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Strengthening Congressional Budget Control and Limiting Emergency Executive Power

The Act increases Congress's oversight of federal spending, making it harder for the Executive Branch to withhold funds appropriated for public programs. It introduces penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for officials who knowingly block Congressionally approved spending. Furthermore, it limits the President's ability to continue national emergencies without explicit Congressional approval after 45 days.
Key points
Penalties for Blocking Funds: Officials who knowingly and willfully withhold Congressionally approved funds face fines up to $5,000 or up to 2 years in prison.
Increased Spending Transparency: Requires reporting on unused, canceled, or repurposed funds, including spending incurred during government shutdowns.
Emergency Power Limits: A national emergency terminates after 45 days unless Congress enacts a joint resolution of approval to extend it.
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Introduced
Citizen Poll
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_5220
Sponsor: Rep. Boyle, Brendan F. [D-PA-2]
Process start date: 2025-09-09