network infrastructure of Federal
agencies and increased cyber risks due to challenges patching
known vulnerabilities in end-of-life equipment. The Committee
directs the Administrator to provide guidance to the Chief
Information Officer of each Federal agency to develop and
implement a plan to manage the technical debt in agency
networks.
Multiyear Information Technology Contracting.--The
Committee directs GSA to issue clarifying guidance regarding
when a bona fide need attaches at the time of procurement
obligation. The Committee understands that a need may arise any
time during the funding period of availability and recommends
that GSA issue clarifying guidance within 90 days of the
enactment of this Act on when cloud services can cross fiscal
years.
Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) Court
Space.--In Federal locations along the U.S.-Mexico border, the
Committee encourages GSA to identify and prioritize the
acquisition of available space for use by EOIR as courtrooms,
including courtrooms where the cases of detained aliens subject
to the Migrant Protection Protocols may be heard. The Committee
directs GSA to submit a report on its efforts within 90 days of
enactment of this Act that includes the resources necessary to
carry out this request.
Digital Content Provenance.--GSA is directed to assess, and
report to Congress on its findings within 180 days of enactment
of this Act, the feasibility and advisability of implementing
industry open technical standards for digital content
provenance for both synthetic and non-synthetic official
government digital content including photographs and videos
owned, distributed, or otherwise published by Federal agencies.
Preventing Procurement From Foreign Entities of Concern.--
The Committee is concerned that GSA may enter into solar panel
contracts that benefit foreign entities of concern (FEOCs). The
Committee directs GSA not to enter into a contract with a FEOC,
as defined by Section 40207(a)(5) of Public Law 117-58, that
manufactures solar modules. The Committee also notes GSA should
preference procurement of solar electricity from solar modules
manufactured with domestic content.
Building Occupancy Planning and Data Technology.--The
Committee is aware that GSA is interested in using new
technologies to monitor workplace utilization within the
Federal buildings portfolio. The Committee directs GSA to
evaluate the deployment of sensors and other technologies
across the leased and owned Federal real estate portfolio to
analyze their use in facilitating smarter real estate and
operational decisions, and responding to Congressional
directives to ensure Federal office space is utilized
efficiently.
Reclaimed Refrigerants.--The Committee recognizes the
beneficial use of reclaimed refrigerants for servicing
equipment in Federal buildings and facilities, particularly
given the increasing risk of U.S. reliance on China to provide
refrigerant to service legacy HVAC equipment. Considering the
large number of Federal facilities, and the widespread use of
imported refrigerants, the Committee urges the Administrator to
give preference to the use of domestically sourced reclaimed
refrigerants across Federal buildings and facilities, thereby
reducing U.S. reliance on foreign manufacturers, including
China.
CONSTRUCTION AND ACQUISITION
Limitations on Availability of Revenue:
Limitation on availability, fiscal year 2025.......... *- - -
Limitation on availability, budget request, fiscal $70,661,000
year 2026............................................
Recommended in the bill............................... - - -
Bill compared with:
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2025........... - - -
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2026 request... -70,661,000
*Note, in the FY 2025 enacted bill, $9,308,000,000 was the limitation
provided for the FBF account. Of that amount, $3,272,000,000 was
appropriated for the building operations account. The remaining
$6,036,000,000 was divided up among the remaining accounts at the
discretion of GSA.
The construction and acquisition fund finances the project
cost of design, construction, and management and inspection
costs of new Federal facilities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommendation does not include funding for
construction and acquisition projects.
Puerto Rico Courthouse Complex.--The Committee is concerned
about the status of the Degetau Federal Building and the
Clemente Ruiz-Nazario U.S. Courthouse in San Juan, Puerto Rico,
which was declared a judicial space emergency in 2020 by the
Judicial Conference of the United States. GSA is directed to
brief the Committee on a quarterly basis regarding the status
and obligation of previously appropriated funds for the design
portion of the project.
Courthouse Feasibility Studies.--The Committee is concerned
that courthouses throughout the United States continue to await
GSA's completion of phase 1 feasibility studies in a timely
manner as part of the Federal Judiciary Courthouse Project
Priorities process. To advance these studies, the Committee
encourages GSA to prioritize completion of these studies
through the re-assignment of internal staff or by engaging
consultant services as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109.
REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS
Limitations on Availability of Revenue:
Limitation on availability, fiscal year 2025.......... *- - -
Limitation on availability, budget request, fiscal $1,739,054,000
year 2026............................................
Recommended in the bill............................... 319,581,000
Bill compared with:
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2025........... - - -
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2026 request... -1,419,473,000
*Note, in the FY 2025 enacted bill, $9,308,000,000 was the limitation
provided for the FBF account. Of that amount, $3,272,000,000 was
appropriated for the building operations account. The remaining
$6,036,000,000 was divided up among the remaining accounts at the
discretion of GSA.
The repairs and alterations account funds the project cost
of design, construction, management, and inspection for the
repair, alteration, and modernization of existing real estate
assets in addition to various special programs.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a limitation of $319,581,000 to
remain available until expended for repairs and alterations.
Basic Repairs and Alterations.--The Committee recommends
$269,581,000 for non-recurring repairs and alterations projects
between $10,000 and the current prospectus threshold of
$3,095,000.
Special Emphasis Programs.--The Committee recommends
$50,000,000 for special emphasis programs. This funding
includes:
Fire Protection and Life Safety....................... $20,000,000
Judicial Capital Security............................. 18,000,000
Childcare Systems and Security........................ 12,000,000
Chinese Technology and Equipment in Federal Government
Buildings and Leases.--The Committee continues to be concerned
with Chinese technology and equipment on Federal property or
privately-owned buildings with Federal leases. Within 180 days
of enactment of this Act, GSA is directed to brief the
Committee on its plan to remove and replace any technology or
equipment that is on the FCC Covered List (List of Equipment
and Services Covered by Section 2 of the Secure Networks Act).
RENTAL OF SPACE
Limitations on Availability of Revenue:
Limitation on availability, fiscal year 2025.......... - - -
Limitation on availability, budget request, fiscal $5,574,593,000
year 2026............................................
Recommended in the bill............................... 5,606,122,000
Bill compared with:
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2025........... - - -
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2026 request... +31,529,000
The rental of space program funds lease payments made to
privately-owned buildings, temporary space for Federal
employees during major repair and alteration projects, and
relocations from Federal buildings due to forced moves and
relocations as a result of health and safety conditions.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a limitation of $5,606,122,000 for
rental of space. The Committee expects GSA to continue its
efforts to reduce its leased inventory.
BUILDING OPERATIONS
Limitations on Availability of Revenue:
Limitation on availability, fiscal year 2025.......... $3,272,000,000
Limitation on availability, budget request, fiscal 3,012,954,000
year 2026............................................
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,272,000,000
Bill compared with:
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2025........... - - -
Availability limitation, fiscal year 2026 request... +259,046,000
The building operations account funds services that Federal
agencies in GSA-owned buildings and occasionally in GSA-leased
buildings, when not provided by the lessor, directly benefit
from, such as building security; cleaning; utilities; window
washing; snow removal; pest control; and maintenance of
heating, air conditioning, ventilating, plumbing, sewage,
electrical, elevator, escalator, and fire protection systems.
In addition, this account funds all the personnel and
administrative expenses for carrying out construction and
acquisition, repair and alteration, and leasing activities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a limitation of $3,272,000,000 for
building operations and maintenance. Not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to
the Committee a spend plan, by region, regarding the use of
these funds.
Government Agency Leasing Cost.--The Committee is aware of
the extensive cost and time required to move government
agencies out of government owned buildings that have been
identified for sale. The Committee notes that government
tenants in government owned buildings receive discounted
leasing rates compared to government tenants in privately owned
buildings but also acknowledges the significant deferred
maintenance burden of publicly owned buildings. The Committee
requests the GSA to provide a report to the committee within
180 days of enactment of this Act on the estimated cost of
moving government tenants out of government owned buildings to
new facilities and the long-term costs to the government
associated with publicly and privately owned facilities over
the next decade.
GENERAL ACTIVITIES
GOVERNMENT-WIDE POLICY
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $70,474,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 64,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 69,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -1,474,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +5,000,000
The Office of Government-Wide Policy provides Federal
agencies with guidelines, best practices, and performance
measures for complying with all the laws, regulations, and
executive orders related to acquisition and procurement,
personal and real property management, travel and
transportation management, electronic customer service
delivery, and use of Federal advisory committees.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $69,000,000 for Government-wide
Policy.
Government-wide Digital Identity Guidelines.--The Committee
directs GSA to promote government-wide policy that leverages
commercially-available, portable identity and multiple
credential service providers (CSPs) independently certified
against the requisite National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST) guidelines for the highest possible pass
rates, fraud prevention, and cost reduction. To ensure the
prioritization of common services and standards for login and
identity management across Federal agencies through multiple
CSPs, the Administrator, in coordination with the Director of
NIST, shall provide to the Committee, within 90 days of
enactment of this Act, a report on commercial and public sector
CSPs that are in compliance with the requisite NIST digital
identity guidelines for the highest possible pass rates, fraud
prevention, and cost reduction.
Enterprise Software Licenses.--Not later than 90 days
following enactment of this Act, GSA's Office of Government-
wide Policy and Technology Transformation Services are directed
to report to the Committee with a joint draft guidance document
for implementing fair software licensing principles and
technology license tracking in Federal agencies, with the
intent that the GSA guidance will be published before the end
of fiscal year 2026.
First Aid Kit Enhancements.--The Committee is aware that
first aid products endorsed by the Department of Defense's
Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCC) help to
reduce death or trauma as a result of bleeding. To improve
outcomes in crisis situations, the Committee encourages GSA to
incorporate CoTCC-supported dressings in first aid kits in
Federal buildings, Federal courthouses, and Federal law
enforcement vehicles.
Per Diem Rate Review.--The Committee encourages GSA to
review per diem rates and determine if metropolitan statistical
areas should be used as boundary areas instead of county lines.
GSA should particularly focus on non-standard per diem rates in
cities that have significantly increased in population since
fiscal year 2021, such as Austin, Charlotte, Dallas, Miami, and
Phoenix.
OPERATING EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $53,933,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 48,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 52,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -1,933,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +4,000,000
This account provides appropriations for activities that
are not feasible for a user fee arrangement. Included under
this heading are personal property utilization and donation
activities of the Federal Acquisition Service; real property
utilization and disposal activities of the PBS; select
management and administration activities including support of
government-wide emergency management activities; and top-level,
agency-wide management communication activities.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $52,000,000 for operating
expenses. Within the amount provided, $27,902,000 is for Real
and Personal Property Management and Disposal and $24,098,000
is for the Office of the Administrator.
COVS Act.--The Committee is encouraged that GSA's
Utilization and Donation (U&D) Program is beginning the process
of analyzing how it can best support the requirements of the
Computers for Veterans and Students Act (COVS Act). The
Committee encourages GSA to act expediently to ensure that U&D
can meet the requirements under the act and provide refurbished
computers to veterans and disadvantaged persons to bridge the
digital divide.
CIVILIAN BOARD OF CONTRACT APPEALS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $10,248,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 10,248,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 11,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +752,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +752,000
This account provides appropriations for the Civilian Board
of Contract Appeals (CBCA). The CBCA is charged with
facilitating the prompt, efficient, and inexpensive resolution
of disputes through the use of alternate dispute resolution.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $11,000,000 for the Civilian Board
of Contract Appeals.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $73,837,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 73,837,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 72,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -1,337,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -1,337,000
The GSA Office of Inspector General (GSA IG) provides
agency-wide audit and investigative functions to identify and
correct GSA management and administrative deficiencies that
create conditions for existing or potential instances of fraud,
waste, and mismanagement. The audit function provides internal
and contract audits. Internal audits review and evaluate all
facets of GSA operations and programs, test internal control
systems, and develop information to improve operating
efficiencies and enhance customer services. Contract audits
provide professional advice to GSA contracting officials on
accounting and financial matters relative to the negotiation,
award, administration, repricing, and settlement of contracts.
The investigative function provides for the detection and
investigation of improper and illegal activities involving GSA
programs, personnel, and operations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $72,500,000 for the GSA IG.
Preventing Human Trafficking in Government Contracts.--The
Committee reaffirms the United States' zero-tolerance policy
toward human trafficking, including within federal contracts,
grants, and cooperative agreements. While Congress has taken
steps to strengthen federal contracting reporting
requirements--most notably through the Trafficking Victims
Protection Act of 2000--the Committee is concerned by recent
findings from the Government Accountability Office (GAO)
indicating that allegations of human trafficking in federal
contracting persist.
Accordingly, the Committee encourages that, upon entering
into a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement, if a duly
authorized representative of the recipient determines that the
recipient, a subcontractor, subgrantee has engaged in any of
the activities prohibited under section 106(g) of the
Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, such determination
should be promptly reported to the appropriate oversight
official.
The Committee directs the relevant Inspector General to
initiate an investigation into any reported violations. Pending
the outcome of such investigation, payments under the grant,
contract, or cooperative agreement should be suspended.
Furthermore, funding should remain suspended until the
recipient has taken appropriate remedial action, as determined
by the Inspector General.
ALLOWANCES AND OFFICE STAFF FOR FORMER PRESIDENTS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $5,200,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 5,353,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 5,200,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -153,000
This appropriation provides pensions, office staff, and
related expenses for former Presidents.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $5,200,000 for allowances and
office staff for former Presidents.
FEDERAL CITIZEN SERVICES FUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $75,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 70,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 55,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -20,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -15,000,000
The Federal Citizen Services Fund provides for the salaries
and expenses of GSA's Office of Citizen Services and Innovative
Technologies. The Fund enables citizen access and engagement
with government through an array of operational programs and
direct citizen-facing services. The Fund also provides
electronic or other methods of access to and understanding of
Federal information, benefits, and services to citizens,
businesses, local governments, and the media.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $55,000,000 for the Federal
Citizen Services Fund.
Briefing.--The Committee welcomes efforts to increase
federal agencies' access to secure cloud computing products and
services. To that end, the Committee appreciates efforts to
improve the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
(FedRAMP), including the recently announced FedRAMP 20x effort.
However, the Committee remains concerned about a lack of detail
from GSA. Therefore, the Committee directs GSA to provide a
briefing to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees on
the implementation plan for FedRAMP 20x within 90 days of
enactment of this Act.
WORKING CAPITAL FUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $4,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 4,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +4,000,000
This account is a revolving fund that finances GSA's
administrative services. Examples of these core support
services include: IT management; budget and financial
management; legal services; human resources; equal employment
opportunity services; procurement and contracting oversight;
emergency planning and response; and facilities management of
GSA-occupied space. WCF offices also provide external
administrative services such as human resource management for
other Federal agencies, including small boards and commissions
on a reimbursable basis.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $4,000,000 for the Working Capital
Fund.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Section 518. The Committee continues a provision providing
authority for the use of funds for the hire of motor vehicles.
Section 519. The Committee continues a provision providing
that funds made available for activities of the Federal
Buildings Fund may be transferred between appropriations with
advance approval of the Committees on Appropriations of the
House and the Senate.
Section 520. The Committee continues a provision requiring
funds proposed for developing courthouse construction requests
to meet appropriate standards and the priorities of the
Judicial Conference.
Section 521. The Committee continues a provision providing
that no funds may be used to increase the amount of occupiable
square feet, provide cleaning services, security enhancements,
or any other service usually provided, to any agency which does
not pay the assessed rent.
Section 522. The Committee continues a provision that
permits GSA to pay small claims (up to $250,000) made against
the Federal Government.
Section 523. The Committee continues a provision requiring
the Administrator to ensure that the delineated area of
procurement for all lease agreements is identical to the
delineated area included in the prospectus unless prior notice
is given to the committees of jurisdiction.
Section 524. The Committee continues a provision requiring
a spend plan for certain accounts and programs.
Section 525. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits the purchase of real property unless as needed for a
project authorized pursuant to 40 U.S.C. 3307.
Section 526. The Committee includes a new provision
requiring a report on federal agency office space utilization.
Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $2,970,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 2,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 2,500,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -470,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +500,000
The Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation is an independent
agency established by Congress in 1975 (Public Law 93-642) to
encourage exceptional college students to pursue careers in
public service through the Truman Scholarship program. The
Truman Scholarship is a merit-based award available to college
juniors who plan to pursue careers in government or elsewhere
in public service.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $2,500,000 for the Harry S Truman
Scholarship Foundation.
Merit Systems Protection Board
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $51,480,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 46,480,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 51,480,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +5,000,000
The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) is an
independent, quasi-judicial agency established to protect the
civil service merit system. The MSPB adjudicates appeals
primarily involving personnel actions, certain Federal employee
complaints, and retirement benefits issues. The MSPB reports to
the President whether merit systems are sufficiently free of
prohibited employment practices.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $51,480,000 for the MSPB. The
recommendation includes a transfer of $2,345,000 from the Civil
Service Retirement and Disability Fund.
Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation
MORRIS K. UDALL AND STEWART L. UDALL TRUST FUND
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $1,782,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 1,582,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 1,782,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +200,000
The General Fund payment to the Morris K. Udall and Stewart
L. Udall Trust Fund is invested in Treasury securities with
maturities suitable to meet the needs of the Fund. Interest
earnings from the investments are used to carry out the
activities of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall
Foundation. The Foundation awards scholarships, fellowships,
and grants, and funds activities of the Udall Center. The
Foundation also supports training programs for professionals in
healthcare policy and public policy, such as the Native Nations
Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy (NNI). NNI
provides Native Americans with leadership and management
training and analyzes policies relevant to tribes.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $1,782,000 for the Morris K. Udall
and Stewart L. Udall Trust Fund.
ENVIRONMENTAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION FUND
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $3,904,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 3,862,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,904,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +42,000
The John S. McCain III National Center for Environmental
Conflict Resolution is a Federal program established by Public
Law 105--156 to assist parties in resolving environmental,
natural resource, and public lands conflicts. The National
Center is a program of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall
Foundation and serves as an impartial, nonpartisan resource
providing professional expertise, services, and resources to
all parties involved in such disputes. The National Center
helps parties determine whether collaborative problem solving
is appropriate for specific environmental conflicts, how and
when to bring all the parties together for discussion, and
whether a third-party facilitator or mediator might be helpful
in assisting the parties in their efforts to reach consensus or
to resolve the conflict. In addition, the National Center works
with qualified third-party facilitators and mediators with
substantial experience in environmental collaboration and
conflict resolution and can help parties in selecting an
appropriate neutral professional.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $3,904,000 for the Environmental
Dispute Resolution Fund.
National Archives and Records Administration
OPERATING EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $427,250,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 404,250,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 400,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -27,250,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -4,250,000
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is
an independent agency established in 1934 to identify, access,
protect, preserve, and make available for use the important
documents and records of all three branches of the Federal
government. Today, NARA's responsibilities also include
publishing the Federal Register, mediating Freedom of
Information Act disputes, and coordinating controlled
unclassified information.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $400,000,000 for NARA to support
basic operations, services to the public, operation of Public
Libraries, and declassification review.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $5,920,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 5,920,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 5,920,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The NARA Office of Inspector General (OIG) provides audits
and investigations and serves as an independent, internal
advocate to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness
within NARA.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $5,920,000 for the NARA OIG.
REPAIRS AND RESTORATION
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $8,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 4,500,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 8,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +3,500,000
The NARA Repairs and Restoration account provides for the
repair, alteration, and improvement of Archives facilities and
Presidential libraries nationwide. It enables NARA to maintain
its facilities in proper condition for visitors, researchers,
and employees, as well as to ensure the structural integrity of
its buildings.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $8,000,000 for Repairs and
Restoration.
NATIONAL HISTORICAL PUBLICATIONS AND RECORDS COMMISSION GRANTS PROGRAM
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $10,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 5,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -5,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +5,000,000
The National Historical Publications and Records Commission
(NHPRC) program provides for grants to preserve and publish
records that document American history. Administered within
NARA, the NHPRC helps State, local, and private institutions
preserve non-Federal records; helps historical organizations
publish the papers of major figures in American history; and
helps archivists and records managers improve their techniques,
training, and ability to serve a range of information to users.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $5,000,000 for NHPRC grants.
National Credit Union Administration
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REVOLVING LOAN FUND
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $3,465,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... - - -
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,423,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -42,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +3,423,000
The Community Development Revolving Loan Fund Program
(CDRLF) was established in 1979 to assist officially designated
low-income credit unions in providing basic financial services
to low-income communities. Low-interest loans and deposits are
made available to assist these credit unions. Loans or deposits
are normally repaid in five years, although shorter repayment
periods may be considered. Technical assistance grants are also
available to low-income credit unions. Earnings generated by
the CDRLF are available to fund technical assistance grants in
addition to funds provided in appropriations acts. Grants are
available for improving operations as well as addressing safety
and soundness issues.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $3,423,000 for the National Credit
Union Administration's (NCUA) CDRLF for technical assistance
grants.
CDRLF Oversight.--To ensure proper oversight capabilities
are in place for CDRLF grant and loan recipients, the NCUA is
directed to brief the Committee within 90 days of enactment of
this Act on how the program is overseen including how the NCUA
ensures grant and loan dollars are used according to the rules
of the program.
Office of Government Ethics
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $23,037,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 23,037,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 22,386,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -651,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -651,000
The Office of Government Ethics (OGE), established by the
Ethics in Government Act of 1978, partners with other executive
branch Departments and agencies to foster high ethical
standards. OGE issues and monitors rules, regulations, and
memoranda pertaining to the prevention and resolution of
conflicts of interest, post-employment restrictions, standards
of conduct, and financial disclosure for executive branch
employees. OGE is also responsible for creating and running an
electronic financial disclosure system under the Stop Trading
on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $22,386,000 for the OGE.
Office of Personnel Management
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF TRUST FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $412,051,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 382,140,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 385,722,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -26,329,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +3,582,000
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is the Federal
agency responsible for management of Federal human resources
policy and oversight of the merit civil service system. OPM
provides a government-wide policy framework for personnel
matters, advises and assists agencies (often on a reimbursable
basis), and ensures that agency operations are consistent with
requirements of law. OPM oversees the examination of applicants
for employment; issues regulations and policies on hiring,
classification and pay, training, and investigations; and
manages many other aspects of personnel management. The agency
also operates a reimbursable training program for the Federal
government's managers and executives. In addition, OPM is
responsible for administering the retirement, health benefits,
and life insurance programs covering most Federal employees,
retired Federal employees, and their survivors.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $195,722,000 for OPM's General
Fund. The Committee also recommends $190,000,000 for
administrative expenses to be transferred from the appropriate
trust funds.
The Committee reminds OPM of its obligation to engage in
prior consultation with and notify the Committee of any
reorganizations, restructurings, new programs, or elimination
of programs as described in title VI of this Act.
Federal Job Opportunities for Military Spouses.--The
Committee is aware that eligibility determinations for the
military spouse non-competitive hiring authority occur on a
case-by-case basis at the discretion of each individual Federal
hiring authority. As a result, military spouses may not have
maximized applicable Federal hiring authorities and exceptions
available to them. The Committee notes the challenges to
recruit and retain military spouse employees and OPM's efforts
to facilitate greater military-connected hiring across the
Federal workforce and expand opportunities for military-
connected spouses, including spouses of disabled and deceased
veterans. The Committee instructs OPM to further explore ways
to advance hiring outcomes such as using commercial off-the-
shelf technology and providing military spouses information
about the non-competitive hiring authority and Federal jobs
opportunities.
Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance Program.--The
Committee is aware of Federal employees' interest in obtaining
flexibility within the Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance
(FEGLI) program to purchase additional insurance options upon
their retirement. The Committee directs OPM to evaluate the
prospects of a potential system that would allow Federal
employees to use the accrued cash value of their FEGLI policy
to purchase a private annuity or a private, long-term care
policy upon retirement through the tax-free, Internal Revenue
Service Section 1035 transfer option. OPM should report its
findings to the Committee within 180 days of enactment of this
Act.
Retirement Services.--The Committee is concerned with the
lengthy delays to process retirement and survivor claims and
update health insurance benefits, as well as other critical
changes that impact retirement benefits. These delays cause
hardships for Federal annuitants and their families. OPM is
directed to brief the Committee quarterly on OPM's efforts and
progress to reduce these delays and improve customer service
levels, including the average time it takes a caller to reach
an OPM operator and the number and percentage of unanswered
calls.
Quarterly Briefings on Modernization.--The Committee is
concerned with OPM's modernization efforts and requests the
continuation of quarterly briefings to the Committees. Each
briefing should include the total IT modernization budget
broken out by project; obligations and unobligated balances by
project; and the progress, anticipated completion date, and
significant concerns for each project.
