Continuing Appropriations and Extensions and Other Matters Act, 2026
Summary
The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions and Other Matters Act, 2026 (H.R. 5450) is a bill designed to provide continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. It addresses various sectors including health, veterans affairs, agriculture, defense, and homeland security. The Act is structured into two divisions: Division A focuses on continuing appropriations, while Division B covers extensions and other matters, including health program extensions and modifications to existing laws.
Expected Effects
This Act will primarily ensure the continuation of government operations and services by extending current funding levels and authorities. Several programs, particularly in healthcare and veterans affairs, will see their funding extended through October 31, 2025. The Act also includes specific appropriations for areas like judicial security and disaster relief.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continued funding for essential government services and programs.
- Extends healthcare provisions, including community health centers and special diabetes programs.
- Supports veterans through continued funding for housing and mental health services.
- Provides additional funding for judicial security and courthouse renovations.
- Maintains current levels of research and scientific awards through the National Science Foundation and NOAA.
Potential Disadvantages
- Short-term extensions create uncertainty for long-term planning and program effectiveness.
- Continuing appropriations at current levels may not address emerging needs or priorities.
- Emergency designations for certain funding may bypass normal budget processes.
- Rescissions of unobligated balances could impact program implementation.
- Potential for impinging on final funding prerogatives due to high initial rates of operation for some programs.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's appropriations align with Congress's power of the purse, as outlined in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 of the Constitution, which requires appropriations made by law before money is drawn from the Treasury. The extensions and modifications of existing laws are within Congress's legislative powers granted by Article I, Section 8. The emergency designations are subject to budgetary rules and do not inherently violate constitutional principles, but their use should be balanced with transparency and accountability.
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).