Us Congress Senate Bill SB299

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/23

Caption

Government Shutdown Prevention Act of 2023

Impact

The bill proposes that if an appropriation for a program, project, or activity has not been enacted by the first day of the fiscal year, the previous year's funding will be continued automatically at a slightly reduced rate. Under the proposed terms, funding would be maintained at 99% of the last year's level, gradually reducing by 1 percent for each subsequent 90-day period of inaction. Such a structure is intended to ensure that federal agencies can operate continuously, eliminating the uncertainty and disruption tied to governmental budgeting delays.

Summary

SB299, known as the Government Shutdown Prevention Act of 2023, aims to amend Title 31 of the United States Code by instituting automatic continuing resolutions. This legislative proposal is introduced to prevent government shutdowns resulting from the failure to enact appropriations acts by automatically providing necessary funds to continue government operations at a specified rate if the new budget is not passed. This mechanism would help safeguard against interruptions in federal spending and programs that rely on regular appropriations.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB299 may stem from concerns about fiscal responsibility and the potential for diminishing oversight. Critics could argue that automatic appropriations reduce the incentive for Congress to actively manage and negotiate annual budgets, thereby leading to complacency in financial accountability. This perspective highlights fears that such a system could entrench inefficient spending practices or perpetuate funding for programs that may no longer reflect the needs or priorities of the citizens.

Additional_points

SB299's approach to automatic continuing appropriations may reshape the legislative landscape, prompting discussions around budgetary reform and fiscal policy. While it is designed to prevent operational disruptions, the implications for long-term budget planning, congressional authority, and the overall transparency of government funding processes will likely be hotly debated as the bill progresses through Congress.