Fertility Services in Health Plans.--Within 90 days after
the enactment of this Act, the OPM is directed to provide a
report to the Committee regarding the health plan coverage
options currently available to Federal employees that include
assisted reproductive technology services and procedures. The
report shall detail (1) the number of such available plans, (2)
details regarding the specific services and benefits provided
in such plans, including any limitations on such services and
benefits, (3) comparison of such services and benefits
currently offered in Federal Employees Health Benefits Program
(FEHBP) to those offered in non-Federal plans, and (4) the cost
of premiums for plans that include coverage of such services
compared to substantially similar plans that do not include
such coverage, including the anticipated breakdown of the cost
of the employer and employee contributions for such plans, and
any other Federal expenditures associated with inclusion of
such plans in FEHBP options.
Cloud-Native Application Cybersecurity Tools.--As OPM
shifts sensitive agency applications and data to modern cloud
infrastructure, the agency is directed to fully implement
cloud-centric cybersecurity tools necessary to safeguard the
agency's digital infrastructure.
Federal Workforce.--The Committee has a need to understand
the recent federal employee separations to conduct oversight of
agency missions and spending. The Committee directs the Office
of Personnel Management (OPM) to brief Congress, no later than
60 days after enactment of this Act, providing the full number
of federal civilian employees on payroll as of both September
30, 2025, enactment of this act and January 19, 2025, including
agency, occupation, and duty station, pay and related costs.
Enterprise-Wide Solutions.--The Committee is concerned that
OPM is prioritizing cost saving measures that may expose the
federal government's human resource data to malicious actors
and U.S. adversaries over essential demonstrated cyber security
tools. The Committee encourages OPM to continue employing a
state-of-the-art, enterprise-wide, real-time, continuous supply
chain monitoring program to ensure this data is protected.
Modernizing Human Resource Platforms.--The Committee is
encouraged that OPM is taking steps to address the burdensome
costs associated with operating antiquated government-wide IT
systems. The Federal government spends over $1 billion annually
to operate human resource (HR) platforms across the workforce.
OPM is encouraged to use their existing transfer authority, as
well as funds made available, to prioritize the safe and
effective transition of these HR platforms to a central system
over the next eighteen months.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF TRUST FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $36,031,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 35,409,200
Recommended in the bill............................... 36,031,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +621,800
This appropriation provides for the Office of Inspector
General's (OIG) agency-wide audit, investigative, evaluation,
and inspection functions, which identify management and
administrative deficiencies, fraud, waste, and mismanagement.
The OIG performs internal agency audits and insurance audits
and offers contract audit services. Internal audits review and
evaluate all facets of agency operations, including financial
statements. Evaluation and inspection services provide detailed
technical evaluations of agency operations. Insurance audits
review the operations of health and life insurance carriers,
health care providers, and insurance subscribers. Contract
auditors provide professional advice to agency contracting
officials on accounting and financial matters regarding the
negotiation, award, administration, repricing, and settlement
of contracts. The investigative function provides for the
detection and investigation of improper and illegal activities
involving programs, personnel, and operations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a general fund appropriation of
$6,839,000 for the OIG. In addition, the recommendation
includes $29,192,000 from the appropriate trust funds.
Office of Special Counsel
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $31,585,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 30,010,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 31,585,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +1,575,000
The Office of Special Counsel (OSC): (1) investigates
Federal employee allegations of prohibited personnel practices
(including reprisal for whistleblowing) and, when appropriate,
prosecutes before the Merit Systems Protection Board; (2)
provides a channel for whistleblowing by Federal employees; and
(3) enforces the Hatch Act. The OSC may transmit whistleblower
allegations to the agency head concerned and require an agency
investigation and a report to Congress and the President when
appropriate. Additionally, OSC is responsible for the
enforcement of the civilian employment and reemployment rights
of military service members under the Uniformed Services
Employment and Re-employment Rights Act.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $31,585,000 for the OSC.
Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $13,700,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 14,436,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 13,700,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -736,000
The Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (the Board)
is an independent agency within the Executive Branch whose
purpose is to (1) analyze and review actions the Executive
Branch takes to protect the nation from terrorism, ensuring
that the need for such actions is balanced with the need to
protect privacy and civil liberties; and (2) ensure that
liberty concerns are appropriately considered in the
development and implementation of laws, regulations, and
policies related to efforts to protect the nation against
terrorism. The Board consists of four part-time members and a
full-time chairman.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $13,700,000 for the Board.
Public Buildings Reform Board
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $3,960,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 4,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 3,605,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -355,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -395,000
The Public Buildings Reform Board (the Board) was created
under the Federal Assets Sale and Transfer Act of 2016 to
identify opportunities for the Government to significantly
reduce its inventory of civilian real property and reduce costs
to the Government.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $3,605,000 funds for the Board.
Securities and Exchange Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $2,188,658,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 2,149,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 2,034,730,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -153,928,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -114,270,000
The primary mission of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC) is to protect investors, maintain the
integrity of the securities markets, and assure adequate
information on the capital markets is made available to market
participants and policymakers. To facilitate this, the SEC
monitors the capital markets, ensures full disclosure of all
appropriate financial information, regulates the nation's
securities markets, and takes action to prevent fraud and
malpractice in the securities and financial markets.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $2,026,330,000 for SEC Salaries
and Expenses, to be fully derived from offsetting fee
collections. The recommendation includes $8,400,000 for costs
associated with office facilities, to be fully derived from
offsetting fee collections. The Committee expects the SEC to
keep the Committee informed of any notable developments.
Climate Disclosure Rule.--The Committee is concerned by the
potential impact of the Climate Disclosures Rule. The Committee
directs that the SEC provide a detailed report within 180 days
after enactment of this Act that details the extent and limits
of its authority in the implementation of the Climate
Disclosure Rule. This report should include the legal
foundation for the rule, the scope and limitations of the rule,
and an economic assessment.
Accounting Standards Update.--The Committee is concerned
that the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued an
Accounting Standards Update (Accounting Standards Update,
Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax
Disclosures; No. 2023-09) related to income tax disclosure that
is not aligned with the statutory requirements of the Sarbanes-
Oxley Act of 2002. The Committee is further concerned that the
Accounting Standards Update harms investors rather than
protects them. Specifically, the Committee is concerned that
the FASB did not conduct an independent and thorough cost-
benefit analysis prior to the issuance of the update. The
Committee directs the FASB to withdraw the update and conduct a
more comprehensive and independent process to review matters
related to income tax disclosure.
Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations
(NRSROs).--The Committee directs the SEC to study the impact
that a consistent mapping of NRSRO credit ratings based on
empirical evidence of long-term default rates could have on
investors' ability to develop an objective understanding of the
comparability of NRSRO credit ratings and provide a report to
the Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act.
Economic Analysis.--The Committee encourages the SEC to
consider an SEC Memorandum published on March 16, 2012, on
``Current Guidance on Economic Analysis in SEC Rulemakings.''
The Committee notes that this Memorandum restates statutory
obligations to conduct regulatory economic analysis and draws
OMB's Circular A-4 (2003), which explains that the baseline of
the economic analysis within a rulemaking should ``attempt to
reflect relevant final rules (especially if their requirements
are being modified by the regulation under consideration) and
proposed rules or other previously announced policy changes
that the agency is reasonably certain will be finalized before
the rule under consideration is finalized.'' This guidance is
consistent with legal precedent that the Administrative
Procedure Act requires agencies to account for effects of one
rulemaking on ``contemporaneous and closely related
rulemakings.'' The Committee is concerned that projected
economic costs and market impacts of rule proposals have been
minimized by conducting separate analyses of overlapping
rulemakings and failing to consider within each proposal
alternative baselines that incorporate the likely effects of
overlapping proposed rulemakings. Before finalizing rules
classified by OMB as Significant Economic Rulemakings, the
Committee directs the SEC to conduct a full economic analysis
on the aggregate impact of the SEC's proposed and final
rulemakings since 2021.
Adoption and Implementation Schedule.--The Committee was
concerned with the significant volume and accelerated pace of
rulemaking by the SEC during the last Administration. Many of
the rules will impose significant new compliance obligations on
a wide range of, and often the same, financial products and
market participants, while many may have the same or similar
adverse effects, such as reducing liquidity or increasing
investing costs. Complying with these new rules will require
regulated entities to make substantial investments in
technology and operational capabilities, legal and compliance
frameworks, and new agreements with counterparties, clients,
and vendors. Implementing these rules simultaneously or in
close succession absent an analysis of potential cumulative and
cross-sector effects could have unintended negative
consequences, including making it harder and more expensive to
access financing and credit, while raising costs and reducing
returns for retail investors. The Committee directs the SEC to
develop and seek stakeholder feedback on a reasonable,
workable, and staggered schedule on the adoption and
implementation of major rulemaking proposals and finalized
rules. That schedule should be designed to minimize operational
and compliance risk in our markets and to give regulated
entities ample time to adapt and comply with each new rule.
Predictive Data Analytics Rule Re-proposal and Analysis.--
The Committee directs the SEC to repropose the proposed rule,
``Conflicts of Interest Associated with the Use of Predictive
Data Analytics by Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers'',
after making material changes to the proposal in light of the
issues identified by the diverse array of public commenters and
after reconducting a full economic analysis of the proposal
that adequately considers the disparate impact on low-income
and historically underserved investors and communities. The
Committee notes that more robust engagement with stakeholders
and more detailed analysis will not only improve the quality of
proposed rules but also help increase public confidence in the
SEC's regulatory process.
Use of Arbitration.--The Committee is concerned by the
conclusions in the SEC's Staff Report on the use of mandatory
arbitration clauses in SEC-registered investment advisers. The
Committee encourages the SEC to consider the benefits of
arbitration over litigation, especially class actions.
Financial Data Transparency Act Implementation.--The
Committee recognizes that the Financial Data Transparency Act
(FDTA) contains no reference to securities-level identifiers.
The Committee expects the SEC, in its joint rulemaking, to
implement the FDTA consistent with Congressional intent and
avoid disrupting the U.S. capital markets.
Acquired Fund Fees and Expense Rule.--The Committee
recommends the SEC use its existing authorities to remove
business development companies (BDCs) from the calculation of
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses (AFFE) that registered
investment companies are required to disclose in registration
statements filed pursuant to section 8(b) of the Investment
Company Act of 1940. The SEC issued its AFFE rule in 2006. In
the adopting release, the SEC stated that it ``does not believe
that the [AFFE] amendments will have an adverse impact of
capital formation''. This statement was proven to be inaccurate
as a result of actions taken in 2014 by index sponsors such as
S&P and Russell to exclude BDCs from their indices. Because
index funds no longer invest in BDCs, there has been a decline
in market depth and liquidity for BDC shares, reduced
institutional ownership in BDCs, and less independent third-
party research coverage. Each of these items has negatively
impacted retail investors owning BDC shares. The SEC has had
full authority since 2006 to address these unintended, harmful
consequences.
Data Security.--The SEC is directed to report to the
Committee within 180 days of enactment of this Act on the
policies and procedures in place regarding the accessing and
collection of algorithmic trading source code or other similar
intellectual property that forms the basis for the design of
algorithmic trading source code of market participants. This
report shall detail the specific guidelines: 1) the SEC has in
place for the approval of requests by SEC staff for such
access; and 2) for how the SEC stores and transfers this data
securely between the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission.
Technical Expertise in Digital Asset Regulation.--The
Committee recognizes that effective oversight of digital assets
and emerging financial technologies requires a workforce with
both legal and technical expertise. The Committee directs the
SEC to prioritize the recruitment and retention of staff with
experience in blockchain protocols, smart contract engineering,
and decentralized finance. This includes hiring engineers,
protocol designers, and technologists who have practical
experience with blockchain systems. The Committee also
encourages the SEC to strengthen internal training and
professional development efforts to ensure staff develop a
foundational understanding of digital asset technologies.
ESG Debt Financing.--The Committee is concerned with the
consideration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG)
criteria in bond markets and debt financing. No later than 90
days after enactment, the SEC provide a report to the Committee
on how ESG criteria are incorporated into the evaluation,
marketing, and sale of bonds, and the extent to which such
practices may constrain a state's or public entity's ability to
access capital and finance their debt.
ESG Credit Rating Methodology Report.--The SEC is directed
to report to the Committee within 120 days on the use of ESG
criteria by nationally recognized statistical rating
organizations. The report should focus on credit rating
methodologies including but not limited to the measuring,
publishing, or setting of targets regarding greenhouse gas
emissions, or the racial or gender composition of a workforce,
or customer base, when not required by controlling law.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Section 527. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds by the SEC to compel a private
company to make a public offering through a change in the
definition of ``held of record''.
Section 528. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the collection and provision of personally
identifiable information under the Consolidated Audit Trail.
Section 529. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds to review or approve the budget
for the Financial Accounting Standards Board until it withdraws
the Accounting Standards Update on Income Tax Disclosures
issued in December 2023 (No. 2023 09).
Section 530. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds to create new disclosure
requirements under Regulation D or lower the amount of money an
issuer can raise through Regulation D.
Section 531. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds to implement, or enforce the final
rule entitled ``Cybersecurity Risk Management, Strategy,
Governance, and Incident Disclosure''.
Selective Service System
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $31,300,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 31,300,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 31,300,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... - - -
The Selective Service System (the System) was established
by the Selective Service Act of 1948. The mission of the System
is to be prepared to supply manpower to the Armed Forces
adequate to ensure the security of the United States during a
time of national emergency. Since 1973, the Armed Forces have
relied on volunteers to fill military manpower requirements,
but selective service registration was reinstituted in July
1980.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $31,300,000 for the Selective
Service System.
Small Business Administration
The Small Business Administration (SBA) assists and
protects the interests of small businesses through programs
including loans, loan guarantees, counseling, and contracting
preferences.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a total of $831,778,000 for the
SBA.
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $361,235,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 250,157,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 298,099,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -63,136,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +47,942,000
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $298,099,000 for SBA Salaries and
Expenses. The recommendation includes $6,274,000 for the Women-
Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program and $5,253,000
for the Native American Affairs Outreach Program.
Enhancing Small Business Digital Capabilities.--The
Committee recognizes that to remain competitive in the modern
economy, digital tools that include business software or cloud
computing services are essential for struggling small business
owners. These digital capabilities encompass support for a
variety of activities, such as product or service delivery, the
processing, payment, or tracking of payroll expenses, human
resources, sales and billing functions, and accounting or
tracking of supplies, inventory, records, and expenses. The
Committee is concerned, however, that the SBA has done little
to update policies or allocate appropriate resources to small
businesses to help facilitate and implement adoption of these
critical capabilities. Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the SBA, in consultation with the Small Business
Digital Alliance (SBDA) and other third-party technology
stakeholders, shall submit a report to the Committee
identifying barriers to adoption of digital tools by small
businesses, with a special emphasis on impediments unique to
small business owners in rural and underserved areas. The
report shall include the following elements: identification of
specific barriers related to education, training, and
accessibility; comparative calculations of revenue and
employment impacts related to adoption of digital tools for
comparison; analysis of the economic impact on a micro and
macro scale; and recommendations on potential mitigation
strategies to identified barriers, including any necessary
administrative actions.
SBIC Access in Rural Communities.--The Committee recognizes
the importance of access to capital for small businesses,
especially in rural communities, and directs the Small Business
Administrator (the Administrator), in consultation with the
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), to develop
recommendations for improving accessibility to the Small
Business Investment Company (SBIC) program in rural areas and
to provide a briefing to the Committee on its progress and
considerations within 180 days of enactment of this act.
Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contract Program.--The
Committee is concerned that the Women-Owned Small Business
Program has a months-long backlog of applications. The
increased number of certified firms in the program, as well as
the recent surge of participants undergoing an in-depth
recertification process as they enter their third year, has
added an additional strain on the program's resources. The
Committee directs SBA to ensure that eligible applicants obtain
the required initial certification and continued certification
to meet SBA's goal of supporting women-owned businesses.
Mergers and Acquisition Rulemaking Study.-- The Committee
is concerned that the SBA has unintentionally harmed the
viability of Federal small business contractors by implementing
13 C.F.R. 125.12(g)(i), which stipulates that a firm is no
longer eligible to bid on any task orders on their pending or
current small business contracts or contract vehicles if they
undergo a merger or acquisition after January 17, 2026. This
action will effectively devalue numerous small business-
concerned companies that base their worth on the value of their
secured Federal contracts when being considered for
acquisition. Because the Federal government does not recognize
a medium sized business category, many small businesses must
pursue a merger or acquisition because they are unable to
compete with large federal contractors. The Committee is
concerned that this action will further disincentivize small
business participation in the Federal contracting space and
erase the earned value of Service-Disabled Veteran, women and
minority owned businesses as well as HUBZone certified
companies. Alternatively, the action may force these firms to
prematurely undergo a merger prior to January 17, 2026, before
they have realized their full potential.
Cross-agency disaster data coordination and
collaboration.--SBA is directed to continue to collaborate with
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in a manner
which allows for rapid and timely data collection and sharing
as it relates to Federal disaster assistance, including the
determination of financial need, for the Community Development
Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG DR) program, the Disaster
Relief Fund (DRF), and SBA disaster loans. These agencies are
further directed to provide joint monthly reports on need by
federally declared disaster, as that data becomes available.
Upon enactment of this Act, SBA, FEMA, and HUD are directed to
jointly brief the relevant Subcommittees on the House and
Senate Committees on Appropriations if any of the three
agencies indicate that they cannot process or share the data as
needed in a timely manner. Finally, SBA, FEMA, and HUD are
directed to jointly brief the relevant subcommittees on the
House and Senate Committees on Appropriations no later than 90
days after enactment of this Act on any challenges that exist
in sharing and processing data related to interplay of these
three disaster programs.
ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $316,800,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 150,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 289,550,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -27,250,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +139,550,000
SBA's Entrepreneurial Development (ED) programs support
non-credit business assistance to entrepreneurs. The
appropriation includes funding for a network of resource
partners located throughout the United States that provide
training, counseling, and technical assistance to small
business entrepreneurs.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $289,550,000 for ED. The Committee
recommendations, by program, are displayed in the following
table:
7(j) Technical Assistance Program (Contracting $3,500,000
Assistance)..........................................
Entrepreneurship Education............................ 1,250,000
HUBZone Program....................................... 3,000,000
Microloan Technical Assistance........................ 41,000,000
National Women's Business Council..................... 1,500,000
Native American Outreach.............................. 5,300,000
PRIME Technical Assistance............................ 7,000,000
Regional Innovation Clusters.......................... 8,000,000
SCORE................................................. 8,500,000
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)............. 150,000,000
State Trade & Export Promotion (STEP)................. 10,000,000
Veterans Outreach*.................................... 26,500,000
Women's Business Centers (WBC)........................ 27,000,000
Total, Entrepreneurial Development Programs....... $289,550,000
*Veterans Outreach includes funding for: Boots to Business, Veterans
Business Outreach Centers (VBOC), Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of
Entrepreneurship (V-Wise), Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with
Disabilities (EBV), and Boots to Business reboot.
SBA shall not reduce these non-credit programs from the
amounts specified above and SBA shall not merge any of the non-
credit programs without advance written approval from the
Committee. The Committee strongly supports the development
programs listed in the table above and will carefully monitor
SBA's support of these programs.
Investment in Central Appalachia.--To diversify and enhance
economic opportunities, the Committee directs the Administrator
to prioritize discretionary funding to distressed counties
within the Central Appalachian region, especially those
affected by the 2022 flooding, to help communities and regions
that have been affected by job losses in coal mining, coal
power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain
industries due to the economic downturn of the coal industry.
Employee-Owned Businesses.--The Committee recognizes that
employee-owned businesses are uniquely structured and provide
wide-ranging benefits for businesses, workers, and the local
economy. The Committee notes SBA is required to use SBDCs to
establish an employee-owned business promotion program to
provide assistance on structure, business succession, and
planning. SBA is directed to coordinate with relevant Federal
agencies to: provide education and outreach to businesses,
employees, and financial institutions about employee ownership,
including cooperatives and employee stock ownership plans;
provide technical assistance to assist employees' efforts to
become businesses; and assist in accessing capital sources.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $37,020,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 46,000,000
Recommended in the bill 37,020,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -8,980,000
The mission of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) is to
provide independent, objective oversight to improve the
integrity, accountability, and performance of SBA and its
programs.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $37,020,000 for the SBA OIG.
OFFICE OF ADVOCACY
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $10,109,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 14,109,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 10,109,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -4,000,000
The Office of Advocacy (the Office) was established by
Congress in 1976 to serve as the independent voice for small
business within the Federal government.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $10,109,000 for the Office of
Advocacy. The Committee supports the Office's mission to reduce
regulatory burdens that Federal policies impose on small
businesses.
BUSINESS LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $168,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 79,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 165,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -3,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +86,000,000
The SBA Business Loans Program serves as an important
source of capital for America's small businesses. The
recommendation supports the 7(a) Business Loan Program at a
level of $42,500,000,000, provided that $10,000,000,000 is used
to carry out loans to small manufacturers, as defined in
section 696 of title 15 USC 696, for commitments to guarantee
loans to small manufacturers; the 504 certified development
company program, which includes the 504 commercial real estate
refinance program, at a level of $22,500,000,000; the Secondary
Market Guarantee Program at a program level of $15,000,000,000;
and Small Business Investment Company debenture authority of
$6,000,000,000.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a total of $165,000,000 for the
Business Loans Program Account, of which $3,000,000 is for the
Microloan Program and $162,000,000 is for the authorized
expenses of administering the business loans program.
DISASTER LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $406,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 143,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... *175,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -231,000,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +32,000,000
*The recommendation includes $143,000,000 in disaster relief funding.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends a total of $175,000,000 for the
administrative expenses of the Disaster Loans Program, of which
$143,000,000 is designated as being for disaster relief for
major disasters.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Section 532. The Committee continues a provision
authorizing transfers of up to five percent among SBA
appropriations, provided that transfers do not increase an
appropriation by more than 10 percent. The provision also
requires that transfers be treated as a reprogramming of funds.
Section 533. The Committee continues a provision
authorizing the transfer of not to exceed 3 percent of funding
available under the SBA ``Salaries and Expenses'' and
``Business Loans Program Account'' appropriations to the SBA
``Information Technology System Modernization and Working
Capital Fund''.
Section 534. The Committee includes a new provision to
prohibit the SBA from funding climate change initiatives from
its Salaries and Expenses account.
Section 535. The Committee includes a new provision to
prohibit the SBA from creating, implementing, administering,
expanding, or enforcing a direct lending program not in effect
on January 1, 2024.
Section 536. The Committee includes a new provision to
prohibit the hiring of staff at the District of Columbia office
until the SBA senior area manager position at the Coachella
Valley, California satellite office is staffed by at least one
individual.
Section 537. The Committee includes a new provision to
prohibit small businesses from having to comply with section
1071 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer
Protection Act.
United States Postal Service
PAYMENT TO THE POSTAL SERVICE FUND
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $49,750,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 38,360,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 49,750,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... - - -
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +11,390,000
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is funded almost
entirely by Postal ratepayers, rather than taxpayers. Funds
provided to USPS in the Payment to the Postal Service Fund
include appropriations for revenue forgone, including for
providing free mail for the blind and for overseas absentee
voting.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $49,750,000 for Payment to the
Postal Service Fund. The recommendation funds free mail for the
blind and overseas voting and includes a reconciliation
adjustment.
Postal Consolidations.--The U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
introduced the DFA plan to solve longstanding financial
instability, declining service quality, and customer
discontent. The DFA aims to address these issues through
modernizing U.S. postal facilities, realigning operations to
adapt to shifting market demands, and implementing operational
efficiency measures to ensure financial sustainability and
service excellence. The Committee is concerned with the USPS's
aggressive approach to consolidating Processing and
Distribution Centers (P&DCs) into Local Processing Centers
(LPCs) and the notification and justification provided to
customers and postal workers. Early consolidations in Richmond
and Atlanta have already encountered setbacks, such as reduced
mail service performance and unexpected cost overruns. With
proposed and underway consolidations like Huntsville, AL,
Fayetteville, AR, and Reno, NV, that plan to transport mail
across state lines, the Committee is deeply concerned about the
potential negative impacts on mail service to the American
people, customer satisfaction, and cost overruns potentially
undermining the goals outlined in the DFA plan.
Processing and Distribution Centers.--In recent years, USPS
has announced the downsizing of several processing and
distribution centers to local processing centers. The Committee
remains concerned that these consolidations have contributed to
reduced services and harmed postal performance. The Committee
encourages the USPS to halt any realignment, consolidation, or
partial consolidation of processing or logistics facilities
that provide services to postal districts that at any point
over the past calendar year have failed to meet 93 percent on-
time delivery performance for two-day single-piece First-Class
mail and 90.3 percent on-time delivery performance for three-
to five-day First-Class mail.
Regional Transportation Optimization Plan.--As part of the
DFA Plan, the USPS has started to implement Regional
Transportation Optimization (RTO) and Local Transportation
Optimization (LTO) plans. These plans will limit the number of
times mail is picked up from post offices more than fifty miles
away from Regional Processing and Distribution Centers
(RP&DCs). The USPS's Office of the Inspector General has
released a report showing that this will cause more delays,
especially in rural regions. The Committee recommends that the
USPS reevaluate the implementation of the RTO/LTO plan across
the country to ensure that rural Americans do not experience
further mail delays and report back to the House and Senate
Committees on Appropriations.
