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Cost Estimate Clarity Act

USA119th CongressHR-8570| House 
| Updated: 4/29/2026
Ben Cline

Ben Cline

Republican Representative

Virginia

Rules Committee, Budget Committee

  • Introduced
  • In Committee
  • On Floor
  • Passed Chamber
  • Enacted
This legislation, known as the Cost Estimate Clarity Act , aims to amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to improve the transparency and accuracy of cost estimates produced by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). It specifically requires the CBO to detail the impact of using baseline assumptions, as defined by the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, when preparing its estimates. For each estimate, the CBO must provide a quantitative estimate of the difference between the reported cost and what the cost would be without baseline assumptions, identifying the specific assumptions causing these discrepancies. Additionally, the CBO is directed to explain any programs or provisions where baseline assumptions result in lower or no budgetary costs compared to actual expected federal expenditures, particularly when the baseline assumes the extension or continuation of existing programs, benefits, or payment rates. This enhanced reporting seeks to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the true financial implications of proposed legislation.
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Timeline
Apr 29, 2026
Introduced in House
Apr 29, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
  • April 29, 2026
    Introduced in House


  • April 29, 2026
    Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Cost Estimate Clarity Act

USA119th CongressHR-8570| House 
| Updated: 4/29/2026
This legislation, known as the Cost Estimate Clarity Act , aims to amend the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to improve the transparency and accuracy of cost estimates produced by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). It specifically requires the CBO to detail the impact of using baseline assumptions, as defined by the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, when preparing its estimates. For each estimate, the CBO must provide a quantitative estimate of the difference between the reported cost and what the cost would be without baseline assumptions, identifying the specific assumptions causing these discrepancies. Additionally, the CBO is directed to explain any programs or provisions where baseline assumptions result in lower or no budgetary costs compared to actual expected federal expenditures, particularly when the baseline assumes the extension or continuation of existing programs, benefits, or payment rates. This enhanced reporting seeks to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the true financial implications of proposed legislation.
View Full Text

Suggested Questions

Get AI-generated questions to help you understand this bill better

Timeline
Apr 29, 2026
Introduced in House
Apr 29, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
  • April 29, 2026
    Introduced in House


  • April 29, 2026
    Referred to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Ben Cline

Ben Cline

Republican Representative

Virginia

Rules Committee, Budget Committee

  • Introduced
  • In Committee
  • On Floor
  • Passed Chamber
  • Enacted