Why Congress So Rarely Passes Government Funding Bills on Time

The video discusses Richard Nixon's presidency, highlighting his role in opening relations with China and the Watergate scandal. It delves into his impact on the federal budget process, particularly his impoundment of funds, leading to the 1974 Budget and Impoundment Control Act. The video explains the intended budget process and the challenges Congress faces in passing spending bills on time, often resulting in government shutdowns or continuing resolutions. It attributes these issues to the complex process and increasing partisanship, emphasizing the need for Congress to focus on more significant matters.

What significant legislation was passed in response to Nixon's budgetary actions?

• The 1974 Budget and Impoundment Control Act

• The 1977 Budget Reform Act

• The 1989 Budget Reconciliation Act

• The 1990 Budget Enforcement Act

What is the final step in the intended budget process before the fiscal year begins?

• The president signs the budget into law

• Congress passes a dozen separate spending bills

• The Senate approves the budget resolution

• The House of Representatives votes on the budget

What is a continuing resolution (CR) used for?

• To permanently resolve budget disputes

• To fund new government programs

• To increase the federal budget

• To keep the government funded temporarily at existing levels

What are two major reasons for the difficulty in passing spending bills on time?

• Lack of public interest and media coverage

• Complexity of the process and partisanship

• International economic pressures and trade issues

• Insufficient government resources and staff

During a government shutdown, which portion of the federal budget continues to operate?

• The infrastructure budget

• The defense budget

• The mandatory portion

• The discretionary portion