Updated October 22, 2025: This brief has been modified to clarify that while state spending for SNAP would be eligible for federal reimbursement because it is a mandatory program, its structure and reliance on EBT systems likely make it impossible for states to continue funding benefits. As the federal government shutdown extends into the end of October, concerns are mounting about the ability to continue operating crucial nutrition assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition As...| FFIS
The reconciliation bill (P.L. 119-21) that was enacted in early July will increase federal budget deficits over the next 10 years. As a result, PAYGO sequestration will be triggered unless Congress acts to avoid it. In August, FFIS published Budget Brief 25-13,which describes PAYGO sequestration and evaluates its potential impact on state and local governments in fiscal year (FY) 2026. That brief included a table that listed selected federal accounts subject to sequestration. This brief updat...| FFIS
No fiscal year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills have been enacted, and a House-passed continuing resolution (CR) that would keep the government operating at FY 2025 levels until November 21 has been rejected in the Senate. While a brief shutdown is usually of minimal consequence, things will be different this time. In the event of a shutdown, most discretionary grant programs—plus mandatory programs funded in appropriations acts—would be affected because no new funding would be available. F...| FFIS
Most fiscal years begin with a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government operating. These CRs don’t usually vary significantly from year to year. This year, the House has passed a fiscal year (FY) 2026 CR (H.R. 5371) to keep the federal government operating through November 21. The legislation would also extend funding for several expiring health and human services programs. The Senate rejected the House-passed CR today.| FFIS