http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills info@washingtonwatch.com http://www.pjdoland.com/chai/?v=0.1 http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=33343 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc0"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>&lt;b&gt;(This measure has not been amended since it was passed by the Senate on August 1, 2008. The summary of that version is repeated here.)&lt;/b&gt;</p> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Requires: (1) the Comptroller General to provide for a pay increase to covered Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees if the increase that would otherwise take effect would be less than the required minimum percentage (equal to the total annual pay adjustment for General Schedule positions within a pay locality); and (2) nonpermanent merit pay to a such an officer or employee to be decreased by an amount equal to the portion of such person's basic pay that is attributable to the increase provided by this Act.</p> <p>Defines a &amp;quot;covered officer or employee&amp;quot; to mean a Government Accountability Office (GAO) officer or employee whose performance is at least at a satisfactory level and who is not a member of the Senior Executive Service, a Federal Wage System employee, or an employee who is in GAO's entry-level developmental programs.</p> <p>(Sec. 3) Requires the Comptroller General, within six months, to pay to a GAO employee who did not receive a permanent base pay increase in 2006 and 2007 a lump sum payment. Requires the lump sum payment to be: (1) applied prospectively; and (2) treated as basic pay for purposes of any determination of the average pay.</p> <p>Requires the GAO to deduct and withhold from such lump-sum payments employee contributions to, and to pay the applicable agency contribution to, the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund.</p> <p>Provides for an exclusive remedy for individuals with claims that they are owed any money denied to them in the form of pay increases for 2006 or 2007.</p> <p>(Sec. 4) Requires the Comptroller General to pay each qualified individual a lump-sum payment equal to the amount of performance-based compensation such individual was denied for 2006. Defines &amp;quot;qualified individual&amp;quot; to mean an individual who is: (1) a GAO officer or employee, excluding members of the Senior Executive Service, Federal Wage System employees, and employees in GAO's entry-level developmental programs; and (2) a Band I staff member with a salary above the Band I cap, a Band IIA staff member with a salary above the Band IIA cap, or an administrative professional or support staff member with a salary above the cap for that individual's pay band.</p> <p>(Sec. 5) Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO to: (1) conduct and supervise audits and investigations relating to GAO; (2) provide leadership and coordination and recommend policies to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in GAO; and (3) keep the Comptroller General and Congress informed concerning fraud and other serious problems, abuses, and deficiencies relating to the administration of GAO programs and operations.</p> <p>Authorizes the Inspector General to receive and investigate complaints or information from GAO employees concerning the possible existence of an activity constituting a violation of law, mismanagement, or a gross waste of funds. Requires the Inspector General to refer complaints or information concerning violations of personnel law to established investigative and adjudicative GAO entities.</p> <p>Prohibits the Inspector General from disclosing the identity of an employee who submitted a complaint or information without the employee's consent, unless such disclosure is unavoidable during the course of the investigation.</p> <p>Prohibits employees who have authority for personnel actions from taking or threatening action against employees as a reprisal for making a complaint or disclosing information, unless the complaint or disclosure was made with the knowledge that it was false or with willful disregard for its truth or falsity.</p> <p>Requires the Inspector General to report semiannually to the Comptroller General on the Office's activities. Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Prohibits the Comptroller General from preventing the Inspector General from carrying out any his or her responsibilities under this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 6) Requires any executive agency that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO for the cost of any GAO audit of such statement if GAO audited the statement or schedule of such agency for fiscal year 2007. Requires the GAO to consult with the relevant executive agency and the Inspector General of such agency prior to the initiation of the audit on the scope, terms, and cost of such audit.</p> <p>(Sec. 7) Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>(Sec. 8) Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc1"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 9/11/2008: Presented to President.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc2"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc3"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 33343@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=29998 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc4"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Requires: (1) the Comptroller General to provide for a pay increase to covered Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees if the increase that would otherwise take effect would be less than the required minimum percentage (equal to the total annual pay adjustment for General Schedule positions within a pay locality); and (2) nonpermanent merit pay to a such an officer or employee to be decreased by an amount equal to the portion of such person's basic pay that is attributable to the increase provided by this Act.</p> <p>Defines a &amp;quot;covered officer or employee&amp;quot; to mean a Government Accountability Office (GAO) officer or employee whose performance is at least at a satisfactory level and who is not a member of the Senior Executive Service, a Federal Wage System employee, or an employee who is in GAO's entry-level developmental programs.</p> <p>(Sec. 3) Requires the Comptroller General, within six months, to pay to a GAO employee who did not receive a permanent base pay increase in 2006 and 2007 a lump sum payment. Requires the lump sum payment to be: (1) applied prospectively; and (2) treated as basic pay for purposes of any determination of the average pay.</p> <p>Requires the GAO to deduct and withhold from such lump-sum payments employee contributions to, and to pay the applicable agency contribution to, the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund.