ZIPPO Act Zero Increase in Personnel for Propagandistic Outreach Act
Impact
If enacted, the bill would have a significant impact on the management and function of the USAGM by freezing personnel actions, thus potentially undermining the agency's ability to carry out its mission effectively. Critics may argue that such a hiring freeze could lead to decreased efficiency and a limited scope of outreach and communication. Additionally, the restrictions on reassignment and duty modifications could hinder the agency's adaptation to changing needs or challenges in global communications.
Summary
House Bill 3528, officially titled the 'Zero Increase in Personnel for Propagandistic Outreach Act' (ZIPPO Act), seeks to impose a hiring freeze at the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM). The bill, introduced by Representatives Ogles and Perry, aims to halt any new appointments within the agency, prohibit the establishment of new positions, and restrict the assignment of duties for existing personnel. By doing so, the bill intends to limit the operational capacity of USAGM, which publishes and distributes news content for audiences outside the United States.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding HB3528 may arise from differing views on government funding and operational effectiveness. Proponents of the bill likely argue that it is a necessary measure to prevent potential misuse of resources and limit what they perceive as excessive expansive growth of bureaucratic agencies engaged in foreign outreach. In contrast, opponents could view the bill as an overreach that compromises the ability of USAGM to inform and engage with international audiences, ultimately affecting the country's soft power and influence abroad.