1. Learn the Appropriations Process

2. Source: National Priorities Project Federal Budget 101

3. The Process: Appropriations Timeline
If the appropriations committees do not pass their spending bills, the government must shut down.
In order to avoid a federal government shutdown, Congress must pass a continuing resolution.
Continuing Resolution – Legislation that lets Congress continue to fund the government.

4. The Process: Appropriations Timeline
The following is the annual appropriations timeline:
The President submits a budget proposal the first Monday in February setting is spending priorities.
Congress then begins the appropriations process and the 12 appropriations subcommittees develop their spending bills.
The appropriations committees must finalize their bills by September 30th.