This bill allocates \$11.99 million from the House of Representatives' funds for the Committee on the Budget's expenses during the One Hundred Nineteenth Congress, subject to specific session limitations and voucher procedures.
Jodey Arrington
Representative
TX-19
This bill allocates $11.99 million from the House of Representatives' funds for the Committee on the Budget's expenses in the One Hundred Nineteenth Congress, covering staff salaries and other necessary costs. The funds are divided into two equal amounts for the first and second sessions of Congress. Payments from these funds require vouchers signed by the Chairman and approved by the House Administration Committee. All expenditures must adhere to the regulations set by the House Administration Committee.
The House just greenlit nearly $12 million in funding for its Budget Committee, covering all expenses for the 119th Congress. This resolution isn't about setting the national budget—it's about funding the committee that does that work, paying for everything from staff salaries to day-to-day operations.
The total amount, $11,990,000, is authorized to cover the committee’s expenses, including the salaries of the people who analyze budget proposals and keep track of federal spending (SEC. 1). The funding is split evenly over two periods: $5,995,000 is available from January 3, 2025, to January 3, 2026, and another $5,995,000 from January 3, 2026, to January 3, 2027 (SEC. 2). Think of it like two separate yearly allowances to keep the committee running smoothly across both sessions of Congress.
To make sure the money is spent correctly, every payment needs a voucher. These vouchers require the signature of the Committee Chairman and approval by the House Administration Committee (SEC. 3). Basically, it's a double-check system—the Budget Committee Chair says it's okay, and then the Administration Committee confirms it follows the rules. This process should help prevent misuse of funds and ensure accountability.
All spending under this resolution must also adhere to the regulations set by the House Administration Committee (SEC. 4). This means the Budget Committee can't just spend as it pleases; it has to follow established guidelines, promoting consistent and responsible use of taxpayer money.
While this bill is mostly administrative, it's important because it funds the committee that oversees all federal budget matters. For example, if you are a government contractor, a federal employee, or a researcher relying on federal grants, the work funded by this resolution impacts you. The voucher system and adherence to House rules are in place to prevent waste. Weak oversight, however, could still leave room for overspending or even fraudulent claims, so those double-checks are important.