Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

Changes from October 12, 2023 to March 12, 2024

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

Legislative Branch Appropriations:
~~October 12, 2023~~March 12, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
Ida A. Brudnick
This report responds to frequently asked questions about legislative branch This report responds to frequently asked questions about legislative branch
appropriations. Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress
~~appropriations.~~ Frequently asked questions include the items that are funded within this Frequently asked questions include the items that are funded within this

bill; development, bill; development, presentation, and consideration of the legislative branch budget presentation, and consideration of the legislative branch budget
requests; the legislative branch budget in historical perspective; and recent actions.requests; the legislative branch budget in historical perspective; and recent actions.

Consideration of FY2024 legislative branch funding began in March with the release of the Consideration of FY2024 legislative branch funding began in March with the release of the Budget Appendix, ,
which includes the legislative branch request.which includes the legislative branch request. The House Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee and The House Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee and
the Senate Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee held hearings that month to discuss the requests. the Senate Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee held hearings that month to discuss the requests.
On May 9, 2023, the President submitted a budget amendment, which would decrease by $17 million the overall On May 9, 2023, the President submitted a budget amendment, which would decrease by $17 million the overall
discretionary budget authority in the FY2024 legislative branch budget request. The budget amendment would discretionary budget authority in the FY2024 legislative branch budget request. The budget amendment would
address the Senate (two language requests, one increase in a request, and two decreases to requests; total address the Senate (two language requests, one increase in a request, and two decreases to requests; total
requested level decreased by $17.7 million), joint items (a decrease of $215,000 in the request for the Joint requested level decreased by $17.7 million), joint items (a decrease of $215,000 in the request for the Joint
Economic Committee), and the Congressional Office for International Leadership (an increase of $1.2 million in Economic Committee), and the Congressional Office for International Leadership (an increase of $1.2 million in
the request). The revised request of $7.134 billion represents an increase of 3.4% from the FY2023 enacted level. the request). The revised request of $7.134 billion represents an increase of 3.4% from the FY2023 enacted level.
On May 17, 2023, the House Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch held a markup On May 17, 2023, the House Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch held a markup
of the FY2024 bill and ordered it reported by voice vote. of the FY2024 bill and ordered it reported by voice vote.
On June 21, 2023, the full House Appropriations Committee marked up the bill and ordered it reported by roll call On June 21, 2023, the full House Appropriations Committee marked up the bill and ordered it reported by roll call
vote (Roll Call #5, 33-24) (H.R. 4364, H.Rept. 118-120). It would provide $5.301 billion, not including Senate vote (Roll Call #5, 33-24) (H.R. 4364, H.Rept. 118-120). It would provide $5.301 billion, not including Senate
items, a $261.2 million decrease (-4.7%) from the comparable FY2023 enacted level. A number of amendments items, a $261.2 million decrease (-4.7%) from the comparable FY2023 enacted level. A number of amendments
were considered during the markup: a manager’s amendment adopted by voice vote; two amendments adopted by were considered during the markup: a manager’s amendment adopted by voice vote; two amendments adopted by
roll call vote; and two amendments not adopted by roll call vote. roll call vote; and two amendments not adopted by roll call vote.
The Senate Appropriations Committee approved its initial 302(b) suballocations on June 22, 2023, by recorded The Senate Appropriations Committee approved its initial 302(b) suballocations on June 22, 2023, by recorded
vote (15-13, S.Rept. 118-45). The plan would include $6.761 billion in discretionary budget authority for the vote (15-13, S.Rept. 118-45). The plan would include $6.761 billion in discretionary budget authority for the
legislative branch (approximately 0.4% of total discretionary budget authority). legislative branch (approximately 0.4% of total discretionary budget authority).
On July 13, 2023, the Senate Appropriations Committee held a markup of the FY2024 legislative branch On July 13, 2023, the Senate Appropriations Committee held a markup of the FY2024 legislative branch
appropriations bill. The bill was ordered reported by a vote of 29-0 (S. 2302, S.Rept. 118-60). The bill, as appropriations bill. The bill was ordered reported by a vote of 29-0 (S. 2302, S.Rept. 118-60). The bill, as
amended, would provide $4.741 billion (not including House items), a $196.2 million decrease (-4.0%) from the amended, would provide $4.741 billion (not including House items), a $196.2 million decrease (-4.0%) from the
comparable FY2023 enacted level. comparable FY2023 enacted level.
A continuing appropriations resolution extending funding through November 17, 2023, was enacted on September A continuing appropriations resolution extending funding through November 17, 2023, was enacted on September
30, 2023 30, 2023 (P.L. 118-15). Legislative branch funding was further extended through February 2, 2024 (P.L. 118-22), March 8 (P.L. 118-35), and March 22 (P.L. 118-40). ~~(P.L. 118-15).~~
The House Rules Committee met to discuss a rule for consideration of H.R. 4364 on October 2, 2023. The House The House Rules Committee met to discuss a rule for consideration of H.R. 4364 on October 2, 2023. The House
adopted the special rule (H.Res. 756, H.Rept. 118-242) on October 3. adopted the special rule (H.Res. 756, H.Rept. 118-242) on October 3.
H.R. 4364 passed the House (214-197) on November 1. Previously, Division I of the FY2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 117-328), enacted on December 29, Previously, Division I of the FY2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 117-328), enacted on December 29,
2022, provided $6.899 billion for legislative branch activities (an increase of $975.2 million, or +16.5%, from the 2022, provided $6.899 billion for legislative branch activities (an increase of $975.2 million, or +16.5%, from the
FY2022 enacted level). FY2022 enacted level).
For information on FY2023 funding, see CRS Report R47296, For information on FY2023 funding, see CRS Report R47296, Legislative Branch: FY2023 Appropriations. .

