AR 1-20 Legislative Liaison

https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN30634-AR_1-20-000-WEB-1.pdf

UNCLASSIFIED
Army Regulation 1 – 20
Administration
Legislative
Liaison
Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
25 August 2021
SUMMARY of CHANGE
AR 1 – 20
Legislative Liaison
This major revision, dated 25 August 2021—
o Clarifies roles and responsibilities as stated in Army General Order 2020 – 01, Assignment of Functions and
Responsibilities within Headquarters, Department of the Army, dated 6 March 2020 (paras 1–4a, 1–4a(4), 1–
4a(5), 1–4a(6), 1–4a(8), 1–4b, 1–4b(2), 1–4b(4), 1–4c(6), 1–4c(6)(a), 1–4c(6)(b), 1–4c(11), 4–2e, and 5 – 2).
o Removes language implying the requirement of a cost benefit analysis for legislative proposals with no budgetary
impact (para 1–4a(13)).
o Directs the coordination of pending legislation or legislative proposals affecting civil works through the Assistant
Secretary of the Army for Civil Works (para 1–4b(3)).
o Clarifies processing of congressional document requests through the Congressional Response Team (para 1–
4c(11)(b)).
o Clarifies that the term “matters” refers to Congressional requests for documents (para 1–4c(11)(b)).
o Clarifies Office, Chief Legislative Liaison tasking authority to Army activities to provide personnel and
information in response to congressional inquiries and requests (para 1–4c(16)).
o Adds new paragraph directing the Commander, United States Army Corps of Engineers to coordinate all
Congressional activities through the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works (para 1–4g).
o Removes requirement to staff information responding to congressional inquiries that affect resource programming
through the Deputy Chief of Staff, G – 3/5/7 (para 1–4h(3)).
o Adds Records Management Requirement in accordance with Army Regulation 25 – 30 (para 1 – 5).
o Clarifies the requirement for all Army entities to coordinate with Office, Chief Legislative Liaison on all efforts
to directly schedule engagements on all contacts with congressional entities (para 2 – 2).
o Directs inclusion of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works for review of any budget-related material
that impacts civil works programs (para 2–4c).
o Specifies and limits the level of authorized direct contact Army activities overseen by congressional Boards of
Visitors (para 2–4e).
o Clarifies guidance to installation and command Congressional Affairs Contact Officers regarding political
candidate behavior on military installations during election years (para 2–6a).
o Provides additional background information on the Army Congressional Fellowship Program (para 2 – 7).
o Clarifies the requirements for processing requests for legislative drafting services and legislative proposals
impacting the Army’s civil works programs (para 3–1c).
o Clarifies requirements for submission of legislative proposals by Army activities (para 3–2b).
o Directs designated liaisons covering assigned congressional hearings to produce a post-hearing report and list of
all due outs relevant to the committee or legislative body (para 5 – 2).
o Requires all Army witnesses testifying in front of Congress for the first time to receive a briefing from the
Legislation, Investigations, and Nominations Division on congressional testimony and witness requirements (para
5 – 2).
o Requires responsible legislative liaisons or counsel to provide a final approved post-hearing report to the relevant
Congressional Action Contact Officer (para 5 – 2).
o Establishes new guidance and reporting requirements regarding the appearance of Army personnel as witnesses
before congressional committees in their personal capacity (para 5 – 6).
o Clarifies the categories of information to be promptly provided to Congress (para 6–1a).
o Directs formatting of correspondence to members of Congress to comply with Army Regulation 25 – 50 (para 6–
3f).
o Establishes that the preferred method for correspondence to members of Congress is to use a pen rather than by
digital signature, but authorizes the use of digital signatures depending upon the circumstances (para 6–3f).
o Provides updated guidance on sending interim replies to members of Congress in response to congressional
inquiries when complying would require more than 30 days (para 6–3h(4)).
o Removes the requirement to sua sponte provide an update to a congressional response should the situation
involving a congressional inquiry change significantly within six months after having sent final reply to the
original inquiry (para 6 – 3).
o Updates guidance on corresponding with congressional committees (para 6 – 4).
o Establishes new guidance and reporting requirements regarding invitations to Army personnel to participate in
congressional events (para 6 – 5).
o Specifies requirement for Army activities to comply with Office, Chief Legislative Liaison and Congressional
Response Team guidance when preparing documents for release to Congress (para 7–1g).
o Clarifies denial authority for release of information pursuant to requests for information from Congress (para 7–
2c).
o Removes requirement for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G – 2, to review and approve release of classified
documents to Congress. Places requirement on the original classification authority of those documents (para 7–
3d).
o Adds a clarification provision regarding required congressional reports and that agencies tasked with drafting the
reports are responsible for briefing Army senior leaders on the status and subject matter of the report (para 7 – 4).
o Redrafts section to lay out notifications to Congress, to include specific notification requirements and the
underlying authorities directing those notifications (para 8 – 3).
o Specifies the Chief Legislative Liaison’s authority to review and approve for release Information for Members of
Congress (para 8–3a).

*This regulation supersedes AR 1–20, dated 2 July 2013.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021
UNCLASSIFIED i
Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
*Army Regulation 1 – 20
25 August 2021 Effective 25 September 2021
Administration
Legislative Liaison
History. This publication is a major re-
vision.
Summary. This regulation contains
policy, guidance, and procedures for leg-
islative and congressional activities.
Applicability. This regulation applies
to the Regular Army, the Army National
Guard/Army National Guard of the
United States, and the U.S. Army Re-
serve, unless otherwise stated. It also ap-
plies to civilian employees of the Depart-
ment of the Army, to include employees
of nonappropriated fund instrumentali-
ties. During mobilization, chapters, and
policies contained in this regulation may
be modified by the proponent.
Proponent and exception authority.
The proponent of this regulation is the
Chief of Legislative Liaison. The propo-
nent has the authority to approve excep-
tions or waivers to this regulation that are
consistent with controlling law and regu-
lations. The proponent may delegate this
approval authority, in writing, to a divi-
sion chief within the proponent agency or
its direct reporting unit or field operating
agency, in the grade of colonel or the ci-
vilian equivalent. Activities may request a
waiver to this regulation by providing jus-
tification that includes a full analysis of
the expected benefits and must include
formal review by the activity’s senior le-
gal officer. All waiver requests will be en-
dorsed by the commander or senior leader
of the requesting activity and forwarded
through their higher headquarters to the
policy proponent. Refer to AR 25 – 30 for
specific guidance.
Army internal control process.
This regulation contains internal control
provisions in accordance with AR 11 – 2
and identifies key internal controls that
must be evaluated (see appendix B).
Supplementation. Supplementation
of this regulation and establishment of
command and local forms are prohibited
without prior approval from the Chief of
Legislative Liaison, 1600 Army Penta-
gon, Room 1E416, Washington, DC
20310 – 1600.
Suggested improvements. Users
are invited to send comments and sug-
gested improvements on DA Form 2028
(Recommended Changes to Publications
and Blank Forms) directly to Headquar-
ters, Department of the Army, Office of
the Chief of Legislative Liaison,
usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.crt-
mail@mail.mil.
Distribution. This regulation is availa-
ble in electronic media only and is in-
tended for the Regular Army, the Army
National Guard/Army National Guard of
the United States, and the U.S. Army Re-
serve.
Contents (Listed by paragraph and page number)
Chapter 1
Introduction, page 1
Purpose • 1 – 1, page 1
References and forms • 1 – 2, page 1
Explanation of abbreviations and terms • 1 – 3, page 1
Responsibilities • 1 – 4, page 1
Records management (recordkeeping) requirements • 1 – 5, page 4
Chapter 2
Contacts with Congress, page 4
Policy • 2 – 1, page 4
Handling of contacts • 2 – 2, page 4
Senior leader congressional contacts • 2 – 3, page 5
Limitations on contacts • 2 – 4, page 5
Congressional travel • 2 – 5, page 5
Election-year activities • 2 – 6, page 6
Army Congressional Fellowship Program • 2 – 7, page 6
Contents—Continued
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 ii
Chapter 3
Legislation, page 6
Policy • 3 – 1, page 6
Legislation proposed by Department of the Army • 3 – 2, page 7
Requests for Army Views • 3 – 3, page 7
Chapter 4
Investigations, page 8
Policy • 4 – 1, page 8
Army cooperation with congressional investigations • 4 – 2, page 8
Army role in congressional investigative hearings • 4 – 3, page 8
Chapter 5
Appearances Before Congressional Committees, page 8
Policy • 5 – 1, page 8
Support to witnesses testifying during congressional hearings • 5 – 2, page 9
Selection of witnesses • 5 – 3, page 9
Hearing statements • 5 – 4, page 9
Responsibilities after hearings • 5 – 5, page 9
Appearance of Army personnel in individual capacity • 5 – 6, page 10
Chapter 6
Communications with Congress, page 10
Policy • 6 – 1, page 10
Procedures • 6 – 2, page 11
Correspondence with individual members of Congress • 6 – 3, page 11
Correspondence with committees of Congress • 6 – 4, page 12
Invitations to Army personnel for participation in congressional events • 6 – 5, page 12
Chapter 7
Release of Information and Documents to Congress, page 13
Policy on providing information and documents to Congress • 7 – 1, page 13
Access to information • 7 – 2, page 14
Procedures for responding to congressional requests for documents • 7 – 3, page 14
Processing and clearance of required reports to Congress • 7 – 4, page 15
Chapter 8
Congressional Notifications, page 15
Policy • 8 – 1, page 15
Procedures • 8 – 2, page 15
Actions or plans requiring notice to Congress • 8 – 3, page 15
Appendixes
A. References, page 18
B. Internal Control Evaluation, page 21
Figure List
Figure 8 – 1: Sample Information for Members of Congress, page 17
Glossary
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 1
Chapter 1
Introduction
1–1. Purpose
This regulation sets forth the responsibilities, policies, and procedures of the Department of the Army for legislative
affairs and congressional activities.
