Bill > HR5870

This bill establishes an automatic mechanism to prevent government shutdowns by creating a process for continuing appropriations if Congress fails to pass a regular budget. Under the proposed law, if a full-year appropriation act is not enacted, federal programs would automatically receive funding at their previous year's levels for 14-day periods, which can be repeatedly extended. The bill also imposes significant restrictions on government officials during these "automatic continuing appropriations" periods, including limiting official travel for Members of Congress, congressional staff, and Office of Management and Budget employees, with only narrow exceptions for returning to Washington D.C., traveling within the National Capital Region, or responding to national security events. Additionally, the legislation restricts congressional proceedings during these periods, preventing most legislative actions except those directly related to passing appropriations, addressing the public debt limit, or confirming certain high-level nominations after 30 days. Campaign funds cannot be used for official travel during these periods, and any waiver of the bill's provisions would require a two-thirds majority vote in Congress. The bill aims to create strong incentives for Congress to pass budgets on time by making a shutdown scenario increasingly uncomfortable and restrictive for lawmakers.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5870/all-info