Reps. Brown, Williams, Holmes Norton, Mfume, Kelly Introduce Legislation to Study Impact of Federal Programs on People Living at or under the Poverty Line and Racial Inequity

WASHINGTON – Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11) released the following statement after introducing the Reviewing the Effects of Policies, Orders, and Rules with Thorough Study (REPORTS) Act. The REPORTS Act is designed to study the impact of federal programs and policies on people living at or under the poverty line and racial inequity, including the racial wealth gap. The legislation is co-led by Representatives Nikema Willians (GA-05), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), and Robin Kelly (IL-02).   

“I’m thrilled to join my colleagues in introducing the REPORTS Act to improve the outcomes of federal programs that serve the public. For Congress and federal agencies to work effectively and deliver for the people, we need to understand the full impact of these programs—not just how it affects the wealthiest individuals, but also those teetering on the brink of poverty,” said Rep. Brown. “The REPORTS Act aims to address this issue by collecting additional valuable information on the most major programs and regulations affecting the people each year. As a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, I look forward to continuing to find ways to strengthen our federal programs to serve Americans.”

“My work in Congress always uplifts those most marginalized. But to benefit the greatest number of people possible, I need information on exactly which federal programs work,’ said Rep. Williams. “The information gathered because of the REPORTS Act will go a long way to ensuring everyone can share in the promise of America—no matter your ZIP Code, no matter your bank account.”  

“I’m proud to co-lead this important bill with Congresswoman Williams and Representative Brown to require federal agencies to include an analysis of the impact of major rules on people living in poverty and on racial inequality,” said Rep. Holmes Norton. “Our bill will help ensure government spending has the intended impact so that our limited resources can remain focused on areas and programs that are working well.”

“No matter where you live, how much money you have, or the color of your skin, all Americans are guaranteed equal treatment under the law. The REPORTS Act helps ensure federal agencies live up to that ideal by analyzing how proposed agency rules and programs impact people who are too often overlooked – those with less money and those who are Black and brown. I applaud Congresswoman Williams for her keen leadership in this area,” said Rep. Mfume.

“Every rule that an agency implements or program created impacts communities differently. The REPORTS Act will ensure that the federal government is assessing racial equity and poverty to ensure that programs benefit communities most in need and do not exacerbate existing inequalities,” said Rep. Kelly.

The REPORTS Act is endorsed by multiple organizations including: the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Save the Children, DemandProgress, Public Citizen, Race Forward, and more. 

Click here for the text of the REPORTS Act.

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