On March 12, 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives made a significant move by passing Congressman Chuck Edwards’ bill aimed at reducing wasteful government spending on unused, leased office space. The legislation, known as the Federal Use it or Lose it Leases (FULL) Act, received unanimous approval through a voice vote in the House.
Congressman Edwards, representing R-NC-11, introduced the bipartisan FULL Act with Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-03) as the co-lead. The primary goal of the FULL Act is to address the issue of underutilized government office space, which has been a concern leading to unnecessary expenses for taxpayers.
With the increasing trend of telework policies within government agencies, reports have shown a rise in unused office space in federal buildings, leading to significant financial implications. Despite the reduced occupancy levels in federal offices, expenditures on new furnishings have continued to exceed $1 billion annually during maximum telework periods.
Edwards emphasized the importance of the FULL Act in curbing unnecessary expenses, stating, “The FULL Act will help keep taxpayers from footing the bill for unused office space by making sure the federal government only leases the office space it needs and will use.” He further highlighted that the legislation would enhance oversight of government spending on office leases by mandating federal agencies to utilize the space efficiently or face consequences.
Key provisions of the FULL Act include the requirement for federal tenants to submit reports on occupancy and space utilization to the General Services Administration (GSA) annually. Additionally, written procedures must be established for returning underutilized office space to the GSA if it remains unused for a significant period.
The passing of the FULL Act comes at a crucial time, with a significant number of federal leases set to expire in the next five years. By enforcing stricter guidelines on office space utilization, the government aims to prevent unnecessary expenditures on building leases and office furniture while a substantial portion of the workforce continues to telework.
The House's decision to approve the FULL Act signifies a bipartisan effort to address fiscal responsibility and ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars in government operations.
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