Us Congress House Bill HB4693

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 7/18/23
• Refer: 7/18/23
• Refer: 7/19/23
• Report Pass: 7/27/23
• Engrossed: 3/12/24
• Refer: 9/19/24

Caption

Tennessee Valley Authority Salary Transparency Act

Impact

The passage of HB 4693 would result in significant changes to the financial reporting obligations of the TVA. Currently, the TVA is subject to the Federal Reports Elimination and Sunset Act of 1995, which limits certain reporting requirements. This bill would exempt TVA from these limitations, allowing for a more comprehensive disclosure of employee compensation details. The intent is to provide stakeholders, including Congress and the public, with better insight into how taxpayer money is spent on executive salaries within a federal agency.

Summary

House Bill 4693, titled the Tennessee Valley Authority Salary Transparency Act, aims to enhance the transparency of salaries paid to employees within the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). This bill specifically requires the TVA to submit annual reports detailing the number of management-level employees, their names, salaries, and job responsibilities, particularly for those earning compensation at or above the GS-15 level on the federal pay scale. By mandating these disclosures, the bill seeks to ensure that taxpayer-funded organizations operate with a higher level of accountability regarding employee compensation.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 4693 appears to lean towards promoting good governance and accountability. Supporters argue that greater transparency in salary disclosures is essential for maintaining public trust, especially in institutions funded by federal resources. By demonstrating openness in financial matters, the TVA could enhance its reputation and potentially foster a more engaged community around its operations. However, there may also be concerns from individuals who question the necessity of such detailed disclosures or the potential impacts on employee privacy.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 4693 could revolve around concerns about privacy and the potential backlash against TVA employees due to salary disclosures. While proponents of the bill may argue that the transparency is necessary to uphold accountability, opponents might raise concerns that publicizing salaries could dissuade competent individuals from seeking positions within the TVA or create an environment of scrutiny that affects employee morale. Additionally, the implications this bill may have on the wider federal governance framework regarding employee compensation transparency could also come into discussion as the bill moves forward.