1–2. References and forms
See appendix A.
1–3. Explanation of abbreviations and terms
See the glossary.
1–4. Responsibilities
a. Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller). ASA (FM&C), in coordination with
the Chief of Legislative Liaison (CLL), is responsible for liaising with the congressional appropriations committees
and their members and staff on all matters, including those matters pertaining to the Army budget and under the
purview of the ASA (FM&C), except for matters pertaining to civil works. The ASA (FM&C) will—
(1) Advise and respond to the Secretary of the Army (SECARMY) and Chief of Staff, Army (CSA) on all appro-
priations matters pertaining to the Army budget and the Army’s resourcing strategy.
(2) Develop and articulate a simple and clear congressional strategy for the SECARMY, Under Secretary of the
Army (USA), CSA, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army (VCSA), Sergeant Major of the Army (SMA), and all Army
activities that supports and defends the Army’s budget with the appropriations committees.
(3) Report and respond to the SECARMY and CSA on the current status of all actions pertaining to the appropri-
ations committees, including the status of actions on all appropriations bills and the President’s budget.
(a) Track all appropriations bills as they progress to final passage; keep all Army activities informed of the status
of the bills; and provide analysis of the implications of projected passage or non-passage of the bills.
(b) Provide the SECARMY and the CSA with appropriations strategies to ensure the Army’s budget is sufficient
to support the National Defense Strategy and support the President’s budget during the committee marks process.
(4) Coordinate with the CLL to ensure an accurate and consistent Army message and a unified Army congressional
strategy.
(5) In coordination with the CLL, serve as the primary point of contact with members of Congress on the appro-
priations committees, their staffs, and committee staff.
(6) In coordination with the CLL, task all Army activities to provide briefers and information requested by mem-
bers of Congress on the appropriations committees, appropriations committee staff, and the personal office staff of
members of Congress on the appropriations committees.
(7) Provide responsive, coordinated, consistent, and factual information on Army policies, plans, programs, and
operations in response to all inquiries received from appropriations committees, members of Congress on the appro-
priations committees, and the personal office staff of members of Congress on the appropriations committees. Coor-
dinate with the CLL and the Congressional Response Team (CRT), in accordance with chapter 7 of this regulation,
prior to the release of any documents to members of Congress, congressional committees, or congressional staff pur-
suant to the appropriate law and regulations as applicable.
(8) In coordination with the CLL, coordinate the Army’s involvement in hearings held by the appropriations com-
mittees and subcommittees.
(a) Arrange for and task all Army activities to furnish witnesses for hearings requested by the appropriations com-
mittees.
(b) Coordinate hearing schedules.
(c) Assist in preparing witnesses, to include the SECARMY, USA, CSA, VCSA, and SMA for all committee hear-
ings, as requested by the CLL. The ASA (FM&C) will be the lead Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA)
element, in coordination with the CLL, for the preparation of all appropriations committee hearings.
(d) Provide information and anticipated questions to Army witnesses prior to appropriations committee hearings,
and all other hearings as requested by the CLL.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 2
(e) Task appropriate HQDA officials and all Army activities to review hearing transcripts, answer advance policy
questionnaires, answer questions for the record, and provide inserts for the record, as required by appropriations com-
mittees.
(f) Act as the final reviewing authority for appropriations hearing inserts for the record and questions for the record.
(9) Manage the Army appeal process for appropriations appeals.
(10) Coordinate, monitor, and report the status of ongoing investigations by the House Appropriations Committee
Surveys and Investigations Unit staff. Coordinate with the Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison (OCLL) Legis-
lation, Investigations, and Nominations Division (LI&N) on any ongoing and completed investigations.
(11) Maintain recommendations and legal directives of appropriations committees and assign responsibility to the
appropriate staff agency for actions necessary to comply with the intent of congressional mandates.
(12) Review Army responses to congressional committees and to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), in con-
junction with the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS), G – 8, that involve resources, prior to submission of the response, to
ensure accuracy and consistency with the Army budget.
(13) Review, approve, and validate budget implications associated with Army legislative proposals.
b. Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. ASA (CW), in coordination with the CLL, is responsible for
all legislative affairs and congressional liaison pertaining to civil works. The ASA (CW) will—
(1) Serve as the primary Army point of contact for Congress on authorization and appropriations matters relating
to the civil works program.
(2) In coordination with the CLL, communicate with Congress on all civil works matters with assistance as neces-
sary from the Chief of Engineers.
(3) Coordinate with the CLL on congressional contacts and developments that impact the Army outside of civil
works, and for civil works matters involving actions of, or requests to, Army senior leaders, and for any comments on
pending legislation or legislative proposals under the jurisdiction of the congressional oversight committees.
(4) Coordinate with the CLL for the support of congressional travel to Army civil works projects.
(5) Coordinate with the CLL and the CRT, in accordance with chapter 7 of this regulation, prior to the release of
any documents to members of Congress, congressional committees, or congressional staff pursuant to the appropriate
law and regulations as applicable.
c. Chief of Legislative Liaison. The CLL reports to the SECARMY and is responsible for all legislative affairs for
the Army, including providing legislative and associated staff support to HQDA principal officials. The OCLL is
designated the single office in HQDA responsible for legislative affairs and, subject to the authority, direction, and
control of the SECARMY, provides the CSA, such staff support as the CSA considers necessary to perform his/her
duties and responsibilities. The CLL will—
(1) Develop, oversee, and execute policies and programs related to the Army’s relations with Congress, to in-
clude—
(a) Providing guidance and overseeing Congressional actions and responsibilities. The CLL may periodically pub-
lish the Congressional Actions Responsibilities Standing Operating Procedures (CARSOP) to assist OCLL and Con-
gressional Affairs Contact Officers (CACOs) with their assigned responsibilities.
(b) Providing guidance to, and coordinating training for, CACOs.
(2) Advise HQDA officials and leaders of Army activities on the legislative aspects of Army policies, plans, and
programs and on the status of congressional matters affecting, or of interest to, the Army.
(3) Advise HQDA officials and leaders of Army activities on the status of defense authorization committee actions,
to include providing timely and accurate information derived from hearings, engagements, and contacts and key meet-
ings involving Army senior leaders and members of Congress.
(4) Inform HQDA officials and Army activities about significant congressional engagements, developments, and
issues, including congressional and staff delegation travel to installations.
(5) Manage the Army appeals process to authorizations.
(6) Serve as the Army’s primary point of contact with Congress, including Members, congressional committees,
and congressional staff. The CLL ensures the Army speaks with one voice on all legislative matters through coordi-
nation with the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller) (ASA (FM&C)), who has
primary responsibility for congressional liaison with the appropriations committees, and the Assistant Secretary of the
Army for Civil Works (ASA (CW)), the designated congressional liaison for the Army’s civil works program.
(a) Except for civil works matters, the ASA (FM&C), in coordination with the CLL, will liaison with appropria-
tions committees.
(b) The ASA (CW), in coordination with the CLL, will liaise with Congress on civil works. The ASA (CW), U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers, and OCLL will coordinate on all matters involving the Army’s CW program.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 3
(7) Manage the Army’s legislative program and serve as the Army point of contact for legislative initiatives in-
cluding reviewing, coordinating, and messaging the Army position on all legislation.
(8) Prepare, advise, and facilitate Army senior leaders, senior officials, officers, and representatives for congres-
sional contacts and appearances before committees, to include—
(a) Preparing the SECARMY, CSA, USA, VCSA, and SMA for all congressional testimony and contacts.
(b) Providing the SECARMY, CSA, USA, VCSA, and SMA legislative liaisons assistance in the coordination and
synchronization of their congressional interactions across the Army.
(c) Tasking Army activities to assist in preparing Army senior leaders for congressional testimony and engage-
ments, to review/edit committee hearing transcripts, to answer advanced policy questions, to answer questions for the
record, and to prepare inserts for the record, as required.
(9) Report, monitor, and coordinate investigative actions of interest to the Army and provide advice to Army wit-
nesses called to appear before legislative or investigative committees.
(10) Manage the Army Congressional Reports’ process for authorization and appropriation reports in accordance
with Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 5545.02.
(11) Provide responses to inquiries received from members of Congress, congressional committees, and State of-
ficials, and respond to all congressional requests for internal Army documents, except those involving the Army’s
civil works program.
(a) Responses must be prompt, coordinated, consistent, and factual.
(b) The CRT will coordinate the identification, collection, review, staffing, and release of documents and infor-
mation in response to congressional requests for internal Army documents. Congressional requests for documents
pertaining to the Army budget and under the purview of the ASA (FM&C), and pertaining to the Army’s CW program
and under the purview of the ASA (CW), will be processed through the CRT.
(12) Facilitate the Senate confirmation process for Army officers and Army senior leaders, to include general of-
ficer nominees. Coordinate with the Office of the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, for Army general officer nomina-
tions to Joint assignments.
(13) Serve as the Army lead for congressional travel conducted pursuant to congressional committee requests,
Secretary of Defense designation, or SECARMY invitation, to include issuing appropriate travel orders, ensuring
adherence to proper protocol measures, and obtaining and accounting for funding.
