HR489-119

What This Bill Does

The Federal Agency Sunset Commission Act of 2025 creates a new 13-member bipartisan commission tasked with systematically reviewing every federal agency at least once every 12 years. If Congress does not vote to reauthorize an agency before its scheduled abolishment date, the agency is automatically eliminated.

Who Benefits and How

Taxpayers and advocates for smaller government would benefit if the Commission successfully identifies and eliminates redundant or ineffective federal programs, potentially reducing government spending. Congressional leadership gains influence through their power to appoint commission members and control which agencies continue to exist. Private sector companies and contractors may benefit if government functions are privatized or outsourced as agencies are wound down.

Who Bears the Burden and How

Federal agencies and their employees face significant uncertainty, as every agency must justify its continued existence or face abolishment. Government workers could lose their jobs if their agencies are not reauthorized. Communities and populations that depend on services from agencies under review may experience disruptions or loss of services if those agencies are eliminated. The agencies themselves must dedicate time and resources to responding to Commission reviews and hearings.

Key Provisions

• Establishes a 13-member Federal Agency Sunset Commission with members appointed by the President and Congressional leaders, each serving 6-year terms
• Requires every federal agency (including advisory committees) to be reviewed and face potential abolishment at least once every 12 years
• Grants the Commission subpoena power to compel testimony and production of evidence from agencies under review
• Creates an expedited Congressional procedure where the Commission's recommendations become law within one year if Congress fails to act
• Allows Congress to extend an agency's abolishment date by 2 years only through a supermajority vote in both chambers