Local Post Office Closures.--In recent years, the USPS has
decided to close many local Post Offices and Postal Service
retail locations. The Committee remains concerned by the impact
that these closures could have on communities who rely on local
post offices both as critical hubs of business and
communication but also as community centers. The Committee
recommends that USPS halt plans to close any post office where
such closure would result in if another post office isn't
located within 15 miles of the proposed closed site or if the
post office that is being closed is the closest post office for
a population of 15,000 individuals or more.
The Committee also directs USPS to report to Congress
within 90 days on the plans for reopening and reestablishing
service including in Western North Carolina.
Facility Modernization.--USPS shall communicate clearly
planned network modernization activities and take appropriate
steps to protect against service disruptions that could impact
elections.
Postal Office Locations.--The Committee is concerned that
many cities, including the City of Eastvale, California
currently lacks a post office within city boundaries, causing
significant disruptions to mail services for residents. No
later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee
directs the USPS to report to the Committee on metrics used to
determine the construction or acquisition of new postal
facilities. Additionally, the report should include a
comprehensive analysis related to the construction or
acquisition of a new post office in the City of Eastvale.
Mail Theft.--The Committee continues to remain concerned
about mail theft in the United States and the adverse impact it
is having on postal customers, including extended disruptions
of regular service and theft of personally identifiable
information. The Committee also recognizes that the current
process for victims of mail theft in some localities places an
undue burden on customers.
Postal Public Safety.--The Committee continues to remain
very concerned about mail theft and violence against mail
carriers and other postal employees. The Committee urges USPS
to remove restrictions implemented in 2020 preventing Postal
Police Officers from fully executing their duty to ensure
public safety and mail security, and protect postal assets
within the Nation's mail system, whether on postal property or
beyond the perimeter of postal property.
Accurate Address Listing.--The Committee directs USPS to
conduct an internal review on the numerous instances,
nationwide, where assigned zip-codes overlap municipal
jurisdictions resulting in multiple city listings or incorrect
listings. Given that the USPS recognizes the importance of
last-line city designations, the Committee directs the USPS to
provide a detailed report of their findings within 120 days of
enactment of this Act, including what solutions could be
utilized to ensure proper designations in the future, including
options to designate a single, unique zip code for
jurisdictions affected by this issue including, but not limited
to, Miami Lakes, FL, Cooper City, FL, Priceville, AL and
Eastvale, CA.
Mail Theft Notifications.--The Committee reminds the USPS
of the importance of notifying the public when it is evident
that their mail has been stolen. Timely notifications can help
mail theft victims take actions to prevent identity theft,
fraud, and other crimes. The Committee urges the USPS to make
these notifications a priority.
Modernized Passport Acceptance Services Pilot Program.--The
Committee notes that the USPS plays a leading role in
processing passports. The current process is susceptible to
evolving risks posed by potential image manipulations and
document fraud. The Committee urges USPS to carry out pilot
programs (in at least five rural zip codes and at least five
non-rural zip codes) utilizing self-service kiosks offering
live portrait capture and direct electronic submission.
Rural Post Office Locations.--The Committee recognizes the
importance of the vital service to rural communities provided
by the USPS, especially in ensuring delivery of essential
communications for rural residents' livelihoods and ``last
mile'' services for commercial deliveries. The Committee
directs USPS to invest in rural communities to ensure that
services that provide access to the broader economy are
maintained.
Temporary Suspensions.--The Committee is concerned by
reports of post office closures for extended periods of time.
These closures are under the pretense of ``temporary
suspension'' and with no prior warning or reporting mechanism
to the communities in which postal services are provided. No
later than 120 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee
directs USPS to provide a report to the Committee on post
office temporary suspensions. The report shall include the
criteria used by USPS to determine when a ``temporary
suspension'' status will be on a post office, a comprehensive
list of all post offices currently under temporary suspension
and why they were temporarily suspended, the amount of time
under which these offices have been temporarily suspended, and
an action plan on how to better communicate temporary
suspensions to the community, local leaders, state officials,
and federal officials elected officials.
Private Cloud Platforms.--The Committee recognizes the
critical role of information technology systems modernization
efforts at USPS to carry out its mission. To ensure privacy and
security of data while achieving needed cost efficiencies, the
Committee urges USPS to more fully leverage its existing
private cloud platforms. The Committee directs USPS to report
on its progress toward achieving cost efficiencies by more
fully leveraging its existing private cloud platforms within
180 days.
Zip Codes.--The Committee is concerned that the USPS
Boundary Review Process has not responded adequately to public
requests for new zip codes. The Committee requests that the
USPS examine this issue and report back to Senate and House
Committees on Appropriations detailing (1) a list of requests
the USPS received to establish a new ZIP Code since the Postal
Accountability and Enhancement Act (P.L. 109-435); (2) the ZIP
codes established based on these requests; and (3) the reasons
or rationale for each of the requests rejected by the USPS.
Further, the Committee requests that the USPS study the
Boundary Review Process and examine if reforms can be made to
better accommodate public requests for new ZIP codes.
Post Office Closure Transparency.--In recent years, USPS
has started the process of consolidating or closing many
distribution centers and other postal facilities. The Committee
remains concerned that these changes have contributed to
reduced services and harmed on-time postal performance. To
increase transparency regarding these closures, the Committee
recommends USPS publish a summary of any public meeting or
comment portal on USPS facility closures or consolidations. The
Committee recommends that in this summary the Postal Service
include an anonymized description of any comments made and the
percentage of such comments that were in support or against the
closure or consolidation.
Cluster Box Units.--The Committee is concerned that
customers in many communities, including El Paso, Texas, are
facing issues with cluster box units (CBUs). Specifically,
customers have reported delays in the repair of CBUs, untimely
replacement of keys, lack of any CBU in new neighborhoods, and
more. The Committee understands part of the problem is the lack
of a system to track ownership of CBUs, which would help
determine who is responsible for CBU maintenance. The Committee
directs USPS to develop strategies to improve the customer
experience and service as it relates to CBUs, including a
method to track ownership of USPS owned CBUs, and report to the
Committee no later than 180 days enactment of this Act.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $268,290,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 263,500,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 274,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... +5,710,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... +10,500,000
The USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducts audits,
reviews, and investigations and keeps Congress informed on the
efficiency and economy of USPS programs and operations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $274,000,000 for the OIG, which
includes sufficient funds for the OIG to continue its
aggressive drug interdiction efforts.
Mail Collection Box Removal.--The Committee directs the
USPS OIG to conduct an audit of the mail collection box removal
process and brief the Committee no later than 30 days after
enactment of this Act.
Processing Centers and Delay of Mail.--The Committee is
concerned with the closure of processing facilities, which has
resulted in significant delays in mail delivery times and
standards in multiple communities across the country. Within
180 days of enactment of this Act, the USPS shall provide the
Committee with an analysis on the impact of closing processing
facilities on mail delivery times and standards across the
United States.
Mail Processing and Distribution Center Issues.--The
Committee directs the USPS OIG to investigate longstanding and
unresolved problems with outgoing and incoming mail at the
processing and distribution centers and mail processing annexes
across the United States including in Memphis, Tennessee. The
Committee further directs the USPS OIG to report within nine
months of enactment of this Act on steps to improve service and
reduce mail theft. The Committee urges the Postmaster General
to expeditiously resolve these problems, especially in the
Memphis Center.
AI Data Analytics.--The Committee recognizes the potential
for artificial intelligence to enhance fraud detection and
investigative efforts within the USPS. The Committee supports
the USPS OIG's efforts to develop AI software that analyzes
mailing system data--such as package weight, routing patterns,
and delivery anomalies--to identify indicators of criminal or
fraudulent activity. The Committee encourages USPS to ensure
that such tools are designed to generate actionable
investigative leads for law enforcement and recommends that
relevant data be shared with appropriate Federal agencies to
support interagency efforts to combat mail-based crimes.
Delay of Post Office Reopenings in North Carolina.--The
Committee is concerned with the delay in reopening post offices
in Western North Carolina that were closed due to Hurricane
Helene. Within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the OIG shall
provide the Committee with a plan on how USPS will reopen the
closed facilities in Western North Carolina.
United States Tax Court
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025....................... $56,727,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026...................... 65,000,000
Recommended in the bill............................... 55,000,000
Bill compared with:
Appropriation, fiscal year 2025..................... -1,727,000
Budget request, fiscal year 2026.................... -10,000,000
The United States Tax Court adjudicates controversies
involving deficiencies in income, estate, and gift taxes. The
Court also has jurisdiction to determine deficiencies in
certain excise taxes, to issue declaratory judgments in the
areas of qualifications of retirement plans and exemptions of
charitable organizations, and to decide certain cases involving
disclosure of tax information by the Commissioner of the
Internal Revenue Service.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommends $55,000,000 for the U.S. Tax
Court.
TITLE VI--GENERAL PROVISIONS--THIS ACT
Section 601. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting pay and other expenses for non-Federal parties in
regulatory or adjudicatory proceedings funded in this Act.
Section 602. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting obligations beyond the current fiscal year and
prohibits transfers of funds unless expressly so provided
herein.
Section 603. The Committee continues a provision limiting
procurement contracts for consulting service expenditures to
contracts that are matters of public record and available for
public inspection.
Section 604. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting transfer of funds in this Act without express
authority.
Section 605. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds to engage in activities that would
prohibit the enforcement of section 307 of the 1930 Tariff Act.
Section 606. The Committee continues a provision concerning
compliance with the Buy American Act.
Section 607. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds by any person or entity convicted
of violating the Buy American Act.
Section 608. The Committee continues a provision specifying
reprogramming procedures. The provision requires that agencies
or entities funded by this Act obtain prior approval from the
Committee for any reprogramming of funds that: (1) creates a
new program; (2) eliminates a program, project, or activity;
(3) increases funds or personnel for any program, project, or
activity for which funds have been denied or restricted by the
Congress; (4) proposes to use funds directed for a specific
activity by the Committee on Appropriations of either the House
of Representatives or the Senate for a different purpose; (5)
augments existing programs, projects, or activities in excess
of $5,000,000 or 10 percent, whichever is less; (6) reduces
existing programs, projects, or activities by $5,000,000 or 10
percent, whichever is less; or (7) creates or reorganizes
offices, programs, or activities different from the budget
justifications submitted to the Committees on Appropriations or
the tables in the report accompanying this Act, whichever is
more detailed. The provision also directs agencies to consult
with the Committees prior to any significant reorganization,
restructuring, relocation, or closing of offices, programs, or
activities and directs the agencies funded by this Act to
submit operating plans for the Committee's review within 60
days of the bill's enactment.
Section 609. The Committee continues a provision providing
that fifty percent of unobligated balances may remain available
through September 30, 2027, for certain purposes.
Section 610. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funding for the Executive Office of the President
to request either a Federal Bureau of Investigation background
investigation or Internal Revenue Service determination with
respect to section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
except with the express consent of the individual involved in
an investigation or in extraordinary circumstances involving
national security.
Section 611. The Committee continues a provision regarding
cost accounting standards for contracts under the Federal
Employees Health Benefits Program.
Section 612. The Committee continues a provision regarding
non-foreign area cost-of-living allowances.
Section 613. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the expenditure of funds for abortions under the
Federal Employees Health Benefits Program.
Section 614. The Committee continues a provision that
provides an exemption from section 613 if the life of the
mother is in danger or the pregnancy is a result of an act of
rape or incest.
Section 615. The Committee continues a provision waiving
restrictions on the purchase of non-domestic articles,
materials, and supplies in the case of acquisition of
information technology by the Federal government.
Section 616. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting officers or employees of any regulatory agency or
commission funded by this Act from accepting travel payments or
reimbursements from a person or entity regulated by such agency
or commission.
Section 617. The Committee continues a provision requiring
certain agencies in this Act to consult with GSA before seeking
new office space or making alterations to existing office
space.
Section 618. The Committee continues a provision providing
for several appropriated mandatory accounts. These are accounts
where authorizing language requires the payment of funds.
Section 619. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits funds for the FTC to complete the draft report on
food marketed to children.
Section 620. The Committee continues a provision requiring
that the head of any executive branch agency ensure that the
Chief Information Officer has authority to participate in the
budget planning process and approval of the information
technology budget.
Section 621. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds in contravention of the Federal Records Act.
Section 622. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting agencies from requiring Internet Service Providers
to disclose electronic communications information in a manner
that violates the Fourth Amendment.
Section 623. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds from being used to deny inspectors general
access to records.
Section 624. The Committee continues a provision relating
to USF payments for wireless providers.
Section 625. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting any funds made available in this Act from being
used to establish a computer network unless such network blocks
the viewing, downloading, and exchanging of pornography.
Section 626. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting any funds made available in this Act from being
used to pay for award or incentive fees for contractors with
below satisfactory performance.
Section 627. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds made available under this Act from being used
for certain travel and conference activities unless an agency
or entity determines that the travel is in the national
interest and advance notice is provided to the Appropriations
Committees.
Section 628. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds made available under this Act from being used
to fund first-class or business-class travel in contravention
of Federal regulations.
Section 629. The Committee continues a provision providing
an additional $5,450,000 for the Pandemic Response
Accountability Committee (PRAC), with $450,0000 for the
Inspectors General Council Fund to expand and update the
Federal-wide Inspectors General website oversight.gov. The
Committee includes a new reporting requirement. Within 270
days, the PRAC is directed to issue a report to the House and
Senate Committees on Appropriations and the House Committee on
Oversight and Government Reform and the Senate Committee on
Homeland Security, Governmental Affairs describing additional
savings to be achieved through the creation of an early warning
fraud detection program to support federal and state agencies
and Offices of Inspectors General in their efforts to detect
and mitigate waste, fraud, abuse, and other improper payments
and awards. The report should also describe the PRAC's ability
to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
models and network analysis to identify anomalies or issues not
otherwise detected or identified in the early warning fraud
detection program.
Section 630. The Committee continues a provision relating
to contracts for public relations services.
Section 631. The Committee continues a provision relating
to advertising and educational programming.
Section 632. The Committee continues a provision relating
to statements by grantees regarding projects or programs funded
by this agreement.
Section 633. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds from being used to finalize, implement, or
enforce the rule titled ``the Enhancement and Standardization
of Climate-Related Disclosures for Investors'' (89 Fed. Reg.
21334 (April 12, 2024)) or any substantially similar rule.
Section 634. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits funds for the SEC to finalize, issue, or implement
any rule, regulation, or order requiring the disclosure of
political contributions, contributions to tax-exempt
organizations, or dues paid to trade associations in SEC
filings.
Section 635. The Committee continues a provision requiring
agencies funded in this Act to submit to the Committees
quarterly budget reports on obligations.
Section 636. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the procurement of electric vehicles, electric
vehicle batteries, electric vehicle charging stations or
infrastructure.
Section 637. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the promotion or advancement of Critical Race
Theory.
Section 638. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the implementation of diversity, equity, and
inclusion training or implementation.
Section 639. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds to support, directly or
indirectly, the Wuhan Institute of Virology or any laboratory
owned or controlled by the governments of the People's Republic
of China, the Republic of Cuba, the Islamic Republic of Iran,
the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the Russian
Federation, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela under the
regime of Nicolas Maduro Moros, or any other country determined
by the Secretary of State to be a foreign adversary.
Section 640. The Committee includes a new provision that
defunds the Federal Election Commission's prior approval
requirement for corporate member trade association Political
Action Committees.
Section 641. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits the use of funds to discriminate against a person who
speaks, or acts, in accordance with a sincerely held religious
belief, or moral conviction, that marriage is, or should be
recognized as, a union of one man and one woman.
Section 642. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the use of funds to develop, finalize, or implement
a proposed regulation regarding critical minerals mining
projects.
Section 643. The Committee includes a new provision
requiring the Postmaster General to notify Members of Congress
of new stamps depicting landmarks or individuals from their
district or State.
Section 644. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits the use of funds to display a flag over or within a
Federal government facility other than the flag of the United
States, a flag bearing an official U.S. Government seal or
insignia, or the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action flag.
Section 645. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds from being used to prevent Members of Congress
or staff from entering a facility used for delivery, printed
materials, or mailable packages to conduct oversight; or to
make any temporary modification during such visit that wouldn't
otherwise be observed in absence of visit. The prohibition
includes requiring any prior notice of intent to enter a
facility.
Section 646. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds from being used to facilitate the registration
of any noncitizen to vote in any local, state, or federal
election.
Section 647. The Committee includes a new provision that
codifies the Reins Act. No funds may be used to promulgate new
rules in which OIRA finds has resulted in or likely to result
in 1) an annual effect on the economy of $100,000,000 or more;
2) a major increase in prices for consumers, individual
industries, Federal, state or local government agencies or
geographic regions; or 3) significant adverse effects on
competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation,
consumer choice, or the ability of United States-based
enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises in
domestic and export markets.
Section 648. The Committee includes a new provision
preventing the use of funds to support sister city activities
between the District of Columbia and cities in China.
Section 649. The Committee includes a new provision
requiring GAO to examine the Buy American Act and the Trade
Agreements Act.
Section 650. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds from being used by GSA to procure vehicles
from firms that are owned by the PRC or manufacturer has an
agreement with a sanctioned entity.
TITLE VII--GENERAL PROVISIONS--GOVERNMENT WIDE
Departments, Agencies, and Corporations
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Section 701. The Committee continues a provision requiring
agencies to administer a policy designed to ensure that all its
workplaces are free from the illegal use of controlled
substances.
Section 702. The Committee continues a provision
establishing price limitations on vehicles to be purchased by
the Federal government with an exemption for the purchase of
electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and hydrogen fuel cell
vehicles.
Section 703. The Committee continues a provision allowing
funds made available to agencies for travel to also be used for
quarters allowances and cost-of-living allowances.
Section 704. The Committee continues and modifies a
provision prohibiting the employment of noncitizens with
certain exceptions.
Section 705. The Committee continues a provision giving
agencies the authority to pay GSA bills for space renovation
and other services.
Section 706. The Committee continues a provision allowing
agencies to finance the costs of recycling and waste prevention
programs with proceeds from the sale of materials recovered
through such programs.
Section 707. The Committee continues a provision providing
that funds made available to corporations and agencies subject
to 31 U.S.C. 91 may pay rent and other service costs in the
District of Columbia.
Section 708. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting interagency financing of groups absent prior
statutory approval.
Section 709. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds for enforcing regulations
disapproved in accordance with the applicable law of the U.S.
Section 710. The Committee continues a provision limiting
the amount of funds that can be used for redecoration of
offices under certain circumstances.
Section 711. The Committee continues a provision to allow
for interagency funding of national security and emergency
telecommunications initiatives.
Section 712. The Committee continues a provision requiring
agencies to certify that a Schedule C appointment was not
created solely or primarily to detail the employee to the White
House.
Section 713. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the payment of any employee who prohibits,
threatens, or prevents another employee from communicating with
Congress.
Section 714. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting Federal training not directly related to the
performance of official duties.
Section 715. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting, other than for normal and recognized executive-
legislative relationships, propaganda, publicity, and lobbying
by executive agency personnel in support or defeat of
legislative initiatives.
Section 716. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting any Federal agency from disclosing an employee's
home address to any labor organization, absent employee
authorization or court order.
Section 717. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds to be used to provide non-public information
such as mailing, telephone, or electronic mailing lists to any
person or organization outside the government without the
approval of the Committees on Appropriations.
Section 718. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds for propaganda and publicity
purposes not authorized by Congress.
Section 719. The Committee continues a provision directing
agency employees to use official time in an honest effort to
perform official duties.
Section 720. The Committee continues a provision
authorizing the use of funds to finance an appropriate share of
the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board.
Section 721. The Committee continues a provision
authorizing the transfer of funds to GSA to finance an
appropriate share of various government-wide boards and
councils and for Federal government priority goals under
certain conditions.
Section 722. The Committee continues a provision that
permits breastfeeding in a Federal building or on Federal
property if the woman and child are authorized to be there.
Section 723. The Committee continues a provision that
permits interagency funding of the National Science and
Technology Council and provides for a report on the budget and
resources of the National Science and Technology Council.
Section 724. The Committee continues a provision requiring
documents involving the distribution of Federal funds to
indicate the agency providing the funds and the amount
provided.
Section 725. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds to monitor personal access or use
of Internet sites or to collect, review, or obtain any
personally identifiable information relating to access to or
use of an Internet site.
Section 726. The Committee continues a provision requiring
health plans participating in the Federal Employees Health
Benefits Program to provide contraceptive coverage and provides
exemptions to certain religious plans.
Section 727. The Committee continues language supporting
strict adherence to anti-doping activities.
Section 728. The Committee continues a provision allowing
funds for official travel to be used by departments and
agencies, if consistent with OMB Circular A-126, to participate
in the fractional aircraft ownership pilot program.
Section 729. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds for the implementation of OPM regulations
limiting detailees to the legislative branch and placing
certain limitations on the Coast Guard Congressional Fellowship
program.
Section 730. The Committee continues a provision that
restricts the use of funds for Federal law enforcement training
facilities.
Section 731. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits Executive Branch agencies from creating prepackaged
news stories that are broadcast or distributed in the United
States unless the story includes a clear notification within
the text or audio of such news story that the prepackaged news
story was prepared or funded by that executive branch agency.
This provision confirms the GAO opinion dated February 17, 2005
(B-304272).
Section 732. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting use of funds in contravention of section 552a of
title 5, United States Code (the Privacy Act) and regulations
implementing that section.
Section 733. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds from being used for any Federal government
contract with any foreign incorporated entity which is treated
as an inverted domestic corporation.
Section 734. The Committee continues a provision requiring
agencies to pay a fee to OPM for processing retirement of
employees who separate under Voluntary Early Retirement
Authority or who receive Voluntary Separation Incentive
payments.
Section 735. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds from requiring any entity submitting an offer
for a Federal contract to disclose political contributions.
Section 736. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds for the painting of a portrait of an employee
of the Federal government, including the President, the Vice
President, a Member of Congress, the head of an executive
branch agency, or the head of an office of the legislative
branch.
Section 737. The Committee continues a provision limiting
the pay increases of certain prevailing rate employees.
Section 738. The Committee continues a provision requiring
agencies to submit reports to Inspectors General concerning
expenditures for agency conferences.
Section 739. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting funds to be used to increase, eliminate, or reduce
funding for a program or project unless such change is made
pursuant to reprogramming or transfer provisions.
Section 740. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting agencies from using funds to implement regulations
changing the competitive areas under reductions-in-force for
Federal employees.
Section 741. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the use of funds to begin or announce a study or a
public-private competition regarding the conversion to
contractor performance of any function performed by civilian
Federal employees pursuant to OMB Circular A-76 or any other
administrative regulation, directive, or policy.
Section 742. The Committee continues a provision ensuring
contractors are not prevented from reporting waste, fraud, or
abuse by signing confidentiality agreements that would prohibit
such disclosure.
Section 743. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the expenditure of funds for the implementation of
certain nondisclosure agreements unless certain provisions are
included in the agreements.
Section 744. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds to enter into any agreement with
any corporation with certain unpaid Federal tax liabilities
unless an agency has considered suspension or debarment of the
corporation and made a determination that further action is not
necessary to protect the interests of the government.
Section 745. The Committee continues a provision
prohibiting the use of funds to enter into any agreement with
any corporation that was convicted of a felony criminal
violation within the preceding 24 months unless an agency has
considered suspension or debarment of the corporation and made
a determination that further action is not necessary to protect
the interests of the government.
Section 746. The Committee continues a provision
eliminating the automatic statutory pay increase for the Vice
President and certain senior political appointees.
Section 747. The Committee continues a provision related to
impoundment of resources.
Section 748. The Committee continues a provision requiring
that any executive branch agency notify the Committee if an
apportionment of an appropriation for such agency is not
approved in a timely and appropriate manner.
Section 749. The Committee continues a provision addressing
interagency funding for the United States Army Medical Research
and Development Command and the Congressionally Directed
Medical Research Programs and the National Institutes of Health
research programs.
Section 750. The Committee continues the authorization for
GSA to transfer funds to finance an appropriate share of
various information technology projects among Government-wide
boards and councils under certain conditions.
Section 751. The Committee continues a provision related to
recordkeeping requirements for certain GAO audits.
Section 752. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds for States, cities, or localities that allow
non-citizens to vote in Federal elections.
Section 753. The Committee includes a new provision
restricting funds to make investments under the Thrift Savings
Plan in certain mutual funds that make investment decisions
based primarily on environmental, social, or governance
criteria.
Section 754. The Committee includes a new provision
restricting funds for labelling information.
Section 755. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds to recruit, hire, promote or retain any
person convicted of a child pornography; sexual assault charge;
or who is a registered sex offender or has been formally
disciplined for using Federal resources to access, use, or sell
child pornography.
