Frequently Asked Questions During a Lapse in Appropriations

Frequently Asked Questions During a Lapse in Appropriations is a 14-page legal document that was released by the Executive Office of the President of the United States and used nation-wide.

FAQ

Q: What is a lapse in appropriations?
A: A lapse in appropriations occurs when Congress does not pass a budget or temporary funding measure, leading to a partial government shutdown.

Q: Why does a lapse in appropriations occur?
A: A lapse in appropriations occurs when there is a disagreement or failure to reach a consensus on the federal budget in Congress.

Q: How does a lapse in appropriations affect government operations?
A: During a lapse in appropriations, non-essential federal government functions may be temporarily suspended, and federal employees may be furloughed or required to work without pay.

Q: Are essential government services affected during a lapse in appropriations?
A: Essential government services such as national security, law enforcement, and emergency response typically continue during a lapse in appropriations.

Q: How long can a lapse in appropriations last?
A: The duration of a lapse in appropriations can vary. It can last a few days, several weeks, or even longer, depending on the resolution of the budgetary impasse in Congress.

Q: What happens to affected federal employees during a lapse in appropriations?
A: Affected federal employees may be furloughed, which means they are placed on unpaid leave, or they may be required to work without pay during a lapse in appropriations.

Q: Do federal employees receive back pay after a lapse in appropriations?
A: In past instances, Congress has approved retroactive pay for federal employees who were furloughed or worked without pay during a lapse in appropriations.

Q: How does a lapse in appropriations impact the economy?
A: A lapse in appropriations can have adverse effects on the economy, as government spending is reduced or halted. It may result in decreased consumer spending and disruptions to businesses that rely on government contracts or services.

Q: What is the role of Congress in ending a lapse in appropriations?
A: Congress is responsible for passing a budget or temporary funding measure to end a lapse in appropriations and restore full government operations.

Q: Has the United States experienced lapses in appropriations in the past?
A: Yes, the United States has experienced lapses in appropriations in the past, leading to partial government shutdowns. The most recent notable shutdowns occurred in 2018 and 2019.