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to the Senate and House of Representatives, what is funded by the
legislative branch appropriations bill?
In addition to the Senate and House of Representatives, the legislative branch bill typically funds In addition to the Senate and House of Representatives, the legislative branch bill typically funds
Joint Items, including the Joint Economic Committee, Joint Committee on Taxation, Office of the Joint Items, including the Joint Economic Committee, Joint Committee on Taxation, Office of the
Attending Physician, Office of Congressional Accessibility Services, and in some years, the Joint Attending Physician, Office of Congressional Accessibility Services, and in some years, the Joint
Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies; Capitol Police; Office of Congressional Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies; Capitol Police; Office of Congressional
Workplace Rights (OCWR, formerly the Office of Compliance); Congressional Budget Office Workplace Rights (OCWR, formerly the Office of Compliance); Congressional Budget Office
(CBO); Architect of the Capitol (AOC); Library of Congress (LOC), including the Congressional (CBO); Architect of the Capitol (AOC); Library of Congress (LOC), including the Congressional
Research Service (CRS); Government Publishing Office (GPO); Government Accountability Research Service (CRS); Government Publishing Office (GPO); Government Accountability
Office (GAO); and the Congressional Office for International Leadership (formerly the Open Office (GAO); and the Congressional Office for International Leadership (formerly the Open
World Leadership Center, renamed in the FY2022 Consolidated Appropriations Act). World Leadership Center, renamed in the FY2022 Consolidated Appropriations Act).
Why is the legislative branch budget request included in the President’s
budget request? Does the President play any role in its development?
The President has no formal role in the development of the legislative branch budget request, The President has no formal role in the development of the legislative branch budget request,
even though it is included in the President’s annual budget request documents. even though it is included in the President’s annual budget request documents.
By long-standing law and practice, the legislative branch request and any supplemental requests By long-standing law and practice, the legislative branch request and any supplemental requests
are submitted to the President and included in the budget without change.1 While the executive are submitted to the President and included in the budget without change.1 While the executive
branch budget submissions generally involve interaction between an agency and the Office of branch budget submissions generally involve interaction between an agency and the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB), the legislative branch requests do not. The executive branch Management and Budget (OMB), the legislative branch requests do not. The executive branch
does not review or maintain documentation in support of the legislative branch requests.2 does not review or maintain documentation in support of the legislative branch requests.2