(14) Staff, manage, and support Senate and House Army liaison offices on Capitol Hill to enhance trust, promote
communication, and facilitate access to members of Congress, including by providing introductions and developing
engagement opportunities.
(15) Serve as the Army Staff proponent for the Army Congressional Fellowship Program (ACFP), in accordance
with AR 1 – 202.
(16) Task Army activities to provide briefers and information requested by members of Congress, congressional
committees, and congressional staff, except for matters under the purview of ASA (FM&C).
d. Army General Counsel. As the chief legal officer of the Army, the Army General Counsel will—
(1) Review for legal sufficiency, and provide final legal clearance of, all legislative proposals submitted by the
Army.
(2) Review Army substantive comments submitted in support of the Army’s position on pending or proposed leg-
islation.
(3) Review replies to congressional correspondence involving legal issues or matters of significant interest to the
Army.
(4) Review all answers to advance policy questions, proposed hearing statements, draft responses to questions for
the record, and draft inserts for the record.
(5) Coordinate legal and policy advice to HQDA.
(6) Determine the Army position on any legal question or procedure.
(7) Review documents and information proposed for release by the Army in response to congressional requests.
e. Deputy Chief of Staff, G – 8. The DCS, G – 8 will—
(1) Participate in development of the purpose, scope, and theme of the Army’s programs before Congress.
(2) Review Army responses to congressional committees and the CBO that involve Army resources or funding
prior to submission of these responses, in conjunction with the ASA (FM&C).
(3) Review all Army legislative proposals, as needed, that require a cost benefit analysis (CBA).
f. The Judge Advocate General. The Judge Advocate General, in coordination with the Army General Counsel,
will draft Army legislative proposals and process private relief legislation, except for matters related to civil works.
g. Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Coordinate all congressional activities involving the Army’s civil
works program through ASA (CW), and coordinate all activities that involve Congress with the CLL.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 4
h. Commanders of Army Commands and heads of all Army activities. Commanders of Army Commands and heads
of all Army activities will—
(1) Select qualified witnesses for congressional hearings in coordination with the CLL (and ASA (FM&C) or, for
civil works matters, ASA (CW) as appropriate), and ensure designated witnesses are given appropriate preparation
and guidance.
(2) Make Army officials available in response to requests for briefings, hearings, congressional events, or other
congressional contacts.
(3) Provide prompt, consistent, factual, and fully coordinated information and backup material in response to re-
quests from the CLL or ASA (FM&C).
(4) Ensure all information intended for Congress that affects Army resources or funding is coordinated with the
DCS, G – 8 and ASA (FM&C) before providing it to OCLL and the ASA (FM&C), Budget Liaison (SAFM – BUL) for
submission to congressional committees, the CBO, or any other organization, entity, or official working on behalf of
a member of Congress or a congressional committee.
(5) Provide prompt notice to the CLL (and ASA (FM&C) or, for civil works matters, ASA (CW) as appropriate)
of contacts with members of Congress, congressional committees, and congressional staff, or of congressional requests
to visit activities or installations.
(6) Ensure congressional contacts outside OCLL (and ASA (FM&C) or, for civil works matters, ASA (CW) as
appropriate) comply with the policies set forth in chapter 2 of this regulation.
(7) Handle communications received directly from individual members of Congress, congressional committees,
and congressional staff in accordance with chapter 6 of this regulation.
(8) Ensure all information intended for submission to the CBO is properly coordinated and cleared before submit-
ting to the CLL and ASA (FM&C).
(9) Ensure the CLL (and ASA (FM&C) or, for civil works matters, ASA (CW) as appropriate) receive witness
statements prior to scheduled testimony and in accordance with chapter 5 of this regulation.
(10) Appoint CACOs whose primary duty is to serve as the liaison to the CLL and ASA (FM&C). CACOs will
ensure that legislative proposals, witness statements, responses to advance policy questions, responses to questions
for the record, responses to congressional inquiries, and other information intended for Congress comply with the
policies and procedures set forth in this regulation and the CARSOP. CACO’s will ensure their organizational lead-
ership are made aware of the deadlines established by OCLL for response.
(11) Under the guidance and direction of the CLL (and ASA (FM&C) or, for civil works matters, ASA (CW) as
appropriate), support congressional visits to Army installations, facilities, locations, and events.
(12) Search for, assemble, and forward (or release) documents within deadlines established by OCLL, and infor-
mation in response to congressional requests when tasked by OCLL (or ASA (FM&C) or ASA (CW)) as appropriate.
1–5. Records management (recordkeeping) requirements
The records management requirement for all record numbers, associated forms and reports required by this regulation
are addressed in the Army Records Retention Schedule—Army (RRS – A). Detailed information for all related record
numbers, forms and reports are located in the Army Records Information Management System (ARIMS)/RRS – A at
https://www.arims.army.mil. If any record numbers, forms, and reports are not current, addressed and/or published
correctly in ARIMS/RRS – A, see DA Pam 25 – 403 for guidance.
Chapter 2
Contacts with Congress
2–1. Policy
Contacts between Army officials and members of Congress, congressional committees, and congressional staff are
encouraged. Army officials will not, however, engage in any political activity as defined in 5 Code of Federal Regu-
lations §§ 733 – 734 to include associating the U.S. Army with particular partisan causes or candidates.
2–2. Handling of contacts
Notify OCLL and ASA (FM&C) of all efforts by members of Congress or congressional staff to directly schedule a
meeting, engagement, or event on an Army installation or with Army officials, and coordinate with OCLL and ASA
(FM&C) through the execution of those meetings, engagements, or events. Notice will be provided as soon as possible
by submitting a report via email to usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.da-conrep@mail.mil and usarmy.pentagon.hqda-
asa-fm.list.caco@mail.mil. The report will include the date and place of the requested or scheduled meeting or contact,
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 5
the member of Congress or staff attending, and a summary of the matters expected to be discussed. All Army activities
(or the ASA (FM&C), Budget Liaison if the engagement is related to an Army budget matter) will coordinate with
OCLL throughout the course of all meetings or contacts. When meeting with members of Congress, congressional
committees, and congressional staff, official statements by Army officials will be confined to matters under their
purview, and will be factual, forthright, and responsive. Following all contacts, a synopsis of what was discussed and
any required follow-up action will be expeditiously provided via email to usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.da-con-
rep@mail.mil and usarmy.pentagon.hqda-asa-fm.list.caco@mail.mil.
2–3. Senior leader congressional contacts
a. Army senior leaders, including general officers, senior executive service officials, and senior commanders, are
expected to support Army congressional engagements and outreach activities. The CLL will coordinate senior leader
contacts and participation in engagements and activities such as congressional travel, receptions, social events, and
Army strategic communications outreach. Army senior leaders are encouraged to recommend congressional outreach
efforts to OCLL and, in coordination with OCLL, schedule congressional engagements.
b. New general officers and senior executive service officials are encouraged to schedule orientation sessions with
OCLL. OCLL offers individual or small group sessions to inform senior leaders of Army congressional policies,
programs, and objectives, and how they can assist in promoting Army legislative objectives.
2–4. Limitations on contacts
a. Army officials will not ask members of Congress or congressional staff to support funding requests not included
in the President’s budget request or to enact legislation that has not been approved by HQDA, the Department of
Defense (DoD), and the Administration.
b. Section 1913, Title 18, United States Code (18 USC 1913) prohibits the use of appropriated funds to encourage,
pressure, or suggest that private citizens, citizens’ groups, corporations, associations, or other private organizations
contact or solicit Congress on legislative matters. Additionally, Section 715 of Public Law (PL) 116 – 93 prohibits the
use of appropriated funds by Executive Branch employees for publicity or propaganda purposes designed to support
or defeat legislation pending before Congress, other than for normal and recognized executive-legislative relationships
in presentation to the Congress itself. These restrictions do not prohibit Army officials from providing information to
the public on Army programs and policies or providing information to or engaging in direct contacts with members
of Congress or congressional staff.
c. Army officials will obtain clearance through OCLL of any statement to be provided to Congress in a letter,
report, testimony, or other communication that offers a position or view on proposed or pending legislation. All budget
positions must be coordinated with, and approved by, the ASA (FM&C). Any budget position or statement to be
provided to Congress in a report, testimony, or other communication that offers a position or view on proposed or
pending legislation regarding the Army’s civil works program must additionally be coordinated with and approved by
the ASA (CW).
d. Army contract employees and consultants may not represent Army interests before Congress. Contract employ-
ees and consultants may provide support to Army personnel during their interactions with Congress.
e. All Army activities that host Boards of Visitors that include members of Congress will limit direct liaison with
members of Congress and their staff to the coordination necessary for attendance at Board of Visitor meetings at the
agency or entity. Such organizations will conduct all other coordination with Congress through the appropriate OCLL
or ASA (FM&C) legislative liaison.
2–5. Congressional travel
a. Policy. Visits by members of Congress and congressional staff to Army installations, facilities, units, training
areas, and events, heighten congressional awareness of and support for Army programs, policies, and activities and
are encouraged. Only the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) or the SECARMY may extend invitations for non-
reimbursable travel to members of Congress (which may include their family members on a space available basis) or
congressional staff. Other Army officials will not unilaterally issue invitations for non-reimbursable congressional
travel.
b. Requests for non-reimbursable travel. Army officials may request that an invitation for non-reimbursable con-
gressional travel be extended to members of Congress (which may include their family members on a space available
basis) or congressional staff by forwarding a memo signed by the head of the organization to the SECARMY, through
OCLL. The memo will include the purpose of the trip and itinerary, the names of all congressional travelers, the mode
of transportation, and an Army organization point of contact. Submit requests at least 15 days prior to the date of the
planned travel. Submit requests for travel within 15 days as a short-notice request to the Congressional Travel Office,
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 6
OCLL, by telephone at (703) 697 – 7271, (703) 697 – 7272, (703) 607 – 7273, or email at usarmy.pentagon.hqda-
ocll.mbx.da-conrep@mail.mil.
c. Reporting congressional visits.
