To require the Administrator of the General Services Administration to submit a report describing a process for seeking public comment about proposed changes to mandatory design standards for public buildings, and for other purposes.
Impact
Once enacted, the bill is expected to impact existing processes by establishing a systematic way for the GSA to solicit public feedback on design standards. This change is significant as it would allow for a more democratic approach to determining federal design criteria, potentially resulting in higher quality outcomes that reflect the needs and preferences of the public. The requirements for publication of changes in the Federal Register and on the GSA website are designed to improve awareness and accessibility of information regarding these standards.
Summary
House Bill 6317 mandates the Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA) to revise the procedures for updating mandatory design standards for federally owned buildings. The bill aims to enhance public engagement by requiring a formal public comment period for any proposed changes to these standards. This process is intended to promote transparency and ensure that feedback is collected from stakeholders before implementing any changes in federally mandated building requirements.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB6317 appears generally positive, particularly among advocacy groups and stakeholders who favor greater public involvement in government decisions. Proponents argue that by instituting a public comment period, the bill acknowledges the importance of incorporating public opinion in shaping federal design policies. However, there may be contention from those who see such processes as bureaucratic hurdles that could slow down the implementation of necessary updates to design standards.
Contention
Debate may arise regarding the balance between efficiently updating design standards and ensuring thorough public involvement. Critics might fear that the added requirement for public comment could delay important updates or lead to prolonged discussions that may complicate the decision-making process. Nevertheless, supporters argue that this engagement will lead to better-informed policies that truly meet public needs.
Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6276) to direct the Administrator of General Services and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to identify the utilization rate of certain public buildings and federally-leased space, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the resolution (H. Res. 1065) denouncing the Biden administration's immigration policies.
To direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to appoint an Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety Technology, and for other purposes.
To direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to publish guidance and implementation procedures for unmanned aircraft systems with respect to environmental reviews, and for other purposes.
To establish the Commission on National Agricultural Statistics Service Modernization to modernize the data collection and reporting processes of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, and for other purposes.
To require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Assistant Administrator for Fisheries of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to withdraw proposed rules relating to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and for other purposes.
To require the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to provide a link to resources for submitting reports on suspected fraud relating to certain COVID-19 loans.