1 Pursuant to 31 U.S.C. §1105, “Estimated expenditures and proposed appropriations for the legislative branch and the 1 Pursuant to 31 U.S.C. §1105, “Estimated expenditures and proposed appropriations for the legislative branch and the
judicial branch to be included in each budget ... shall be submitted to the President ... and included in the budget by the judicial branch to be included in each budget ... shall be submitted to the President ... and included in the budget by the
President without change.” Division C of the FY2012 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 112-74) added language President without change.” Division C of the FY2012 Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 112-74) added language
to 31 U.S.C. §1107 relating to budget amendments, stating: “The President shall transmit promptly to Congress without to 31 U.S.C. §1107 relating to budget amendments, stating: “The President shall transmit promptly to Congress without
change, proposed deficiency and supplemental appropriations submitted to the President by the legislative branch and change, proposed deficiency and supplemental appropriations submitted to the President by the legislative branch and
the judicial branch.” the judicial branch.”
2 OMB Circular A-11, Part 2, “Preparation and Submission of Budget Estimates,” Section 25, provides the following 2 OMB Circular A-11, Part 2, “Preparation and Submission of Budget Estimates,” Section 25, provides the following
information for agencies and entities, including the legislative branch, “not subject to Executive Branch review by law information for agencies and entities, including the legislative branch, “not subject to Executive Branch review by law
or custom. That means that the requirements for submitting materials in support of your budget request do not apply to or custom. That means that the requirements for submitting materials in support of your budget request do not apply to
you. However, you do need to submit the information required for inclusion in the budget database and documents, you. However, you do need to submit the information required for inclusion in the budget database and documents,
which OMB incorporates without revision” (https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/information-for-agencies/circulars/). which OMB incorporates without revision” (https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/information-for-agencies/circulars/).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1 1

link to page 6 link to page 6 Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of discretionary budget authority historically goes to the
legislative branch?
Discretionary budget authority is provided and controlled by the annual appropriations acts. Discretionary budget authority is provided and controlled by the annual appropriations acts.
Since FY1976, the legislative branch as a proportion of total discretionary budget authority has Since FY1976, the legislative branch as a proportion of total discretionary budget authority has
averaged approximately 0.40%.3 The maximum level, not including the transition quarter,4 was in averaged approximately 0.40%.3 The maximum level, not including the transition quarter,4 was in
FY1995 (0.48%), and the minimum was in FY2020 (0.28%). FY1995 (0.48%), and the minimum was in FY2020 (0.28%).
What percentage of total budget authority (mandatory and discretionary)
historically goes to the legislative branch?
Total budget authority includes both discretionary budget authority controlled by the annual Total budget authority includes both discretionary budget authority controlled by the annual
appropriations acts and mandatory budget authority controlled by previous laws, including appropriations acts and mandatory budget authority controlled by previous laws, including
entitlements. entitlements.
Since FY1976, the legislative branch as a proportion of total budget authority has averaged Since FY1976, the legislative branch as a proportion of total budget authority has averaged
0.16%. The maximum level, 0.23%, was in FY1977, and the minimum, 0.07%, was in FY2020.5 0.16%. The maximum level, 0.23%, was in FY1977, and the minimum, 0.07%, was in FY2020.5
How is funding divided across the legislative branch?
Figure 1 shows the distribution of funding across the legislative branch in FY2022 and FY2023. shows the distribution of funding across the legislative branch in FY2022 and FY2023.