(1) Upon receiving information of a proposed visit by members of Congress, congressional committees, congres-
sional staff, subcommittees, task forces, or special survey groups or teams, the CACO or receiving Army official will
immediately file an initial report by email to OCLL at usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.da-conrep@mail.mil providing
all available information about the visit. The report will include notice that security clearances will be needed during
the congressional visit, if required. The report will not be delayed to await receipt of additional information.
(2) The CACO or Army organization’s responsible Army official will submit a trip report via email to OCLL at
usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.da-conrep@mail.mil at the end of a congressional visit, investigation, or field hear-
ing, unless an OCLL or ASA (FM&C) legislative liaison escort officer is present during the travel. Reports will include
the place and duration of the visit, names of congressional travelers, areas of congressional interest, summary of in-
formation furnished, and any corrective action recommended. Even if an OCLL or ASA (FM&C) legislative liaison
escort was present, Army officials are encouraged to submit reports to provide their perspectives on the visit, investi-
gation, or hearing, and highlight key issues. Extended visits or visits for significant investigations or field hearings
may require more frequent reports.
d. Partisan activities. Commanders and civilian executives of Army installations or facilities sponsoring congres-
sional travelers will be familiar with and adhere to Army public affairs policies pertaining to partisan political activities
on a military installation; see AR 360 – 1 and DoD guidance concerning election-year activities (see para 2 – 6).
2–6. Election-year activities
a. AR 360 – 1 contains policies and procedures to follow, when considering military involvement in election-year
activities. Senior commanders and civilian executives will not permit any candidate, or individual representing a can-
didate’s interests, to use military installation facilities for political assemblies or meetings, fund-raising events, press
conferences, or any other activity that could be construed as campaign- or election-related in nature. Candidates who
are not members of Congress may be given the same access to an installation as any other visitor. Installation or
command CACOs will ensure that candidates, their staff members, and campaign representatives are informed to
refrain from making campaign- or election-related statements or responding to campaign- or election-related media
queries, while on the installation prior to their visit.
b. Requests from candidates to film or tape campaign commercials in front of military equipment on Army instal-
lations or facilities will be denied. The Army is not authorized to provide support, including troops, bands, or color
guards, for political meetings, ceremonies, or similar events.
c. In addition to the requirements of AR 360 – 1, the OSD and the SECARMY may issue election-year guidance
specific to current campaign issues or concerns of the DoD or the Army. Compliance with these issuances is manda-
tory, as is compliance with 5 USC 7321 et seq. and Department of Defense Directive (DoDD) 1344.10, which govern
individual political activities of civilians and uniformed military members, respectively.
d. Unless the SECARMY approves, Army officials may not approve, grant, or bestow awards or special recogni-
tion to political candidates for partisan-elected offices between their announcements to run for office and the election.
2–7. Army Congressional Fellowship Program
The CLL is the proponent for ACFP, which educates and trains selected Army Soldiers and Army Civilians in con-
gressional affairs. The ACFP includes a master’s degree program, a one-year utilization with Congress, and a two-
year utilization in an Army legislative affairs office. All Army activities are strongly encouraged to nominate military
officers, senior non-commissioned officers, and senior Army Civilians to participate in the ACFP. The ACFP is ad-
ministered in accordance with AR 1 – 202.
Chapter 3
Legislation
3–1. Policy
a. The CLL directs the Army Legislative Program through the OCLL LI&N Division. The Army staff will coordi-
nate all legislative proposals – except those concerning civil works matters under the direction of the ASA (CW) –
with DCS, G – 8 and ASA (FM&C), for budgetary implications; Office of The Judge Advocate General (OTJAG), for
legal and technical accuracy; and the Army’s Office of the General Counsel (OGC), for final legal clearance. OTJAG
and OGC review Army comments submitted to DoD in response to proposals submitted by DoD or the other Services,
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 7
congressional and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) requests for views on pending legislative proposals,
bills, proclamations, reports, testimony, statements, and executive orders that do not originate from the Army before
release to DoD.
b. All Army activities will contact OCLL upon receipt of a request from a member of Congress, congressional
committees, or congressional staff for assistance in drafting legislation. Army activities may provide drafting assis-
tance to a member of Congress, congressional committees, or congressional staff in accordance with OMB Circular
No. A – 19 and after coordination with OCLL. Coordination includes informing, synchronizing and deconflicting leg-
islative actions and activities in a timely manner to ensure that the Army speaks with one voice on all legislative
matters and other matters of congressional interest. Army activities will not submit legislative proposals, drafts, or
initiatives directly to members of Congress, congressional committees, or congressional staff without coordination
with OCLL LI&N and review by OTJAG and OGC.
c. Requests for legislative drafting assistance from members of Congress, congressional committees, or congres-
sional staff related to the Army’s civil works program will be coordinated with the ASA (CW) and the OGC. All
legislative proposals related to the Army’s civil works program will be coordinated with the ASA (CW), the OCLL
LI&N Division, and the OGC. Army activities will not submit legislative proposals, drafts, or initiatives related to the
Army’s civil works program directly to members of Congress, congressional committees, or congressional staff with-
out coordination with ASA (CW) and OCLL.
3–2. Legislation proposed by Department of the Army
a. Army activities may submit National Defense Authorization Act proposals for legislation or legislative changes
necessary to carry out Army missions and responsibilities. Submitting Army officials should consider legislative pro-
posals that streamline operations, increase efficiency, reduce costs, enhance readiness, or improve personnel well-
being.
b. Army activities will send legislative proposals to the OCLL LI&N to initiate the process. The proposal package
must include the following: DA Form 5 (Army Staffing Form) or other coordination document; and completed legis-
lative proposal template. The completed legislative proposal template must be coordinated with OCLL LI&N and, at
a minimum, explain the purpose and objective of the proposal, address all known or anticipated budgetary and per-
sonnel implications, and list all points of contact for the proposal. If the legislative proposal was previously submitted
and disapproved, the legislative proposal template must provide an explanation regarding the changed circumstances
that warrant reconsideration.
c. OCLL LI&N will process and coordinate all Army legislative proposals to include obtaining concurrence from
the appropriate ASA sponsor, ASA (FM&C), DCS, G – 8 (Program Analysis and Evaluation), OTJAG, and OGC. ASA
(FM&C) concurrence may require the completion of a CBA or a comparative cost estimate. If required by ASA
(FM&C), OCLL LI&N will inform the initiating Army organization of the need to conduct a CBA. The initiating
Army organization must then complete a CBA and return it to OCLL LI&N for review by ASA (FM&C) before the
proposal can move forward.
d. OCLL LI&N will forward all proposals receiving staff concurrence to the SECARMY for approval. After
SECARMY approval, OCLL LI&N will monitor legislative proposals through DoD and OMB, in accordance with
DoDD 5500.01, for coordination and submission to Congress.
e. Army activities having interest in a legislative proposal will provide information and supporting data, as re-
quired, during consideration of the proposal.
3–3. Requests for Army Views
a. The OCLL LI&N coordinates the review of legislative and executive items affecting Army programs and policy,
to include proposals, bills, proclamations, reports, testimonies, statements, and executive orders that do not originate
from the Army. The OCLL LI&N will task, coordinate, and transmit Army comments to OSD in response to congres-
sional and OMB requests for views.
b. Comments on legislative proposals, bills, proclamations, reports, testimonies, statements, and executive orders
are time sensitive and require expeditious action at every level. Army activities tasked to provide comments on these
actions will ensure proposed comments are consistent with Army, DoD, and Administration policy; are coordinated
with offices within the Army that may have an interest; are approved at the appropriate level within the tasked Army
organization; and are returned to the OCLL LI&N by the deadline imposed.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 8
Chapter 4
Investigations
4–1. Policy
Army policy is to cooperate fully with all formal, informal, and special congressional investigations in accordance
with DoDI 5500.16. The CLL will ensure the Army promptly provides appropriate information on Army programs
and operations requested by Congress during investigations. The CLL will ensure that Army officials cooperate fully
with congressional committees and their staff. The CLL will monitor the progress of investigations and report signif-
icant developments to Army senior leaders and, where appropriate, other Army activities.
4–2. Army cooperation with congressional investigations
a. The CLL will appoint a legislative counsel from the OCLL LI&N Division to coordinate all aspects of congres-
sional investigations, including responding to requests for information, facilitating requests to interview Army offi-
cials, providing briefers, and providing Army officials to testify at congressional hearings. The CLL will work closely
with OGC in reviewing proposed Army responses to requests for information and requests to interview Army officials.