</p> <p>Provides for an exclusive remedy for individuals with claims that they are owed any money denied to them in the form of pay increases for 2006 or 2007.</p> <p>(Sec. 4) Requires the Comptroller General to pay each qualified individual a lump-sum payment equal to the amount of performance-based compensation such individual was denied for 2006. Defines &amp;quot;qualified individual&amp;quot; to mean an individual who is: (1) a GAO officer or employee, excluding members of the Senior Executive Service, Federal Wage System employees, and employees in GAO's entry-level developmental programs; and (2) a Band I staff member with a salary above the Band I cap, a Band IIA staff member with a salary above the Band IIA cap, or an administrative professional or support staff member with a salary above the cap for that individual's pay band.</p> <p>(Sec. 5) Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO to: (1) conduct and supervise audits and investigations relating to GAO; (2) provide leadership and coordination and recommend policies to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in GAO; and (3) keep the Comptroller General and Congress informed concerning fraud and other serious problems, abuses, and deficiencies relating to the administration of GAO programs and operations.</p> <p>Authorizes the Inspector General to receive and investigate complaints or information from GAO employees concerning the possible existence of an activity constituting a violation of law, mismanagement, or a gross waste of funds. Requires the Inspector General to refer complaints or information concerning violations of personnel law to established investigative and adjudicative GAO entities.</p> <p>Prohibits the Inspector General from disclosing the identity of an employee who submitted a complaint or information without the employee's consent, unless such disclosure is unavoidable during the course of the investigation.</p> <p>Prohibits employees who have authority for personnel actions from taking or threatening action against employees as a reprisal for making a complaint or disclosing information, unless the complaint or disclosure was made with the knowledge that it was false or with willful disregard for its truth or falsity.</p> <p>Requires the Inspector General to report semiannually to the Comptroller General on the Office's activities. Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Prohibits the Comptroller General from preventing the Inspector General from carrying out any his or her responsibilities under this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 6) Requires any executive agency that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO for the cost of any GAO audit of such statement if GAO audited the statement or schedule of such agency for fiscal year 2007. Requires the GAO to consult with the relevant executive agency and the Inspector General of such agency prior to the initiation of the audit on the scope, terms, and cost of such audit.</p> <p>(Sec. 7) Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>(Sec. 8) Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc5"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 9/9/2008: Resolving differences -- House actions. Status: On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by voice vote.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc6"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc7"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 29998@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=30480 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc8"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Requires: (1) the Comptroller General to provide for a pay increase to covered Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees if the increase that would otherwise take effect would be less than the required minimum percentage (equal to the total annual pay adjustment for General Schedule positions within a pay locality); and (2) nonpermanent merit pay to a such an officer or employee to be decreased by an amount equal to the portion of such person's basic pay that is attributable to the increase provided by this Act.</p> <p>Defines a &amp;quot;covered officer or employee&amp;quot; to mean a Government Accountability Office (GAO) officer or employee whose performance is at least at a satisfactory level and who is not a member of the Senior Executive Service, a Federal Wage System employee, or an employee who is in GAO's entry-level developmental programs.</p> <p>(Sec. 3) Requires the Comptroller General, within six months, to pay to a GAO employee who did not receive a permanent base pay increase in 2006 and 2007 a lump sum payment. Requires the lump sum payment to be: (1) applied prospectively; and (2) treated as basic pay for purposes of any determination of the average pay.</p> <p>Requires the GAO to deduct and withhold from such lump-sum payments employee contributions to, and to pay the applicable agency contribution to, the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund.</p> <p>Provides for an exclusive remedy for individuals with claims that they are owed any money denied to them in the form of pay increases for 2006 or 2007.</p> <p>(Sec. 4) Requires the Comptroller General to pay each qualified individual a lump-sum payment equal to the amount of performance-based compensation such individual was denied for 2006. Defines &amp;quot;qualified individual&amp;quot; to mean an individual who is: (1) a GAO officer or employee, excluding members of the Senior Executive Service, Federal Wage System employees, and employees in GAO's entry-level developmental programs; and (2) a Band I staff member with a salary above the Band I cap, a Band IIA staff member with a salary above the Band IIA cap, or an administrative professional or support staff member with a salary above the cap for that individual's pay band.</p> <p>(Sec. 5) Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO to: (1) conduct and supervise audits and investigations relating to GAO; (2) provide leadership and coordination and recommend policies to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in GAO; and (3) keep the Comptroller General and Congress informed concerning fraud and other serious problems, abuses, and deficiencies relating to the administration of GAO programs and operations.</p> <p>Authorizes the Inspector General to receive and investigate complaints or information from GAO employees concerning the possible existence of an activity constituting a violation of law, mismanagement, or a gross waste of funds. Requires the Inspector General to refer complaints or information concerning violations of personnel law to established investigative and adjudicative GAO entities.