hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Redefines 'improper payments' to focus on direct financial loss, strengthens fraud prevention.
Rep. Palmer
Introduced in the House, referred to committee.
H.R. 8467, known as the "ZOMBIE Act," was introduced by Representative Palmer. It seeks to change how government agencies track and prevent improper payments by focusing specifically on those payments that result in a financial loss to the government. It has been sent to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for review.
Introduced Apr 23, 2026
This bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Palmer and referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. For it to become law, it must pass both the House and the Senate and then be signed by the President. It currently awaits review and debate in the committee.
If this bill becomes law, federal agencies would redefine what an "improper payment" is, narrowing it to only those that cause a direct financial loss to the government. This means they would spend less time tracking payments that are technically incorrect but don't cost the government money. Additionally, agencies would be mandated to conduct risk assessments for all their programs more frequently, particularly focusing on fraud. They would also need to appoint a high-level official to oversee and coordinate fraud prevention strategies across the government.
Supporters Say
This bill would save taxpayer money by making federal agencies concentrate efforts on preventing actual financial losses due to fraud and improper payments.
Critics Say
The bill's narrower definition of 'improper payments' might overlook other forms of wasteful spending or administrative errors.
Proponents would argue that by refining the definition of "improper payments" to focus only on those that result in direct financial loss, the government can more effectively target and recover misused funds, thus protecting taxpayer dollars. They might also emphasize the strengthened requirements for fraud risk assessments and dedicated liaisons as crucial steps toward a more secure financial system. Opponents, however, might express concern that excluding payments that are administratively incorrect but made to the right person for the right amount could create loopholes, potentially reducing overall government accountability for efficient spending.