Continuing resolution

A continuing resolution (CR) is a measure used by the U.S. Congress to fund federal government agencies when the regular appropriations bills have not been enacted by the start of the fiscal year on October 1. Here are some key insights about it:

1. Purpose and Impact:

   • A CR allows government operations to continue at the previous year's budget levels.
   • It prevents government shutdowns by providing temporary funding until the appropriation bills are passed 1 2.

2. Frequency and Usage:

   • Since 1977, CRs have been used frequently due to the inability to pass appropriations bills on time. There have been 186 CRs, with 117 of those since 1998 2.
   • Some CRs might be brief, lasting a few days to allow final negotiations, while others can extend for months or even a year 1.

3. Political Dynamics:

   • CRs often carry political implications. For instance, policy riders, specific policy directives attached to a CR, can become points of contention. These riders can include emergency measures detached from the contentious budget issues stalling other appropriations 3.
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       1

       Government Shutdown Drama

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       2

       Government Funding Deadlines

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       3

       Government Funding Insights

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       4

       Omnibus Spending Debate

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   • Political strategy plays a considerable role, with either party sometimes preferring a CR to delay or strategically position themselves for a more favorable budget agreement in the future. For example, Republicans sometimes prefer a CR to delay budget negotiations into a new congressional term for better control 4 2.

4. Consequences of Failure:

   • If a CR is not passed and appropriations bills are not enacted, it can lead to a government shutdown, impacting federal operations and employees. Historical examples include the significant shutdowns in 2013 (16 days) and 2018-2019 (35 days) 1 2.

These insights illustrate the pivotal role and complexities of continuing resolutions in U.S. federal budgetary processes.