The Defund Davos Act, officially known as H.R. 8748, is a proposed bill that aims to stop U.S. taxpayer money from being used to support the World Economic Forum (WEF), an international organization known for its annual meetings in Davos, Switzerland. Introduced by Rep. Scott Perry, this bill reflects a growing sentiment against funding global institutions perceived as out of touch with everyday American concerns.
What This Bill Does
The Defund Davos Act is a straightforward piece of legislation. It contains a single provision that prohibits any federal funds from being used for the World Economic Forum. This means that if the bill were to pass, no U.S. taxpayer dollars could be allocated to support the activities or programs of the WEF. The bill does not amend any existing laws but adds a new restriction by stating, "None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be obligated or expended for the World Economic Forum."
The bill was introduced by Rep. Scott Perry on August 26, 2022. It targets U.S. taxpayer dollars that might have been allocated to international organizations like the WEF. However, the bill does not specify how this prohibition would be enforced or what penalties might be imposed for violations. It also does not provide details on how much money, if any, the U.S. currently contributes to the WEF.
In essence, the bill seeks to ensure that no federal funds are used to support the WEF, which is known for hosting discussions on global issues such as climate change, trade, and economic policies. The bill's introduction aligns with a broader political narrative that questions the influence of global organizations on national policies.
Why It Matters
For everyday Americans, the Defund Davos Act might seem like a distant issue. The direct impact on daily life is minimal, as the U.S. funding to the WEF appears to be negligible. However, the bill taps into a broader debate about fiscal accountability and the role of international organizations in shaping policies that could indirectly affect American jobs, regulations, and economic conditions.
Supporters of the bill argue that it represents a step toward ensuring that taxpayer money is not used to support organizations that may not align with American interests. Critics, however, might see it as a symbolic gesture with little real-world impact, given the limited financial ties between the U.S. government and the WEF.
Key Facts
- Cost/Budget Impact: No official cost estimate or budget impact analysis is available, as the bill did not advance to scoring.
- Timeline for Implementation: If enacted, the prohibition would apply immediately to funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act.
- Number of People Affected: Direct impact is minimal, with no clear demographics or industries specified as affected.
- Key Dates: Introduced on August 26, 2022, but did not advance beyond the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
- Other Important Details: The bill is one of the shortest in Congress, with text under 100 words. It has only three cosponsors, all Republicans.
- Historical Context: Introduced amid a populist backlash to globalism and the WEF's "Great Reset" rhetoric, reflecting 2022 Republican messaging.
- Current Status: The bill remains pending with no further action, and its passage likelihood is effectively zero as the 117th Congress expired without advancement.
Arguments in Support
- Supporters believe the bill promotes fiscal responsibility by ensuring taxpayer dollars are not used for international organizations like the WEF.
- The bill aligns with a broader skepticism of globalist agendas that may not prioritize American interests.
- It reflects a desire to focus government spending on domestic issues rather than international forums.
- Proponents argue that the WEF's influence on global policies could indirectly impact U.S. jobs and regulations.
- The bill is seen as a stand against elite gatherings perceived as disconnected from everyday American concerns.
Arguments in Opposition
- Critics argue that the bill is largely symbolic, given the minimal financial ties between the U.S. and the WEF.
- Opponents may see it as an unnecessary restriction that could limit U.S. engagement in important global discussions.
- The lack of specific enforcement mechanisms or penalties raises questions about the bill's practicality.
- Some view the bill as a distraction from more pressing domestic issues that require attention and funding.
- The absence of detailed financial data on U.S. contributions to the WEF makes it difficult to assess the bill's true impact.
