Understanding Continuing Resolutions

A continuing resolution (CR) is essentially a temporary funding measure designed to prevent a government shutdown by maintaining current funding levels until new budget agreements are established. This involves a four-step process that typically allows government operations to continue without interruption as appropriations bills are finalized. The recurring reliance on CRs, now 35 in total, reflects a failure to return to a regular budgeting process, leading to a cycle of maintaining the status quo without significant policy changes. Critics argue that this practice promotes a culture of complacency in Congress, as it allows for continued spending without accountability or reform.