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The Supreme Court's Ruling in Bowsher v. Synar

Published: Jul 24, 1986. Publicly Released: Jul 24, 1986.
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Highlights

GAO commented on the Supreme Court's decision that: (1) congressional power to remove the Comptroller General is incompatible with the execution of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act; and (2) the Comptroller General's powers are executive in nature. GAO noted that Congress is considering several alternatives to replace the automatic sequestration mechanism invalidated by the Supreme Court. GAO believes that any change in the relationship GAO has with Congress and the President should be made after careful consideration of the consequences.

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