Bill > HR3454

This bill amends the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to strengthen congressional control over federal spending and provide legal remedies for unauthorized withholding of congressionally appropriated funds. The bill reaffirms the constitutional principle that Congress has the exclusive power of the purse and that the President must faithfully execute appropriations laws. It creates a private right of action, allowing individuals, states, local governments, and tribal governments to sue the federal government and specific federal employees for withholding budget authority. The bill introduces provisions for substantial damages, including treble damages for bad faith violations, and removes various immunity protections for federal employees who knowingly violate the act. Specifically, it defines "contingencies" more narrowly, enhances the Comptroller General's authority to review potential violations, and ensures that federal courts can review challenges to budget authority withholding. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the rest of the act remains in effect, effectively creating a comprehensive legal framework to prevent unauthorized impoundment of congressionally appropriated funds.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3454/all-info