Congresswoman Nikema Williams, Colleagues, Introduce Legislation to Study Impact of Federal Programs on People Living at or under the Poverty Line and Racial Inequity

WASHINGTON – On Friday, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) introduced the Reviewing the Effects of Policies, Orders, and Rules with Thorough Study (REPORTS) Act. This legislation is designed to study the impact of federal programs and policies on people living near or under the poverty line and racial inequity, including the racial wealth gap. The REPORTS Act is co-led by Representatives Shontel Brown (OH-11), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), and Robin Kelly (IL-02).   

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said: 

“My work in Congress always uplifts those most marginalized. To benefit the greatest number of people possible, I need information on exactly which federal programs work. The information gathered because of the REPORTS Act will go a long way to ensuring everyone can share in the promise of America—no matter your ZIP Code, no matter your bank account.”  

Representative Shontel Brown said: 

“I’m thrilled to join my colleague Congresswoman Nikema Williams in introducing the REPORTS Act to improve the outcomes of federal programs that serve the public. For Congress and federal agencies to work effectively and deliver for the people, we need to understand the full impact of these programs—not just how it affects the wealthiest individuals, but also those teetering on the brink of poverty. The REPORTS Act aims to address this issue by collecting additional valuable information on the most major programs and regulations affecting the people each year. As a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, I look forward to continuing to find ways to strengthen our federal programs to serve Americans.”

Congresswoman Elanor Holmes Norton said: 

“I’m proud to co-lead this important bill with Congresswoman Williams, and Representatives Brown, Kelly, and Mfume to require federal agencies to include an analysis of the impact of major rules on people living in poverty and on racial inequality. Our bill will help ensure government spending has the intended impact so that our limited resources can remain focused on areas and programs that are working well.”

Congresswoman Robin Kelly said: 

“Every rule that an agency implements or program created impacts communities differently. The REPORTS Act will ensure that the federal government is assessing racial equity and poverty to ensure that programs benefit communities most in need and do not exacerbate existing inequalities.”

Congressman Kweisi Mfume said: 

“No matter where you live, how much money you have, or the color of your skin, all Americans are guaranteed equal treatment under the law. The REPORTS Act helps ensure federal agencies live up to that ideal by analyzing how proposed agency rules and programs impact people who are too often overlooked – those with less money and those who are Black and brown. I applaud Congresswoman Williams for her keen leadership in this area.”

The REPORTS Act is endorsed by multiple organizations including: the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Save the Children, DemandProgress, Project on Government Oversight, Public Citizen, Race Forward, and more. 

Carlton Eley, Senior Director for Federal Strategies, Race Forward said: 

“Government has historically played a central role in creating racial inequities, and has both the power and responsibility to close equity gaps while improving systems for everyone. By requiring an analysis and understanding of the impact of proposed government actions, this Act will serve as a valuable and important step towards meeting that responsibility.” 

Click here for the text of the REPORTS Act.

CONTACT: PressGA05@mail.house.gov 

Congresswoman Nikema Williams proudly serves Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District. Congresswoman Williams serves on the exclusive Financial Services Committee where she is Vice Chair of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and the Select Committee for the Modernization of Congress. She is Freshman Class President and Co-Chairs the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus. Congresswoman Williams builds on the Fifth District’s legacy as the cradle of the civil rights movement as a champion of voting rights, closing the racial wealth gap, and ensuring the promise of America for all–regardless of their ZIP code or bank account.

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