Budget Appropriations
Budget appropriations is how governments decide how much money to raise and how to spend it. In the federal system, Congress passes spending laws, the president proposes and signs them, and agencies carry them out. States and localities follow their own budget processes under their own laws. Understanding the cycle helps explain why programs are funded, cut, or delayed.
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All Articles on Budget Appropriations
Why the 2025 Government Shutdown Ended
The government shutdown ended with a funding compromise. The agreement reopened agencies while leaving health-insurance aid and later budgets unsettled.
Alternatives to SNAP Benefits: Food Assistance Available During the 2025 Government Shutdown
The federal government shutdown reached 43 days in November 2025, making it the longest in U.S. history. The shutdown, which began October 1, disrupted…
How Congress Funds the Federal Government
The United States Constitution grants Congress the "power of the purse": "No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations…
How to Donate to the U.S. Government: Rules and Requirements
Governments fund operations primarily through taxes, but they can accept voluntary donations. This comes with significant restrictions. Federal, state, and local rules governing donations…
Financial Assistance for Federal Employees During the 2025 Government Shutdown
Federal employee shutdown assistance includes grants, loans and household relief, each with eligibility rules, availability limits and repayment questions.
How Congress Calculates State Costs of Federal Budget Cuts
When Congress debates cutting federal spending or enacting new national standards, a critical question arises: Who ultimately pays the price? While decisions made in…
How Federal Actions Affect Costs for States and Cities
In October 2025, Los Angeles County declared a state of emergency in response to a wave of federal immigration raids. Officials said the raids…
Can the President Fire Federal Workers During a Shutdown?
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration's plan to permanently terminate thousands of furloughed federal employees during the government shutdown that began…
Trump’s $40 Billion Argentina Financial Assistance, Explained
How Treasury's Argentina swap worked, what banks separately proposed, how much was used and repaid, and which oversight questions remain open.
Can the President Pay Troops During a Government Shutdown?
In October 2025, with the government shut down and military paychecks at risk, President Donald Trump announced he would direct the Pentagon to pay…