Section 756. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the implementation of Executive Order 14019 with
certain exceptions.
Section 757. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds to implement, administer, or enforce any
COVID-19 mask or vaccine mandates.
Section 758. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds to be used to contract with, grant awards to,
or otherwise obligate or expend funds to NewsGuard
Technologies; Disinformation Index, Inc., Disinformation Index
Ltd., Global Disinformation Index gUG (collectively doing
business as ``Global Disinformation Index''); or any other
entity, including a nonprofit organization (as described by
section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986), that
engages in operations or activities, or produces products, the
function of which is to demonetize or rate the credibility of a
domestic entity (including news or information outlets) based
on lawful speech of such domestic entity under the stated
function of ``fact-check'', or otherwise exposing or correcting
mis-information, dis-information, or mal-information.
Section 759. The Committee continues a provision concerning
the non-application of these general provisions to title IV and
to title VIII.
Section 760. The Committee includes a new provision
requiring agencies to comply with the provisions set out in
Executive Order No. 14240 of March 25, 2025 (90 Fed. Reg.
13671), Executive Order No. 14274 of April 15, 2025 (90 Fed.
Reg. 16445), Executive Order No. 14247 of March 25, 2025 (90
Fed. Reg. 14011), Executive Order No. 14249 of March 25, 2025
(90 Fed. Reg. 14001), and Executive Order No. 14208 of February
10, 2025 (90 Fed. Reg. 9585).
Section 761. The Committee includes a new provision that
prohibits funds from being used in the Federal Employees Health
Benefits Program to cover the costs of surgical procedures or
puberty blockers or hormone therapy for the purpose of gender
affirming care.
Section 762. The Committee continues a provision requiring
the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to notify Congress
when funds are transferred in accordance with section 1017 of
P.L. 111-203.
TITLE VIII--GENERAL PROVISIONS--DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA
(INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF FUNDS)
Section 801. The Committee continues language that allows
the use of local funds for making refunds or paying judgments
against the District of Columbia government.
Section 802. The Committee continues language that
prohibits the use of Federal funds for publicity or propaganda
designed to support or defeat legislation before Congress or
any State legislature.
Section 803. The Committee continues a provision that
establishes reprogramming procedures for Federal funds.
Section 804. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the use of Federal funds for the salaries and
expenses of a shadow U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative.
Section 805. The Committee continues a provision that
places restrictions on the use of District of Columbia
government vehicles.
Section 806. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the use of Federal funds for a petition or civil
action that seeks to require voting rights for the District of
Columbia in Congress.
Section 807. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the use of Federal funds in this Act to distribute,
for the purpose of preventing the spread of blood borne
pathogens, sterile needles or syringes in any location that has
been determined by local public health officials or local law
enforcement authorities to be inappropriate for such
distribution.
Section 808. The Committee continues a provision that
concerns a ``conscience clause'' on legislation that pertains
to contraceptive coverage by health insurance plans.
Section 809. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the use of funds for abortion except in the cases of
rape or incest or if necessary, to save the life of the mother.
Section 810. The Committee continues a provision that
requires the CFO to submit a revised operating budget no later
than 30 calendar days after the enactment of this Act for
agencies the CFO certifies as requiring a reallocation to
address unanticipated program needs.
Section 811. The Committee continues a provision that
requires the CFO to submit a revised operating budget for the
District of Columbia Public Schools, no later than 30 calendar
days after the enactment of this Act, which aligns schools'
budgets to actual enrollment.
Section 812. The Committee continues a provision that
allows for transfers of local funds between operating funds and
capital and enterprise funds.
Section 813. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits the obligation of Federal funds beyond the current
fiscal year and transfers of funds unless expressly provided
herein.
Section 814. The Committee continues a provision that
provides that not to exceed 50 percent of unobligated balances
from Federal appropriations for salaries and expenses may
remain available for certain purposes. This provision applies
to the District of Columbia Courts, the Court Services and
Offender Supervision Agency, and the District of Columbia
Public Defender Service.
Section 815. The Committee continues a provision that
appropriates local funds during fiscal year 2027 if there is an
absence of a continuing resolution or regular appropriation for
the District of Columbia. Funds are provided under the same
authorities and conditions and in the same manner and extent as
provided for in fiscal year 2026.
Section 816. The Committee continues a provision that
provides the District of Columbia authority to transfer,
receive, and acquire lands and funding it deems necessary for
the construction and operation of interstate bridges over
navigable waters, including related infrastructure, for a
project to expand commuter and regional passenger rail service
and provide bike and pedestrian access crossings.
Section 817. The Committee continues a provision that
requires each Federal and District government agency
appropriated Federal funding in this Act submit to the
Committees quarterly budget reports on obligations.
Section 818. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds to carry out the Reproductive Health Non-
Discrimination Amendment Act of 2014 (D.C. Law 20-261) or to
implement any rule or regulation promulgated to carry out such
Act.
Section 819. The Committee includes a new provision
repealing the Death with Dignity Act of 2016 and prohibit the
D.C. Council from passing laws related to physician-assisted
suicide in the future.
Section 820. The Committee includes a new provision
directing the District of Columbia to submit a report to the
Committees regarding how the District of Columbia has complied
with the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act, including if
violations of the law have taken place. If violations have
taken place, the report should detail the number of violations
in the past five years, the District of Columbia's response to
the violations, whether the District of Columbia preserved each
child's remains for appropriate examination during the
investigation, and other pertinent information on violations.
Section 821. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds used by the District of Columbia to enforce
the final rule relating to ``Adoption of California Vehicle
Emission Standards.''
Section 822. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds used by the District of Columbia to enact or
carry out any law which prohibits motorists from making right
turns on red, including D.C. Law L24-214.
Section 823. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds used by the District of Columbia to carry out
D.C. Automated Traffic Enforcement.
Section 824. The Committee includes a new provision
repealing the Corrections Oversight Improvement Omnibus
Amendment Act of 2022.
Section 825. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds used by the District of Columbia to enact or
carry out any law which enrolls or registers noncitizens into
voter rolls.
Section 826. The Committee includes a new provision
allowing valid weapons carry permit holders to conceal carry,
including magazines and ammunition, in areas governed by the
District of Columbia and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit
Authority.
Section 827. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds used by the District of Columbia to enact the
Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of
2022.
Section 828. The Committee includes a new provision
repealing the Youth Rehabilitation Amendment Act of 2018.
Section 829. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds used by the District of Columbia to enforce a
COVID-19 mask mandate or COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
Section 830. The Committee continues a provision that
prohibits federal funds from being used to carry out any law,
rule or regulation to legalize Schedule I substances under the
Controlled Substances Act or any tetrahydrocannabinols
derivative.
Section 831. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting the District of Columbia from obligating or
expending funds to implement the Insurance Regulation Amendment
Act of 2024 or any regulation promulgated pursuant to such Act.
Section 832. The Committee includes a prohibition on
implementation or enforcement of the Consumer Protection Act
(Sec. 28-3901-28-3913) against oil and gas companies for
environmental claims.
Section 833. The Committee includes a new provision
amending the D.C. College Access Act of 1999 to increase the
amount of annual and lifetime awards available for the Tuition
Assistance Grant (TAG) program. Annual and lifetime awards
available for public institutions are increased from $10,000/
$50,000 to $15,000/$75,000 and for private institutions from
$2,500/$12,500 to $3,750/$18,750.
Section 834. Specifies that references to ``this Act'' in
this title or title IV are treated as referring only to the
provisions of this title and title IV.
Section 835. The Committee includes a new provision
prohibiting funds from being used to implement title 1 or title
II of the District of Columbia's Human Rights Sanctuary
Amendment Act of 2022.
TITLE IX--ADDITIONAL GENERAL PROVISIONS
SPENDING REDUCTION ACCOUNT
Section 901. The Committee includes a new provision
establishing a ``Spending Reduction Account'' in the bill.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
The following items are included in accordance with various
requirements of the Rules of the House of Representatives:
STATEMENT OF GENERAL PERFORMANCE GOALS
AND OBJECTIVES
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(4) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following is a statement of
general performance goals and objectives for which this measure
authorizes funding:
The Committee on Appropriations considers program
performance, including a program's success in
developing and attaining outcome-related goals and
objectives, in developing funding recommendations.
Rescission of Funds
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following table is submitted
describing the rescissions recommended in the accompanying
bill:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department or Activity Amount
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Payment for Defender Services in The District $12,000,000
of Columbia Courts...................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transfers of Funds
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives and section 6(f) of the Rules and
Practices of the Committee on Appropriations, the following
list is submitted describing the transfers of funds in the
accompanying bill:
Under Title I--Department of the Treasury
Language is included under the Committee on Foreign
Investment in the United States allowing the transfer of funds
to a department or agency represented on the Committee upon the
advance notification.
Language is included under Department-Wide Systems and
Capital Investments allowing the transfer of funds to accounts
necessary to satisfy the requirement of the Department's
offices, bureaus, and other organizations.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
authorizing transfers, up to five percent, between Internal
Revenue Service appropriations upon advance approval of the
Committee, with restrictions.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
authorizing transfers, up to two percent, between
``Departmental Offices--Salaries and Expenses'', ``Office of
Inspector General'', ``Financial Crimes Enforcement Network'',
``Bureau of the Fiscal Service'', and ``Alcohol and Tobacco Tax
and Trade Bureau'' appropriations under certain circumstances.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
authorizing transfers, up to two percent, between the Internal
Revenue Service and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax
Administration under certain circumstances.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
authorizing transfers from the Bureau of the Fiscal Service to
the Debt Collection Fund as necessary for the purposes of debt
collection.
Under Title II--Executive Office of the President and Funds
Appropriated to the President
Language is included under Federal Drug Control Programs,
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program, which allows for
the transfer of funds to Federal departments or agencies and
State and local entities.
Language is included under Other Federal Drug Control
Programs allowing the transfers of funds to other Federal
departments and agencies to carry out activities.
Language is included under Information Technology Oversight
and Reform allowing the transfer of funds to other agencies to
carry out projects.
Language is included under the Official Residence of the
Vice President, Operating Expenses, allowing the transfer of
funds to other Federal departments or agencies.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
permitting the Executive Office of the President to transfer up
to 10 percent of certain appropriations, subject to approval of
the Committee.
Under Title III--The Judiciary
Language is included under Court Security allowing the
transfer of funds to the United States Marshals Service for
courthouse security.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
permitting the Judiciary to transfer up to five percent of any
appropriation with certain limitations.
Under Title V--Independent Agencies
Language is included under the General Services
Administration allowing the transfer of funds within the
Federal Buildings Fund, under certain circumstances, upon the
advance approval of the Committees.
Language is included under the General Services
Administration, Federal Citizen Services Fund, allowing the
transfer of funds from the Federal Citizen Services Fund to
Federal agencies.
Language is included under the General Services
Administration, Working Capital Fund, allowing the transfer of
funds from the Working Capital Fund to other Federal agencies.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
providing that funds made available for activities of the
Federal Buildings Fund may be transferred between
appropriations with advance approval of the Committees.
Language is included under the Merit Systems Protection
Board, Salaries and Expenses, allowing the transfer from the
Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund.
Language is included under the Morris K. Udall and Stewart
L. Udall Foundation, Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Trust
Fund, allowing the transfer of funds from the Office of
Inspector General of the Department of the Interior to the
Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation for annual
independent financial audits.
Language is included under the Office of Personnel
Management, Salaries and Expenses, allowing the transfer of
certain trust funds to the Salaries and Expenses account for
administrative expenses, and allowing the transfer of up to
five percent of the appropriation into an information
technology working capital fund upon the advance approval of
the Committees.
Language is included under the Office of Personnel
Management, Office of Inspector General, allowing the transfer
of certain trust funds to the Office of Inspector General
account for administrative expenses.
Language is included under the Small Business
Administration, Business Loans Program Account, allowing funds
to be transferred to and merged with the Salaries and Expenses
appropriation.
Language is included under the Small Business
Administration, Disaster Loans Program Account, allowing funds
to be transferred to and merged with the Office of Inspector
General and Salaries and Expenses appropriations.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
authorizing transfers of up to five percent among SBA
appropriations, with certain limitations.
Language included in the administrative provisions
authorizing transfers of up to three percent available under
the SBA ``Salaries and Expenses'' and ``Business Loans Program
Account'' appropriations to the SBA ``Information Technology
System Modernization and Working Capital Fund''.
Language is included under the United States Postal
Service, Office of Inspector General, Salaries and Expenses,
allowing the transfer of funds from the Postal Service Fund.
Under Title VII--General Provisions--Government-Wide
Language is included in the general provisions authorizing
the transfer of funds to GSA to finance an appropriate share of
various government-wide boards and councils and for Federal
government priority goals under certain conditions.
Language is included in the general provisions authorizing
GSA to transfer funds to finance an appropriate share of
various information technology projects among Government-wide
boards and councils under certain conditions.
Under Title VIII--General Provisions--District of Columbia
Language is included in the general provision allowing for
transfers of local funds between operating funds and capital
and enterprise funds.
DISCLOSURE OF EARMARKS AND CONGRESSIONALLY DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS
Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House
of Representatives, neither the bill nor this report contains
any congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited
tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules
of the House of Representatives.
Changes in the Application of Existing Law
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(A) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives and section 6(e) of the Rules and
Practices of the Committee on Appropriations, the following
statements are submitted describing the effect of provisions
proposed in the accompanying bill which may be considered,
under certain circumstances, to change the application of
existing law, either directly or indirectly. The bill provides
that appropriations shall remain available for more than one
year for several programs for which the basic authorizing
legislation does not explicitly authorize such extended
availability. In addition, the bill carries language, in some
instances, permitting activities not authorized by law, or
exempting agencies from certain provisions of law, but which
have been carried in appropriations acts for many years.
The bill includes several limitations on official
entertainment, reception, and representation expenses. Similar
provisions have appeared in many previous appropriations Acts.
The bill also includes several limitations on the purchase of
automobiles or office furnishings that also have appeared in
many previous appropriations Acts. Language is included in
several instances permitting certain funds to be credited to
the appropriations recommended. Language is also included in
several instances permitting funding for services authorized by
5 U.S.C. 3109 and for the hire of passenger motor vehicles.
Title I--Department of the Treasury
Language is included for Departmental Offices, Salaries and
Expenses, that provides funds for operation and maintenance of
Treasury Buildings; hire of passenger motor vehicles;
maintenance, repairs, and improvements of, and purchase of
commercial insurance policies for real properties leased or
owned overseas; and for domestic finance and tax policy
activities. Language is also included designating funds for
official reception and representation expenses; unforeseen
emergencies of a confidential nature; and extending the period
of availability for certain funds.
Language is included for the Committee on Foreign
Investment in the United States Fund that provides for the
transfer of funds to departments or agencies represented on the
Committee for expenses of implementing section 721 of the
Defense Production Act of 1950. Language is included that
provides for the assessment and collection of offsetting
collections.
Language is included for the Office of Terrorism and
Financial Intelligence, Salaries and Expenses, that provides
funds to safeguard the financial system from national security
threats. This includes funding for a pilot program to test the
deployment of artificial intelligence and machine learning and
to conduct econometrics analysis.
Language is included for the Cybersecurity Enhancement
Account that provides funds for enhanced cybersecurity for
systems operated by the Department of the Treasury.
Language is included for Department-wide Systems and
Capital Investments Programs that provides funds for equipment,
software, and repairs and renovations to buildings owned by the
Department of the Treasury. Language is also included that
extends the period of availability for available funds.
Language is included for the Office of Inspector General,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds to carry out the
provisions of the Inspector General Act of 1978, including the
hire of vehicles, unforeseen emergencies of a confidential
nature, official reception and representation expenses, and
unforeseen emergencies of a confidential nature.
Language is included for the Treasury Inspector General for
Tax Administration, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds
to carry out the provisions of the Inspector General Act of
1978, including consulting services, official reception and
representation expenses, the purchase and hire of motor
vehicles, unforeseen emergencies of a confidential nature, and
specifies the period of availability for certain funds.
Language is included for Financial Crimes Enforcement
Network, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for the
hire of motor vehicles; travel and training of non-Federal and
foreign government personnel attending meetings involving
domestic or foreign financial intelligence, law enforcement,
and regulation; official reception and representation expenses;
and assistance to Federal law enforcement agencies with or
without reimbursement. Language is also included that extends
the period of availability for certain funds.
Language is included for the Bureau of the Fiscal Service,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for necessary
expenses, including for official reception and representation
expenses, and extends the period of availability for
information systems modernization funds. Language is also
included specifying an amount to be derived from the Oil Spill
Liability Trust Fund.
Language is included for the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and
Trade Bureau, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for
the hire of passenger motor vehicles, official reception and
representation expenses, cooperative research and development
programs, and laboratory assistance to State and local
agencies. Language is included that extends the period of
availability for certain funds.
Language is included for the United States Mint, United
States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, which identifies the source
of funding for the operations and activities of the U.S. Mint
and specifies the level of funding for circulating coinage and
protective service capital investments.
Language is included for the Community Development
Financial Institutions Fund Program Account that provides
specific amounts for: financial and technical assistance;
individuals with disabilities; Native American initiatives;
Bank Enterprise Awards; Small Dollar Loan Program; and
administrative expenses for the program and cost of direct
loans. Language is included for clarifying the amount for the
Bond Guarantee Program.
Language is included for the Internal Revenue Service,
Taxpayer Services, that provides funds for pre-filing
assistance and education, filing and account services, and
taxpayer advocacy services, and dedicating funding for the Tax
Counseling for the Elderly Program, low-income taxpayer clinic
grants, and Community Volunteer Income Tax Assistance grants.
Language is included specifying the period of availability for
certain funds.
Language is included for the Internal Revenue Service,
Enforcement, that provides funds to determine and collect owed
taxes, provide legal and litigation support, conduct criminal
investigations, enforce criminal statutes, purchase and hire of
vehicles, designates funding for the Interagency Crime and Drug
Enforcement program, and designates funding for investigative
technology for the Criminal Investigation Division. Language is
included specifying the period of availability for certain
funds.
Language is included for the Internal Revenue Service,
Technology and Operations Support, that provides funds for
operating and supporting taxpayer services and tax law
enforcement programs; facilities services; printing; postage;
physical security; headquarters and other IRS-wide
administration activities; research and statistics of income;
telecommunications; information technology development,
enhancement, operations, maintenance, and security; hire of
passenger motor vehicles; and official reception and
representation expenses. Language is included specifying the
period of availability for certain funds and requiring reports
on information technology.
Language is included in the administrative provisions that
provides transfer authority of up to five percent with certain
restrictions.
Language is included in the administrative provisions that
requires the IRS to maintain a training program in taxpayers'
rights, dealing courteously with taxpayers, cross-cultural
relations, ethics, and the impartial application of tax law.
Language is included in the administrative provisions that
requires the IRS to institute and enforce policies and
procedures that will safeguard the confidentiality of taxpayer
information and protect taxpayers against identity theft.
Language is included in the administrative provisions that
makes funds available for improved facilities and increased
staffing to provide efficient and effective 1-800 number help
line service for taxpayers.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
require the IRS to issue notices to employers of any address
change request and to give special consideration to offers in
compromise for taxpayers who have been victims of payroll tax
preparer fraud.
Language included to prohibit the use of funds in
contravention of section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (relating to confidentiality and disclosure of returns and
return information).
Language is included in the administrative provisions that
provides direct hiring authorities for IRS positions.
Language is included in the administrative provisions that
extends the current home to work transportation for the IRS
Commissioner for fiscal year 2025.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
prohibit the purchase of firearms or ammunition above specified
levels.
Language is included for the purchase of uniforms,
insurance for motor vehicles that are overseas, and motor
vehicles that are overseas without regard to the general
purchase price limitations; to enter contracts with the State
Department for health and medical services for Treasury
employees who are overseas; and to hire experts or consultants.
Language is included that authorizes transfers of up to two
percent between ``Departmental Offices--Salaries and
Expenses'', ``Office of Inspector General'', ``Financial Crimes
Enforcement Network'', ``Bureau of the Fiscal Service'', and
``Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau'' appropriations
under certain circumstances.
Language is included in the administrative provision that
authorizes transfers, up to two percent, between the Internal
Revenue Service and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax
Administration under certain circumstances.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
authorize transfers from the Bureau of the Fiscal Service to
the Debt Collection Fund as necessary for the purposes of debt
collection.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
require Congressional approval for the construction and
operation of a museum by the United States Mint.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
prohibit funds in this or any other Act from being used to
merge the United States Mint and the Bureau of Engraving and
Printing without the approval of the House and the Senate
committees of jurisdiction.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
provide that funds for the Department of the Treasury's
intelligence-related activities are specifically authorized in
fiscal year 2025 until enactment of the Intelligence
Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
permit the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to use $5,000 from
the Industrial Revolving Fund for reception and representation
expenses.
Language is included in administrative provisions to
require quarterly reports from the Office of Financial Research
and testimony upon request.
Language is included in the administrative provisions to
direct the Department of the Treasury and the National Security
Agency to coordinate and produce a report.
Title II--Executive Office of the President
Language is included for The White House, Salaries and
Expenses, that provides funds for services authorized by 5
U.S.C. 3109 and 3 U.S.C. 103, 105 and 107; hire of vehicles;
official reception and representation expenses; and the Office
of Policy Development.
Language is included for Executive Residence at the White
House, Operating Expenses, that provides funds for necessary
expenses as authorized by 3 U.S.C. 105, 109, 110, and 112-114.
Language is included for Executive Residence at The White
House, Reimbursable Expenses, that specifies the authorized use
of funds; specifies that reimbursable expenses are the
exclusive authority of the Executive Residence to incur
obligations and receive offsetting collections; requires the
sponsors of political events to make advance payments; requires
the national committee of the political party of the President
to maintain $25,000 on deposit; requires the Executive
Residence to ensure that amounts owed are billed within 60 days
of a reimbursable event and collected within 30 days of the
bill notice; authorizes the Executive Residence to charge and
assess interest and penalties on late payments; authorizes all
reimbursements to be deposited into the Treasury as
miscellaneous receipts; requires a report to the Committees on
Appropriations on the reimbursable expenses within 90 days of
the end of the fiscal year; requires the Executive Residence to
maintain a system for tracking and classifying reimbursable
events; and specifies that the Executive Residence is not
exempt from the requirements of subchapter I or II of chapter
37 of title 31, United States Code.
Language is included for White House Repair and Restoration
that provides funds for the repair, alteration, and improvement
of the Executive Residence at the White House; and allows funds
to remain available until expended.
Language is included for Council of Economic Advisors,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides for necessary expenses in
carrying out the Employment Act of 1946.
Language is included for National Security Council and
Homeland Security Council, Salaries and Expenses, that provides
for services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109 and official reception
and representation expenses.
Language is included for Office of Administration, Salaries
and Expenses, that provides funds for continued modernization
of the information resources within the Executive Office of the
President, to remain available until expended; provides for
services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109 and 3 U.S.C. 107, and for
the hire of vehicles; and provides funds for a program to
provide payments to students, recent graduates, and veterans
recently discharged from active duty who are performing
voluntary services in the Executive Office of the President
under section 3111(b) of title 5, United States Code, or
comparable authority. Language is included specifying that such
payments to students, recent graduates, and veterans shall not
be considered payments for purposes of section 3111(b) and may
be paid in advance.
Language is included for Office of Management and Budget,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, the hire of vehicles, and for
carrying out provisions of chapter 35 of title 44 United States
Code and to prepare the budget request; and specifies funds for
official representation expenses. Language is included that
prohibits the review of agricultural marketing orders;
prohibits the use of funds for the purpose of altering the
transcript of testimony except for OMB officials; prohibits the
use of funds for evaluating or determining if water resource
project or study reports submitted by the Chief of Engineers
are in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and
requirements; prohibits the use of funds for altering the Corp
of Engineers annual work plan; specifies the amount of time to
perform budgetary policy reviews of water resource matters on
which the Chief of Engineers has reported before the report is
considered approved, and specifies notification requirements;
and requires OMB to make publicly available on a website a
tabular list for each agency that submits budget justification
materials that includes the name of the agency, the date on
which the budget justification materials of the agency were
submitted to Congress, and a uniform resource locator where the
budget justification materials are published on the website of
the agency.
Language is included for the Office of the National Cyber
Director, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for
expenses authorized by section 1752 of the William M. (Mac)
Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
2021 (Public Law 116-283), and official reception and
representation expenses.
Language is included for the Office of National Drug
Control Policy, Salaries and Expenses, providing funds for
research activities; official reception and representation
expenses; and participation in joint projects or the provision
of services to nonprofit, research, or public organizations or
agencies, with or without reimbursement. Language is included
permitting gifts for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the
work of the Office.
Language is included for Federal Drug Control Programs,
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program, that provides
funds for drug control activities, allows for the transfer of
funds, and requires notification on the distribution of funds.
