A bill to require the heads of Federal agencies to submit to Congress an annual report regarding official time authorized under title 5, United States Code, and for other purposes.

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.

Bill 119 s 1170, also known as the "Official Time Reporting Act of 2021," is a proposed piece of legislation that would require the heads of Federal agencies to submit an annual report to Congress regarding the use of official time authorized under title 5 of the United States Code. Official time is the practice of allowing federal employees who are union representatives to perform union-related activities during their work hours without loss of pay.

The bill aims to increase transparency and accountability in the use of official time by requiring agencies to report on the total amount of official time used, the specific activities conducted during official time, and the costs associated with official time. This information would help Congress and the public better understand how official time is being utilized and ensure that it is being used appropriately and efficiently.

In addition to requiring annual reports, the bill also includes provisions to ensure that official time is used for activities that benefit the public interest and the efficient operation of the government. It prohibits the use of official time for lobbying activities, political activities, or any activities unrelated to the representation of employees in the workplace. Overall, Bill 119 s 1170 seeks to promote transparency and accountability in the use of official time by federal employees, while also ensuring that official time is used in a manner that is consistent with the public interest and the efficient operation of the government.