Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026
Summary
The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 is a temporary measure designed to prevent a government shutdown by extending funding for federal agencies and programs through November 21, 2025. It appropriates funds at a rate based on the fiscal year 2025 levels, with some exceptions and specific adjustments for certain programs. The Act also includes several extensions for various programs related to health, veterans affairs, and food and drug administration, among others.
Division A provides continuing appropriations for various government entities. Divisions B through E contain miscellaneous extensions and provisions related to health, veterans affairs, and other areas.
The Act addresses emergency requirements and disaster relief funding, and makes adjustments to existing laws and programs to ensure their continued operation during the covered period.
Expected Effects
This Act will allow the government to continue functioning without interruption, preventing a shutdown. It will extend existing programs and services, providing stability in areas such as healthcare, veterans' affairs, and food and drug regulation. However, it does not introduce new policies or significant changes, primarily maintaining the status quo for a limited time.
Many programs will continue to operate at their current levels, ensuring that ongoing projects and services are not disrupted. Certain programs receive specific funding adjustments to address particular needs or circumstances.
Without this Act, many government services and programs would face significant disruption, potentially impacting a wide range of citizens and sectors.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents a government shutdown, ensuring continuity of essential services.
- Extends funding for critical healthcare programs, including community health centers and special diabetes programs.
- Provides continued support for veterans through extended benefits and healthcare services.
- Maintains funding for food and nutrition programs, ensuring access to food assistance for vulnerable populations.
- Allows for the continuation of various federal programs and agencies, avoiding disruption to their operations.
Potential Disadvantages
- It is a temporary solution, creating uncertainty about long-term funding for various programs.
- Does not address underlying budgetary issues or allow for significant policy changes.
- Some programs may face funding constraints due to the reliance on previous fiscal year levels.
- The short-term nature of the extension may hinder long-term planning and investment.
- The Act includes specific exceptions and adjustments that may create disparities or inequities in funding allocation.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's 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. By appropriating funds for various government functions, the Act fulfills these constitutional responsibilities.
The Act's provisions related to healthcare, veterans' affairs, and other social programs can be seen as promoting the general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
However, the reliance on continuing resolutions rather than regular appropriations may be viewed as a deviation from the intended budgetary process outlined in the Constitution, which envisions Congress actively debating and determining funding priorities.
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).