Language is included for Other Federal Drug Control
Programs that provides certain amounts for drug control
activities and allows for the transfer of funds.
Language is included for Unanticipated Needs that provides
for the use of funds as authorized by 3 U.S.C. 108 and extends
the availability of funds.
Language is included for Information Technology Oversight
and Reform that provides for the use of funds and allows for
the transfer of funds.
Language is included for Special Assistance to the
President, Salaries and Expenses, that enables the Vice
President to provide assistance to the President, services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109 and 3 U.S.C. 106, and the hire of
vehicles.
Language is included for Official Residence of the Vice
President, Operating Expenses, that provides funds for
operation and maintenance of the official residence of the Vice
President, the hire of vehicles, and expenses authorized by 3
U.S.C. 106(b)(2), and provides for the transfer of funds as
necessary.
Language is included permitting the transfer of not to
exceed ten percent of funds among various appropriations within
the Executive Office of the President, with advance approval of
the Committees on Appropriations. The amount of an
appropriation shall not be increased by more than 50 percent.
Language is included requiring the Director of the Office
of Management and Budget to include a statement of budgetary
impact with any Executive order or Presidential memorandum
issued or rescinded during fiscal year 2026 where the
regulatory cost exceeds $100,000,000.
Language is included requiring the Director of the Office
of Management and Budget to issue a memorandum to all Federal
departments, agencies, and corporations directing compliance
with the provisions in title VII of this Act.
Title III--The Judiciary
Language is included under Supreme Court of the United
States, Salaries and Expenses, providing for certain funds to
remain available until expended; the hire of passenger motor
vehicles, official reception and representation, the personal
security of Justices, and miscellaneous expenses. Language is
included providing funds for salaries of judges as authorized
by law.
Language is included under Supreme Court of the United
States, Care of the Building and Grounds, permitting funds to
remain available until expended.
Language is included under United States Court of Appeals
for the Federal Circuit, Salaries and Expenses, for necessary
expenses of the court.
Language is included under United States Court of
International Trade, Salaries and Expenses, for necessary
expenses of the court. Language is included providing funds for
salaries of judges as authorized by law.
Language is included under Courts of Appeals, District
Courts, and Other Judicial Services, Salaries and Expenses,
providing funds for the salaries of certain judges, and all
other employees not otherwise provided for; necessary expenses;
the purchase, rental, repair and cleaning of uniforms for
Probation and Pretrial Services Office staff; firearms and
ammunition; and specifies certain funds remain available for
certain periods for specific purposes, including the
Judiciary's multi-year cybersecurity and information technology
modernization plan. Language is included providing funds for
salaries of judges as authorized by law. Language is also
included providing funding from the Vaccine Injury Compensation
Trust Fund for certain purposes.
Language is included under Defender Services, providing for
the operation of Federal Defender organizations; the
compensation and reimbursement of expenses for attorneys,
investigative, expert, and other services, travel, training,
and general administrative expenses; and permitting funds to
remain available until expended.
Language is included under Fees of Jurors and Commissioners
permitting funds to remain available until expended and
specifying limitations for the compensation of land
commissioners.
Language is included under Court Security providing for
protective guard services and procurement, installation, and
maintenance of security systems and equipment, building
ingress-egress control, inspection of mail and packages,
directed security patrols, perimeter security, and services
provided by the Federal Protective Services. Language is
included permitting certain funds to remain available until
expended, which may be transferred to the United States
Marshals Service.
Language is included under Administrative Office of the
United States Courts, Salaries and Expenses, providing for
travel, the hire of passenger motor vehicles, advertising and
rent in the District of Columbia. Language is included
specifying certain amounts for official reception and
representation expenses.
Language is included under the Federal Judicial Center,
Salaries and Expenses, extending the availability of certain
funds for education and training, and specifying certain
amounts for official reception and representation expenses.
Language is included under United States Sentencing
Commission, Salaries and Expenses, specifying certain amounts
for official reception and representation expenses.
Language is included permitting funds for salaries and
expenses to be available for the employment of experts and
consultant services as authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109.
Language is included permitting up to five percent of any
appropriation made available for fiscal year 2025 to be
transferred between Judiciary appropriations provided that no
appropriation shall be decreased by more than five percent or
increased by more than ten percent by any such transfer except
in certain circumstances. In addition, the language provides
that any such transfer shall be treated as a reprogramming of
funds under sections 604 and 608 of the accompanying bill and
shall not be available for obligation or expenditure except in
compliance with the procedures set forth in those sections.
Language is included allowing not to exceed $11,000 to be
used for official reception and representation expenses
incurred by the Judicial Conference of the United States.
Language is included allowing the delegation of authority
to the Judiciary for contracts for repairs of less than
$100,000 through fiscal year 2026.
Language is included authorizing a court security pilot
program.
Title IV--District of Columbia
Language is included under Federal Payment for Resident
Tuition Support, permitting the amount appropriated to remain
available until expended; specifying conditions for the use,
award, and financial accounting of funds; and requiring
quarterly reports.
Language is included under Federal Payment for Emergency
Planning and Security Costs in the District of Columbia,
providing that the amount appropriated shall remain available
until expended for providing public safety at events, including
support of the United States Secret Service, to respond to
terrorist threats or attacks.
Language is included under Federal Payment to the District
of Columbia Courts, authorizing official reception and
representation expenses; specifying certain amounts for
specific purposes; providing all amounts under this heading
shall be apportioned quarterly by the Office of Management and
Budget and obligated and expended in the same manner as funds
appropriated for salaries and expenses of other Federal
agencies; allowing funds made available for capital
improvements to remain available until September 30, 2027;
providing for the reallocation of funds and providing for
certain payments.
Language is included under Federal Payment for Defender
Services in District of Columbia Courts, providing that the
amount appropriated shall remain available until expended;
specifying who shall administer these funds; providing that all
amounts under this heading shall be apportioned quarterly by
the Office of Management and Budget and obligated and expended
in the same manner as funds appropriated for salaries and
expenses of other Federal agencies; and permanently cancelling
unobligated balances from prior year appropriations.
Language is included under Federal Payment to the Court
Services and Offender Supervision Agency for the District of
Columbia, allowing the transfer and hire of motor vehicles;
authorizing official reception and representation expenses;
specifying certain amounts for specific purposes and programs;
providing that all amounts under this heading shall be
apportioned quarterly by the Office of Management and Budget
and obligated and expended in the same manner as funds
appropriated for salaries and expenses of other Federal
agencies; allowing the use of programmatic incentives for
offenders and defendants who successfully meet the terms of
their supervision; authorizing the Director to accept, solicit,
and use on the behalf of the Agency any monetary or nonmonetary
gift to support offenders and defendants successfully meeting
terms of supervision.
Language is included under Federal Payment to the District
of Columbia Public Defender Service, allowing the transfer and
hire of motor vehicles; providing that all amounts under this
heading shall be apportioned quarterly by the Office of
Management and Budget and obligated and expended in the same
manner as funds appropriated for salaries and expenses of other
Federal agencies; and authorizing the acceptance and use of
voluntary and uncompensated services to facilitate the work of
the District of Columbia Public Defender Service.
Language is included under Federal Payment to the Criminal
Justice Coordinating Council, specifying that the amount
appropriated shall remain available until expended to support
initiatives related to the coordination of Federal and local
criminal justice resources. Language is also included to
support the JUSTIS modernization effort.
Language is included under Federal Payment for Judicial
Commissions, specifying certain amounts for certain commissions
and allowing for appropriations to remain available until
September 30, 2027.
Language is included under Federal Payment for School
Improvement, allowing for appropriations to remain available
until expended for payments authorized under the Scholarship
for Opportunity and Results Act.
Language is included under Federal Payment for the District
of Columbia National Guard, providing funds for the National
Guard Retention and College Access Program to remain available
until expended.
Language is included under Federal Payment for Testing and
Treatment of HIV/AIDS for testing and treatment.
Language is included under Federal Payment to the District
of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority to continue
implementation of the Combined Sewer Overflow Long-Term Plan.
Title V--Independent Agencies
Language is included for the Administrative Conference of
the United States, Salaries and Expenses, that provides for
expenses, including official reception and representation, and
extends the availability of funds.
Language is included for the Consumer Product Safety
Commission, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for
expenses, the hire of motor vehicles, services as authorized by
5 U.S.C. 3109 (with a limitation on rates for individuals), and
official reception and representation expenses.
Language is included for the Election Assistance
Commission, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds to carry
out the Help America Vote Act of 2002.
Language is included under the Federal Communications
Commission, Salaries and Expenses, permitting funds for
uniforms and allowances therefor, official reception and
representation expenses, purchase and hire of motor vehicles,
special counsel fees, and services as authorized by 5 U.S.C.
3109. Language provides for the assessment and collection of
offsetting collections, authorizes retention of such
collections, and provides that they remain available until
expended. Language limits the use of proceeds from the use of a
competitive bidding system. Language provides funding for the
Office of Inspector General.
Language is included extending an exemption from the
Antideficiency Act for the Universal Service Fund.
Language is included for the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation, Office of the Inspector General, that provides for
the funds to be derived from the Deposit Insurance Fund, and
the FSLIC Resolution Fund, including money to remain available
until expended.
Language is included for the Federal Election Commission,
Salaries and Expenses, providing for expenses including
official reception and representation expenses and funds for
the Office of the Inspector General.
Language is included for the Federal Labor Relations
Authority, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for
services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, the hire of experts and
consultants, hire of motor vehicles, reception and
representation expenses, and the rental of conference rooms;
authorizes travel payments to public members of the Federal
Service Impasses Panel; and allows for fees collected to be
transferred to and merged with the appropriation.
Language is included for the Federal Permitting Improvement
Steering Council, Environmental Review Improvement Fund, that
provides for services pursuant to section 41009(d) of Public
Law 114-94, to remain available until expended.
Language is included for the Federal Trade Commission,
Salaries and Expenses, permitting funds for uniforms and
allowances therefor, services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109,
official reception and representation expenses, hire of motor
vehicles, and contract for collection services. Language
provides for the crediting and retention of certain fees.
Language also prohibits funds from being used to implement
subsection (e)(2)(B) of section 43 of the Federal Deposit
Insurance Act.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Federal Buildings Fund, that allows for
revenues and collections to be spent from the Fund; specifies
the conditions under which funds made available can be used;
limits the availability of funds for certain purposes;
specifies funding for construction and acquisition projects;
provides for certain transfers of funds; requires spending
plans; and prohibits excess funds from being available.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Government-wide Policy, that provides funds for
policy and evaluation activities associated with the management
of real and personal property assets and certain administrative
services; support responsibilities relating to acquisition,
telecommunications, motor vehicles, information technology
management, and related technology activities; and services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Operating Expenses, that provides funds for
Government-wide activities associated with personal and real
property disposal, and services; and for expenses for
activities associated with agency-wide policy direction and
management.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Civilian Board of Contract Appeals, that
provides funds for activities associated with the Civilian
Board of Contract Appeals and extends the period of
availability for certain funds.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Office of Inspector General, that makes certain
funds available until expended and provides for awards in
recognition of efforts that enhance the office. Language is
included for services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109 and
designates funds for information and detection of fraud.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Allowances and Office Staff for Former
Presidents, for carrying out the provisions of 3 U.S.C. 102
note and Public Law 95-138.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Federal Citizen Services Fund, which provides
funds for the Office of Citizen Services and other information
technology costs and allows for certain transfers to the
Federal Citizen Services Fund. Language is also included for
the Federal Citizen Services Fund that authorizes funds to be
deposited in the Fund and limits the availability of funds in
the Fund.
Language is included for the General Services
Administration, Working Capital Fund, that provides funds for
GSA's administrative services.
Language is included providing authority for the use of
funds for the hire of motor vehicles.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
providing that funds made available for activities of the
Federal Buildings Fund may be transferred between
appropriations with advance approval of the Congress to apply
to funds provided in prior appropriations Acts.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
requiring funds proposed for developing courthouse construction
requests to meet appropriate standards and the priorities of
the Judicial Conference.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
permitting the General Services Administration to pay small
claims (up to $250,000) made against the Federal Government.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
requiring the Administrator to ensure that the delineated area
of procurement for all lease agreements is identical to the
delineated area included in the prospectus unless prior notice
is given to the committees of jurisdiction.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
requiring a spend plan for certain accounts and programs.
Language is included for the Harry S Truman Scholarship
Foundation, Salaries and Expenses, providing for payment to the
Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation Trust Fund.
Language is included for the Merit Systems Protection
Board, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, rental of conference rooms, hire
of passenger motor vehicles, direct procurement of survey
printing, and official reception and representation expenses;
specifies the period of availability for certain funds;
provides for administration expenses to adjudicate retirement
appeals; and provides for the transfer of certain funds.
Language is included for the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L.
Udall Foundation, for payment to the Morris K. Udall and
Stewart L. Udall Trust Fund, pursuant to the Morris K. Udall
and Stewart L. Udall Foundation Act (20 U.S.C. 5601 et seq.)
and provides for funds to be available until expended.
Language is included for the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L.
Udall Foundation, Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund, to
carry out activities under sections 10 and 11 of Public Law
111-90, and provides for funds to be available until expended.
Language is included for the National Archives and Records
Administration, Operating Expenses, that provides funds for
uniforms or allowances therefor, as authorized by 5 U.S.C.
5901, including maintenance, repairs, and cleaning; the hire of
passenger motor vehicles; activities of the Public Interest
Declassification Board; the review and declassification of
documents; and the operations and maintenance of the electronic
records archive. Language is included for expenses necessary to
enhance the Federal Government's ability to electronically
preserve, manage, and store Government records; and provides
that such funds remain available until expended.
Language is included for the National Archives and Records
Administration, Office of Inspector General, that provides
funds for the hire of motor vehicles.
Language is included for the National Archives and Records
Administration, Repairs and Restoration, that provides funds
for the repair, alteration, and improvement of archives
facilities and provision of adequate storage for holdings; and
provides that funds remain available until expended.
Language is included under the National Archives and
Records Administration, National Historical Publications and
Records Commission, Grants Program, that provides funds for
allocations and grants for historical publications and records;
and provides that funds remain available until expended.
Language is included under the National Credit Union
Administration, Community Development Revolving Loan Fund, that
provides funds for technical assistance and extends the
availability of funds.
Language is included under the Office of Government Ethics,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, rental of conference rooms, hire
of passenger motor vehicles, and official reception and
representation expenses.
Language is included under the Office of Personnel
Management, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for
services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, medical examinations for
veterans, rental of conference rooms, hire of passenger motor
vehicles, official reception and representation expenses,
payment of per diem or subsistence allowances, and the transfer
of administrative expenses; directs that provisions shall not
affect other authorities; prohibits funds for the Legal
Examining Unit; and authorizes the acceptance of donations
under certain conditions.
Language is included for the Office of Personnel
Management, Office of Inspector General, Salaries and Expenses,
that provides funds for services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109,
hire of passenger motor vehicles, rental of conference rooms,
and a transfer for administrative expenses.
Language is included for the Office of Special Counsel,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, payment of fees and expenses for
witnesses, rental of conference rooms, and the hire of
passenger motor vehicles.
Language is included for the Privacy and Civil Liberties
Oversight Board, Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds
authorized by section 1061 of 42 U.S.C. 2000ee.
Language is included for the Public Buildings Reform Board,
that provides funds for carrying out the Federal Assets Sale
and Transfer Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-287).
Language is included for the Securities and Exchange
Commission, Salaries and Expenses, that provides for rental of
space, services, reception and representation expenses, a
permanent secretariat for the International Organization of
Securities Commissions, and consultations and meetings hosted
by the Commission. Language is included designating funds for
move, replication, and related costs associated with
replacement leases for the Commission's office facilities.
Language is included that provides for the crediting of
offsetting collections. Language provides for the assessment
and collection of offsetting collections, authorizes retention
of such collections, and provides that they remain available
until expended.
Language is included for the Selective Service System,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for attendance at
meetings, training, hire of passenger motor vehicles, services
authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109, and official reception and
representation expenses; authorizes certain exemptions under
certain conditions; and prohibits funds used in connection with
the induction of any person into the Armed Forces of the United
States.
Language is included for the Small Business Administration,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for the hire of
motor vehicles and official reception and representation
expenses; designates funds for lender oversight activities;
provides authority to charge fees and credit such fees to the
account without further appropriation; authorizes the
acceptance of gifts; and extends the period of availability of
funds for the Loan Modernization and Accounting System and the
certification of small businesses owned by veterans and
service-disabled veterans.
Language is included for the Small Business Administration,
Entrepreneurial Development Programs, that provides funds for
programs supporting entrepreneurial and small business
development grant programs. Language is included extending the
availability of funds.
Language is included for the Small Business Administration,
Office of Inspector General, that provides funds to carry out
the provisions of the Inspector General Act of 1978.
Language is included for the Small Business Administration,
Office of Advocacy, that provides funds to carry out the
provisions of the Independent Office of Advocacy Act of 2003
and the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, and provides such
funds to remain available until expended.
Language is included for the Small Business Administration,
Business Loans Program Account, providing funds for the cost of
direct loans, to remain available until expended, and limiting
commitments for certain guaranteed loan programs. Language is
also included authorizing the transfer of funds to the Salaries
and Expenses appropriation for administrative expenses.
Language is included for the Small Business Administration,
Disaster Loans Program Account, that provides funds for
administrative expenses, to remain available until expended,
and authorizes the transfer of funds to the Office of Inspector
General and the Salaries and Expenses appropriations.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
allowing for the limited transfer of funds between SBA
appropriations.
Language is included in the administrative provisions
allowing for the transfer of funds from the Small Business
Administration Salaries and Expenses and Business Loans Program
Account appropriations into the Information Technology Systems
Modernization and Working Capital Fund.
Language is included for the United States Postal Service,
Payment to the Postal Service Fund, that provides funds for
revenue foregone; stipulates that mail for overseas voting and
mail for the blind is free; prohibits funds in this Act from
being used to charge a fee to a child support enforcement
agency seeking the address of a postal customer; prohibits
funds from being used to consolidate or close small rural and
other small post offices; and requires the Postal Service to
continue to offer for sale copies of the Multinational Species
Conservation Funds Semipostal Stamp.
Language is included for the United States Postal Service,
Office of Inspector General, that provides for transfer from
the Postal Service Fund.
Language is included for the United States Tax Court,
Salaries and Expenses, that provides funds for contract
reporting; other services authorized by 5 U.S.C. 3109; and
official reception and representation expenses; that extends
the availability of some funds; and that requires that travel
expenses of the judges shall be paid upon the written
certificate of the judge.
Title VI--General Provisions--This Act
Language is included in the general provisions prohibiting
obligations beyond the current fiscal year and prohibiting
transfers of funds unless expressly so provided herein.
Language is included in the general provisions limiting
procurement contracts for consulting service expenditures to
contracts that are matters of public record and available for
public inspection.
Language is included in the general provisions prohibiting
transfer of funds in this Act without express authority.
Language is included in the general provisions prohibiting
the use of funds to engage in activities that would prohibit
the enforcement of section 307 of the 1930 Tariff Act.
Language is included in the general provisions outlining
compliance with the Buy American Act.
Language is included in the general provisions limiting the
authority to reprogram funds within an appropriation above a
specified threshold without prior approval of the Committees on
Appropriations. Language is also included directing agencies to
consult with the Committees prior to any significant
reorganization, restructuring, relocation, or closing of
offices, programs, or activities and directs the agencies
funded by this Act to submit operating plans for the
Committees' review within 60 days of the bill's enactment.
Language is included in the general provisions providing
that fifty percent of unobligated balances may remain available
for certain purposes.
Language is included in the general provisions regarding
cost accounting standards for contracts under the Federal
Employees Health Benefits Program.
Language is included in the general provisions regarding
non-foreign area cost-of-living allowances.
Language is included in the general provisions to waive
restrictions on the purchase of non-domestic articles,
materials, and supplies in the case of acquisition of
information technology by the Federal Government.
Language is included in the general provisions to require
certain agencies in this Act to consult with GSA before seeking
new office space or making alterations to existing office
space.
Language is included in the general provisions relating to
Universal Service Fund payments for wireless providers.
Language is included in the general provisions providing
$5,000,000 for the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee
and providing an additional $450,000 for the Inspectors General
Council Fund to expand and update the Federal-wide Inspectors
General website oversight.gov.
Language is included in the general provisions relating to
contracts for public relations services.
Language is included in the general provisions relating to
advertising and educational programming.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
agencies funded in this Act to submit to the Committees
quarterly budget reports on obligations.
Language is included in the general provisions defunding
the Federal Election Commission's prior approval requirement
for corporate member trade association Political Action
Committees.
Language is included in the general provision requiring the
Postmaster General to notify Members of Congress of new stamps
depicting landmarks or individuals from their district or
State.
Title VII--General Provisions--Government-Wide
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
agencies to administer a policy designed to ensure that all its
workplaces are free from the illegal use of controlled
substances.
Language is included in the general provisions establishing
price limitations on vehicles to be purchased by the Federal
Government with certain exceptions.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing
funds made available to agencies for travel to also be used for
quarters allowances and cost-of-living allowances.
Language is included in the general provisions prohibiting
the employment of noncitizens with certain exceptions.
Language is included in the general provisions giving
agencies the authority to pay General Services Administration
bills for space renovation and other services.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing
agencies to finance the costs of recycling and waste prevention
programs with proceeds from the sale of materials recovered
through such programs.
Language is included in the general provisions providing
that funds made available to corporations and agencies subject
to 31 U.S.C. 91 may pay rent and other service costs in the
District of Columbia.
Language is included in the general provisions limiting the
amount of funds that can be used for redecoration of offices
under certain circumstances.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing for
interagency funding of national security and emergency
telecommunications initiatives.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
agencies to certify that a Schedule C appointment was not
created solely or primarily to detail the employee to the White
House.
Language is included in the general provisions directing
agency employees to use official time in an honest effort to
perform official duties.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing the
use of funds to finance an appropriate share of the Federal
Accounting Standards Advisory Board.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing the
transfer of funds to the General Services Administration to
finance an appropriate share of various government-wide boards
and councils and for Federal Government Priority Goals under
certain conditions.
Language is included in the general provisions permitting
breast feeding in a Federal building or on Federal property if
the woman and child are authorized to be there.
Language is included in the general provisions permitting
interagency funding of the National Science and Technology
Council and requires a report on the budget and resources of
the National Science and Technology Council.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
documents involving the distribution of Federal funds to
indicate the agency providing the funds and the amount
provided.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
health plans participating in the Federal Employees Health
Benefits Program to provide contraceptive coverage and provides
exemptions to certain religious plans.
Language is included in the general provisions supporting
strict adherence to anti-doping activities.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing
funds for official travel to be used by departments and
agencies, if consistent with OMB Circular A-126, to participate
in the fractional aircraft ownership pilot program.
Language is included in the general provisions that
prohibits the implementation of OPM regulations limiting
detailees to the legislative branch and placing certain
limitations on the Coast Guard Congressional Fellowship
program.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
agencies to pay a fee to the Office of Personnel Management for
processing retirement of employees who separate under Voluntary
Early Retirement Authority or who receive Voluntary Separation
Incentive payments.
Language is included in the general provisions limiting the
pay increases of certain prevailing rate employees.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
agencies to submit reports to Inspectors General concerning
expenditures for agency conferences.
Language is included in the general provisions prohibiting
agencies from using funds to implement regulations changing the
competitive areas under reductions-in-force for Federal
employees.
Language is included in the general provisions that
prohibits the use of funds for a public-private competition
regarding the conversion to contractor performance of any
function performed by civilian Federal employees pursuant to
OMB Circular A-76 or any other administrative regulation,
directive, or policy.
Language is included in the general provisions ensuring
contractors are not prevented from reporting waste, fraud, or
abuse by signing confidentiality agreements that would prohibit
such disclosure.
Language is included in the general provisions that
eliminates the automatic statutory pay increase for the Vice
President and certain senior political appointees.
Language is included in the general provisions related to
the impoundment of resources.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
that any executive branch agency notify the Committee if an
apportionment of an appropriation for such agency is not
approved in a timely and appropriate manner.
Language is included in the general provisions addressing
interagency funding for the United States Army Medical Research
and Development Command and the Congressionally Directed
Medical Research Programs and the National Institutes of Health
research programs.
Language is included in the general provisions that
continues the authorization for GSA to transfer funds to
finance an appropriate share of various information technology
projects among Government-wide boards and councils under
certain conditions.
Language is included in the general provisions related to
recordkeeping requirements for certain GAO audits.
Language is included in the general provisions directing
Departments or agencies to comply with Executive Orders.
Language is included in the general provisions concerning
the non-application of these general provisions to title IV and
to title VIII.
Language is included in the general provisions directing
the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to notify Congress
when requesting a transfer of funds.
Title VIII--General Provisions--District of Columbia
Language is included in the general provisions allowing the
use of local funds for making refunds or paying judgments
against the District of Columbia government.
