Kendra S. Horn: “H.R. 680, originally introduced by the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Hamilton], is a bill for the transfer of surplus…”

“H.R. 680, originally introduced by the gentleman from Indiana [Mr. Hamilton], is a bill for the transfer of surplus personal property for donation to providers of necessities to impoverished families and individuals. This bill would authorize the transfer of surplus personal property to organizations that provide assistance to impoverished individuals. Currently Federal agencies declare about $6 billion per year in excess Federal personal property. The property is screened by other Federal agencies to determine whether the property is needed by another Federal user. The remaining property is declared surplus and donated to State and local governments, law enforcement agencies, and other eligible groups. Agencies then sell the remaining property, generally the oldest and most obsolete property, generating very little in proceeds, about $8 million annually. H.R. 680 would expand the list of entities eligible to receive surplus property by authorizing the donation of surplus property to charities that provide services to poor families.”