S. 2721: Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2025 (119th Congress) Bill Summary

The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2025 aims to create mechanisms to avoid government shutdowns caused by lapses in federal appropriations. Here are the key components of the bill:

Automatic Continuing Appropriations

This section establishes a system of automatic appropriations that would come into effect if there is a lapse in appropriations for certain programs, projects, or activities. Specifically, it defines:

Lapse in Appropriations: The period during which no annual appropriation has been enacted for a program that received funding in the previous fiscal year.
Automatic Appropriations: Beginning on the first day of a fiscal year, if a lapse occurs, necessary funds for ongoing programs would be appropriated at the rates established in the previous year's appropriation for a maximum of 14 days. This 14-day period can be extended if needed.

This mechanism is designed to ensure that essential government services continue without interruption during funding disputes.

Timely Enactment of Appropriations

The bill includes provisions aimed at ensuring that appropriations bills are passed on time. It introduces limits on official travel expenditures for covered employees during periods ofautomatic continuing appropriations, with some exceptions for travel related to national security or other specific needs.

Additionally, it sets guidelines for congressional procedures during these periods, restricting the types of matters that can be brought forward for discussion in Congress, primarily focusing on appropriation bills and essential emergency measures.

Budgetary Effects

The bill outlines how its budgetary impacts will be classified, estimating that the provisions will affect discretionary spending limits. Budgetary resources availed under the bill would be considered part-year appropriations rather than full-year, impacting how funds are handled under existing budget laws.