Doing More with Less: Deleting Duplicative Programs

The GOP Oversight subcommittee held a roundtable discussion on March 25, 2026, focused on identifying and eliminating duplicative and fragmented federal programs to improve government efficiency and reduce waste. Key topics included the complexity and overlap of welfare, housing, broadband, and emergency assistance programs, with GAO representatives highlighting that duplication and fragmentation contribute to administrative burdens and increased fraud risks. The GAO reported that since 2010, congressional and agency actions have resulted in $725 billion in cost savings or revenue enhancements. Participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive federal program inventory, clearer agency roles, and stronger congressional oversight to hold agencies accountable for program effectiveness. The discussion also addressed challenges posed by statutory requirements, the budget process, and the political difficulty of consolidating programs without harming beneficiaries. Proposals included legislative efforts to streamline programs, improve coordination, and leverage technology such as AI to optimize program delivery. The meeting concluded with a commitment to bipartisan legislative action to address duplication and improve fiscal responsibility without cutting essential benefits.