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Senator Ernst Proposes Act for Federal Employee Transparency

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) introduced the Where’s WALDO Act to create a public directory of federal employees detailing salaries and job descriptions.
A report from Open The Books shows wage increases since 2020, with nearly 800,000 federal employees earning over $100,000 annually and federal payroll around $270 billion.
The act would require the Office of Personnel Management to develop the directory within 18 months to enhance accountability in federal employment.

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Story summary

Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) introduced the Where’s WALDO Act to create a public directory of federal employees detailing salaries and job descriptions.
A report from Open The Books shows wage increases since 2020, with nearly 800,000 federal employees earning over $100,000 annually and federal payroll around $270 billion.
The act would require the Office of Personnel Management to develop the directory within 18 months to enhance accountability in federal employment.