Restoring Accountability in Appropriations Act

This bill amends the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to strengthen mechanisms for enforcing congressional spending decisions and preventing executive impoundment of funds. It establishes a private right of action , allowing any person aggrieved by the unlawful withholding of budget authority to file a civil lawsuit in a U.S. district court for preventive relief, ensuring appropriated funds are made available. The legislation also creates a congressional right of action , empowering the House of Representatives to initiate civil lawsuits against the executive branch for Impoundment Control Act violations. This action can be triggered by a Comptroller General report on an impoundment, or if "covered individuals" (like the Speaker or committee chairs) request a report and it's not provided within 90 days. A resolution would then direct the Speaker to initiate or intervene in litigation in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to compel the release of withheld budget authority. To ensure timely enforcement, the bill establishes a fast-track process for House consideration of these resolutions, including strict committee reporting deadlines and limited debate. Once passed, the Speaker is directed to initiate or intervene in the specified civil actions within 20 calendar days, aiming to ensure budget authority is released for its intended purpose.