Members of Congress are trying to pass a continuing resolution before the December 20 deadline to avoid a government shutdown. However, continuing resolutions do not replace an approved budget and allow for continued poor spending habits without proper oversight. It has been years since an actual budget was approved. Without a real budget, there is no way to control spending.
Continuing resolutions are often viewed as urgent measures needed to prevent shutdowns, but rushing to pass them can lead to unnecessary spending. Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) has expressed his concerns about not knowing the contents of the proposed funding bill. One major issue with continuing resolutions is that they can fund outdated programs without congressional review, often referred to as "zombie programs," which cost a significant amount of money. Economist Mike O'Donnell noted these programs might cost Congress over $516 billion this year.
News reports indicate that lawmakers are negotiating a continuing resolution to fund the government until March but have not finalized an agreement. If Congress does not pass this temporary funding bill, some non-essential departments might face a shutdown. The time is running out for passing a continuing resolution due to the House’s 72-hour rule, which necessitates quick action.
The ongoing negotiations to avoid a partial government shutdown create a sense of urgency, but if Congress merely delays accountability by extending continuing resolutions, it shows a preference for unregulated spending practices.
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