As appropriate, legislative counsel will coordinate with DoD to ensure that Army-proposed responses are consistent
with DoD and the Administration’s policy. This policy also applies to requests for information from, and investigations
led by, the CBO, Government Accountability Office (GAO), and the Congressional Research Service (CRS).
b. Committee requests for documents in conjunction with a congressional investigation will be reviewed and pro-
cessed in accordance with chapter 7 of this regulation.
c. Army activities will promptly advise OCLL of any engagements or requests for information or support relating
to a congressional investigation.
d. The Army will support congressional requests to visit installations and Army activities in conjunction with con-
gressional investigations. The CLL will keep Army activities informed of any planned or proposed congressional
investigative visits. Army activities will assist OCLL in planning, coordinating, and supporting congressional inves-
tigative visits.
e. In coordination with the CLL, the ASA (FM&C) may designate an Army activity to provide a liaison or directly
monitor for investigations the Appropriations Committees conduct. The ASA (FM&C) may also designate a budget
monitor as required for investigations of budget or appropriations issues, including investigations and reviews the
CBO or the GAO conducts. The assigned monitor will coordinate briefings for investigators, review and recommend
the release of all material, arrange the travel of investigators to Army activities, and provide monthly status reports to
ASA (FM&C).
f. The CRT will process and coordinate document requests received by the Army from CBO, GAO, and CRS in
accordance with chapter 7 of this regulation.
4–3. Army role in congressional investigative hearings
a. The CLL will notify appropriate Army activities of investigative hearings involving Army witnesses or interests.
Army activities will make witnesses available to appear before congressional hearings and support requests for witness
interviews or briefings. Army activities contacted directly by a congressional committee to appear or provide infor-
mation for an investigative hearing will forward requests to the OCLL LI&N Division.
b. The appointed legislative counsel from the OCLL LI&N Division will prepare Army witnesses invited to testify
at investigative hearings, assist in the preparation and submission of witness statements, monitor the hearing, and
assist in the preparation and submission of post-hearing information, including inserts and questions for the record.
Chapter 5
Appearances Before Congressional Committees
5–1. Policy
Army policy is to provide knowledgeable, experienced, and prepared officials to present testimony at congressional
hearings. Army witness statements will be consistent with the policies of the Army, the DoD, and the Administration.
Testimony by Army witnesses at congressional hearings is critical to ensuring congressional awareness, understand-
ing, and support of Army policies, programs, challenges, Army legislative initiatives, and resource requirements. For
the purposes of this policy, Army witnesses do not include Army officials testifying as a result of occupying a joint
assignment or when appearing at a confirmation hearing for nomination to a combatant command – the Joint Staff
prepares Army officials for hearings relating to a joint assignment.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 9
5–2. Support to witnesses testifying during congressional hearings
The CLL will designate a legislative liaison or legislative counsel for each hearing involving an Army witness who
will present the official Army position on the subject matter of the hearing. In coordination with the CLL, the ASA
(FM&C) will designate a Budget Liaison for appropriations-related posture or other appropriations related hearings.
The designated liaison will assist Army witnesses and supporting Army personnel in preparing, coordinating, and
clearing hearing statements; ensure witnesses are informed of Army and DoD policies and positions on the subject of
the hearing; provide advice and assistance to witnesses during all phases of the hearing; attend the hearing; and, pro-
duce a post-hearing report capturing areas of immediate interest to Army senior leaders and a list of all due outs to the
relevant committee or legislative body. The responsible legislative liaison or counsel will forward a copy of the post-
hearing report to relevant CACOs once approved to do so by the CLL. All Army witnesses testifying in front of
Congress for the first time will coordinate with LI&N to receive a briefing on congressional testimony and witness
requirements.
5–3. Selection of witnesses
a. In most hearings involving the Army, congressional committees invite a specific Army official to testify to
present the Army’s official position. Army officials receiving an invitation to testify directly from a member of Con-
gress or committee will immediately notify OCLL at usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.da-conrep@mail.mil summa-
rizing the invitation and providing a biography of the requested official. The notification may include a recommenda-
tion for an alternate witness or for other supporting witnesses if appropriate.
b. If a congressional invitation leaves selection of a witness to the Army, the CLL will coordinate with the Army
organization having oversight responsibility of, or interest in, the subject matter of the hearing to select the best pos-
sible witness. Individuals are designated as witnesses on the basis of grade and position, knowledge of the subject
matter, and ability to present the Army position. The sponsoring organization of the designated witness provides sup-
port as needed to the witness and facilitates his or her attendance at the hearing. The CLL will coordinate with the
sponsoring organization and testifying individual to support all aspects of the witness’ appearance at the hearing.
5–4. Hearing statements
a. In most cases, congressional committees require witnesses to provide a written hearing statement 48 hours prior
to the hearing. Hearing statements are important official documents that are published in the hearing transcript and
are made available to the media and the public. Army officials responsible for preparing statements will ensure that
classified information is not contained in the hearing statement. Hearing statements will be concise, informative, in-
clusive, and consistent with Army policy. Sponsoring organizations will complete hearing statements in accordance
with the timeline established by OCLL in advance of the hearing to ensure sufficient time is available to complete the
clearance process.
b. Written hearing statements must be cleared by HQDA, OSD, and OMB in accordance with DoDD 5500.01 prior
to release to Congress to ensure they reflect Army, DoD, and the Administration policy and are consistent with the
President’s budget. Sponsoring organizations will coordinate statements with the Army activities having oversight
responsibility or a direct interest in the content of the statement. A coordinated copy of the statement will be provided
to OCLL (or ASA (FM&C) or ASA (CW) as appropriate) liaison officer handling the hearing in time to meet the
congressional committee’s suspense for delivery in advance of the hearing. The CARSOP contains additional infor-
mation concerning witness statement preparation and the clearance process. Statements will not be released to the
public until the congressional committee holding the hearing authorizes release.
c. Witnesses will ensure that oral testimony presented during the hearing and responses to questions are consistent
with their prepared statement. Witnesses who do not have cleared written statements must receive special authority to
present testimony during congressional hearings. Witnesses authorized to testify without prepared statements will
ensure testimony is unclassified and consistent with Army, DoD, and Administration policy.
d. Classified information will be provided to Congress only in closed sessions consisting of individuals who are
authorized access to the subject classified information. When a question is asked in open session that requires a clas-
sified answer, the witness will advise the committee that security reasons prohibit answering the question at that time.
Prepared statements, oral statements, and testimony given in closed sessions of congressional committees are the
property of the committee – release to individuals or agencies outside of DoD, except by permission of the committee
or by the committee, is not authorized.
5–5. Responsibilities after hearings
a. Army officials appearing as hearing witnesses will forward information requested during a hearing by members
of Congress to OCLL (or to ASA (FM&C) or ASA (CW), as appropriate) for transmittal to the committee.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 10
b. The CLL will coordinate and assign to the appropriate Army activity congressional committee requests including
inserts for the record, hearing transcripts, and questions for the record. An insert is any information inserted into a
transcript to complete the record of the hearing. Inserts are usually answers to members of Congress’ hearing questions
that require additional information from the witness. Inserts may also include the witness’ prepared statement, bio-
graphical sketch, documents prepared in response to the questions, or any published document required by the com-
mittee, such as the Army Posture Statement. Questions for the record are written supplemental questions from mem-
bers of Congress submitted after the hearing.
c. After the hearing, a copy of the transcript is normally made available to the witness for review and correction.
Witnesses may correct grammatical or typographical errors in their transcripts provided the corrections do not alter
the meaning of their testimony. If any material part of the testimony is incorrect, or if substantial changes are consid-
ered necessary, witnesses will seek guidance from OCLL.
d. The CARSOP contains additional information on preparing inserts for the record, editing hearing transcripts,
and responding to questions for the record.
5–6. Appearance of Army personnel in individual capacity
a. Army policy is to allow personnel to testify in their individual capacity at the invitation of congressional com-
mittees, although not in a representational capacity for the Army.
b. Army activities will notify OCLL immediately upon becoming aware that a member of that organization has
been invited to testify before a congressional committee in their individual capacity. The following information, to
the degree available, will be provided along with that notification:
(1) Rank and name of the personnel attending;
(2) Unit of assignment and physical place of duty for the invited witness;
(3) Contact information for the congressional committee;
(4) Subject matter of the hearing;
(5) Whether other events, either before or after the hearing, and related to the Army personnel’s appearance at the
hearing, are anticipated;
(6) The proposed travel funding method and source, to include any offers of a gift by a third party;
(7) If the invited witness is a Soldier, whether the Soldier has been requested to wear, or intends to wear, a military
uniform;
(8) Whether the Army personnel invited to testify is undergoing, or has undergone, any adverse administrative or
disciplinary action; and
(9) Whether there was a request to provide any documentation or written testimony in advance and, if so, specifics
of the request.
c. Commanders and heads of Army activities will ensure that no action is taken that could be considered a violation
of 10 USC 1034, The Military Whistleblower Protection Act.
d. A supporting Office of the Staff Judge Advocate (OSJA) for the Army organization from which the testifying
Army personnel is assigned will ensure that a legal and ethics review of the logistics relating to the invitation, the
attendance plan, and any third party gift offers is conducted and provided to the testifying personnel and the organi-
zation. A copy of this legal and ethics review will be provided to OCLL. If the testifying Army personnel is not
assigned to a unit with an Army OSJA, that individual should contact OCLL LI&N division for assistance and guid-
ance.
e. The CLL will provide the testifying individual administrative and logistical support upon request.
Chapter 6
Communications with Congress
6–1. Policy
a. Army policy is to promptly make information available to members of Congress, congressional committees, and
congressional staff. This includes information provided in response to a direct request for information, as well as
information provided proactively that is of known interest to members of Congress, congressional committees, and
congressional response. This policy is limited only by pertinent regulations and directives relating to security and
protection of individual privacy and to official information that requires protection in the public interest. Chapter 7 of
this regulation contains additional information on the release of information and documents to Congress.
b. No provision of this regulation restricts the right of any individual to communicate with a member of Congress.
