In Senate Committee·Last action 445 days ago

Bill would auto-fund government to avoid shutdowns, but at reduced levels

Officially: Government Shutdown Prevention Act of 2025

Most federal programs would keep running if Congress misses its budget deadline. They would usually start at 94% of last year's level, then drop more every 90 days. Some benefit programs would still get whatever funding is needed to keep benefits going under current law.

Where it stands

Sitting in Appropriations

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

Keeps federal programs running automatically if they got money the year before. This covers any program, project, or activity that was funded in the last fiscal year.
Most programs would start with less money than last year. Their temporary funding would be capped at 94% of the prior year's operating level.
Funding would keep shrinking if the budget fight lasts. After the first 90 days, the operating rate drops by 1 percentage point for each additional 90-day period.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

Where your representatives stand

Enter your ZIP to see how your senators and member of Congress have voted, sponsored, or spoken on this bill.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Continuity of Services: Supporters argue that the bill ensures essential government services remain available, protecting citizens from the negative impacts of a shutdown.
Economic Stability: By preventing shutdowns, the bill helps maintain economic stability and investor confidence, which is crucial for growth.
Accountability for Lawmakers: The penalties for Congress members encourage them to prioritize budget agreements, promoting responsibility and accountability.

✕Arguments against

Incentive to Delay: Critics argue that automatic continuing resolutions might reduce the urgency for Congress to negotiate new budgets, leading to complacency.
Potential for Increased Spending: Some opponents worry that the shutdown prevention fund could lead to unchecked government spending.
Impact on Congressional Authority: There are concerns that the bill might undermine Congress's power of the purse by allowing spending without new appropriations.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in Senate

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Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

Latest: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Appropriations. (2/10/2025)

FEB 10

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Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

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Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

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House Review

Sent to House for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Bill would auto-fund government to avoid shutdowns, but at reduced levels

Where your representatives stand

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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