Nashville Standard

United States Senator Bill Hagerty has issued a warning to 19 Biden cabinet officials regarding the statutory obligations related to the transition of power to the Trump Administration. In his communication, Hagerty emphasized restrictions on transferring or reprogramming funds and altering programs during this period.

Hagerty referred to specific provisions in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 118-42) and Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 118-47), which have been extended by the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025 (Public Law 118-83). These laws apply to each executive branch department. He highlighted that the Antideficiency Act imposes sanctions on federal employees who violate appropriations laws.

"As the Biden Administration works to transfer the power and authorities of the President of the United States and the Executive Branch in a timely, transparent, and lawful manner, adherence to these legal obligations is imperative," Hagerty wrote.

In addition, Hagerty reached out separately to inspectors general of each department. He reminded them of their duty to monitor compliance with statutory requirements related to fund transfers and program changes. He requested reports on any instances where departments failed to comply with appropriations laws.

The letter campaign included several key departments such as Agriculture, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Justice, State, Transportation, Treasury among others.

An example letter addressed Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda D. Young. It reiterated compliance with statutory requirements under Public Laws 118-42 and 118-47 during the transition period. "Compliance with these requirements must be a priority for the outgoing administration," it stated.

Another letter was directed at State Department Inspector General Cardell K. Richardson Sr., asking for an assessment report post-transition on compliance with appropriations laws by January 20, 2025.

"As we move into a presidential transition period...adherence to these legal obligations is imperative," emphasized both letters addressed by Hagerty.