Michael Lawler (R-NY)
Transparency in Foreign Assistance Act
A Republican bill with 2 Democratic cosponsors · See all 2 cosponsors
Last activity — Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 44 - 0.
Introduced, nothing more yet
Formally proposed, and not yet handed to a committee.
Nearly every bill is sent to a committee within days. Introduction alone is not a sign of support, of momentum, or of any likelihood of passing — any member may introduce any bill.
Its path through Congress
- Introduced
What this bill would do
The Transparency in Foreign Assistance Act creates a one-year pilot program. This program requires the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs and the Coordinator for Counterterrorism to give Congress extra information on certain foreign assistance programs. This applies to programs needing funds beyond what is already provided by existing law. The notification must include details like the program's name, funding amounts, and goals. It also requires information on the implementing entity and whether there is an overspend or underspend of funds.
Yes· 3 of 5
- Scored +8
Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see?
Directly requires more detailed public and congressional notification of foreign assistance funds and implementing entities.
- Scored +3
Does this make the government pay for what it commits to?
Requires reporting on underspends and overspends to improve accountability of foreign assistance funds.
- Scored +2
Does this give the federal government more power?
Increases the oversight and reporting requirements for executive agencies to Congress.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Increased Transparency: Section 2(b) requires detailed notifications including the total amount of new funding, intended objectives, and descriptions of activities. This provides more clarity on how funds are used.
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Better Accountability: Section 2(b)(13) and 2(b)(14) require reporting on whether programs have significant underspends or overspends and if performance improvement plans or administrative oversight have been established. This helps ensure money is being managed properly.
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Identification of Entities: Section 2(b)(9) requires the name and type of the implementing entity, such as whether it is a private or public entity or based in the United States or internationally. This clarifies who is receiving the funds to run the programs.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Limited Scope: Section 2(a) limits this pilot program to only the Bureau of African Affairs and the Coordinator for Counterterrorism, meaning other foreign assistance programs are not subject to these specific notification requirements.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Tap or hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Governance And Ideology
- Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see? — Directly requires more detailed public and congressional notification of foreign assistance funds and implementing entities. Does this give the federal government more power? — Increases the oversight and reporting requirements for executive agencies to Congress.
- Economy And Finance
- Does this make the government pay for what it commits to? — Requires reporting on underspends and overspends to improve accountability of foreign assistance funds. Does this reduce what the federal government spends? — Increased oversight and reporting on overspends may lead to more disciplined spending.
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Does this favour talking over confrontation abroad? — Increased transparency in aid may improve the perceived legitimacy of diplomatic efforts.
- 3/27/2026
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 3/26/2026
- Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 44 - 0.
- 2/23/2026
- Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- Introduced in House
Sara JacobsDemocrat · California
Sarah McBrideDemocrat · Delaware