The proposed bill has significant implications for federal budget management and the legislative process. By codifying automatic continuing appropriations, it seeks to reduce the frequency and consequences of shutdowns, which can disrupt government services and affect federal employees' livelihoods. This change is expected to offer more stability in funding for various government programs and activities, potentially allowing for more effective long-term budgeting and planning. However, it relies on the premise that previous budget levels are adequate, which may not account for changing fiscal needs or priorities.
Summary
House Bill 5353, known as the 'End Shutdowns Act', aims to address concerns regarding government shutdowns due to unpassed appropriations bills. It introduces a mechanism for automatic continuing appropriations, ensuring that funding continues at the previous fiscal year's levels if new appropriations are not enacted by the start of a new fiscal year. The bill is seen as a proactive measure to prevent the federal government from halting operations during funding lapses, thereby ensuring that critical programs and services remain funded despite political gridlock over budget negotiations.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB5353 include concerns regarding the implications of automatic continuing appropriations on fiscal discipline and congressional oversight. Critics argue that such a mechanism could potentially diminish the urgency of passing timely appropriations bills and may lead to complacency in the budget-making process. Additionally, while the bill permits emergency legislation to be considered during funding lapses, deciding what qualifies as an 'emergency' could lead to disputes and accusations of political maneuvering. These concerns highlight a broader debate about how to effectively manage government funding while maintaining accountability and responsiveness to changing conditions.
Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 TAPP American Resources Act Transparency, Accountability, Permitting, and Production of American Resources Act Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2023
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.