Language is included in the general provisions establishing
reprogramming procedures for Federal funds.
Language is included in the general provisions that places
restrictions on the use of District of Columbia government
vehicles.
Language is included in the general provisions that
concerns a ``conscience clause'' on legislation that pertains
to contraceptive coverage by health insurance plans.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
the CFO to submit a revised operating budget no later than 30
calendar days after the enactment of this Act for agencies the
CFO certifies as requiring a reallocation to address
unanticipated program needs.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
the CFO to submit a revised operating budget for the District
of Columbia Public Schools, no later than 30 calendar days
after the enactment of this Act, which aligns schools' budgets
to actual enrollment.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing for
transfers of local funds between operating funds and capital
and enterprise funds.
Language is included in the general provisions providing
that not to exceed 50 percent of unobligated balances from
Federal appropriations for salaries and expenses may remain
available for certain purposes. This provision applies to the
District of Columbia Courts, the Court Services and Offender
Supervision Agency, and the District of Columbia Public
Defender Service.
Language is included in the general provisions that
appropriates local funds during fiscal year 2027 if there is an
absence of a continuing resolution or regular appropriation for
the District of Columbia. Funds are provided under the same
authorities and conditions and in the same manner and extent as
provided for in fiscal year 2026.
Language is included in the general provisions providing
the District of Columbia authority to transfer, receive, and
acquire lands and funding it deems necessary for the
construction and operation of interstate bridges over navigable
waters, including related infrastructure, for a project to
expand commuter and regional passenger rail service and provide
bike and pedestrian access crossings.
Language is included in the general provisions requiring
each Federal and District government agency appropriated
Federal funding in this Act submit to the Committees quarterly
budget reports on obligations.
Language is included in the general provisions repealing
the Death with Dignity Act of 2016 and prohibits the D.C.
Council from passing laws related to physician-assisted suicide
in the future.
Language is included in the general provisions directing
the District of Columbia to submit a report to the Committees
regarding how the District of Columbia has complied with the
Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act, including if violations of the
law have taken place. If violations have taken place, the
report should detail the number of violations in the past five
years, the District of Columbia's response to the violations,
whether the District of Columbia preserved each child's remains
for appropriate examination during the investigation, and other
pertinent information on violations.
Language is included in the general provisions that repeals
the Corrections Oversight Improvement Omnibus Amendment Act of
2022.
Language is included in the general provisions allowing
valid weapons carry permit holders to conceal carry including
magazines and ammunition in areas governed by the District of
Columbia and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority.
Language is included in the general provisions that repeals
the Youth Rehabilitation Amendment Act of 2018.
Language is included in the general provisions that amends
the District of Columbia College Access Act of 1999 to increase
the amount of grant awards offered for both public and private
institutions of higher learning.
Language is included in the general provisions that
specifies that references to ``this Act'' in this title or
title IV are treated as referring only to the provisions of
this title and title IV.
Title IX--Additional General Provisions
Section 901. Language is included referencing a spending
reduction account in the bill.
Program Duplication
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(5) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, no provision of this bill establishes
or reauthorizes a program of the Federal Government known to be
duplicative of another federal program, a program that was
included in any report from the Government Accountability
Office to Congress pursuant to section 21 of Public Law 111-
139, or a program related to a program identified in the most
recent Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.
Appropriations not Authorized by Law
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(B) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, the following table lists the
appropriations in the accompanying bill which are not
authorized by law for the period concerned:
[DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Appropriation in
Account Last Year of Authorization Last Year of Appropriations
Authorization Level Authorization in this bill
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title I--Department of the
Treasury
Departmental Offices-- n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 239,424
Salaries and Expenses.
Office of Terrorism and 2013............... such sums......... 100,000........... 230,533
Financial Intelligence.
Cybersecurity Enhancement n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 99,000
Account.
Department-Wide Systems and n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 9,400
Capital Investments Program.
Bureau of the Fiscal Service n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 343,511
Alcohol and Trade Tax and 2002............... n/a............... 80,000............ 158,506
Trade Bureau.
Community Development and 1998............... such sums......... 80,000............ 276,600
Financial Institutions Fund.
Internal Revenue Service:
Taxpayer Services....... n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 2,780,606
Enforcement............. n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 3,000,000
Operations Support...... n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 3,750,826
Business Systems n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 0
Modernization.
Title II--Executive Office of
the President
Office of Management and 2003............... various........... 61,988............ 129,000
Budget.
Office of the National Cyber 2021............... n/a............... n/a............... 18,126
Director.
Office of National Drug 2009............... 4,900............. n/a............... 454,750
Control Policy.
Other Federal Drug Control
Programs:
Anti-Doping Activities.. 2020............... 14,800............ 10,000............ 14,000
CARA Grants............. 2021............... 5,000............. 5,000............. 5,200
Information Technology 2007............... such sums......... n/a............... 10,000
Oversight and Reform.
Title IV--District of Columbia
Federal Payment for Resident 2023............... various........... 40,000............ 20,000
Tuition Support.
Federal Payment for n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 70,000
Emergency Planning and
Security Costs in DC.
Federal Payment to the Court 2005............... such sums......... n/a............... 292,068
Services and Offender
Supervision Agency for the
District of Columbia.
Federal Payment for the n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 630
Judicial Commissions.
Federal Payment for the DC n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 600
National Guard.
Federal Payment for Testing n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 4,000
and Treatment of HIV/AIDS.
Title V--Independent Agencies
Administrative Conference of 2011............... 3,400............. 2,750............. 3,430
the United States.
Consumer Financial 2014............... 200,000........... n/a............... 0
Protection Bureau.
Consumer Product Safety various............ various........... 118,000........... 142,000
Commission.
Pool Safety Grant 2016............... such sums......... n/a............... 2,500
Program.
Election Assistance
Commission:
Salaries and Expenses... 2005............... 10,000............ 14,000............ 17,000
Election Security Grants 2005............... 3,600,000......... 1,500,000......... 15,000
Federal Communications 2020............... 339,610........... 339,000........... 390,192
Commission.
Federal Election Commission. 1981............... 9,400............. 9,662............. 76,500
Federal Labor Relations 1978............... such sums......... n/a............... 29,500
Authority.
Federal Trade Commission.... 1998............... 111,000........... 106,500........... 388,700
General Services
Administration:
Government-wide Policy.. n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 69,000
Federal Citizen Services n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 55,000
Fund.
Technology Modernization 2019............... 250,000........... 25,000............ 0
Fund.
Working Capital Fund.... n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 4,000
Electric Vehicles Fund.. n/a................ n/a............... n/a............... 0
Merit Systems Protection 2007............... such sums......... 29,110............ 49,135
Board.
Morris K. Udall and Stewart
L. Udall Foundation:
Morris K. Udall and 2023............... 2,000............. 1,800............. 1,782
Stewart L. Udall Trust
Fund.
Environmental Dispute 2023............... 4,000............. 3,943............. 3,904
Resolution Fund.
National Archives and
Records Administration:
National Historical 2009............... 10,000............ 11,250............ 5,000
Publications and
Records Commission
Grants.
NCUA: Community Development 1998............... 2,000............. 1,000............. 3,423
Revolving Loan Fund.
Office of Government Ethics. 2007............... such sums......... 11,148............ 22,386
Office of Special Counsel... 2023............... such sums......... 31,904............ 31,585
Privacy and Civil Liberties 2007............... such sums......... n/a............... 13,700
Oversight Board.
Securities and Exchange various............ various........... 1,500,000......... 2,026,330
Commission.
Small Business
Administration:
Salaries and Expenses... various............ various........... n/a............... 298,099
Entrepreneurial various............ various........... n/a............... 289,550
Development Programs.
Business Loans Program 2006............... such sums......... 1,300............. 165,000
Account.
Disaster Loans Program 2006............... such sums......... n/a............... 175,000
Account.
Title VI--General Provisions
Oversight.gov Website 2021............... 3,500............. n/a............... 5,450
Enhancements (Sec. 629).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BUDGETARY IMPACT OF THE FY 2026 FSGG BILL
BUDGETARY IMPACT OF THE FY 2026 FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL
GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL PREPARED IN CONSULTATION WITH THE
CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE PURSUANT TO SECTION 308(A) OF THE
CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET ACT OF 1974
[In millions of dollars]
COMPARISON WITH BUDGET RESOLUTION
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives and section 308(a)(1)(A) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the following table compares
the levels of new budget authority provided in the bill with
the appropriate allocation under section 302(b) of the Budget
Act.
[In millions of dollars]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
302(b) Allocation This Bill
---------------------------------------------------------------
Budget Budget
Authority Outlays Authority Outlays
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison of amounts in the bill with Committee
allocations to its subcommittees: Subcommittee
on Financial Services and General Government
Discretionary............................... 23,341 .............. 23,341 \1\25,521
Mandatory................................... .............. .............. 23,495 \1\23,495
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Includes outlays from prior-year budget authority.
FIVE-YEAR OUTLAY PROJECTIONS
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII and section
308(a)(1)(B) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the
following table contains five-year projections associated with
the budget authority provided in the accompanying bill as
provided to the Committee by the Congressional Budget Office.
[In millions of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outlays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Projection of outlays associated with the
recommendation:
2026............................................. \1\41,959
2027............................................. 3,957
2028............................................. 484
2029............................................. 76
2030 and future years............................ 61
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII and section
308(a)(1)(C) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the
Congressional Budget Office has provided the following
estimates of new budget authority and outlays provided by the
accompanying bill for financial assistance to State and local
governments.
[In millions of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Budget Authority Outlays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial assistance to State and 769 \1\442
local governments for 2026.......
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.
Committee Hearings
For the purposes of clause 3(c)(6) of rule XIII of the
Rules of the House of Representatives, the following hearings
were used to develop or consider the Financial Services and
General Government Appropriations Act, 2026:
On April 5, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government subcommittee held an oversight hearing titled
``GAO's Assessment of the Costs of Deferred Maintenance Across
the Federal Government.'' The subcommittee received testimony
from:
Mr. Dave Marroni, Director, Physical Infrastructure, U.S.
Government Accountability Office.
On April 30, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Oversight of
the U.S. Postal Service.'' The subcommittee received testimony
from:
Ms. Tammy Hull, Inspector General, Office of the Inspector
General, U.S. Postal Service.
On May 5, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Oversight of
the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The subcommittee received
testimony from:
The Honorable Scott Bessent, Secretary, U.S. Department of
the Treasury.
On May 14, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Oversight of
the Federal Judiciary.'' The subcommittee received testimony
from:
The Honorable Amy St. Eve, Chair of the Budget Committee,
Judicial Conference and the Honorable Robert Conrad, Secretary,
Judicial Conference.
On May 15, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Oversight of
the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.'' The subcommittee received
testimony from:
The Honorable Andrew Ferguson, Chairman, U.S. Federal Trade
Commission.
On May 20, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Oversight of
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.'' The subcommittee
received testimony from:
The Honorable Paul Atkins, Chairman, U.S. Securities and
Exchange Commission.
On May 21, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government Subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Oversight of
the Federal Communications Commission.'' The subcommittee
received testimony from:
The Honorable Brendan Carr, Chairman, Federal
Communications Commission.
On June 4, 2025, the Financial Services and General
Government Subcommittee held a hearing titled ``Budget
Hearing--Office of Management and Budget.'' The subcommittee
received testimony from:
The Honorable Russell Vought, Director, Office of
Management and Budget.
Compliance With Rule XIII, CL. 3(e) (Ramseyer Rule)
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, existing law in which no change
is proposed is shown in roman):
Compliance With Rule XIII, Cl. 3(e) (Ramseyer Rule)
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, existing law in which no change
is proposed is shown in roman):
UNIVERSAL SERVICE ANTIDEFICIENCY TEMPORARY SUSPENSION ACT
* * * * * * *
TITLE III--UNIVERSAL SERVICE
* * * * * * *
SEC. 302. APPLICATION OF CERTAIN TITLE 31 PROVISIONS TO UNIVERSAL
SERVICE FUND.
(a) In General.--During the period beginning on the date of
enactment of this Act and ending on [December 31, 2024]
December 31, 2026, section 1341 and subchapter II of chapter 15
of title 31, United States Code, do not apply--
(1) to any amount collected or received as Federal
universal service contributions required by section 254
of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 254),
including any interest earned on such contributions;
nor
(2) to the expenditure or obligation of amounts
attributable to such contributions for universal
service support programs established pursuant to that
section.
(b) Post-2005 Fulfillment of Protected Obligations.--Section
1341 and subchapter II of chapter 15 of title 31, United States
Code, do not apply after [December 31, 2024] December 31, 2026,
to an expenditure or obligation described in subsection (a)(2)
made or authorized during the period described in subsection
(a).
----------
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOME RULE ACT
* * * * * * *
TITLE VI--RESERVATION OF CONGRESSIONAL AUTHORITY
* * * * * * *
limitations on the council
Sec. 602. (a) The Council shall have no authority to pass any
act contrary to the provisions of this Act except as
specifically provided in this Act, or to--
(1) impose any tax on property of the United States
or any of the several States;
(2) lend the public credit for support of any private
undertaking;
(3) enact any act, or enact any act to amend or
repeal any Act of Congress, which concerns the
functions or property of the United States or which is
not restricted in its application exclusively in or to
the District;
(4) enact any act, resolution, or rule with respect
to any provision of title 11 of the District of
Columbia Code (relating to organization and
jurisdiction of the District of Columbia courts);
(5) impose any tax on the whole or any portion of the
personal income, either directly or at the source
thereof, of any individual not a resident of the
District (the terms ``individual'' and ``resident'' to
be understood for the purposes of this paragraph as
they are defined in section 4 of title I of the
District of Columbia Income and Franchise Tax Act of
1947);
(6) enact any act, resolution, or rule which permits
the building of any structure within the District of
Columbia in excess of the height limitations contained
in section 5 of the Act of June 1, 1910 (D.C. Code,
sec. 5-405), and in effect on the date of enactment of
this Act;
(7) enact any act, resolution, or regulation with
respect to the Commission of Mental Health;
(8) enact any act or regulation relating to the
United States District Court for the District of
Columbia or any other court of the United States in the
District other than the District courts, or relating to
the duties or powers of the United States attorney or
the United States Marshal for the District of Columbia;
(9) enact any act, resolution, or rule with respect
to any provision of title 23 of the District of
Columbia Code (relating to criminal procedure), or with
respect to any provision of any law codified in title
22 or 24 of the District of Columbia Code (relating to
crimes and treatment of prisoners), or with respect to
any criminal offense pertaining to articles subject to
regulation under chapter 32 of title 22 of the District
of Columbia Code, during the forty-eight full calendar
months immediately following the day on which the
members of the Council first elected pursuant to this
Act take office; [or]
(10) enact any act, resolution, or rule with respect
to the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility
and Management Assistance Authority established under
section 101(a) of the District of Columbia Financial
Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of
1995[.]; or
(11) enact any act, resolution, rule, regulation,
guidance, or other law to permit any person to carry
out any activity, or to reduce the penalties imposed
with respect to any activity, to which subsection (a)
of section 3 of the Assisted Suicide Funding
Restriction Act of 1997 (42 U.S.C. 14402) applies
(taking into consideration subsection (b) of such
section).
(b) Nothing in this Act shall be construed as vesting in the
District government any greater authority over the National
Zoological Park, the National Guard of the District of
Columbia, the Washington Aqueduct, the National Capital
Planning Commission, or, except as otherwise specifically
provided in this Act, over any Federal agency, than was vested
in the Commissioner prior to the effective date of title IV of
this Act.
(c)(1) Except acts of the Council which are submitted to the
President in accordance with the Budget and Accounting Act,
1921, any act which the Council determines according to section
412(a), should take effect immediately because of emergency
circumstances, and acts proposing amendments to title IV of
this Act and except as provided in section 462(c) and section
472(d)(1), the Chairman of the Council shall transmit to the
Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of
the Senate a copy of each act passed by the Council and signed
by the Mayor, or vetoed by the Mayor and repassed by two-thirds
of the Council present and voting, each act passed by the
Council and allowed to become effective by the Mayor without
his signature, and each initiated act and act subject to
referendum which has been ratified by a majority of the
registered qualified electors voting on the initiative or
referendum. Except as provided in paragraph (2), such act shall
take effect upon the expiration of the 30-calendar-day period
(excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, and any day on
which neither House is in session because of an adjournment
sine die, a recess of more than three days, or an adjournment
of more than three days) beginning on the day such act is
transmitted by the Chairman to the Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President of the Senate, or upon the
date prescribed by such act, whichever is later, unless during
such 30-day period, there has been enacted into law a joint
resolution disapproving such act. In any case in which any such
joint resolution disapproving such an act has, within such 30-
day period, passed both Houses of Congress and has been
transmitted to the President, such resolution, upon becoming
law, subsequent to the expiration of such 30-day period, shall
be deemed to have repealed such act, as of the date such
resolution becomes law. The provisions of section 604, except
subsections (d), (e), and (f) of such section, shall apply with
respect to any joint resolution disapproving any act pursuant
to this paragraph.
(2) In the case of any such Act transmitted by the Chairman
with respect to any Act codified in title 22, 23, or 24 of the
District of Columbia Code, such act shall take effect at the
end of the 60-day period beginning on the day such act is
transmitted by the Chairman to the Speaker of the House of
Representatives and the President of the Senate unless, during
such 60-day period, there has been enacted into law a joint
resolution disapproving such act. In any case in which any such
joint resolution disapproving such an act has, within such 60-
day period, passed both Houses of Congress and has been
transmitted to the President, such resolution, upon becoming
law subsequent to the expiration of such 60-day period shall be
deemed to have repealed such act, as of the date such
resolution becomes law. The provisions of section 604, relating
to an expedited procedure for consideration of joint
resolutions, shall apply to a joint resolution disapproving
such Act as specified in this paragraph.
(3) The Council shall submit with each Act transmitted under
this subsection an estimate of the costs which will be incurred
by the District of Columbia as a result of the enactment of the
Act in each of the first 4 fiscal years for which the Act is in
effect, together with a statement of the basis for such
estimate.
* * * * * * *
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DEATH WITH DIGNITY ACT OF 2016
Be it Enacted by the Council of the District of Columbia,
[That this act may be cited as the ``Death with Dignity Act
of 2016''.]
[SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
[For the purposes of this act, the term:
[(1) ``Attending physician'' shall have the same
meaning as provided in section 2( I) of the Natural
Death Act of I 981, effective February 25, 1982 (D.C.
Law 4-69; D.C. Official Code $ 7-621(l)); provided,
that the attending physician's practice shall not be
primarily or solely composed of patients requesting a
covered medication.
[(2) ``Capable'' means that, in the opinion of a
court or the patient's attending physician, consulting
physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist, a patient has
the ability to make and communicate health care
decisions to health care providers.
[(3) ``Consulting physician'' means a physician who
is qualified by specialty or experience to make a
professional diagnosis and prognosis regarding the
patient's disease and who is willing to participate in
the provision of a covered medication to a qualified
patient in accordance with this act.
[(4) ``Counseling'' means one or more consultations
as necessary between a District licensed psychiatrist
or psychologist and a patient for the purpose of
determining that the patient is capable and not
suffering from a psychiatric or psychological disorder
or depression causing impaired judgment.
[(5) ``Covered medication'' means a medication
prescribed pursuant to this act for the purpose of
ending a person's life in a humane and peaceful manner.
[(6) ``Department'' means the Department of Health.
[(7) ``Health care facility'' means a hospital or
long-term care facility.
[(8) ``Health care provider'' means a person,
partnership, corporation, facility, or institution that
is licensed, certified, or authorized under District
law to administer health care or dispense medication in
the ordinary course of business or practice of a
profession.
[(9) ``Hospital'' shall have the same meaning as
provided in section 2(l) of the Health-Care and
Community Residence Facility, Hospice and Home Care
Licensure Act of 1983, effective February 24,1984 (D.C.
Law 5-48; D.C. Official Code $ 44-501(1)).
[(10) ``Informed decision'' means a decision by a
qualified patient to request and obtain a prescription
for a covered medication that is based on an
appreciation of the relevant facts and is made after
being fully informed by the attending physician of:
[(A) His or her medical diagnosis;
[(B) His or her prognosis;
[(C) The potential risks associated with
taking the covered medication;
[(D) The probable results of taking the
covered medication; and
[(E) Feasible alternatives to taking the
covered medication, including comfort care,
hospice care, and pain control.
[(11) ``Long-term care facility'' means a nursing
home or community residence facility, as defined by
section 2(3) and (4), respectively, of the Health-Care
and Community Residence Facility, Hospice and Home Care
Licensure Act of 1983, effective February 24,1984 (D.C.
Law 5-48; D.C. Official Code $ 44-501(3) and (4)), or
an assisted living residence, as defined by section
201(4) of the Assisted Living Residence Regulatory Act
of 2000, effective Iune24,2000 (D.C. Law l3-127;D.C.
Official Code g 44-102.01(4)).
[(12) ``Medically confirmed'' means the medical
opinion of the attending physician has been confirmed
by a consulting physician who has examined the patient
and the patient's relevant medical records.
[(13) ``Patient'' means a person who has attained 1 8
years of age, resides in the District of Columbia, and
is under the care of a physician.
[(14) ``Physician'' shall have the same meaning as
provided in section 2(4) of the Natural Death Act of
1981, effective February 25,1982 (D.C. Law 4-69; D.C.
Official Code g 7-621(4)).
[(15) ``Qualified patient'' means a patient who:
[(A) Has been determined to be capable; and
[(B) Satisfies the requirements of this act
in order to obtain a prescription for a covered
medication.
[(16) ``Terminal disease'' means an incurable and
irreversible disease that has been medically confirmed
and will, within reasonable medical judgment, result in
death within 6 months.
[SEC. 3. REQUESTS FOR A COVERED MEDICATION.
[(a) To request a covered medication, a patient shall:
[(1) Make 2 oral requests, separated by at least 15
days, to an attending physician.
[(2) Submit a written request, signed and dated by
the patient, to the attending physician before the
patient makes his or her 2nd oral request and at least
48 hours before a covered medication may be prescribed
or dispensed.
[(b)(1) A written request made pursuant to subsection (a)(2)
of this section shall be witnessed by at least 2 individuals
who, in the presence of the patient, attest to the best of
their knowledge and belief that the patient is capable, acting
voluntarily, and is not being unduly influenced to sign the
request.
[(2) If the patient is a patient in a long-terrn care
facility at the time the written request is made under
subsection (a)(2) of this section, one of the witnesses
shall be an individual designated by the facility who
has met the qualifications specified in the
Department's regulations.
[(3) One of the witnesses shall be a person who is
not:
[(A) A relative of the patient by blood,
marriage, or adoption;
[(B) At the time the request is signed,
entitled to any portion of the estate of the
qualified patient upon death under any will or
by operation of law; or
[(C) An owner, operator, or employee of a
health care facility where the qualified
patient is receiving medical treatment or is a
resident.
[(4) The patient's attending physician at the time of
the request shall not be a witness.
[(c) A written request made pursuant to subsection (a)(2) of
this section shall be in substantially the following form:
[[omitted]]
[SEC. 4. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ATTENDING PHYSICIAN.
[(a) Upon receiving a written request for a covered
medication pursuant to section 3(a)(2), the attending physician
shall:
[(1) Determine that the patient:
[(A) Has a terminal disease;
[(B) Is capable;
[(C) Has made the request voluntarily; and
[(D) Is a resident of the District of
Columbia;
[(2) Inform the patient of:
[(A) His or her medical diagnosis;
[(B) His or her prognosis;
[(C) The potential risks associated with
taking a covered medication;
[(D) The probable result of taking a covered
medication; and
[(E) The feasible alternatives to taking a
covered medication. including comfort care,
hospice care, and pain control;
[(3) Refer the patient to a consulting physician;
[(4) Refer the patient to counseling if appropriate,
pursuant to section 5;
[(5) Inform the patient of the availability of
supportive counseling to address the range of possible
psychological and emotional stress involved with the
end stages of life;
[(6) Recommend that the patient notify next of kin,
friends, and spiritual advisor, if applicable, of his
or her decision to request a covered medication;
[(7) Counsel the patient about the importance of
having another person present when the patient takes a
covered medication and of not taking a covered
medication in a public place;
[(8) Inform the patient that he or she has an
opportunity to rescind a request for a covered
medication at any time and in any manner;
[(9) Verify, immediately before writing the
prescription for a covered medication, that the patient
is making an informed decision; and
[(10) Fulfill the medical record documentation
requirements of section 7.
[(b) If a consulting physician receives a referral for a
patient from an attending physician pursuant to subsection
(a)(3) of this section, the consulting physician shall:
[(1) Examine the patient and his or her relevant
medical records to confirm, in writing, the attending
physician's diagnosis that the patient is suffering
from a terminal disease;
[(2) Verify, in writing, to the attending physician
that the patient:
[(A) Is capable;
[(B) Is acting voluntarily; and
[(C) Has made an informed decision; and
[(3) Refer the patient to counseling if appropriate,
pursuant to section 5.
