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Accountability for Acting Officials: New Rules for Federal Vacancies

This act introduces new rules for temporarily filling federal positions, including experience and qualification requirements for acting officials. The goal is to ensure that key public functions are performed by adequately prepared individuals, even in the event of sudden vacancies. These changes may affect the stability and efficiency of government agencies, indirectly impacting citizens through the quality of services provided.
Key points
Individuals temporarily serving in important positions must have at least 30 days of experience as a first assistant within the last year, unless their nomination requires Senate confirmation.
All acting officials must possess the same qualifications as those permanently appointed to the office.
Acting officials are required to regularly appear before Congress to answer questions about their work.
The time limit for acting officials in certain key positions, such as cabinet roles, has been shortened from 210 to 120 days.
New rules for filling Inspector General positions have been introduced to ensure oversight continuity.
Reporting deadlines for vacancies and the end of acting service have been changed to improve transparency.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_2994
Sponsor: Rep. Porter, Katie [D-CA-45]
Process start date: 2021-05-04
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Accountability for Acting Officials Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_2994.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-05-04.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Individuals temporarily serving in important positions must have at least 30 days of experience as a first assistant within the last year, unless their nomination requires Senate confirmation.
  • All acting officials must possess the same qualifications as those permanently appointed to the office.
  • Acting officials are required to regularly appear before Congress to answer questions about their work.
  • The time limit for acting officials in certain key positions, such as cabinet roles, has been shortened from 210 to 120 days.
  • New rules for filling Inspector General positions have been introduced to ensure oversight continuity.
  • Reporting deadlines for vacancies and the end of acting service have been changed to improve transparency.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Porter, Katie [D-CA-45].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

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