Bill requires public GAO briefing on federal finances
In committeeH.R. 7026Latest action
Sponsor: Andy Barr · Representative · KY
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Official title: Fiscal State of the Nation Act
119th Congress
Topics: Jobs & the economy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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This bill would require Congress to hold a public hearing each year where a nonpartisan watchdog walks lawmakers through the federal government's financial audit.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill would require Congress to hold a public joint hearing each year to review the federal government's audited financial report. The would present findings on deficits, debt projections, and the government's overall financial health. The hearing must happen within 45 working days of the Treasury submitting its report, must be open to the public and media, and any member of Congress may participate.
Who does it affect?
This bill primarily affects members of Congress and the , the head of the Government Accountability Office. Ordinary citizens would also be affected through greater public visibility into the government's financial condition.
Why does it matter?
Without this requirement, no formal process exists to ensure Congress publicly reviews the Treasury's annual financial audit together. This bill would create a set time and format for that review to happen on the record, in public.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 13, 2026
- House committeeYou are here · Jan 13, 2026
- House vote
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Referred to the House Committee on Rules.