Prevent Government Shutdowns Act
Summary
This legislation aims to eliminate the possibility of federal government shutdowns by creating an automatic funding process. If Congress fails to pass new spending bills by the start of the fiscal year, the government would continue to operate at the previous year's funding levels. This would ensure that essential services, federal agencies, and public programs remain open and functional without the need for last-minute stopgap measures or the threat of service interruptions for citizens.
To encourage lawmakers to finalize a permanent budget, the bill would impose several restrictions on Congress and the executive branch if the automatic funding is triggered. It proposes to limit official travel for members of Congress and their staff, prohibit congressional recesses or adjournments longer than a few days, and restrict the House and Senate from considering most legislation unrelated to the budget. These measures are intended to keep lawmakers focused on completing the appropriations process while protecting the public from the economic and operational impacts of a government closure.