</p> <p>Prohibits the Inspector General from disclosing the identity of an employee who submitted a complaint or information without the employee's consent, unless such disclosure is unavoidable during the course of the investigation.</p> <p>Prohibits employees who have authority for personnel actions from taking or threatening action against employees as a reprisal for making a complaint or disclosing information, unless the complaint or disclosure was made with the knowledge that it was false or with willful disregard for its truth or falsity.</p> <p>Requires the Inspector General to report semiannually to the Comptroller General on the Office's activities. Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Prohibits the Comptroller General from preventing the Inspector General from carrying out any his or her responsibilities under this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 6) Requires any executive agency that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO for the cost of any GAO audit of such statement if GAO audited the statement or schedule of such agency for fiscal year 2007. Requires the GAO to consult with the relevant executive agency and the Inspector General of such agency prior to the initiation of the audit on the scope, terms, and cost of such audit.</p> <p>(Sec. 7) Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>(Sec. 8) Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc9"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 9/11/2008: Presented to President.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc10"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc11"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 30480@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 9/11/2008: Presented to President. 39344@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 9/9/2008: Resolving differences -- House actions. Status: On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by voice vote. 38978@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=29691 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc12"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Requires: (1) the Comptroller General to provide for a pay increase to covered Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees if the increase that would otherwise take effect would be less than the required minimum percentage (equal to the total annual pay adjustment for General Schedule positions within a pay locality); and (2) nonpermanent merit pay to a such an officer or employee to be decreased by an amount equal to the portion of such person's basic pay that is attributable to the increase provided by this Act.</p> <p>Defines a &amp;quot;covered officer or employee&amp;quot; to mean a Government Accountability Office (GAO) officer or employee whose performance is at least at a satisfactory level and who is not a member of the Senior Executive Service, a Federal Wage System employee, or an employee who is in GAO's entry-level developmental programs.</p> <p>(Sec. 3) Requires the Comptroller General, within six months, to pay to a GAO employee who did not receive a permanent base pay increase in 2006 and 2007 a lump sum payment. Requires the lump sum payment to be: (1) applied prospectively; and (2) treated as basic pay for purposes of any determination of the average pay.</p> <p>Requires the GAO to deduct and withhold from such lump-sum payments employee contributions to, and to pay the applicable agency contribution to, the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund.</p> <p>Provides for an exclusive remedy for individuals with claims that they are owed any money denied to them in the form of pay increases for 2006 or 2007.</p> <p>(Sec. 4) Requires the Comptroller General to pay each qualified individual a lump-sum payment equal to the amount of performance-based compensation such individual was denied for 2006. Defines &amp;quot;qualified individual&amp;quot; to mean an individual who is: (1) a GAO officer or employee, excluding members of the Senior Executive Service, Federal Wage System employees, and employees in GAO's entry-level developmental programs; and (2) a Band I staff member with a salary above the Band I cap, a Band IIA staff member with a salary above the Band IIA cap, or an administrative professional or support staff member with a salary above the cap for that individual's pay band.</p> <p>(Sec. 5) Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO to: (1) conduct and supervise audits and investigations relating to GAO; (2) provide leadership and coordination and recommend policies to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in GAO; and (3) keep the Comptroller General and Congress informed concerning fraud and other serious problems, abuses, and deficiencies relating to the administration of GAO programs and operations.</p> <p>Authorizes the Inspector General to receive and investigate complaints or information from GAO employees concerning the possible existence of an activity constituting a violation of law, mismanagement, or a gross waste of funds. Requires the Inspector General to refer complaints or information concerning violations of personnel law to established investigative and adjudicative GAO entities.</p> <p>Prohibits the Inspector General from disclosing the identity of an employee who submitted a complaint or information without the employee's consent, unless such disclosure is unavoidable during the course of the investigation.</p> <p>Prohibits employees who have authority for personnel actions from taking or threatening action against employees as a reprisal for making a complaint or disclosing information, unless the complaint or disclosure was made with the knowledge that it was false or with willful disregard for its truth or falsity.</p> <p>Requires the Inspector General to report semiannually to the Comptroller General on the Office's activities. Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Prohibits the Comptroller General from preventing the Inspector General from carrying out any his or her responsibilities under this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 6) Requires any executive agency that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO for the cost of any GAO audit of such statement if GAO audited the statement or schedule of such agency for fiscal year 2007. Requires the GAO to consult with the relevant executive agency and the Inspector General of such agency prior to the initiation of the audit on the scope, terms, and cost of such audit.