[SEC. 5. COUNSELING REFERRAL.
[(a) If, in the opinion of the attending physician or the
consulting physician, a patient may be suffering from a
psychiatric or psychological disorder or depression causing
impaired judgment, either physician shall refer the patient to
counseling.
[(b) No covered medication shall be prescribed until the
patient receives counseling and the psychiatrist or
psychologist performing the counseling determines that the
patient is not suffering from a psychiatric or psychological
disorder or depression causing impaired judgment.
[SEC. 6. DISPENSING A COVERED MEDICATION AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
[(a) An attending physician may not prescribe or dispense a
covered medication, unless:
[(1) The patient has satisfied the requirements of
sections 3 and 5, if applicable;
[(2) The attending physician has satisfied the
requirements of sections 4 and 5, if applicable; and
[(3) The attending physician has offered the patient
an opportunity to rescind his or her request for a
covered medication immediately before prescribing or
dispensing the covered medication.
[(b) After the attending physician ensures that the
requirements provided in subsection (a) of this section have
been met, the attending physician may:
[(1) Dispense a covered medication, including
ancillary medications intended to minimize the
patient's discomfort, directly to the qualified
patient; provided, that the attending physician is
authorized to do so in the District of Columbia
pursuant to the District of Columbia Uniform Controlled
Substances Act of 1981, effective August 5, 1981 (D.C.
Law 4-29;D.C. Official Code $ 48-903.02), and has a
current Drug Enforcement Administration certificate
issued pursuant to 21 C.F.R. $ 1301.35; or
[(2) After a qualified patient completes the form
under section 3(c):
[(A) Contact a pharmacist and inform the
pharmacist of the prescription for a covered
medication; and
[(B) Deliver the written prescription for a
covered medication personally, or by telephone,
facsimile, or electronically to the pharmacist.
[(c) Upon receiving a written prescription for a covered
medication by an attending physician under subsection (b)(2) of
this section, the pharmacist may dispense the covered
medication to the following:
[(A) The patient;
[(B) The attending physician; or
[(C) An expressly identified agent designated
by the qualified patient,
with the designation communicated to the pharmacist by the
patient verbally or in writing.
[(d) A pharmacist, upon dispensing a covered medication under
subsection (c) of this section, shall immediately notify the
attending physician that the covered medication was dispensed.
[(e) Within 30 days after a health care provider dispenses a
covered medication, the attending physician shall file with the
Department a copy of the information required by section 7 on a
form created by the Department.
[(f) Within 30 days after a patient ingests a covered
medication, or as soon as practicable after the a health care
provider is made aware of a patient's death resulting from
ingesting the covered medication, the health care provider
shall notifu the Department of a patient's death.
[(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the
attending physician may sign the patient's death certificate.
[(h) The cause of death listed on a death certificate shall
identify the qualified patient's underlying medical condition
consistent with the Intemational Classification of Diseases
without reference to the fact that the qualified patient
ingested a covered medication.
[(i)(1) The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner shall review
each death involving a qualified patient who ingests a covered
medication and, if warranted by the review, may conduct an
investigation.
[(2) The review required by paragraph (1) of this
subsection shall not constitute an inquiry for the
purposes of section l2 of the Vital Records Act of
1981, effective October 8, 1981 (D.C. Law 4-34; D.C.
Official Code S 7-211); provided, that an investigation
authorizedby paragraph (l) of this subsection shall
constitute an inquiry for the purposes of the Vital
Records Act of 1981, effective October 8, 1981 (D.C.
Law 4-34;D.C. Official Code g 7-2ll).
[SEC. 7. MEDICAL RECORD DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS.
[(a) The attending physician shall document and file in the
medical record of the patient requesting a covered medication:
[(1) All oral requests by a patient for a covered
medication;
[(2) All written requests by a patient for a covered
medication;
[(3) The attending physician's:
[(A) Diagnosis and prognosis of the patient;
[(B) Determination that the patient is a
District resident and is capable, acting
voluntarily, and has made an informed decision
when requesting a covered medication;
[(C) Offer to the patient to rescind his or
her request for a covered medication before the
patient makes his or her second oral request;
[(D) Notation that all requirements under
this act have been met; and
[(E) Notation regarding all steps taken to
carry out the patient's request for a covered
medication, including a notation of the covered
medication prescribed;
[(4) The consulting physician's:
[(A) Diagnosis and prognosis of the patient;
[(B) Verification that the patient is
capable, acting voluntarily, and has made an
informed decision when requesting a covered
medication; and
[(5) If a patient is referred to counseling pursuant
to section 5, a report by the psychiatrist or
psychologist of the outcome and determinations made
during counseling.
[SEC. 8. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
[(a) Beginning one year after the effective date of this act,
and on ill annual basis thereafter, the Department shall review
the records maintained under section 7 for the purpose of
gathering data and ensuring compliance with this act.
[(b) The Department shall generate and make available to the
public an annual statistical report of information collected
pursuant to subsection (a) of this section. The report shall
include:
[(1) The number of qualified patients for whom a
prescription for a covered medication was written;
[(2) The number of known qualified patients who died
each year for whom a prescription for a covered
medication was written, and the cause of death of those
patients;
[(3) The number of known deaths in the District from
using a covered medication;
[(4) The number of physicians who wrote prescriptions
for a covered medication; and
[(5) Of the qualified patients who died due to using
a covered medication, demographic percentages organized
by the following characteristics:
[(A) Age at death;
[(B) Education level, if known;
[(C) Race;
[(D) Sex;
[(E) Type of insurance, including whether or
not they had insurance, if known; and
[(F) Terminal disease.
[SEC. 9. EFFECT ON CONSTRUCTION OF WILLS AND CONTRACTS.
[(a) A provision in a contract, will, or other agreement
executed on or after the effective date of this act, whether
written or oral, is not valid if the provision would affect
whether a person may make or rescind a request for a covered
medication.
[(b) An obligation owing under any contract, will, or other
agreement executed on or after the effective date of this act
may not be conditioned or affected by a person making or
rescinding a request for a covered medication.
[SEC. 10. INSURANCE AND ANNUITY POLICIES.
[(a) The sale, procurement, or issuance of any life, health,
accident insurance, annuity policy, employment benefits, or the
rate charged for any policy may not be conditioned upon or
affected by the making or rescinding of a qualified patient's
request for a covered medication.
[(b) A qualified patient's act of ingesting a covered
medication shall not have an effect upon a life, health,
accident insurance, annuity policy, or employment benefits.
[(c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the
ability of an insurance or annuity provider from investigating
a claim for benefits for a death.
[SEC. 11. HEALTH CARE PROVIDER PARTICIPATION; NOTIFICATION; PERMISSIBLE
SANCTIONS.
[(a) No health care provider shall be obligated under this
act, by contract, or otherwise, to participate in the provision
of a covered medication to a qualified patient.
[(b) If a health care provider is unable or unwilling to
carry out a patient's request for a covered medication under
this act and the patient transfers his or her care to a new
health care provider, the prior health care provider shall
transfer, upon request ofthe patient, a copy ofthe patient's
relevant medical records to the new health care provider.
[(c) A health care provider may prohibit any other health
care provider that it employs or contracts with from providing
a covered medication under this act on the prohibiting health
care provider's premises; provided, that the prohibiting health
care provider has notified the health care provider of this
policy before the employee or contractor has provided a covered
medication.
[(d) Notwithstanding section 12,if, before a covered
medication has been provided, the prohibiting health care
provider has notified the sanctioned health care provider that
it prohibits providing a covered medication under this act, the
prohibiting health care provider may impose the following
sanctions:
[(1) Loss of privileges, loss of membership, or other
sanction pursuant to the prohibiting health care
provider's medical staff bylaws, policies, and
procedures, if the sanctioned health care provider is a
member of the prohibiting health care provider's
medical staff and participates under this act while on
staff on the premises of the prohibiting health care
provider's health care facility;
[(2) Termination of the lease or other property
contract or other nonmonetary remedies provided under
the lease or property contract, not including loss or
restriction of medical staff privileges or exclusion
from a provider panel, if the sanctioned health care
provider participates under this act while on the
premises of a prohibiting health care provider's health
care facility or on the property that is owned by or
under the direct control of the prohibiting health care
provider;
[(3) Termination of an employment contract or other
nonmonetary remedies provided by contract if the
sanctioned health care provider participates under this
act in the course and scope of the sanctioned health
care provider's duties as an employee or independent
contractor of the prohibiting health care provider; or
[(4) Any other sanctions and penalties in accordance
with the prohibiting health care provider's policies
and practices; provided, that no sanctions or penalties
shall be imposed under this paragraph without a
procedure for contesting the sections and penalties.
[(e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent:
[(1) A health care provider from participating under
this act while acting outside the course and scope of
the health care provider's duties as an employee or
independent contractor of the prohibiting health care
provider;
[(2) A patient from contracting with his or her
attending physician and consulting physician to act
outside the course and scope of the health care
provider's duties as an employee or independent
contractor of the prohibiting health care provider;
[(3) A health care provider from making an initial
determination pursuant to the standard of care that a
patient has a terminal disease and informing him or her
of the medical prognosis;
[(4) A health care provider from providing
information about this act upon the request ofthe
patient; or
[(5) A health care provider from providing a patient,
upon request, with a referral to another health care
provider.
[(f) Sanctions issued pursuant to subsection (d) of this
section are not reportable under section 513(a)(a)(C) of the
District of Columbia Health Occupations Revision Act of 1985,
effective March 25, 1986 (D.C. Law 6-99; D.C. Official Code g
3-1205.13(aXaXC)).
[SEC. 12. IMMUNITIES, LIABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONS.
[(a) Except as provided in section 11, no person shall be
subject to civil or criminal liability or professional
disciplinary action for:
[(1) Participating in good faith compliance with this
act;
[(2) Refusing to participate in providing a covered
medication under this act; or
[(3) Being present when a qualified patient takes a
covered medication.
[(b) Nothing in this act shall be interpreted to lower the
applicable standard of care for the attending physician,
consulting physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other
health care provider participating in this act.
[(c) No request by a patient for a covered medication made in
good-faith compliance with the provisions of this act shall
provide the basis for the appointment of a guardian or
conservator.
[SEC. 13. CLAIMS BY DISTRICT GOVERNMENT FOR COSTS INCURRED.
[If the District government incurs costs resulting from the
death of a qualified patient ingesting a covered medication
pursuant to this act in a public place, the District government
shall have a claim against the estate of the qualified patient
to recover such costs and reasonable attorney fees related to
enforcing the claim.
[SEC. 14. PENALTIES.
[(a) A person who, without authorization of the patient,
willfully alters or forges a request for a covered medication
or conceals or destroys a rescission of a request for a covered
medication with the intent or effect of causing the patient's
death is punishable as a Class A felony.
[(b) A person who, without authorization of the patient,
willfully coerces or exerts undue influence on a patient to
request or ingest a covered medication with the intent or
effect of causing the patient's death is punishable as a Class
A felony.
[SEC. 15. RULES.
[(a) The Mayor, pursuant to Title I of the District of
Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21,1968
(82 Stat. 1204;D.C. Official Code $ 2-501 et seq.), shall issue
rules to:
[(1) Develop the form to collect the medical record
information required by section 7;
[(2) Facilitate the collection of the medical record
information required by section 7; and
[(3) Provide for the return of and safe disposal of
unused covered medications.
[(b) The Mayor, pursuant to Title I of the District of
Columbia Administrative Procedure Act, approved October 21,1968
(82 Stat. 1204; D.C. Official Code $ 2-501 et seq.), may issue
rules to implement the provisions of this act, including rules
to:
[(1) Specify the recommended methods by which a
qualified patient, who so desires, may notify first
responders of his or her intent to ingest a covered
medication; and
[(2) Establish training opportunities for the medical
community to learn about the use of covered medications
by qualified patients seeking to die in a humane and
peaceful manner, including best practices for
prescribing the covered medication.
[SEC. 16. CONSTRUCTION.
[(a) Nothing in this act may be construed to authorize a
physician or any other person to end a patient's life by lethal
injection, mercy killing, active euthanasia, or any other
method or medication not authorized under this act.
[(b) Actions taken in accordance with this act do not
constitute suicide, assisted suicide, mercy killing, or
homicide.
[(c) Nothing in this act shall be construed to authorize a
qualified patient to ingest a covered medication in a public
place.
[SEC. 17. FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT EXEMPTION.
[The information collected by the Department pursuant to this
act shall not be a public record and may not be made available
for inspection by the public under the Freedom of Information
Act of 1976, effective March 25,1977 (D.C. Law l-96; D.C.
Official Code $ 2-531 et seq.), or any other law.]
----------
SECTION 5 OF THE CORRECTIONS OVERSIGHT IMPROVEMENT OMNIBUS AMENDMENT
ACT OF 2022 (D.C. LAW 24-344)
[Sec. 5. Section 16-5505 of the District of Columbia
Official Code is amended to read as follows:
[``SEC. 16-5505. EXEMPTIONS
[``(a) This chapter shall not apply to:
[``(1) Any claim for relief brought against a person
primarily engaged in the business of selling or leasing
goods or services, if the statement or conduct from
which the claim arises is:
[``(A) A representation of fact made for the
purpose of promoting, securing, or completing
sales or leases of, or commercial transactions
in, the person's goods or services; and
[``(B) The intended audience is an actual or
potential buyer or customer; and
[``(2) Any claim brought by the District government,
including District public charter schools.
[``(b) Subsection (a)(2) of this section shall apply:
[``(1) As of March 31, 2011; and
[``(2) To any claims pending as of the effective date
of the Anti-SLAPP Emergency Amendment Act of 2021,
effective November 8, 2021 (D.C. Act 24-208; 68 DCR
12193).''.]
----------
SECTION 102 OF THE YOUTH REHABILITATION AMENDMENT ACT OF 2018
Sec. 102. The youth rehabilitation amendment act of 1985,
effective december 7, 1985 (d.c. law 6-69; d.c. official code
Sec. 24-901 et seq.), is amended as follows:
(a) Section 2 (D.C. Official Code Sec. 24-901) is amended as
follows:
(1) Paragraph (1) is amended by striking the phrase
``individual committed'' and inserting the phrase
``individual sentenced'' in its place.
(2) Paragraph (5) is amended to read as follows:
``(5) `Treatment' means guidance for youth offenders
designed to improve public safety by facilitating
rehabilitation and preventing recidivism.''.
[(3) Paragraph (6) is amended to read as follows:
[``(6) `Youth offender' means a person 24 years of
age or younger at the time that the person committed a
crime other than murder, first degree murder that
constitutes an act of terrorism, second degree murder
that constitutes an act of terrorism, first degree
sexual abuse, second degree sexual abuse, and first
degree child sexual abuse.''.]
(b) Section 3 (D.C. Official Code Sec. 24-902) is amended as
follows:
(1) The section heading is amended to read as
follows:
``Sec. 3. Facilities, treatment, and services for youth
offenders.''.
(2) Subsection (a) is amended to read as follows:
``(a) The Mayor shall provide facilities, treatment, and
services for the developmentally appropriate care, custody,
subsistence, education, workforce training, and protection of
the following youth offenders:
``(1) Those pending trial on charges of having
committed misdemeanor or felony offenses under District
law; and
``(2) Those convicted of misdemeanor or felony
offenses under District law and who are in the
District's care or custody.''.
(3) A new subsection (a-1) is added to read as
follows:
``(a-1)(1) By September 30, 2019, the Mayor shall develop and
submit to the Council a strategic plan for providing the
facilities, treatment, and services for youth offenders
required by subsection (a) of this section.
``(2) The strategic plan shall include
recommendations for adopting and implementing inter-
agency programming by District agencies to address the
following:
``(A) The educational, workforce development,
behavioral and physical health care, housing,
family, and reentry needs of youth offenders
before commitment, while in District or federal
care or custody, and upon reentry;
``(B) The availability of a continuum of
developmentally appropriate, community-based
services for youth offenders before commitment,
while in District care or custody, and upon
reentry;
``(C) Best practices in restorative justice
for victims, youth offenders, including for
youth offenders convicted of violent offenses,
and persons at risk of becoming youth
offenders;
``(D) The expansion of diversion programs for
persons at risk of becoming youth offenders;
and
``(E) Outreach by the District to committed
youth offenders in District or federal care or
custody to identify needs for services and plan
for reentry.
``(3) In developing the strategic plan required by
this subsection, the Mayor shall consult with
community-based organizations with expertise in
juvenile justice issues and justice system-involved
young adults 18 through 24 years of age.''.
(4) Subsection (b) is repealed.
(5) Subsection (c) is amended to read as follows:
``(c) The federal Bureau of Prisons is authorized to provide
facilities, treatment, and services for the developmentally
appropriate care, custody, subsistence, education, workforce
training, segregation, and protection of youth offenders
convicted of felony offenses under District law and in federal
care or custody.''.
(c) Section 4 (D.C. Official Code Sec. 24-903) is amended as
follows:
(1) Subsection (a) is amended as follows:
(A) Paragraph (1) is amended by striking the
phrase ``If the court is of the opinion that
the youth offender does not need commitment,''
and inserting the phrase ``If the court
determines that a youth offender would be
better served by probation instead of
confinement,'' in its place.
[(B) Paragraph (2) is amended to read as
follows:
[``(2) The court, as part of an order of probation of
a youth offender 15 to 24 years of age, shall require
the youth offender to perform not fewer than 90 hours
of community service for a District government agency,
a nonprofit, or a community service organization,
unless the court determines that an order of community
service would be unreasonable.''.]
(C) Paragraph (3) is amended by striking the
phrase ``Within 120 days of January 31, 1990,''
and inserting the phrase ``By September 30,
2019,'' in its place.
(2) Subsections (b), (c), and (d) are amended to read
as follows:
``(b)(1) If the offense for which a youth offender is
convicted is punishable by imprisonment under applicable
provisions of law other than this subsection, the court may use
its discretion in sentencing the youth offender pursuant to
this act, up to the maximum penalty of imprisonment otherwise
provided by law.
``(2) Notwithstanding any other law, the court may,
in its discretion, issue a sentence less than any
mandatory-minimum term otherwise required by law.
``(3) The youth offender shall serve the court's
sentence unless released sooner as provided in section
5.
``(c)(1) If the court sentences a youth offender under this
act, the court shall make a written statement on the record of
the reasons for its determination. Any statement concerning or
related to the youth offender's contacts with the juvenile
justice system or child welfare authorities, or medical and
mental health records, shall be conducted at the bench and
placed under seal. The youth offender shall be entitled to
present to the court facts that would affect the court's
sentencing decision.
``(2) In using its discretion in sentencing a youth
offender under this act, the court shall consider:
``(A) The youth offender's age at the time of
the offense;
``(B) The nature of the offense, including
the extent of the youth offender's role in the
offense and whether and to what extent an adult
was involved in the offense;
``(C) Whether the youth offender was
previously sentenced under this act;
``(D) The youth offender's compliance with
the rules of the facility to which the youth
offender has been committed, and with
supervision and pretrial release, if
applicable;
``(E) The youth offender's current
participation in rehabilitative District
programs;
``(F) The youth offender's previous contacts
with the juvenile and criminal justice systems;
``(G) The youth offender's family and
community circumstances at the time of the
offense, including any history of abuse,
trauma, or involvement in the child welfare
system;
``(H) The youth offender's ability to
appreciate the risks and consequences of the
youth offender's conduct;
``(I) Any reports of physical, mental, or
psychiatric examinations of the youth offender
conducted by licensed health care
professionals;
``(J) The youth offender's use of controlled
substances that are unlawful under District
law;
``(K) The youth offender's capacity for
rehabilitation;
``(L) Any oral or written statement provided
pursuant to D.C. Official Code Sec. 23-1904 or
18 U.S.C. Sec. 3771 by a victim of the
offense, or by a family member of the victim if
the victim is deceased; and
``(M) Any other information the court deems
relevant to its decision.
``(d) If the court does not sentence a youth offender under
this act, the court shall make a written statement on the
record of the reasons for its determination and may sentence
the youth offender under any other applicable penalty
provision. Any statement concerning or related to the youth
offender's contacts with the juvenile justice system or child
welfare authorities, or medical and mental health records,
shall be conducted at the bench and placed under seal.''.
(3) Subsection (e) is amended by striking the phrase
``will derive benefit from treatment'' and inserting
the phrase ``will benefit from sentencing'' in its
place.
(d) Section 6 (D.C. Official Code Sec. 24-905) is repealed.
(e) Section 7 (D.C. Official Code Sec. 24-906) is amended as
follows:
(1) Subsection (d) is repealed.
(2) Subsection (e) is amended by striking the phrase
``conviction. In any case where the court sets aside
the conviction of a youth offender, the court shall
issue to the youth offender a certificate to that
effect.'' and inserting the phrase ``conviction.'' in
its place.
(3) New subsections (e-1) and (e-2) are added to read
as follows:
``(e-1)(1) A youth offender, regardless of whether the youth
offender was sentenced under this act, may, after the
completion of the youth offender's probation or sentence of
incarceration, supervised release, or parole, whichever is
later, file a motion to have the youth offender's conviction
set aside under this section. The court may, in its discretion,
set aside the conviction.
``(2) In making the determination under paragraph (1)
of this subsection, the court shall consider the
factors listed in section 4(c)(2) and make a written
statement on the record of the reasons for its
determination. The youth offender shall be entitled to
present to the court facts that would affect the
court's set aside decision.
``(3) In any case in which the youth offender's
conviction is set aside, the youth offender shall be
issued a certificate to that effect.''.
(4) Subsection (f)(4) is amended by striking the word
``his'' and inserting the phrase ``his or her'' in its
place.
(f) New sections 7a and 7b are added to read as follows:
``SEC. 7A. GRANTS FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME AND YOUTH OFFENDERS
``The Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants shall, on
an annual basis, provide grants to organizations to assist
victims of crime and youth offenders in understanding and
navigating the sentencing and set aside provisions of this act.
Annual grant amounts shall be limited to funds included in an
approved budget and financial plan.
``SEC. 7B. BIENNIAL ANALYSIS AND INFORMATION-SHARING.
``(a) By October 1, 2022, and every 2 years thereafter, the
Criminal Justice Coordinating Council shall analyze and submit
to the Mayor and Council a report on the following:
``(1) The number of cases and persons eligible for
sentencing and to have their convictions set aside
under this act, and how many persons were sentenced or
had their convictions set aside under this act;
``(2) The factors that affected the likelihood of
receiving a sentence under this act, such as assessed
offense type, prior arrests, prior juvenile commitment,
or age;
``(3) The extent to which cases eligible to be
sentenced under this act were subject to mandatory-
minimum terms, and if so, the extent to which
mandatory-minimum terms were imposed;
``(4) The type and length of sentences for those
sentenced under this act, compared to those not
sentenced under this act;
``(5) The factors that affected the likelihood that
those sentenced under this act would have their
convictions set aside;
``(6) A comparison of the recidivism of those
sentenced under this act who had their convictions set
aside, compared to those sentenced under this act who
did not have their convictions set aside;
``(7) A comparison of the recidivism of those
sentenced under this act to similarly situated persons
not sentenced under this act; and
``(8) The impact of programming provided to youth
offenders under this act.
``(b) To aid in the development of the reports required by
subsection (a) of this section, the following agencies shall
provide the information listed below, upon request by the
Criminal Justice Coordinating Council:
``(1) The Department of Corrections:
``(A) Incarceration and release dates, with
type of discharge;
``(B) Federal registration numbers; and
``(C) Programming provided to individuals
committed to Department of Corrections care or
custody;
``(2) The Metropolitan Police Department: arrest
histories for District arrests, including juvenile and
adult histories;
``(3) The Department of Youth Rehabilitation
Services: past commitments to the Department of Youth
Rehabilitation Services, including end dates of those
commitments; and
``(4) The District of Columbia Sentencing Commission:
aggregate data on sentences imposed in cases sentenced
under this act and cases not sentenced under this act,
by type of offense and type of criminal history
score.''.
----------
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COLLEGE ACCESS ACT OF 1999
* * * * * * *
SEC. 3. PUBLIC SCHOOL PROGRAM.
(a) Grants.--
(1) In general.--From amounts appropriated under
subsection (i) the Mayor shall award grants to eligible
institutions that enroll eligible students to pay the
difference between the tuition and fees charged for in-
State students and the tuition and fees charged for
out-of-State students on behalf of each eligible
student enrolled in the eligible institution.
(2) Maximum student amounts.--An eligible student
shall have paid on the student's behalf under this
section--
(A) not more than [$10,000] $15,000 for any 1
award year (as defined in section 481 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1088));
and
(B) a total of not more than [$50,000]
$75,000.
(3) Proration.--The Mayor shall prorate payments
under this section for students who attend an eligible
institution on less than a full-time basis.
