The Congressional Budget Process: A Brief Overview

Publication Date: January 2004

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Government

Type:

Abstract:

The term "budget process," when applied to the federal government, actually refers to a number of processes that have evolved separately and that occur with varying degrees of coordination. This overview, and the accompanying flow chart, are intended to describe each of the parts of the budget process that involve Congress, clarify the role played by each, and explain how they operate together. They include: the President's budget submission, the budget resolution, reconciliation, sequestration, authorizations, and appropriations. This report will be updated to reflect any changes in the budget process.