The Council of State Governments recently named Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) as the recipient of its 2014 Guardian of Federalism Award for her work on a bill that would promote legislative transparency.
Through its Guardian of Federalism Award, the Council of State Governments recognizes individuals who work to promote the principles of federalism. Foxx was recognized for introducing the Unfunded Mandates Information and Transparency Act (UMITA).
The legislation would close loopholes in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA). UMITA would require more extensive cost-benefit analysis on the impact of agency rules on local governments and private businesses.
Foxx said it was an honor to receive the 2014 Guardian of Federalism Award and to introduce legislation that would enhance the ability of businesses to hire new employees and local governments to administer public services.
“(UMITA) builds on the success of UMRA by drawing upon executive orders enacted by the last two Democrat presidents to close loopholes, streamline the cost reporting process and clarify the responsibilities of those in charge of complying with these requirements,” Foxx, the vice chairwoman of the House Rules Committee, said. “During these times of political polarization, I urge (legislators) to support this modest legislation which promotes good government, accountability and transparency.”
Under UMITA, the chairmen and ranking members of every congressional committee would be allowed to request a retrospective cost analysis of an existing federal policy. Additionally, the requirement for federal agencies to consult state, local and tribal governments on the impact of new regulations would be extended to the private sector under the measure.
UMITA would also reflect the current Congressional Budget Office policy to expand the definition of “direct costs” to include forgone profits that are passed on to consumers and behavioral changes.
“My bill, the Unfunded Mandates Information and Transparency Act, will ensure that the people who write these regulations in Washington know exactly what they are asking the American people to pay, and whether the costs of compliance might make it harder for state and local governments to balance their budgets,” Foxx said. “With (Congress’s) help, we can turn this legislation into law. Again, thank you for this award. It is an honor to receive it.”
Founded in 1933, the Council of State Governments is the only organization that represents all three branches of state government in the U.S.