Continuing Resolution (CR)
A temporary funding measure passed by Congress when it fails to complete the annual appropriations process — keeping the government funded at prior-year levels.
How It Works
Continuing Resolutions have become the norm rather than the exception. In most recent years, Congress has started the fiscal year (October 1) under a CR because it couldn't finish the 12 appropriations bills on time. CRs typically fund agencies at the previous year's level, which prevents new programs from starting and creates uncertainty for agencies and contractors. Some CRs last weeks, others months. Long-term CRs effectively freeze federal spending and make it difficult for agencies to plan or award new contracts.
Related Terms
- Appropriation — A law passed by Congress that authorizes federal agencies to spend a specific amount of money for a specific purpose during a defined period.
- Government Shutdown — A funding gap that occurs when Congress fails to pass appropriations or a continuing resolution — forcing "non-essential" federal employees to be furloughed and many services to halt.
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About This Definition
This definition is part of the TaxDollarData Federal Spending Glossary — 31 terms explaining how the U.S. government spends taxpayer money. All definitions are written in plain language for taxpayers, journalists, contractors, and researchers.