Federal Grants Disclosure Bill Looks to Have Legs

Today, a Senate Subcommittee held a hearing on S. 2590, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act. This legislation, introduced by Senators Tom Coburn (Republican from Oklahoma) and Barack Obama, would require the Office of Management and Budget to make information on federal grants publicly accessible through a searchable website. Colburn has asked for quick action on this bill and Senator Susan Collins (Republican from Maine), chair of the committee to which S. 2590 was referred, has promised to act soon. Similar legislation has already passed the House.

Since so many nonprofits receive federal funds, the sector should keep tabs on this legislation to ensure organizations do not become subject to burdensome laws and/or onerous reporting requirements.