Stop Secret Spending Act of 2025
The Stop Secret Spending Act of 2025 would expand federal spending transparency to include “other transaction agreements” (OTAs) under the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA). It requires OTAs to be reported on USAspending.gov, with automated data feeds and a centralized view within three years. The bill also creates annual reporting on unposted federal spending, lays out an implementation plan (including an initial agency list and a two- to three-year timeline), and strengthens oversight requirements through inspector general reporting, data quality standards, and agency disclosure protocols. Additionally, it directs GAO to study potential updates to related federal contracting rules. Overall, the bill aims to close transparency gaps around OTAs and improve accountability for federal spending.
Key Points
- 1OTA reporting required: The bill amends FFATA to include other transaction agreements in the reporting framework so they appear on USAspending.gov.
- 2Data standards and automatic transmission: Within three years, OTAs must have data automatically transmitted to USAspending.gov and provide a centralized view on the site.
- 3Annual unreported funding report: The Secretary, working with the Director, must post an annual report listing total federal spending that has not been posted and explain why (including whether it is national security-related, tied to legislative/judicial branches, or a subaward below a primary subaward).
- 4Implementation plan and timelines: The bill sets a phased approach—initial compilation within one year if not already compliant, a two-year plan to incorporate OTA data, and full integration within three years.
- 5Oversight, data quality, and disclosures: The act strengthens inspector general reporting, requires data quality controls and display standards, mandates agency determination of which entities must post data, and requires GAO input on possible updates to federal contracting rules (FAR) related to FFATA reporting.