SW Georgia News

Congressman Andrew Clyde introduced the AUSTIN Act to address the need for Cabinet officials to promptly notify the President and congressional leaders of any circumstances preventing them from performing their duties. The legislation, named after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, was prompted by Austin's delay in informing President Biden and Congress of his hospitalization and cancer diagnosis. Clyde emphasized the importance of transparency and national security, stating, “At a time of significant global instability, Secretary Austin’s severe lapse in judgment unquestionably jeopardized our national security.”

The bill has garnered support from several representatives, including Lauren Boebert, Josh Brecheen, and Andy Harris, among others. Additionally, organizations such as the American Accountability Foundation and Concerned Veterans for America have expressed their backing for the AUSTIN Act. Russ Duerstine, Executive Director of Concerned Veterans for America, highlighted the significance of the bill in ensuring government officials are capable of fulfilling their duties for the American people.

The AUSTIN Act aims to prevent situations like Secretary Austin's delayed notification by establishing a framework for timely communication of officials' unavailability. Specifically, the bill will require Cabinet members to promptly notify authorities when they are unable to discharge their duties, akin to the procedures outlined in the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

The background of the AUSTIN Act stems from Secretary Austin's undisclosed prostate cancer diagnosis, surgery, and subsequent hospitalization, which were only made known to the White House and President Biden after a significant delay. This lack of transparency occurred during a period of heightened military activity, including U.S. strikes in response to attacks in Iraq and Syria.

The AUSTIN Act serves as a proactive measure to enhance governmental transparency and national security, ensuring that critical information regarding Cabinet officials' ability to perform their duties is promptly communicated to the necessary authorities.