No person may take (or threaten to take) an unfavorable personnel action or withhold (or threaten to withhold) a
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 11
favorable personnel action as reprisal against a Soldier or an Army Civilian for making or preparing a communication
to a member of Congress (10 USC 1034).
c. Information and correspondence to Congress will be brief, clear, and courteous. Minimize the use of military
abbreviations and technical language. Letters must be factual, forthright, simple, and responsive.
6–2. Procedures
a. Coordination of information for release to Congress is the responsibility of the preparing organization. The CLL
may directly contact, task, and establish suspenses for any Army organization to expedite replies, avoid delays, and
secure necessary information, to satisfy the request.
b. When several identical inquiries are received from different members of Congress, the responses should be
consistent. Do not use a form letter or copy, handle each inquiry on its individual merit, and answer every inquiry
fully and factually.
c. Communications between a member of Congress and the Army are sensitive. Inquiries from members of Con-
gress will not be furnished to any other member of Congress, business, or individual without the prior approval of the
CLL. When responding to an inquiry from a member of Congress, names of other members from whom identical
constituent inquiries have been received will not be cited. Reference may be made to other inquiries on behalf of the
same constituent, written or verbal, without citing the specific names of members of Congress, when—
(1) It is considered appropriate or essential to provide the information in the interest of clarity.
(2) It will ensure a complete understanding of all the circumstances involved.
(3) It will support an Army position.
d. No Army organization will transfer any congressional inquiry referred to it by OCLL to any other organization
without the express consent of OCLL.
e. When congressional inquiries are referred for direct reply from one Army organization to another, the reply will
not mention that the inquiry has been referred. The opening paragraph will normally be written to include the subject
and the name of the constituent (if identified). The first paragraph will merely state “This is in response to...” or a
comparable phrase.
f. Whenever possible, advise members of Congress of the outcome of constituent matters before any other inquiring
parties are informed, including the constituent. This restriction does not apply to constituents when the matter under
consideration requires contact with them before a replying to the inquiry.
6–3. Correspondence with individual members of Congress
a. Requests for information received from members of Congress that are referred to an Army organization will be
accompanied by specific instructions to include suspense date, signature level, and special interest by Army senior or
DoD leaders. Paragraph 7 – 3 of this regulation should be reviewed prior to drafting responses to Congressional inquir-
ies.
b. When a congressional inquiry is addressed to a particular Army organization (or has been referred to that organ-
ization for direct reply), the head of the organization responsible for the action (or his or her designated representative)
will sign the reply and send it directly to the member of Congress concerned. Advise OCLL immediately when replies
to such inquiries involve sensitive issues.
c. Army activities will provide OCLL copies of all inquiries received directly from Congress. Responses to con-
gressional inquiries will also be forwarded to OCLL when action is complete (except inquiries concerning civil works
matters, which will be provided to the ASA (CW)). Inquiries may be sent via email to usarmy.pentagon.hqda-
ocll.mbx.congressional-inquiries@mail.mil or mailed to Headquarters, Department of the Army, Office of the Chief
of Legislative Liaison, 1600 Army Pentagon, Washington, DC 20310 – 1600. Each Army organization may act as the
forwarding agent for replies by their subordinate commands or organizations.
d. Army activities will forward proposed interim and final replies to members of Congress (together with the mem-
ber’s inquiry, enclosures, and all additional information) to OCLL for coordination when the answer to a congressional
inquiry relates to proposed or pending legislation or a congressional investigation, requires an explanation of Army
policies or procedures beyond the purview of the addressee, or when required by OCLL for HQDA review. Use
command channels when forwarding proposed replies.
e. Congressional inquiries often concern subjects of significant importance to the Army. It is in the Army’s best
interest to furnish replies promptly. Special attention will be given to those inquiries involving compassionate or time-
sensitive matters, such as death, injury, or sickness of, or other grave circumstances relating to, Army personnel or
members of their Families. Replies to inquiries involving compassionate or time-sensitive matters must be given the
highest priority and will be expedited by telephone or email, using overtime and weekend duty as necessary. An
experienced legislative liaison or legislative counsel will handle such cases.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 12
f. Formatting such as font, size, margins, spacing, will follow AR 25 – 50 standards. Closing and signature block
styles will follow AR 25 – 50 examples. When possible, a wet signature on an Army response letter is preferred; how-
ever, a digital signature is authorized if obtaining a wet signature will unduly delay the response or other circumstances
prevent either obtaining or delivering a response with a wet signature.
g. Replies to congressional correspondence requiring the signature of DoD or Army senior leaders require imme-
diate response by the CLL. Due to the critical time constraints on these actions, Army activities tasked by OCLL to
provide a response will respond to and coordinate with OCLL immediately by the most expedient method possible. If
a final response cannot be made by the suspense, a substantive interim reply will be made. Interim replies must include
as much specific information as possible, reasons for the delay, and the approximate date when to expect a final reply.
h. The following guidelines apply to the processing of all other replies to congressional correspondence:
(1) All replies will be transmitted to OCLL by the fastest possible means. Email transmission is preferred over
physical mail and hand-delivered hard copies.
(2) Dispatch final replies to communications received directly from members of Congress and those referred from
HQDA for direct reply within five working days after receipt.
(3) Taskings by OCLL for draft replies to congressional requests referred by HQDA will be returned to the HQDA
office responsible for the action by the assigned suspense date. Normally, the suspense date will be five working days
from receipt of the tasking from OCLL.
(4) Send interim replies when circumstances clearly prevent a final or draft reply within the periods outlined above.
The CLL will send the member of Congress an interim reply containing as much information as is available at the
time, initially within five working days after receipt, and then every 30 days until the ongoing action is complete.
i. The following guidelines apply to the processing of telephonic congressional inquiries:
(1) Army activities in the continental United States will respond by telephone within two working days to telephone
inquiries OCLL refers to them. If this is not possible, provide an interim reply with the expected date of a final reply
and reason for the delay.
(2) Responding Army activities overseas will telephone or email OCLL, through the appropriate liaison, within
five working days.
(3) Same-day responses are required in cases of threatened suicide, abuse, violence, or threat to life.
(4) The CLL will impose shorter suspenses than those listed above as necessary.
6–4. Correspondence with committees of Congress
a. Army activities will notify OCLL of the receipt of inquiries from any congressional committee. The CLL will
forward congressional committee inquiries to appropriate Army activities for direct response as necessary.
b. The following guidelines apply to committee inquiries:
(1) Army responses to congressional committee correspondence will be timely, responsive, factual, and coordi-
nated. Army activities will not reply to congressional committee inquiries directly. All responses will be coordinated
through OCLL.
(2) Release of official records and Army documents will comply with chapter 7 of this regulation.
(3) The CLL will process congressional committee requests. Inspection of official records is normally permitted
when requested by a congressional committee.
c. The following applies to the release of classified and sensitive materials:
(1) The provisions of AR 380 – 5 govern the handling of classified and sensitive material.
(2) OCLL obtains any necessary authority required to communicate classified and sensitive material to a congres-
sional committee.
(3) Any Army organization that corresponds with Congress on matters pertaining to nuclear energy will addition-
ally provide a copy of the correspondence to the DCS, G – 3/5/7.
(4) Refer questions or concerns regarding a congressional committee request for sensitive material to OCLL for
consideration and action.
6–5. Invitations to Army personnel for participation in congressional events
a. Army policy is to allow personnel to participate in congressional events at the invitation of members of Congress
and congressional committees. Participation will be conducted in accordance with DoDD 1344.10.
b. Army activities will notify OCLL immediately upon becoming aware that a member of that organization has
been invited, in either their official or personal capacity, to participate in a congressional event held by a member of
Congress or a congressional committee. The following information, to the degree available, will be provided along
with that notification:
(1) Rank and name of the personnel attending;
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 13
(2) Unit of assignment and physical place of duty for the Army personnel attending;
(3) The event for which the Army personnel has received or anticipates receiving an invitation;
(4) The source of the invitation, with that source’s point of contact information, to include third-party, non-con-
gressional sources;
(5) A summary of the matters expected to be discussed;
(6) The motivation for the invitation. Examples can include: based on a personal relationship, recognition of an
awardee, or attending an event relating to a specific policy issue;
(7) Whether other events, either before or after the congressional event, and related to the Army personnel’s ap-
pearance at the event, are anticipated;
(8) The proposed travel funding method and source, to include any offers of a gift by a third party;
(9) If the invited personnel is a Soldier, whether the Soldier has been requested to wear, or intends to wear, a
military uniform;
(10) Whether the Army personnel invited to attend the congressional event is undergoing, or has undergone, any
adverse administrative or disciplinary action; and
(11) Whether there was a request to provide any documentation or statements in advance, and if so, specifics of
the request.
c. Commanders and heads of Army activities will ensure that no action is taken that could be considered a violation
of 10 USC 1034, The Military Whistleblower Protection Act.
d. A supporting OSJA for the Army activity from which the attending Army personnel is assigned ensures that a
legal and ethics review of logistics relating to the invitation, the attendance plan, and any third party gift offers is
conducted and provided to the attending personnel and the organization. A copy of this legal and ethics review will
be provided to OCLL. If the Army personnel is not assigned to a unit with an Army OSJA, that individual should
contact OCLL LI&N division for assistance and guidance.
e. Army personnel invited by the President of the United States to the State of the Union to Congress will receive
a briefing from OCLL LI&N in advance of their attendance.
