GSA Technology Accountability Act

Dec 23, 2024
Dec 23, 2024

Summary

Makes the General Services Administration (GSA) send yearly reports to Congress about how it spends money from its technology and citizen services funds.

What problem does this solve?

Congress lacked detailed information on how the General Services Administration (GSA) was spending money on technology projects. This law requires the GSA to submit annual reports, creating transparency and accountability for its spending.

Who does this affect?

  • General Services Administration (GSA)
  • U.S. Congress

What does this law do?

Requires annual report on citizen services fund
Commands the GSA Administrator to send a yearly report to Congress detailing all programs paid for by the Federal Citizen Services Fund over the last five years.
Requires annual report on acquisition services fund
Commands the GSA Administrator to send a yearly report to Congress on programs within the Technology Transformation Services paid for by the Acquisition Services Fund.
Specifies report contents
States that reports must include a program explanation, funding amounts for the past year and in total, any expected reimbursements, and details about related projects.

What is the real world impact?

Increases congressional oversight
Provides Congress with detailed information on how the GSA spends money on technology. This allows for better tracking of taxpayer dollars and ensures funds are used effectively for their intended purposes.
Prevents wasteful spending
By requiring public reports on project funding, timelines, and goals, the law creates pressure on the GSA to manage its technology programs efficiently. This can help identify failing projects earlier and prevent wasteful spending.

When does this start?

This law becomes active at the beginning of the first fiscal year after it is signed.
Annual reporting deadline
The GSA must submit its reports to Congress no later than September 30 of each year.