NCSL Voices Opposition to DATA Act

WASHINGTON – The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) today issued the following statement in reference to the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (H.R. 2146), which would establish an independent agency in the executive branch, known as the Federal Accountability and Spending Transparency Board:

“On behalf of state legislators who are mindful of their state budgets, NCSL cannot support the House version of the Digital Accountability and Transparency Act (DATA Act) in its current revised form. While NCSL agrees transparency and accountability should go hand-in-hand with federal spending, states should not be expected to provide the funds to make this possible. Another unfunded federal mandate as states slowly recover from the recession is the wrong way to go.

Additionally, conversion to a brand new reporting system and platform should be done on a phased-in basis so that federal and state governments can test, plan and analyze what works best.”

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.