What act requires federal agencies to create long-term strategic plans?

The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) is the legislation that mandates federal agencies to develop long-term strategic plans. This act, enacted in 1993, aims to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of federal programs by requiring agencies to set goals, measure performance, and report on results. The strategic plans must cover a range of elements, including the agency's mission, the long-term goals it aims to achieve, and the measurable outcomes expected from its activities. This structured approach helps to focus agency efforts on results and accountability, thereby enhancing public trust in government operations.

The GPRA is significant because it shifted the focus from a purely input-based measure of performance to an output and outcome-oriented perspective. As a result, federal agencies are encouraged to align their resources and activities with clear, strategic goals that respond to the needs of the public.

When considering the other options, they do not specifically mandate the creation of long-term strategic plans for federal agencies. For example, the Government Services Planning Act is not a well-known or established piece of legislation related to strategic planning. The Federal Budget Control Act primarily relates to budgetary measures rather than the performance management framework. Lastly, the General Accounting Office Act mainly deals with the financial management and auditing functions within the federal