H.R.5371, the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026, is a temporary funding bill designed to keep the government running smoothly. By providing essential funding to key federal agencies, this bill helps prevent a government shutdown and ensures that important services continue without interruption.
What This Bill Does
H.R.5371 is a stopgap measure that provides temporary funding for several critical areas of the federal government. It ensures that agencies involved in agriculture, the legislative branch, military construction, and veterans affairs receive the necessary funds to operate at the same levels as the previous year. This means that programs supporting farmers, veterans, and military infrastructure continue without any breaks.
The bill also extends certain programs that were set to expire, such as agricultural subsidies and veterans' benefits. This extension is crucial to ensure that those who depend on these programs do not face sudden disruptions in support. However, the bill does not allow for new projects to start or for existing programs to expand beyond what was funded in the previous year unless specifically authorized.
By maintaining funding at last year's levels, the bill provides stability and continuity for government operations. It also includes specific adjustments for certain programs, like agricultural research and veterans' medical care, to address ongoing needs and priorities.
Why It Matters
For everyday Americans, H.R.5371 is important because it prevents disruptions in essential services. Federal employees can continue to work without fear of furloughs, and veterans will still receive their healthcare and benefits. Farmers and rural communities benefit from continued support for agricultural programs and rural development initiatives.
The bill also supports local economies that rely on federal spending. By keeping government operations running, it helps maintain economic stability and prevents the negative impacts that a government shutdown could have on markets and consumer confidence.
Key Facts
- Cost/Budget Impact: Designed to be budget-neutral relative to the previous year, with minor adjustments for specific programs.
- Timeline for Implementation: Effective immediately upon enactment on November 12, 2025, covering until full-year appropriations are passed.
- Number of People Affected: Impacts federal employees, veterans, farmers, military personnel, and many others who rely on federal services.
- Key Dates: Funding and program extensions take effect immediately and last until regular appropriations are enacted.
- Scope of Coverage: Covers specific areas like agriculture, legislative branch, military construction, and veterans affairs.
- Historical Context: Continuing resolutions have been used frequently since the 1970s to prevent government shutdowns.
- Real-World Example: Similar bills in the past have prevented shutdowns that would have disrupted services nationwide.
Arguments in Support
- Prevents Government Shutdown: Ensures that federal agencies continue to operate, avoiding disruptions to services like Social Security and veterans' benefits.
- Protects Essential Services: Maintains funding for critical programs in agriculture, veterans affairs, and military construction.
- Provides Fiscal Stability: Offers certainty for agencies and contractors, allowing for uninterrupted operations.
- Supports National Security: Keeps military construction projects funded, preventing delays in readiness.
- Demonstrates Bipartisan Cooperation: Reflects cross-party agreement on the need to keep government running.
Arguments in Opposition
- Delays Long-Term Budget Solutions: Critics argue it postpones necessary decisions on funding levels and priorities.
- Maintains Outdated Funding Levels: Funds agencies at prior year rates, which may not reflect current needs or inflation.
- Discourages Fiscal Discipline: Frequent use of continuing resolutions undermines incentives for timely appropriations.
- Potential for Waste or Inefficiency: Extending programs without review may continue funding for outdated initiatives.
- Creates Uncertainty for Grant Recipients: Short-term funding makes planning difficult for states and local governments.