Cost Estimate Clarity Act
To amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to require the Congressional Budget Office to include the effects of using baseline assumptions when preparing estimates under such Act, and for other purposes.
The Cost Estimate Clarity Act proposes to update the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Specifically, it aims to require the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to detail the effects of baseline assumptions when they prepare budget estimates. Baseline assumptions are the assumptions about future policy decisions and economic conditions used in the budget process. This change is intended to make the budget estimates more transparent and understandable for lawmakers and the public.
This bill would primarily affect the CBO and Congress. By requiring clearer explanations of baseline assumptions, the CBO would need to provide more detailed reports, and Congress would have a better understanding of the assumptions underlying budget estimates. This could lead to more informed legislative decisions and improved fiscal transparency.
As of April 29, 2026, HB8570 has been introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Rules and the Committee on the Budget. These committees will review the bill and may hold hearings to gather input before deciding on next steps. This is the first step in the legislative process, and the bill is currently under consideration.
