STOP the SWAMP Act Safeguarding Transparency and Oversight to Prevent the Spread of Washington’s Administrative Misconduct and Partisanship Act
Impact
The proposed legislation is set to have profound implications on the conduct of witnesses in congressional hearings and investigations. By imposing fines and terms of imprisonment for refusal to answer questions related to federal inquiries, the bill aims to ensure that witnesses fulfill their obligations to Congress. Additionally, the debarment clause could serve as a deterrent for misconduct, thereby enhancing overall accountability within federal agencies.
Summary
House Bill 9084, commonly referred to as the 'STOP the SWAMP Act', seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in federal employment by instituting severe penalties for individuals who refuse to answer questions posed during congressional investigations or who commit perjury in such contexts. The bill amends current statutes to classify such refusals as misdemeanors and to mandate debarment from federal employment for those convicted of perjury. This approach aims to prioritize the integrity and oversight of federal operations by reinforcing the importance of compliance with congressional inquiries.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 9084 include concerns about the potential for misuse of authority, particularly regarding the definitions of refusal and perjury. Critics argue that the language in the bill could be broadly interpreted, potentially leading to unfair penalization of individuals who may have legitimate reasons for not responding or who might be caught in bureaucratic disputes. Additionally, debates arise around the adequacy of judicial review provisions, with some members arguing that the safeguards may not sufficiently protect individuals against unjust outcomes in highly politicized environments.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.