Confirmation Of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2023

Confirmation Of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2023 or the COCOA Act of 2023

This bill requires states to provide designated congressional election observers with full access to observe the administration procedures of federal elections. The bill prohibits such an observer from handling ballots or elections equipment, advocating for a position or candidate, taking any action to reduce ballot secrecy, or otherwise interfering with the elections administration process.

Designated congressional election observer refers to an individual who is designated in writing by specified congressional committees to gather information with respect to an election, including in the event that the election is contested in the House of Representatives or the Senate and for other purposes permitted by Article I, Section 5 of the U.S. Constitution.

Bill 118 HR 4474, also known as the Confirmation of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2023, aims to ensure that members of Congress have access to observe and monitor federal agencies and departments. The bill seeks to strengthen oversight and accountability by allowing lawmakers to directly witness the operations and decision-making processes of these entities.

Specifically, the bill requires federal agencies and departments to grant access to congressional observers upon request. This access includes the ability to attend meetings, review documents, and interact with staff members. The goal is to provide lawmakers with firsthand knowledge of how these entities are functioning and to enable them to better fulfill their oversight responsibilities.

The Confirmation of Congressional Observer Access Act of 2023 is seen as a crucial step in promoting transparency and accountability in government operations. By allowing members of Congress to directly observe federal agencies and departments, the bill aims to prevent potential abuses of power and ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used effectively and efficiently. Overall, this legislation is designed to empower lawmakers to fulfill their constitutional duty of oversight and to hold federal agencies and departments accountable to the American people. It represents a bipartisan effort to strengthen the checks and balances within the federal government and to promote good governance practices.