To provide for interim appropriations for the District of Columbia courts and related agencies with respect to any fiscal year for which appropriations are not otherwise provided for such courts and agencies.
Summary
H.R. 5654 aims to provide interim appropriations for the District of Columbia courts and related agencies in the event that regular appropriations are not enacted for a given fiscal year. Specifically, it ensures that funding continues at the previous year's rate for operations under the same terms and conditions. This bill addresses potential funding gaps for essential services provided by the D.C. courts and related agencies.
Expected Effects
The bill will ensure the continuity of operations for the District of Columbia courts and related agencies during periods when regular appropriations are delayed or not enacted. This prevents disruptions in essential services such as judicial proceedings, defender services, and offender supervision. The bill also specifies that any interim funding provided will be charged against subsequent appropriations once they are enacted, preventing double funding.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continuous operation of D.C. courts and related agencies.
- Prevents disruption of essential justice services.
- Provides financial stability for defender services and offender supervision.
- Maintains funding for the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council and judicial commissions.
- Allows for uninterrupted access to justice for D.C. residents.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could lead to inefficient spending if the previous year's budget is not appropriate for the current year's needs.
- May create a reliance on interim funding rather than encouraging timely budget approvals.
- Potential for misallocation of funds if priorities have shifted since the previous fiscal year.
- Requires careful monitoring to ensure funds are properly charged against subsequent appropriations.
- Could perpetuate outdated programs or initiatives if funding is automatically continued.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the constitutional principle of providing for the general welfare, as it ensures the continued functioning of the justice system in the District of Columbia. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 grants Congress the power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, which includes governing the District of Columbia. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).