(b) Reduction for Insufficient Appropriations.--
(1) In general.--If the funds appropriated pursuant
to subsection (i) for any fiscal year are insufficient
to award a grant in the amount determined under
subsection (a) on behalf of each eligible student
enrolled in an eligible institution, then the Mayor
shall--
(A) first, ratably reduce the amount of the
tuition and fee payment made on behalf of each
eligible student who has not received funds
under this section for a preceding year[; and];
(B) after making reductions under
subparagraph (A), ratably reduce the amount of
the tuition and fee payment of each eligible
student who receives more than $10,000 for the
award year; and
[(B)] (C) after making reductions under
[subparagraph (A)] subparagraph (B), ratably
reduce the amount of the tuition and fee
payments made on behalf of all other eligible
students.
(2) Adjustments.--The Mayor may adjust the amount of
tuition and fee payments made under paragraph (1) based
on--
(A) the financial need of the eligible
students to avoid undue hardship to the
eligible students; or
(B) undue administrative burdens on the
Mayor.
(3) Further adjustments.--Notwithstanding paragraphs
(1) and (2), the Mayor may prioritize the making or
amount of tuition and fee payments under this
subsection based on the income and need of eligible
students.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Eligible institution.--The term ``eligible
institution'' means an institution that--
(A) is a public institution of higher
education located--
(i) in the State of Maryland or the
Commonwealth of Virginia; or
(ii) outside the State of Maryland or
the Commonwealth of Virginia, but only
if the Mayor--
(I) determines that a
significant number of eligible
students are experiencing
difficulty in gaining admission
to any public institution of
higher education located in the
State of Maryland or the
Commonwealth of Virginia
because of any preference
afforded in-State residents by
the institution;
(II) consults with the
Committee on Government Reform
of the House of
Representatives, the Committee
on Governmental Affairs of the
Senate, and the Secretary
regarding expanding the program
under this section to include
such institutions located
outside of the State of
Maryland or the Commonwealth of
Virginia; and
(III) takes into
consideration the projected
cost of the expansion and the
potential effect of the
expansion on the amount of
individual tuition and fee
payments made under this
section in succeeding years;
(B) is eligible to participate in the student
financial assistance programs under title IV of
the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1070 et seq.); and
(C) enters into an agreement with the Mayor
containing such conditions as the Mayor may
specify, including a requirement that the
institution use the funds made available under
this section to supplement and not supplant
assistance that otherwise would be provided to
eligible students from the District of
Columbia.
(2) Eligible student.--The term ``eligible student''
means an individual who--
(A)(i) in the case of an individual who
begins an undergraduate course of study within
3 calendar years (excluding any period of
service on active duty in the armed forces, or
service under the Peace Corps Act (22 U.S.C.
2501 et seq.) or subtitle D of title I of the
National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42
U.S.C. 12571 et seq.)) of graduation from a
secondary school, or obtaining the recognized
equivalent of a secondary school diploma, was
domiciled in the District of Columbia for not
less than the 12 consecutive months preceding
the commencement of the freshman year at an
institution of higher education;
(ii) in the case of an individual who
graduated from a secondary school or received
the recognized equivalent of a secondary school
diploma before January 1, 1998, and is
currently enrolled at an eligible institution
as of the date of enactment of the District of
Columbia College Access Improvement Act of
2002, was domiciled in the District of Columbia
for not less than the 12 consecutive months
preceding the commencement of the freshman year
at an institution of higher education; or
(iii) in the case of any other individual and
an individual re-enrolling after more than a 3-
year break in the individual's post-secondary
education, has been domiciled in the District
of Columbia for at least 5 consecutive years at
the date of application;
(B)(i) graduated from a secondary school or
received the recognized equivalent of a
secondary school diploma on or after January 1,
1998;
(ii) in the case of an individual who did not
graduate from a secondary school or receive a
recognized equivalent of a secondary school
diploma, is accepted for enrollment as a
freshman at an eligible institution on or after
January 1, 2002; or
(iii) in the case of an individual who
graduated from a secondary school or received
the recognized equivalent of a secondary school
diploma before January 1, 1998, is currently
enrolled at an eligible institution as of the
date of enactment of the District of Columbia
College Access Improvement Act of 2002;
(C) meets the citizenship and immigration
status requirements described in section
484(a)(5) of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1091(a)(5));
(D) is enrolled or accepted for enrollment,
on at least a half-time basis, in a degree,
certificate, or other program (including a
program of study abroad approved for credit by
the institution at which such student is
enrolled) leading to a recognized educational
credential at an eligible institution;
(E) if enrolled in an eligible institution,
is maintaining satisfactory progress in the
course of study the student is pursuing in
accordance with section 484(c) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1091(c));
(F) has not completed the individual's first
undergraduate baccalaureate course of study;
and
(G) (i) for individuals who began an undergraduate
course of study prior to school year 2015-2016, is from
a family with a taxable annual income of less than
$1,000,000; (ii) for individuals who begin an
undergraduate course of study in or after school year
2016-2017 but before school year 2019-2020, is from a
family with a taxable annual income of less than
$750,000. Beginning with school year 2017-2018, the
Mayor shall adjust the amounts in clauses (i) and (ii)
for inflation, as measured by the percentage increase,
if any, from the preceding fiscal year in the Consumer
Price Index for All Urban Consumers, published by the
Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor;
and
(iii) For individuals who begin an
undergraduate course of study in or after
school year 2019-2020, is from a family with a
taxable annual income of less than $500,000.
Beginning with school year 2020-2021, the Mayor
shall adjust the amount in the previous
sentence for inflation, as measured by the
percentage increase, if any, from the preceding
fiscal year in the Consumer Price Index for All
Urban Consumers, published by the Bureau of
Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor.
(3) Institution of higher education.--The term
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning
given the term in section 101 of the Higher Education
Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001).
(4) Mayor.--The term ``Mayor'' means the Mayor of the
District of Columbia.
(5) Secondary school.--The term ``secondary school''
has the meaning given that term under section 8101 of
the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the
Secretary of Education.
(d) Construction.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to
require an institution of higher education to alter the
institution's admissions policies or standards in any manner to
enable an eligible student to enroll in the institution.
(e) Applications.--Each student desiring a tuition payment
under this section shall submit an application to the eligible
institution at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by
such information as the eligible institution may require.
(f) Administration of Program.--
(1) In general.--The Mayor shall carry out the
program under this section in consultation with the
Secretary. The Mayor may enter into a grant, contract,
or cooperative agreement with another public or private
entity to administer the program under this section if
the Mayor determines that doing so is a more efficient
way of carrying out the program.
(2) Policies and procedures.--The Mayor, in
consultation with institutions of higher education
eligible for participation in the program authorized
under this section, shall develop policies and
procedures for the administration of the program.
(3) Memorandum of agreement.--The Mayor and the
Secretary shall enter into a Memorandum of Agreement
that describes--
(A) the manner in which the Mayor shall
consult with the Secretary with respect to
administering the program under this section;
and
(B) any technical or other assistance to be
provided to the Mayor by the Secretary for
purposes of administering the program under
this section (which may include access to the
information in the common financial reporting
form developed under section 483 of the Higher
Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1090)).
(g) Mayor's Report.--The Mayor shall report to Congress
annually regarding--
(1) the number of eligible students attending each
eligible institution and the amount of the grant awards
paid to those institutions on behalf of the eligible
students;
(2) the extent, if any, to which a ratable reduction
was made in the amount of tuition and fee payments made
on behalf of eligible students; and
(3) the progress in obtaining recognized academic
credentials of the cohort of eligible students for each
year.
(h) GAO Report.--Beginning on the date of the enactment of
this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall
monitor the effect of the program assisted under this section
on educational opportunities for eligible students. The
Comptroller General shall analyze whether eligible students had
difficulty gaining admission to eligible institutions because
of any preference afforded in-State residents by eligible
institutions, and shall expeditiously report any findings
regarding such difficulty to Congress and the Mayor. In
addition the Comptroller General shall--
(1) analyze the extent to which there are an
insufficient number of eligible institutions to which
District of Columbia students can gain admission,
including admission aided by assistance provided under
this Act, due to--
(A) caps on the number of out-of-State
students the institution will enroll;
(B) significant barriers imposed by academic
entrance requirements (such as grade point
average and standardized scholastic admissions
tests); and
(C) absence of admission programs benefiting
minority students;
(2) assess the impact of the program assisted under
this Act on enrollment at the University of the
District of Columbia; and
(3) report the findings of the analysis described in
paragraph (1) and the assessment described in paragraph
(2) to Congress and the Mayor.
(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to
be appropriated to the District of Columbia to carry out this
section $12,000,000 for fiscal year 2000 and (subject to
section 7) such sums as may be necessary for each of the 12
succeeding fiscal years. Such funds shall remain available
until expended.
(j) Effective Date.--This section shall take effect with
respect to payments for periods of instruction that begin on or
after January 1, 2000.
* * * * * * *
SEC. 5. PRIVATE SCHOOL PROGRAM.
(a) Grants.--
(1) In general.--From amounts appropriated under
subsection (f) the Mayor shall award grants to eligible
institutions that enroll eligible students to pay the
cost of tuition and fees at the eligible institutions
on behalf of each eligible student enrolled in an
eligible institution. The Mayor may prescribe such
regulations as may be necessary to carry out this
section.
(2) Maximum student amounts.--An eligible student
shall have paid on the student's behalf under this
section--
(A) not more than [$2,500] $3,750 for any 1
award year (as defined in section 481 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1088));
and
(B) a total of not more than [$12,500]
$18,750.
(3) Proration.--The Mayor shall prorate payments
under this section for students who attend an eligible
institution on less than a full-time basis.
(b) Reduction for Insufficient Appropriations.--
(1) In general.--If the funds appropriated pursuant
to subsection (f) for any fiscal year are insufficient
to award a grant in the amount determined under
subsection (a) on behalf of each eligible student
enrolled in an eligible institution, then the Mayor
shall--
(A) first, ratably reduce the amount of the
tuition and fee payment made on behalf of each
eligible student who has not received funds
under this section for a preceding year[; and];
(B) after making reductions under
subparagraph (A), ratably reduce the amount of
the tuition and fee payment of each eligible
student who receives more than $2,500 for the
award year; and
[(B)] (C) after making reductions under
[subparagraph (A)] subparagraph (B), ratably
reduce the amount of the tuition and fee
payments made on behalf of all other eligible
students.
(2) Adjustments.--The Mayor may adjust the amount of
tuition and fee payments made under paragraph (1) based
on--
(A) the financial need of the eligible
students to avoid undue hardship to the
eligible students; or
(B) undue administrative burdens on the
Mayor.
(3) Further adjustments.--Notwithstanding paragraphs
(1) and (2), the Mayor may prioritize the making or
amount of tuition and fee payments under this
subsection based on the income and need of eligible
students.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Eligible institution.--The term ``eligible
institution'' means an institution that--
(A)(i) is a private, nonprofit, associate or
baccalaureate degree-granting, institution of
higher education, as defined in section 101(a)
of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001(a)), the main campus of which is located--
(I) in the District of Columbia;
(II) in the city of Alexandria, Falls
Church, or Fairfax, or the county of
Arlington or Fairfax, in the
Commonwealth of Virginia, or a
political subdivision of the
Commonwealth of Virginia located within
any such county; or
(III) in the county of Montgomery or
Prince George's in the State of
Maryland, or a political subdivision of
the State of Maryland located within
any such county;
(ii) is eligible to participate in the
student financial assistance programs under
title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965
(20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.); and
(iii) enters into an agreement with the Mayor
containing such conditions as the Mayor may
specify, including a requirement that the
institution use the funds made available under
this section to supplement and not supplant
assistance that otherwise would be provided to
eligible students from the District of
Columbia; or
(B) is a private historically Black college
or university (for purposes of this
subparagraph such term shall have the meaning
given the term ``part B institution'' in
section 322(2) of the Higher Education Act of
1965 (20 U.S.C. 1061(2)).
(2) Eligible student.--The term ``eligible student''
means an individual who meets the requirements of
subparagraphs (A) through (G) of section 3(c)(2).
(3) Mayor.--The term ``Mayor'' means the Mayor of the
District of Columbia.
(4) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the
Secretary of Education.
(d) Application.--Each eligible student desiring a tuition
and fee payment under this section shall submit an application
to the eligible institution at such time, in such manner, and
accompanied by such information as the eligible institution may
require.
(e) Administration of Program.--
(1) In general.--The Mayor shall carry out the
program under this section in consultation with the
Secretary. The Mayor may enter into a grant, contract,
or cooperative agreement with another public or private
entity to administer the program under this section if
the Mayor determines that doing so is a more efficient
way of carrying out the program.
(2) Policies and procedures.--The Mayor, in
consultation with institutions of higher education
eligible for participation in the program authorized
under this section, shall develop policies and
procedures for the administration of the program.
(3) Memorandum of agreement.--The Mayor and the
Secretary shall enter into a Memorandum of Agreement
that describes--
(A) the manner in which the Mayor shall
consult with the Secretary with respect to
administering the program under this section;
and
(B) any technical or other assistance to be
provided to the Mayor by the Secretary for
purposes of administering the program under
this section.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to
be appropriated to the District of Columbia to carry out this
section $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2000 and (subject to section
7) such sums as may be necessary for each of the 12 succeeding
fiscal years. Such funds shall remain available until expended.
(g) Effective Date.--This section shall take effect with
respect to payments for periods of instruction that begin on or
after January 1, 2000.
* * * * * * *
Comparative Statement of New Budget
(Obligational) Authority
The following table provides a detailed summary, for each
Department and agency, comparing the amounts recommended in the
bill with amounts enacted for fiscal year 2025 and budget
estimates presented for fiscal year 2026.
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
FULL COMMITTEE VOTES
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
DISSENTING VIEWS
The Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) bill
funds critical programs that impact the lives of every American
in their capacity as consumers, as investors, and as taxpayers.
The bill's jurisdiction covers a diverse range of agencies
including those that provide oversight and regulation of the
financial and telecommunications industries, manage government
buildings and infrastructure projects, and oversee the federal
workforce. In addition, funding in this bill supports the
operations of the White House, the Federal Judiciary, and the
District of Columbia.
We appreciate Chairman Joyce's efforts in assembling the
Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 FSGG bill. We were pleased to cooperate
with the Chairman to identify areas of common ground. However,
the overwhelming share of funding decisions and policy
provisions in this bill reflect a focus on partisan priorities
from the Majority's side.
The bill's FY 2026 funding level is $23.3 billion, 12
percent below the 2025 level and 6 percent below the
President's budget request.
Perhaps the most egregious flaws in this bill are regarding
the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For decades, the IRS has
been severely underfunded. Democrats reversed this trend when
landmark investments were made to rebuild the IRS through the
Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Subsequent irresponsible
Republican demands for budget reductions and lower toplines
resulted in rescissions of essentially all of the additional
funding provided for IRS enforcement and most of the overall
funding provided for the IRS. These reductions have done a
grave disservice to efforts for fiscal responsibility as well
as our duty to the American people.
Funding the IRS helps taxpayers fulfill their legal
obligations and ensures IRS can enforce existing law, including
by hiring employees with the expertise necessary to conduct
complex, high-income audits. Less funding means worse service
and fewer audits of the wealthy and corporations. Meanwhile,
the number of tax returns filed, and the GDP have both
increased. Reckless budget and staffing cuts have caused the
number of IRS audits on the wealthiest Americans to plummet.
Instead of helping taxpayers to meet their legal
obligations, this legislation exacerbates it with a cut to IRS
enforcement, allowing the complex returns of high-earners and
corporations to continue to evade scrutiny. Such a drastic cut
has severe consequences for our government to collect the owed
taxes it needs to serve the people. Cutting enforcement funding
reduces revenue and increases the debt. The result is the same
as simply reducing taxes on wealthy Americans--a cause
Republicans have also championed. Republicans claim to be the
party of fiscal responsibility. This bill is the engine that
funds all other priorities; slashing the agency responsible for
bringing in the government's revenue is beyond unwise; it is a
dereliction of responsibility.
Other Treasury Department functions that are key to
national security--such as the Financial Crimes Enforcement
Network--are irresponsibly cut. We hear a great deal from the
other side of the aisle talk about wanting to be ``tough on
China'' and yet, the bill includes no funding for the
Administration's efforts to restrict outbound investment in
countries that threaten our national security.
This bill makes it harder to enforce the law by imposing
irresponsible cuts on key regulatory agencies and resources.
That includes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the
Securities Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Consumer Products
Safety Commission. In doing so, this bill leaves Americans
vulnerable to a variety of threats--from fraud and scams to
dangerous products that can harm and even kill adults and
children.
Additionally, the bill cuts funding for the Election
Assistance Commission and funds Election Security Grants far
below the needed level, making our elections more vulnerable to
interference and tampering, about which Republicans have been
so outspoken.
Another particularly irresponsible cut targets the General
Services Administration (GSA), which functions as the Federal
Government's developer and landlord. This includes no funding
for the Technology Modernization Fund or the Electric Vehicles
Fund.
The bill provides harmful bill language and no funding for
a much-needed consolidation and modernization for the
headquarters of the Federal Bureau Investigations (FBI). The
current FBI headquarters is in such disrepair that it
constitutes a national security threat by preventing FBI
employees from having access to necessary and secure facilities
to do their important work protecting our nation. This project
has been years in the making, and this lack of funding stalls
the nation in addressing this urgently needed infrastructure
improvement. Each year that project is delayed costs taxpayers
hundreds of millions of dollars and undermines FBI's mission
and the safety of its employees.
Cuts to the Small Business Administration would cut off
assistance and resources that help small businesses start,
grow, and compete. At a time when our economy is returning
following pandemic business closures, this reduction is
especially irresponsible.
The bill contains numerous harmful riders on a wide range
of topics. They prohibit the government from improving
diversity and equality, limit our ability to combat climate
change, further undermine FTC and SEC consumer protections,
restrict reproductive health-care access, and interfere with
the home rule authority of the District of Columbia.
The Committee adopted additional objectionable language
which would negatively impact both home rule in the District of
Columbia and funding for their public schools, impede the
ability offinancial institutions to prevent white-collar crime,
and interfere with states effort to reform bail requirements for non-
violent offenders.
Responding to the federalization of the DC Metropolitan
Police Department, deployment of the National Guard, and
increased federal law enforcement personnel to the streets of
Washington, DC, Rep. Hoyer offered a commonsense amendment to
require these personnel to wear a body camera, identify
themselves and their employer clearly, and not wear a mask or
face covering. The majority rejected these basic public safety
measures.
Reps. Hoyer, Ivey, and Pocan offered amendments to protect
federal workers from the Administration's unprecedented attack.
Rep. Hoyer's amendments would have provided pay parity with the
armed services and protect the integrity of the civil service
from the administration's attempt to return to cronyism in
federal hiring. Rep. Ivey's amendment would have prevented the
Administration's continued arbitrary firings of federal
workers. An amendment offered by Rep. Pocan would have
rightfully restored collective bargaining to federal employees
who have had it unlawfully stripped. The Majority refused to
step up and protect our dedicated civil servants.
In an effort to prevent continued corruption and
unlawfulness, Reps. Torres and Pocan offered amendments to
prevent the hiring of individuals pardoned for the attacks on
the Capitol on January 6th, require transparency and disclosure
regarding the Department of Government Efficiency, and prevent
the President and his family members from using the office for
financial gain. The Majority refused to engage in a discussion
of these amendments.
In an effort to improve the bill, Rep. Hoyer offered an
amendment to increase IRS enforcement funding to the FY 2025
level. Rep. Perez offered an amendment to strike a provision
that would prohibit the IRS from developing a free electronic
filing software for all Americans. The Majority rejected both
attempts to ensure a fair and accessible tax system for the
American people.
In order to protect the security and fairness of our
elections, Rep. Bishop offered an amendment to increase funding
for Election Security Grants. Relatedly, Rep. Perez offered an
amendment to prevent the Administration from penalizing states
for having voting by mail, which allows broader access to the
ballot for many Americans. The Majority rejected these attempts
to provide modest support for voters and elections.
Rep. Ivey offered an amendment to increase funding for
federal public defenders, so that payments to defense attorneys
could resume uninterrupted during FY 2026 and defendants would
have access to counsel. Despite bipartisan support, the
amendment was not adopted.
Multiple Democratic Members of the Committee offered
amendments to rein in the Administration's attack on the
Congresses' power of the purse. Amendments were offered that
would have created an Inspector General for the Office of
Management and Budget, directed the General Accountability
Office (GAO) to conduct a comprehensive review of budget
execution law and practice of the Executive Branch, ensure that
funding was not spent in violation of the Impoundment Control
Act, and ensure that GAO investigations were not interfered
with or hindered. The Majority rejected these amendments
without serious consideration.
Rep. Frankel offered an amendment to strike these harmful
provisions and protect a woman's right to make legal and
private health choices without government interference. By
opposing adoption of this amendment, the Republican Majority
continued its hypocritical allegiance to limited government,
until it concerns a women's right to choose.
Reps. Dean and Underwood offered amendments to require the
disclosure of files related to Jeffrey Epstein and his sex-
trafficking operations. During the course of debate, it was
asserted that Democratic Members only recently advocated for
disclosure of this information. Rep. Wasserman Schultz
referenced a politifact.com article that noted that both Reps.
Wasserman Schultz and Frankel, launched a yearslong quest to
release Epstein records in 2019. All of the amendments to
release files related to Epstein and his co-conspirators were
rejected.
In rare instance of bipartisanship, Committee Members on
both sides of the aisle united to adopt an amendment offered by
Rep. Aguilar to make sure that Dreamers, certain non-criminal
immigrants that entered the country as children and remain
without U.S. citizenship, can lend their talents to the Federal
workforce.
Across the bill, these unwise cuts will reduce the ability
of the government to effectively protect consumers and
investors and investigate tax cheats and collect revenues.
Overall, the proposed spending reductions are not fiscally
responsible since they will actually increase costs in the
future through reduced revenue and diminished enforcement. As a
consequence, we are gravely concerned that the bill fails to
make the necessary investments to confront the challenges
facing this nation. Of equal concern are the reckless and ill-
advised policy riders that do not belong on an appropriations
bill. Many of these provisions threaten to impose even greater
damage to the nation's democratic principles and core financial
infrastructure.
This bill has been considered during a time of remarkable
upheaval for the Committee. Since taking office in January
2025, the executive branch has been engaged in a rampant,
unlawful, and unconstitutional disregard for spending laws. In
particular, the Office of Management and Budget has been at the
center of a government-wide effort to thwart the intent of this
Committee's laws in its actions, while also unlawfully refusing
to publish the agency's legally- binding budget decisions
(known as apportionments) in contravention of an unambiguous
and constitutionally sound assertion of the Congress's
authority to impose transparency requirements upon the
executive branch.
The current executive branch has contended--at times--an
inherent Presidential power to impound. However, while this
bill was approved over the objection of all Democrats on the
Committee, the debate and proceedings made unmistakably clear,
just as former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United
States William Rehnquist concluded (at the time an Assistant
Attorney General with the Department of Justice Office):
``With respect to the suggestion that the President
has a constitutional power to decline to spend
appropriated funds, we must conclude that existence of
such a broad power is supported by neither reason nor
precedent.''
The current Administration's unfounded views of their
purported authorities peaked one week before this bill was
considered when the President transmitted a second special
message of proposed rescission under the Impoundment Control
Act of 1974 to the Congress. The Office of Management and
Budget followed that message--sent 34 days before the end of
the fiscal year--by issuing an apportionment to freeze all of
the funding proposed for rescission and has publicly stated
that it intends to keep those funds frozen through their
expiration, describing their request to Congress as a ``pocket
rescission.'' This action is unlawful, and the Government
Accountability Office's 2018 legal opinion remains the correct
view on the matter:
``We conclude that the [Impoundment Control Act of
1974] ICA does not permit the impoundment of funds
through their date of expiration. The plain language of
the ICA permits only the temporary withholding of
budget authority and provides that unless Congress
rescinds the amounts at issue, they must be made
available for obligation. Amounts proposed for
rescission must be made available for prudent
obligation before the amounts expire, even where the
45-day period provided in the ICA approaches or spans
the date on which funds would expire.''
GAO B-33030, December 10, 2018
The laws considered and enacted by this Committee reflect
the legally binding expression of Congress's constitutional
power of the purse, effectuated through the conditions and
permissions the Committee places on spending authority through
the Congress's Article I powers. Just as the Committee chooses
to allow or restrict the purpose for any funds in the bill, so
too does the Committee decide the amount for which an activity
shall be funded. When the Committee allows the flexibility of
merely mandating a ceiling (or upper limit) or a floor (lowest
required level) for an activity, it does so in contrast to
every other instance where it has included a specific amount,
which unless otherwise stated is Congress's clear intent to be
both a floor and a ceiling.
These perspectives are both uncontroversial and
longstanding principles on which all of the Committee's work
rests.
Rosa L. DeLauro.
Steny H. Hoyer.
[all]