</p> <p>(Sec. 7) Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>(Sec. 8) Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc13"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 8/1/2008: Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc14"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc15"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 29691@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=29505 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc16"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - (Sec. 2) Requires: (1) the Comptroller General to provide for a pay increase to covered Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees if the increase that would otherwise take effect would be less than the required minimum percentage (equal to the total annual pay adjustment for General Schedule positions within a pay locality); and (2) nonpermanent merit pay to a such an officer or employee to be decreased by an amount equal to the portion of such person's basic pay that is attributable to the increase provided by this Act.</p> <p>Defines a &amp;quot;covered officer or employee&amp;quot; to mean a Government Accountability Office (GAO) officer or employee whose performance is at least at a satisfactory level and who is not a member of the Senior Executive Service, a Federal Wage System employee, or an employee who is in GAO's entry-level developmental programs.</p> <p>(Sec. 3) Requires the Comptroller General, within six months, to pay to a GAO employee who did not receive a permanent base pay increase in 2006 and 2007 a lump sum payment. Requires the lump sum payment to be: (1) applied prospectively; and (2) treated as basic bay for purposes of any determination of the average pay.</p> <p>Provides for an exclusive remedy for individuals with claims that they are owed any money denied to them in the form of pay increases for 2006 or 2007.</p> <p>(Sec. 4) Requires the Comptroller General to pay each qualified individual a lump-sum payment equal to the amount of performance-based compensation such individual was denied for 2006. Defines &amp;quot;qualified individual&amp;quot; to mean an individual who is: (1) a GAO officer or employee, excluding members of the Senior Executive Service, Federal Wage System employees, and employees in GAO's entry-level developmental programs; and (2) a Band I staff member with a salary above the Band I cap, a Band IIA staff member with a salary above the Band IIA cap, or an administrative professional or support staff member with a salary above the cap for that individual's pay band.</p> <p>(Sec. 5) Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO to: (1) conduct and supervise audits and investigations relating to GAO; (2) provide leadership and coordination and recommend policies to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in GAO; and (3) keep the Comptroller General and Congress informed concerning fraud and other serious problems, abuses, and deficiencies relating to the administration of GAO programs and operations.</p> <p>Authorizes the Inspector General to receive and investigate complaints or information from GAO employees concerning the possible existence of an activity constituting a violation of law, mismanagement, or a gross waste of funds. Requires the Inspector General to refer complaints or information concerning violations of personnel law to established investigative and adjudicative GAO entities.</p> <p>Prohibits the Inspector General from disclosing the identity of an employee who submitted a complaint or information without the employee's consen, unless such disclosure is unavoidable during the course of the investigation.</p> <p>Prohibits employees who have authority for personnel actions from taking or threatening action against employees as a reprisal for making a complaint or disclosing information, unless the complaint or disclosure was made with the knowledge that it was false or with willful disregard for its truth or falsity.</p> <p>Requires the Inspector General to report semiannually to the Comptroller General on the Office's activities. Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Prohibits the Comptroller General from preventing the Inspector General from carrying out any his or her responsibilities under this Act.</p> <p>(Sec. 6) Requires any executive agency that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO for the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>(Sec. 7) Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>(Sec. 8) Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc17"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 8/1/2008: Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc18"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc19"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 29505@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=29278 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc20"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc21"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 8/1/2008: Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc22"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc23"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 29278@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Sat, 02 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 8/1/2008: Passed/agreed to in Senate. Status: Passed Senate with an amendment by Unanimous Consent. 38742@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=28290 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc24"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc25"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 7/26/2008: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 901.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc26"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc27"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 28290@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 7/26/2008: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 901. 38149@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Sat, 26 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=26492 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc28"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc29"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 6/25/2008: Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Ordered to be reported with amendments favorably.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc30"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc31"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 26492@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 6/25/2008: Senate committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Ordered to be reported with amendments favorably. 