Policy & Government Affairs

GAO Report: Social Security Death Data Prevents Federal Payment Errors

A GAO report highlights a successful pilot program that made permanent a law allowing the Department of the Treasury's Do Not Pay system access to the Social Security Administration's full Death Master File. This initiative has prevented millions in improper federal payments, saving taxpayers money.

DOD Missile Tracking System Faces Cost and Technical Challenges

A GAO report highlights significant cost and technical challenges facing the Department of Defense's new missile tracking system. The system, intended to counter emerging threats, is behind schedule and over initial cost estimates, with potential for further delays and increased expenses.

GAO Recommends Improving CPSC Oversight of Children's Products

The GAO has recommended that the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) improve its oversight of children's products to better ensure safety from toxic substances like lead. The report highlights areas for improvement in lab oversight and the implementation of a new e-filing system for importers.

GAO Oversight and Congressional Question Answering

The GAO published a blog post on February 12, 2026, detailing how it answers complex questions from members of Congress. The post highlights examples of GAO's work, including estimating fraud in government spending and analyzing the impact of SEC regulations on conflict minerals.

US House Vote on Motion to Recommit Failed

The US House of Representatives voted on a motion to recommit the "Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act." The motion failed with 197 yeas and 208 nays. The vote occurred on February 24, 2026.

House Resolution Vote on Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act

The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on February 24, 2026, by a vote of 208 Aye to 187 No. This resolution provides for the consideration of two bills: H.R. 4626, the Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act, and H.R. 4758, the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act.

GAO Report on COVID-19 and 988 Lifeline Funding Use

A GAO report details the use of $8.5 billion in COVID-19 funding and $1.6 billion for the 988 Lifeline by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The report examines grant awards and recipient spending as of July 2025.

GAO Report on COVID-19 Behavioral Health Support and Grants

The GAO has released a report reviewing how the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supported behavioral health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report details how grantees adapted services and how SAMHSA provided technical assistance and grant flexibilities, including extending project periods for over $32 billion in awarded grants.

H.R. 3617 - Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act

The House Rules Committee has reported H.R. 3617, the Securing America’s Critical Minerals Supply Act. This bill, as amended, will undergo debate and a vote on the House floor. The committee's report and rule provide details on the debate procedures and allowable amendments.

H.R. 2189 - Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act Considered

The US House Rules Committee considered and amended H.R. 2189, the Law-Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act. The committee reported the bill on February 9, 2026, with a closed rule providing for debate and a motion to recommit.