NE Florida News

Today, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean from Florida and U.S. Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa announced a new legislative proposal aimed at reforming federal workforce operations in Washington, D.C. The bill, named the Decentralizing and Re-organizing Agency Infrastructure Nationwide To Harness Efficient Services, Workforce Administration, and Management Practices (DRAIN THE SWAMP) Act, seeks to relocate nearly one-third of federal workers outside the nation's capital.

Congressman Bean expressed his motivation behind the initiative by stating, "The swamp is thick and deep here in Crazy Town, and I’m here to drain it. It is time to remind Washington that our duty is to serve the American people. I’m proud to join Senator Ernst to ensure the government works for the people, not the other way around."

Senator Ernst shared her perspective on the necessity of this measure: “My investigations have exposed how bureaucrats have been doing just about everything besides their job during the workday. Federal employees have shown they don’t want to work in Washington, and in the Christmas spirit, I am making their wish come true. Instead of keeping them bogged down in the swamp, I’m working to get bureaucrats beyond the D.C. beltway to remind public servants who they work for."

The proposed legislation would empower the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) with authority over relocating 30% of federal agency staff outside of Washington's metropolitan area. For those remaining within proximity to the capital, full-time in-person attendance would be mandated.

Additionally, as part of cost-saving measures included in this plan, OMB would be tasked with selling off office spaces rendered unnecessary due to these relocations.