37126@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=25387 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc32"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc33"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 6/10/2008: Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc34"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc35"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 25387@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=25313 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc36"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc37"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 6/9/2008: Passed/agreed to in House. Status: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc38"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc39"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 25313@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 6/10/2008: Referred to Senate committee. Status: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 36447@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Tue, 10 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 6/9/2008: Passed/agreed to in House. Status: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. 36406@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=24643 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc40"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc41"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 5/22/2008: Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 422.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc42"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc43"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 24643@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Fri, 23 May 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 5/22/2008: Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 422. 36107@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=23387 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc44"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>Government Accountability Office Act of 2008 - Requires specified minimum percentage pay increases and lump sum back payments for certain Government Accountability Office (GAO) officers and employees.</p> <p>Establishes an Office of the Inspector General in GAO, who shall report semiannually to the Comptroller General.</p> <p>Requires the Comptroller General's annual report to Congress to assess the overall degree of federal agency cooperation with GAO audits.</p> <p>Requires any executive agency (or component) that prepares an audited financial statement to reimburse GAO the cost of any GAO audit of such statement.</p> <p>Amends the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 to revise the coverage of certain GAO officers and employees under its financial disclosure requirements.</p> <p>Revises the highest basic pay rate for GAO personnel from GS-15 to Executive Level III.</p> <p>Increases from 15 to 20 the number of experts and consultants whose services the Comptroller General may procure for renewable three-year terms at rates up to level IV of the Executive Schedule.</p> <p>Makes funds appropriated to GAO for salaries and expenses also available for recruitment-related meals and entertainment.</p> <p>Revises provisions governing GAO voluntary separation incentive payments.</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc45"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 5/1/2008: House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported Without Recommendation (Amended) by Voice Vote.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc46"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc47"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 23387@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=23279 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc48"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to provide a detailed summary of the bill!)</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc49"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 5/1/2008: House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported Without Recommendation (Amended) by Voice Vote.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc50"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc51"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 23279@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Fri, 02 May 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_PL_110-323.html 5/1/2008: House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Ordered to be Reported Without Recommendation (Amended) by Voice Vote. 35358@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=21455 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc52"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to provide a detailed summary of the bill!)</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc53"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 4/3/2008: House committee/subcommittee actions. Status: Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote .</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc54"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc55"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 21455@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=21236 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc56"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to provide a detailed summary of the bill!)</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc57"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to update the status of the bill!)</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc58"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc59"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 21236@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EDT http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/history/110_PL_110-323.html?rev=21237 <p>H.R. 5683 would make certain reforms with respect to the Government Accountability Office.</p> <h2 id="toc60"> Detailed Summary </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to provide a detailed summary of the bill!)</p> <!--Leave in the 'summary' tags if you want the latest summary from the Congressional Research Service automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc61"> Status of the Legislation </h2> <p>Latest Major Action: 4/2/2008: Referred to House committee. Status: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.</p> <!-- Leave in the 'status' tags if you want the latest reported status from THOMAS automatically to replace the text between the tags once it becomes available. --> <h2 id="toc62"> Points in Favor </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> <h2 id="toc63"> Points Against </h2> <p>(Log in to edit the wiki and be the first to show why the bill should not pass!)<br /> <!-- First editor: Go ahead and take out the sentence in parentheses, and this notice! --> </p> 21237@http://www.washingtonwatch.com Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EDT