Legislation introduced to ban 'czars'

House Republicans have introduced legislation to stop the proliferation of so-called "czars".

Introduced by Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga.), the "Czar Accountability and Reform Act," which you can read here, would prevent funding for any office headed by an "individual who has been inappropriately appointed to such position...without the advice and consent of the Senate."

The controversy over appointed czars flared up in recent weeks when Republicans took aim at Van Jones, Obama's "Green Jobs Czar," who had made a number of controversial statements before being appointed to his position. Jones resigned over the weekend. 

Kingston's legislation has gathered 50 co-sponsors so far, all Republicans.

The bill complements a request by Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) to have all czars testify before Congress about their responsibilities.