Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2025
Summary
The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2025 aims to establish automatic continuing appropriations in the event of a lapse in regular appropriations. This would ensure that government programs, projects, and activities continue to be funded at the rate of operations from the preceding applicable appropriation acts. The bill also includes measures to disincentivize government shutdowns, such as limiting travel expenditures for covered officers and employees during a covered period and restricting the use of campaign funds for official travel during shutdowns.
Expected Effects
The Act would likely prevent disruptions in government services and payments during periods when Congress fails to pass appropriation bills on time. It also aims to create more pressure on Congress to pass timely appropriations by limiting certain privileges during funding gaps. This could lead to more stable government operations and reduced uncertainty for federal employees and those who rely on government services.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents disruptions in essential government services during funding lapses.
- Provides stability for federal employees and contractors.
- Reduces uncertainty for individuals and businesses reliant on government programs.
- Potentially incentivizes Congress to pass appropriation bills in a timely manner.
- Ensures continued funding for entitlements and mandatory payments.
Potential Disadvantages
- May reduce the incentive for Congress to negotiate and compromise on appropriations bills, potentially leading to inefficient spending.
- Automatic continuing appropriations could perpetuate existing funding levels without addressing evolving needs or priorities.
- The limitations on travel and campaign funds might be seen as overly restrictive or punitive by some.
- Could lead to less oversight and scrutiny of government spending during continuing appropriations periods.
- The expedited procedure for congressional review of anomalies may not allow for sufficient public input or debate.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act's provisions for automatic continuing appropriations and limitations on congressional activities during funding lapses raise some constitutional questions. Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 of the Constitution states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." The automatic appropriations mechanism could be interpreted as an attempt to circumvent this clause by pre-authorizing spending. However, Congress still retains the power to modify or repeal the automatic appropriations mechanism. The limitations on travel and campaign funds could also be challenged under the First Amendment, but are likely permissible restrictions.
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).