U.S. Congressional Authorization and Appropriations Process
4 Pages Posted: 21 Oct 2008
There are 2 versions of this paper
U.S. Congressional Authorization and Appropriations Process
U.S. Congressional Authorization and Appropriations Process
Abstract
This note provides a guide to the U.S. Congress budget and appropriations process from the perspective of the nuclear energy industry.
Excerpt
UVA-OM-1212
U.S. CONGRESSIONAL AUTHORIZATION
AND APPROPRIATIONS PROCESS
Background
Federal programs in the United States are “authorized” by law. Some of those programs provide benefits that are determined by conditions defined in statute. Eligible recipients are “entitled” to receive benefits or allocations if they meet established conditions. That is also referred to as “mandatory spending.” Funding for other programs is “discretionary,” and funding is available only if included in an appropriations act.
Beyond that basic structure there are a number of variations and exceptions to the rules that can be confusing to those not highly versed in how the U.S. Congress works. The following provides some insight into the theory and practice of the authorization and appropriations process, particularly as it impacts nuclear energy programs.
. . .
Keywords: federal programs, nuclear energy programs, U.S. Congressional appropriations
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation