# Oversight Hearing – The Economy Act


**Body:** House Appropriations Committee
**Date:** September 15, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** Federal

**Tags:** Professional Services, Regulatory Compliance


The House Appropriations Committee held an oversight hearing on September 16, 2026, to examine the use and implications of the Economy Act, which allows federal agencies to procure goods and services from other agencies. The hearing focused on how the Economy Act facilitates interagency agreements, the statutory requirements governing these transactions, and concerns about transparency and congressional oversight. Witnesses from the Congressional Research Service and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) testified about the historical intent of the Act to promote efficiency and cost savings, while highlighting challenges such as the lack of publicly available data on Economy Act transactions, potential misuse to circumvent appropriations authority, and the need for better documentation and reporting to Congress. Members discussed specific examples, including the Department of Education and Treasury Department's use of the Act, and debated the adequacy of current oversight mechanisms. The hearing underscored the importance of ensuring that Economy Act agreements are used appropriately, with proper cost justifications and adherence to federal acquisition regulations, and suggested legislative opportunities to enhance transparency and accountability in interagency procurement activities.

**Source:** House Appropriations Committee