H.R. 3528: Reaffirming Unified Boundaries for Integrity and Oversight Act

This bill, officially titled the "Reaffirming Unified Boundaries for Integrity and Oversight Act" or the "RUBIO Act," aims to limit the responsibilities of the Secretary of State. Specifically, it seeks to prohibit the Secretary of State from taking on or performing duties associated with any other federal position. If the Secretary were to hold another federal position, the bill ensures that no federal funds can be allocated to pay for the Secretary's salary or expenses tied to their role in that additional position.

Key Provisions

• The Secretary of State is restricted from holding any other federal position.
• No federal funds may be used for salaries or expenses if the Secretary of State assumes duties of other federal roles.

The intent behind this legislation is to maintain a clear separation of responsibilities for the Secretary of State, ensuring that their focus remains solely on their primary duties related to foreign affairs. This is aimed at enhancing integrity and oversight within the federal government structure.

Implementation

If enacted, this bill would create clear guidelines regarding the roles that the Secretary of State may assume, reinforcing the idea that this position should be singularly dedicated to foreign policy and diplomatic responsibilities without overlap from other federal duties.

Purpose

The rationale for this bill includes the belief that a concentrated focus on foreign affairs by the Secretary of State would promote more effective governance and accountability within the area of international relations. It seeks to prevent any potential conflicts of interest that could arise from sharing responsibilities with other federal positions.

Effect on Existing Systems