Chapter 7
Release of Information and Documents to Congress
7–1. Policy on providing information and documents to Congress
a. The Army is committed to providing maximum information to and fully cooperating with members of Congress,
congressional committees, and congressional staff. Responsiveness is critical to ensuring congressional awareness,
understanding, and support of Army policies, programs, and challenges. Army responses to requests from members
of Congress, congressional committees, and congressional staff for Army documents will be timely, coordinated,
consistent with applicable law and policy, accurate, and responsive.
b. Army activities will send interim replies when circumstances clearly prevent a final or draft reply within the
suspense set by Congress. Army activities will send an interim reply with the expected date of a final reply and reason
for the delay. If no suspense was set by Congress, interim responses will be provided on the status of the request no
later than five working days after receiving the request, and then every 30 days until the ongoing action is complete.
c. An official request made on behalf of a congressional committee or subcommittee should be on committee let-
terhead, clearly state that the request is made on behalf of the committee, and be signed by the committee chair.
Delegation of this authority by the committee or subcommittee chairperson in writing to a specific individual or indi-
viduals will be recognized if DoD has accepted the delegation. Requests in accordance with that delegation will be
processed as though the request was signed by the relevant committee or subcommittee chair themselves. Other re-
quests for Army documents from members of Congress or congressional staff should be in writing (email will suffice)
and clearly identify the documents requested. Requests that are not official requests as described herein are subject to
limitations on disclosure imposed by the Freedom of Information Act and other relevant non-disclosure statutes, pol-
icies, and regulations.
d. Army activities will promptly notify the OCLL CRT upon receipt of any congressional request for Army docu-
ments. Prior to release, Army activities will coordinate requests from members of Congress, congressional commit-
tees, congressional staff, and GAO requests for Army documents not in the public domain with the CRT. The CRT
can be reached at usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.crt-mail@mail.mil.
e. Army activities will coordinate with the CRT before providing unsolicited information involving any significant
development concerning the Army and prepared specifically for members of Congress, congressional committees, or
congressional staff, or designed to provide notice to members of the Congress, congressional committees, or congres-
sional staff.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 14
f. Army activities will notify the CRT upon receipt of a request from a member of Congress, a congressional com-
mittee, or congressional staff for any Army document or information that is, or may be, protected from public release
under 5 USC 552; 5 USC 552a; the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (PL 104 – 191); or under any
other law or regulation. This notification requirement includes requests from any legislative branch organization or
from any organization, entity, or official working on behalf of a member of Congress or a congressional committee,
to include, but not limited to, the GAO, CBO, and the Congressional Research Service.
g. All Army activities will cooperate fully with OCLL and the CRT to ensure full compliance with the Privacy Act
of 1974, the Freedom of Information Act, and any other applicable law or regulation. Army activities will not release
personal identifying information in Army files about personnel to individual members of Congress without prior re-
ceipt of a Privacy Act Release signed by the affected individual.
h. All Army activities will cooperate fully and promptly with OCLL in performing its critical role of facilitating
congressional oversight of Army programs and activities.
7–2. Access to information
a. Members of Congress, congressional committees, and congressional staff are authorized access to classified and
unclassified information, when necessary, to perform their governmental functions. The release of information is gov-
erned by applicable laws, executive orders, and regulations pertaining to classified, sensitive and personal information
(to include AR 380 – 5 and AR 25 – 22).
b. Authorities governing the release of information depend on whether the request is on behalf of a congressional
committee or on behalf of a member of Congress acting in an individual capacity. The release of information to
members of Congress who are acting in their individual capacities or their personal office staff is subject to 5 USC
552; 5 USC 552a; PL 104 – 191; and other applicable laws as well as applicable DoD and Army directives and regula-
tions.
c. The Army makes this information available to congressional committees in accordance with DoDI 5400.04,
Enclosure 4. The denial of any request for information received from a congressional committee will be approved by
the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense. The
SECARMY must approve the denial of any non-constituent based requests for information from members of Congress
acting in their individual capacity. Information requested by members of Congress or their personal office staff on
behalf of their constituents will be handled in the same manner as if the constituent had written directly to the DoD.
7–3. Procedures for responding to congressional requests for documents
a. The CRT is responsible for organizing and overseeing searches for documents, coordinating the review of re-
sponsive documents within the Army and the DoD, and transmitting the Army’s response to all congressional requests
for documents from the Army. This responsibility includes the following:
(1) Documenting, tracking, and monitoring the status of all major or sensitive congressional requests for Army
documents and the Army’s response to those requests.
(2) Directing the collection, review (including substantive, legal, and security reviews), coordination, duplication,
and release of Army documents, and written and oral responses to Congressional requests.
(3) Coordinating the proper notification to Army leadership for the pending release to Congress of significant
documents of particular interest to Army senior leaders. The CRT will assist Army senior leaders with responding to
queries regarding those documents, task Army activities to assist with the preparation of these responses as necessary,
and ensure the query response is consistent with any existing strategic communications plan.
(4) Coordinating document releases within Army, with OSD, and, as appropriate, with other DoD components.
(5) Maintaining accurate and complete copies of documents provided to Congress.
b. The CLL may task Army activities, as appropriate, to search for and provide documents that may be responsive
to congressional requests for data, documents, or information. Tasked Army activities will collect responsive docu-
ments and information; ensure the security of, and ensure the legal review of, such documents and information; sub-
stantively review and prepare executive summaries of the contents of such documents and information; prepare related
products as OCLL and Army leaders require; and make such documents, information, and products available to OCLL
by the deadlines OCLL establishes. CACOs will follow the guidance contained in the CARSOP to synchronize and
facilitate consistency in the release of Army documents to Congress.
c. OGC will review documents proposed for release to Congress. This review will identify material and information
that is subject to executive privilege, limited to committee use only, or limited by other non-disclosure statutes or
regulations.
d. The original classification authority of any classified documents classified as “secret” or higher, or that contains
sensitive information, will review and approve those documents and information proposed for release to Congress.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 15
The CLL will coordinate, as necessary, with the DCS, G – 2, to determine the identity of the original classification
authority.
7–4. Processing and clearance of required reports to Congress
Legislation, especially the annual National Defense Authorization Act, regularly includes requirements for the DoD
and Military Services to provide reports to congressional oversight committees on various programs and policies. The
CLL is responsible for identifying, assigning and tasking lead and assisting Army organization CACOs for preparation
of reports directed by Congress. A detailed process for producing, reviewing, and approving congressional reports
required from the Army will be published by OCLL. For congressional reports either requiring Army senior leader
endorsement or approval, or reports that are of such significance as to require Army senior leader coordination, the
lead Army organization will be responsible for briefing Army senior leaders on the status and subject matter of the
report.
Chapter 8
Congressional Notifications
8–1. Policy
Army policy is to provide members of Congress and congressional committees with timely information on significant
developments involving Army policies, programs, operations, and developments.
8–2. Procedures
a. Army officials will consider the potential congressional implications, effects on congressional committee re-
sponsibilities, and impact on individual constituencies of significant Army actions or developments. As Army plans
are developed that may concern Congress, the responsible HQDA official or Army organization will coordinate with
OCLL to determine congressional implications.
b. In coordination with the responsible HQDA officials or Army activities, the CLL will develop a congressional
notification plan, when necessary, to inform appropriate members of Congress and interested congressional commit-
tees. The CLL will coordinate notification plans with affected Army activities and provide them the final version of
notifications prior to release. The CLL may task Army activities to prepare news releases, information papers, and
briefings for Congress.
c. Army officials will prepare information to be provided to Congress on broad Army plans, operations, and activ-
ities to include coordination and internal clearance. The CLL will ensure the information is consistent with Army and
DoD policy and will coordinate and distribute the information to Congress.
8–3. Actions or plans requiring notice to Congress
a. If an official Information for Members of Congress (IMC) is required, the CLL is the approval and release
authority for regularly recurring IMCs or IMCs the CLL determines do not require Army senior leader interest. For
IMCs likely to garner significant congressional or media interest, the CLL will inform the Army senior leaders through
the Director of the Army Staff of the pending release to allow Army senior leaders the opportunity to engage on the
issue as desired. Army activities responsible for the information to be provided to Congress will provide that infor-
mation to OCLL for the IMC preparation. An example IMC is provided in figure 8 – 1. The CLL will publish additional
information for preparing IMCs.
b. Realignment and reductions. Follow procedures outlined in DoDI 1400.25, Volume 351, and AR 690 – 300
when providing information on realignments and reductions affecting civilian employees of installations, facilities, or
activities. DoDI 1400.25, Volume 351, specifically requires congressional notification for—
(1) Release of 50 or more civilian employees from U.S. Government employment during a fiscal year at an instal-
lation, facility, or activity.
(2) Closure or reductions in an installation work force that may be expected to be of interest to members of Con-
gress and the public.
(3) Any reduction in force that is of special interest to Congress or the public.
(4) Realignment of 50 or more civilian employees outside the local commuting area.
