Zero-Based Budgeting Pilot Program Act
This bill requires five federal agencies to pilot zero-based budgeting for fiscal years 2027-2029, where each agency must justify its entire budget from scratch rather than using the prior year as a baseline. The GAO would evaluate effectiveness and report to Congress.
Discussion (8)
Good first draft. We need to hear from more stakeholders before finalizing.
The reporting requirements seem excessive for smaller organizations. Add a tiered approach based on size.
Strong support. The data clearly shows the current approach is failing and we need a new direction.
Great proposal. How does this interact with existing state-level regulations?
The funding mechanism seems solid. My only question is whether appropriation levels are sufficient.
I support the intent but worry about the implementation timeline. Can we add a phased rollout?
I propose adding a sunset clause so Congress must reauthorize after evaluating effectiveness.
Add 5-year sunset clause with evaluation
+ Proposed Text
New Section 12: "Act expires 5 years after enactment unless reauthorized. GAO evaluation report due at 4 years."
Funding levels should be adjusted for inflation and regional cost differences.
Adjust funding for inflation and regional costs
+ Proposed Text
Section 5(a) amended: "Funding adjusted annually per CPI, with regional cost-of-living adjustments per BLS data."