Center for Effective Government

The Center for Effective Government's vision is one of a just and democratic society in which every individual can thrive.

Our mission is to build an open, accountable government that invests in the common good, protects people and the environment, and advances the national priorities defined by an active, informed citizenry.

To ensure government is effective and responsive to the priorities of the American people, we conduct policy research and develop policy proposals; create tools to encourage citizen participation and government accountability; and build broad-based coalitions to advance these values. To ensure the American people understand the vital role of government, we produce and disseminate educational tools and communications materials.

We are a resource for policymakers, the media, advocacy groups, community organizations, and the public.

Organizational Objectives

• Improved public understanding of the vital role of government empowers a more engaged, informed citizenry;
• Our regulatory system has the resources, authority, and will to protect the health and well-being of the American people;
• Proactive government disclosure of timely, useful information empowers people to participate in decision making and to safeguard the well-being of their families and communities; and
• Transparent, effective budget and spending systems generate sustainable investments in the public structures that undergird American democracy and our quality of life.

Our History

The Center for Effective Government, a nonprofit research and advocacy organization, was formed as OMB Watch in 1983 to lift the veil of secrecy shrouding the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB). OMB oversees federal regulation, the budget, information collection and dissemination, proposed legislation, testimony by agencies, and much more. While OMB's actions were having an enormous impact on agency operations and the pursuit of social justice, it remained largely behind the scenes — unaccountable and little understood by the public and public interest groups. By explaining governmental processes and monitoring OMB, the Center for Effective Government helped bring sunshine to this powerful and secretive agency.

In January 2013, OMB Watch became the Center for Effective Government.