Bill would end federal shutdowns by auto-funding government at prior-year rates

What does this do?

HR 5130 would prevent full federal government shutdowns by automatically continuing funding at the same rates as the previous year's budget whenever Congress fails to pass a spending bill by its deadline. That automatic funding would renew every 14 days until a real budget is enacted. The bill also restricts congressional and White House budget officials from official travel and limits what Congress can vote on during any automatic-funding period.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects all federal agencies, workers, military personnel, Social Security and food assistance recipients, and anyone relying on government services. Members of Congress and certain White House budget officials face direct personal restrictions while automatic funding is active.

Why does it matter?

Federal workers and service recipients who would otherwise face furloughs or interrupted payments would instead see continued operations under the automatic funding mechanism. Members of Congress would face travel bans and mandatory session requirements, and could only vote on a narrow list of urgent matters until the budget impasse ends.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Spending continues at prior-year rates
• Renews automatically every 14 days
• No new appropriation needed to trigger