Prevent Government Shutdowns Act
Summary
The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act aims to automatically provide continuing appropriations in the event of a lapse in regular appropriations. This would prevent government shutdowns by ensuring funding continues at the rate of operations from the preceding appropriation acts. The bill also establishes procedures and consequences for failing to enact appropriations, including restrictions on travel expenditures for covered officers and employees during a covered period.
Expected Effects
The Act would likely reduce the frequency and impact of government shutdowns. It would provide stability in government operations and services by automatically extending funding. However, it could also reduce the pressure on Congress to pass timely appropriations bills, potentially leading to prolonged reliance on continuing resolutions.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents disruptive government shutdowns, ensuring continuity of essential services.
- Provides stability for government programs and projects, allowing for consistent operations.
- Reduces uncertainty for federal employees and contractors, minimizing potential disruptions to their livelihoods.
- Limits travel expenditures for covered officers and employees during funding gaps, potentially saving taxpayer money.
- Could incentivize more timely budget negotiations by imposing restrictions during funding lapses.
Potential Disadvantages
- May reduce the urgency for Congress to pass full-year appropriations bills, leading to reliance on automatic continuing resolutions.
- Could perpetuate existing funding levels and priorities without allowing for necessary adjustments or reforms.
- The automatic appropriations may not adequately address changing needs or emerging priorities.
- Restrictions on travel could hinder essential oversight and representational duties of members of Congress.
- The definition of 'covered period' and 'covered officer or employee' could be subject to interpretation and potential manipulation.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Constitution's Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to appropriate funds. By establishing a mechanism for automatic continuing appropriations, the Act seeks to ensure the government can continue functioning even when regular appropriations are delayed. However, some argue that it could impinge on Congress's power of the purse by reducing the incentive to pass timely appropriations bills. The Act does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).