FY 2025 Appropriations Uncertain as Congress Approaches CR Deadline

Fiscal year (FY) 2025 funding is set to expire on March 14 unless Congress acts. As previously reported, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) in December to keep the government funded until March, which is nearly six months into the fiscal year. The first step is for Congressional leaders to agree on topline numbers (see previous COSSA coverage). Following the House Republicans policy retreat in Florida, it was reported that lawmakers are seeking to pass the final appropriations bills before President Trump’s State of the Union Address, which has been scheduled for March 4. However, with the recent federal funding freeze memorandum released and then rescinded two days later by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Democratic appropriators have expressed concern over the appropriations process. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, stated, “It is extremely difficult to agree to a compromise on anything if the White House is going to assert they control the funds, we don’t” (see related article). She also indicated that confirming Russell Vought as Office of Management and Budget Director would hinder the process due to similar reasoning. However, other members of Congress have reportedly indicated that the recent executive actions will not affect the negotiations process. With the deadline rapidly approaching, it is unclear whether Congress will successfully pass all twelve appropriations bills, combine the bills into one large omnibus spending package, or enact a third CR to the end of the fiscal year.

Stay tuned to COSSA’s continued coverage on the appropriations process.