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HR 5998

To provide for the continued operation of the Hatch Act Unit of the Office of Special Counsel during a lapse in appropriations, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Angie Craig

HR 5998 ensures the Hatch Act Unit continues operations during government shutdowns, protecting federal employees' political activity oversight and public trust.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 5998

Summary of HR 5998: Continued Operation of the Hatch Act Unit

Bill Number: HR 5998
Title: To provide for the continued operation of the Hatch Act Unit of the Office of Special Counsel during a lapse in appropriations, and for other purposes.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced On: November 10, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 5998 is to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the Hatch Act Unit within the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) during periods when the federal government experiences a lapse in appropriations (commonly referred to as a government shutdown). The bill aims to maintain oversight and enforcement of the Hatch Act, which governs the political activities of federal employees, thereby safeguarding the integrity of federal operations.

Key Provisions

  • Emergency Operations: The bill stipulates that during a lapse in appropriations, any services performed by officers or employees of the OSC related to investigating alleged violations of the Hatch Act (specifically sections 7323 and 7324 of title 5, United States Code) will be classified as emergency services. This classification allows the OSC to continue its essential functions even when funding is not available.

  • Legal Framework: The bill references section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, which pertains to the provision of services during emergencies involving the safety of human life or the protection of property. By categorizing Hatch Act enforcement as emergency services, the OSC can operate without interruption.

Affected Parties

The bill directly impacts:
- Office of Special Counsel: Ensures that the OSC can continue its enforcement activities without interruption during government shutdowns.
- Federal Employees: Protects the rights and responsibilities of federal employees under the Hatch Act, ensuring that they are held accountable for any violations even during funding lapses.
- Public Trust: By maintaining oversight of political activities, the bill aims to uphold public confidence in the impartiality of federal operations.

Legislative Process

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on November 10, 2025, by Mr. Conaway.
  • Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 5998 was referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for further consideration.

Conclusion

HR 5998 seeks to provide a critical safeguard for the operations of the Hatch Act Unit within the OSC during times of government shutdown. By ensuring that enforcement of the Hatch Act continues, the bill aims to protect the integrity of federal employment and maintain public trust in government operations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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