Oversight Hearing – The Government Accountability Office’s Assessment of the Federal Buildings Fund

The House Appropriations Committee held an oversight hearing on March 27, 2026, to assess the Government Accountability Office's (GAO) evaluation of the Federal Buildings Fund (FBF) and federal real property management. The hearing focused on the challenges facing the General Services Administration (GSA) in managing a vast portfolio of federal buildings, including a significant deferred maintenance backlog estimated between $6 billion and $50 billion. GAO Director David Maroney testified on the funding shortfalls, the need for disposal of underused and high-liability properties, and the importance of prioritizing maintenance for core assets. Discussions included the complexities of lease terminations, the security inadequacies of certain federal buildings such as the FBI's proposed move to the Reagan Building, and the impact of the Use It or Lose It Act on space utilization reporting. Members also raised concerns about historic preservation during property disposals, the relocation of agencies like HUD, and the potential for consolidating federal office space to reduce costs. GAO recommended enhanced congressional oversight of utilization data, reconsideration of project approval thresholds, and dedicated funding for property optimization and maintenance. No specific contract awards or procurement actions were reported, but the hearing highlighted policy and budgetary issues that could influence future federal real estate procurement and management strategies.