The government's attempts at reform were a day late and a dollar short.
a day late and a dollar short
Too late to be of any benefit. Jake tried to repair his relationship with his girlfriend after forgetting her birthday, but she viewed his efforts as a day late and a dollar short.
day late and a dollar short
late and ill-prepared. Tommy, you seem to show up a day late and a dollar short all the time. You need to get organized.