(5) Substantial reduction in contract operations or employment (involving 100 or more people) during a fiscal year.
c. Contract awards. Contracting officers will report impending contract awards of $7.5 million or more to HQDA,
as required by Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 205.303. HQDA shall then report such
awards to members of Congress in whose State or district the contractor is located and the work is to be performed,
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 16
as required by DFARS 205.303. Release of information is prohibited to anyone concerning the identity or location of
the person, company, or corporation to whom any contract has been awarded by DoD (including to a member of
Congress) prior to public announcement.
d. Proposed contract terminations. Contracting officers will report proposed significant contract terminations
through the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology) to OCLL as required by DFARS
249.7001. The CLL coordinates congressional notifications as required by DFARS 249.7001 and DoDI 1400.25, Vol-
ume 351, which requires congressional notification for any termination involving a reduction in employment of 100
or more contractor personnel. The CLL may furnish other reported information to Congress, depending on the signif-
icance of the termination.
e. Stationing. Follow AR 5 – 10 prior to the public release or implementation of any significant changes in mission
or operating levels, including anticipated changes in government-owned, contractor-operated facilities. If appropriate,
reports will include recommendations on the content and release date to be provided to Congress.
f. Valorous awards. In accordance with the requirements and restrictions of DoDI 1348.33, Section 15, a Soldier’s
congressional representatives in the House and Senate will be notified if the Soldier is to be awarded the Medal of
Honor, Military Service Cross, or Silver Star Medal. The CLL will provide the relevant congressional representatives
with the Soldier’s grade, name, title of award, and legal residence or domicile.
g. Combat casualty notifications. The CLL will notify relevant members of Congress and State Governors of Sol-
diers evacuated from a combat theater and admitted to a military treatment facility within the United States in accord-
ance with Section 546 of the Fiscal Year 2004 National Defense Authorization Act (PL 108 – 136, section 546). Noti-
fications will not occur prior to notification of a Soldier’s next of kin, and are subject to the consent of the Soldier or,
if unable to provide consent, information and consent may be provided by next of kin.
h. Other notifications. The CLL will provide informal notifications to congressional committees upon receipt of
information about significant events known to be of particular interest to Congress. Legislative liaisons will clear these
notifications with their division leadership, inform the CLL of the event and information intended for release, and will
coordinate with LI&N to receive a legal review of the draft notification by OGC prior to release. Notifications that
include the provision of Army documentation will be coordinated with the CRT in accordance of chapter 7 of this
regulation.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 17
Figure 8 – 1. Sample Information for Members of Congress
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 18
Appendix A
References
Section I
Required Publications
Unless otherwise indicated, all Army publications are available on the Army Publishing Directorate website at
https://armypubs.army.mil/.
AGO 2020 – 01
Assignment of Functions and Responsibilities within Headquarters, Department of the Army (Cited in Summary of
Change)
AR 1 – 202
Army Congressional Fellowship Program (Cited in para 1–4c(15).)
AR 5 – 10
Stationing (Cited in para 8–3e.)
AR 25 – 22
The Army Privacy Program (Cited in para 7–2a.)
AR 25 – 30
Army Publishing Program (Cited in title page.)
AR 25 – 400 – 2
The Army Records Information Management System (ARIMS) (Cited in para 1 – 5.)
AR 360 – 1
The Army Public Affairs Program (Cited in para 2–5d.)
AR 380 – 5
Army Information Security Program (Cited in para 6–4c(1).)
AR 690 – 300
Employment (Cited in para 8–3b.)
DA Pam 25 – 403
Guide to Recordkeeping in the Army (Cited in para 1 – 5.)
DFARS 205.303
Announcement of contract awards (Cited in para 8–3c.) (Available at https://www.acq.osd.mil/dpap/dars/dfarspgi/cur-
rent/index.html.)
DFARS 249.7001
Congressional notification on significant contract terminations (Cited in para 8–3d.) (Available at
https://www.acq.osd.mil/dpap/dars/dfarspgi/current/index.html.)
DoDD 1344.10
Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces (Cited in para 2–6c.) (Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
DoDD 5500.01
Preparing, Processing, and Coordinating Legislation, Executive Orders, Proclamations, Views Letters, and Testimony
(Cited in para 3–2d.) (Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
DoDI 1348.33
DoD Military Decorations and Awards Program (Cited in para 8–3f.) (Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
DoDI 1400.25, Volume 351
DoD Civilian Personnel Management System: Coordination and Clearance Requirements for Personnel Reductions,
Closures of Installations and Reductions of Contract Operations in the United States (Cited in para 8–3b.) (Available
at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
DoDI 5400.04
Provision of Information to Congress (Cited in para 7–2c.) (Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 19
DoDI 5500.16
Relationship With the Surveys and Investigations (S&I) Staff, House Appropriations Committee (Cited in para 4 – 1.)
(Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
DoDI 5545.02
DoD Policy for Congressional Authorization and Appropriations Reporting Requirements (Cited in para 1–4c(10).)
(Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
OMB Circular No. A – 19
Legislative Coordination and Clearance (Cited in para 3–1b.) (Available at https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/infor-
mation-for-agencies/circulars/.)
PL 104 – 191
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (Cited in para 7–1f.) (Available at https://www.con-
gress.gov/.)
PL 108 – 136
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (Cited in para 8–3g.) (Available at https://www.con-
gress.gov/.)
PL 116 – 93
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020 (Cited in para 2–4b.) (Available at https://www.congress.gov/.)
5 Code of Federal Regulations § 733
Political Activity–Federal Employees Residing in Designated Localities (Cited in para 2 – 1.) (Available at
https://www.ecfr.gov/.)
5 Code of Federal Regulations § 734
Political Activities of Federal Employees (Cited in para 2 – 1.) (Available at https://www.ecfr.gov/.)
5 USC 552
Public information; agency rules, opinions, orders, records, and proceedings (Cited in para 7–1f.) (Available at
https://uscode.house.gov/.)
5 USC 552a
Records maintained on individuals (Cited in para 7–1f.) (Available at https://uscode.house.gov/.)
5 USC 7321 et seq.
Political participation (Cited in para 2–6c.) (Available at https://uscode.house.gov/.)
10 USC 1034
Protected communications; prohibition of retaliatory personnel actions (Cited in para 5–6c.) (Available at https://us-
code.house.gov/.)
18 USC 1913
Lobbying with appropriated moneys (Cited in para 2–4b.) (Available at https://uscode.house.gov/.)
Section II
Related Publications
A related publication is a source of additional information. The reader does not have to read a related publication to
understand this regulation. Unless otherwise indicated, all Army publications are available on the Army Publishing
Directorate website at https://armypubs.army.mil/.
AR 11 – 2
Managers’ Internal Control Program
AR 25 – 50
Preparing and Managing Correspondence
DoDD 5142.01
Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs (ASD (LA)) (Available at https://www.esd.whs.mil/.)
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 20
Section III
Prescribed Forms
This section contains no entries.
Section IV
Referenced Forms
Unless otherwise indicated, DA forms are available on the Army Publishing Directorate website at
https://armypubs.army.mil/.
DA Form 5
Army Staffing Form
DA Form 11 – 2
Internal Control Evaluation Certification
DA Form 2028
Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 21
Appendix B
Internal Control Evaluation
B–1. Function
The function covered by this evaluation is legislative liaison.
B–2. Purpose
The purpose of the evaluation is to assist office managers in evaluating key internal controls. It is not intended to cover
all controls.
B–3. Instructions
Answers must be based on actual testing of the key internal controls such as analysis, direct observation, or interview-
ing. Answers that indicate deficiencies must be explained and the corrective action indicated in supporting documen-
tation. These internal controls must be evaluated at least once every five years. Certification that the evaluation has
been conducted must be accomplished on DA Form 11 – 2 (Internal Control Evaluation Certification).
B–4. Test questions
a. Are key internal controls identified in the governing Army regulation? (HQDA functional proponent only.)
b. Are required publications, as shown in AR 1 – 20, appendix A, available to legislative liaison personnel? (They
do not have to be maintained on hand.)
c. Have discrepancies noted in the most recent audit or inspection been corrected?
d. Are records created and managed in accordance with AR 25 – 400 – 2?
e. Are procedures in place to ensure all personnel, including contractors, are aware of the provisions of this publi-
cation?
f. Have all personnel involved in the conduct of legislative liaison received appropriate HQDA and internal OCLL
training?
g. Have appropriate security personnel (for example, information assurance security officers) been appointed?
h. Are incidents and violations reported properly?
B–5. Supersession
This evaluation replaces the evaluation checklist for legislative liaison previously published in AR 1 – 20, dated 2 July
2013.
B–6. Comments
Help make this a better tool for evaluating internal controls. Submit comments to Headquarters, Department of the
Army, Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison at usarmy.pentagon.hqda-ocll.mbx.crt-mail@mail.mil.
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 22
Glossary
Section I
Abbreviations
ACFP
Army Congressional Fellowship Program
AR
Army regulation
ASA (CW)
Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works
ASA (FM&C)
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller)
CACO
Congressional Affairs Contact Officer
CARSOP
Congressional Actions Responsibilities Standing Operating Procedures
CBA
cost benefit analysis
CBO
Congressional Budget Office
CLL
Chief of Legislative Liaison
CRS
Congressional Research Service
CRT
Congressional Response Team
CSA
Chief of Staff, Army
CW
civil works
DCS
Deputy Chief of Staff
DFARS
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
DoD
Department of Defense
DoDD
Department of Defense Directive
DoDI
Department of Defense Instruction
GAO
Government Accountability Office
HQDA
Headquarters, Department of the Army
IMC
Information for Members of Congress
AR 1–20 • 25 August 2021 23
LI&N
Legislation, Investigations, and Nominations Division
OCLL
Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison
OGC
Office of the General Counsel
OMB
Office of Management and Budget
OSD
Office of the Secretary of Defense
OSJA
Office of the Staff Judge Advocate
OTJAG
Office of The Judge Advocate General
PL
Public Law
SECARMY
Secretary of the Army
SMA
Sergeant Major of the Army
USA
Under Secretary of the Army
USC
United States Code
VCSA
Vice Chief of Staff of the Army
Section II
Terms
This section contains no entries.

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Categories: Army Regulation