Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026
Summary
The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 is a temporary measure designed to provide funding for federal government operations, various programs, and extensions of existing laws through November 21, 2025. It prevents a government shutdown by continuing appropriations at fiscal year 2025 levels, with some exceptions and specific adjustments. The Act addresses several critical areas, including health, veterans affairs, food and drug administration operations, and other miscellaneous extensions.
Division A focuses on continuing appropriations for various government agencies and departments, ensuring the continuation of projects and activities. Divisions B through E include miscellaneous extensions related to agriculture, health, veterans affairs, and other areas. The Act includes specific funding adjustments and extensions for programs like Community Health Centers, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
This act also addresses budgetary effects, specifying that certain divisions will not be entered on PAYGO scorecards, and includes provisions related to emergency requirements and disaster relief. It provides short-term stability and allows Congress more time to finalize full-year appropriations bills.
Expected Effects
This Act will primarily prevent a government shutdown and maintain current levels of funding for various federal programs and agencies. It extends existing programs and authorities that would otherwise expire, providing continuity in areas such as healthcare, veterans' affairs, and food and drug regulation. The Act also allows for specific adjustments to certain programs to address immediate needs and maintain essential services.
Without this Act, many government services would be disrupted, potentially impacting public health, national security, and economic stability. The extensions provided in the Act give Congress additional time to negotiate and pass full-year appropriations bills, ensuring more comprehensive and long-term funding solutions. The Act's provisions also affect the operations of various agencies, including the Department of Defense, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Ultimately, the Act aims to provide a stable financial foundation for government operations in the short term, while longer-term funding solutions are debated and finalized.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents Government Shutdown: Ensures continuity of government services and avoids disruptions to essential programs.
- Maintains Healthcare Access: Extends funding for community health centers, the National Health Service Corps, and special diabetes programs, preserving healthcare access for vulnerable populations.
- Supports Veterans Affairs: Continues critical programs for veterans, including healthcare, housing, and mental health services.
- Ensures Food and Drug Safety: Provides ongoing funding for the Food and Drug Administration, ensuring the safety and regulation of food and drugs.
- Provides Stability for Federal Programs: Offers temporary financial stability for various federal departments and agencies, allowing them to continue operations at current levels.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Short-Term Solution: Only provides funding and extensions until November 21, 2025, creating uncertainty and the need for further action in the near future.
- Limited Program Enhancements: Does not allow for significant program expansions or new initiatives, potentially hindering progress in addressing emerging needs.
- Potential for Inefficient Spending: Continuing appropriations at current levels may not address inefficiencies or changing priorities within government agencies.
- Delays Long-Term Planning: Postpones the development and implementation of comprehensive, long-term budget and policy solutions.
- Uncertainty for States and Grantees: High initial rates of operation or complete distribution of appropriations at the beginning of fiscal year 2026 shall not be made, and no grants shall be awarded for such programs funded by this Act that would impinge on final funding prerogatives.
Constitutional Alignment
The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 aligns with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, pay debts, and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The Act appropriates funds for various government functions, which falls under Congress's enumerated powers.
The Act also adheres to the principle of separation of powers by ensuring that legislative actions are enacted by Congress, as outlined in Article I, Section 1. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
However, the reliance on continuing resolutions and extensions can be seen as a potential abdication of Congress's responsibility to enact timely and comprehensive appropriations bills, which could impact the overall efficiency and effectiveness of government operations.
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).