3 Calculations by CRS with data from Office of Management and Budget (OMB), “Table 5.4—Discretionary Budget 3 Calculations by CRS with data from Office of Management and Budget (OMB), “Table 5.4—Discretionary Budget
Authority By Agency: 1976-2028,” in Historical Tables, Authority By Agency: 1976-2028,” in Historical Tables, Budget of the United States Government, FY2024, at , FY2024, at
https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/historical-tables/. The calculations have some limitations, since the OMB data do not https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/historical-tables/. The calculations have some limitations, since the OMB data do not
completely align with items funded in the annual and supplemental legislative branch appropriations acts. The completely align with items funded in the annual and supplemental legislative branch appropriations acts. The
differences may be partially traced to the definition of “legislative branch” in the OMB Public Budget Database user’s differences may be partially traced to the definition of “legislative branch” in the OMB Public Budget Database user’s
guide. Some entities regularly included with the legislative branch in many OMB budget documents, like the U.S. Tax guide. Some entities regularly included with the legislative branch in many OMB budget documents, like the U.S. Tax
Court and some Legislative Branch Boards and Commissions, are not funded through the annual legislative branch Court and some Legislative Branch Boards and Commissions, are not funded through the annual legislative branch
appropriations acts. Consequently, an examination of the discretionary budget authority listed in the Historical Tables appropriations acts. Consequently, an examination of the discretionary budget authority listed in the Historical Tables
reveals some differences with the reported total budget authority provided in the annual legislative branch reveals some differences with the reported total budget authority provided in the annual legislative branch
appropriations acts. The difference in legislative branch budget authority resulting from the different definitions of the appropriations acts. The difference in legislative branch budget authority resulting from the different definitions of the
legislative branch in the OMB budget documents and in the appropriations acts, however, does not represent a legislative branch in the OMB budget documents and in the appropriations acts, however, does not represent a
significant difference in the proportion of total discretionary budget authority. significant difference in the proportion of total discretionary budget authority.
4 “Prior to 1977, the fiscal year began on July 1 and ended on June 30 ... Fiscal year 1976 ended on June 30, 1976, and 4 “Prior to 1977, the fiscal year began on July 1 and ended on June 30 ... Fiscal year 1976 ended on June 30, 1976, and
fiscal year 1977 began on October 1, 1976. The period July 1, 1976, to September 30, 1976, is called the ‘transition fiscal year 1977 began on October 1, 1976. The period July 1, 1976, to September 30, 1976, is called the ‘transition
quarter’ or TQ.” (Office of Management and Budget, Budget Analysis Branch,quarter’ or TQ.” (Office of Management and Budget, Budget Analysis Branch, Public Budget Database User’s Guide, ,
Budget of the United States Government, FY2022, May 2021, p. 2.) , FY2022, May 2021, p. 2.)
5 FY2022 is the most recent year for which actual, rather than estimated, data are available. Calculations by CRS with 5 FY2022 is the most recent year for which actual, rather than estimated, data are available. Calculations by CRS with
data from Office of Management and Budget (OMB), “Table 5.2—Budget Authority by Agency: 1976–2028,” in data from Office of Management and Budget (OMB), “Table 5.2—Budget Authority by Agency: 1976–2028,” in
Historical Tables, Historical Tables, Budget of the United States Government, FY2024, at https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/historical-, FY2024, at https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/historical-
tables/. The calculations have some limitations, since, as stated above, the OMB data do not completely align with tables/. The calculations have some limitations, since, as stated above, the OMB data do not completely align with
items funded in the annual and supplemental legislative branch appropriations acts. items funded in the annual and supplemental legislative branch appropriations acts.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2 2

Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

Figure 1. Distribution of Legislative Branch Funding: FY2022 and FY2023
(Division I of P.L. 117-103 compared to Division I of P.L. 117-328) (Division I of P.L. 117-103 compared to Division I of P.L. 117-328)

Source: CRS analysis of legislative branch appropriations acts and related budget documents. CRS analysis of legislative branch appropriations acts and related budget documents.
Note: This figure does not include permanent budget authorities, offsetting col ections, or authority to spend This figure does not include permanent budget authorities, offsetting col ections, or authority to spend
receipts. receipts.
Why do the initial committee-reported versions of the annual bill not fund the
other chamber?
The House and Senate both consider funding levels for the legislative branch agencies and joint The House and Senate both consider funding levels for the legislative branch agencies and joint
entities. By long-standing tradition, however, the House bill does not propose funding levels for entities. By long-standing tradition, however, the House bill does not propose funding levels for
Senate items, including the account that funds the Senate and the Senate office buildings account Senate items, including the account that funds the Senate and the Senate office buildings account
within the Architect of the Capitol.6 Similarly, the Senate does not comment on House items, within the Architect of the Capitol.6 Similarly, the Senate does not comment on House items,
including the account that funds the House and the House office buildings account within the including the account that funds the House and the House office buildings account within the
Architect of the Capitol. The House, Senate, and conference reports on legislative branch Architect of the Capitol. The House, Senate, and conference reports on legislative branch
appropriations bills regularly contain language illustrating the deference of each chamber to the appropriations bills regularly contain language illustrating the deference of each chamber to the
internal practices of the other.7 If comparing the House and Senate bill totals, or the total provided internal practices of the other.7 If comparing the House and Senate bill totals, or the total provided

6 The House and Senate office building accounts are 2 of the 10 accounts that fund operations of the Architect. The 6 The House and Senate office building accounts are 2 of the 10 accounts that fund operations of the Architect. The
other accounts fund capital construction and operations, Capitol building, Capitol grounds, Capitol Power Plant, other accounts fund capital construction and operations, Capitol building, Capitol grounds, Capitol Power Plant,
Library buildings and grounds, Capitol Police buildings and grounds, Capitol Visitor Center, and Botanic Garden. Library buildings and grounds, Capitol Police buildings and grounds, Capitol Visitor Center, and Botanic Garden.
7 For example, the FY1996 conference report (U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, 7 For example, the FY1996 conference report (U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, FY1996
Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, H.Rept. 104-212, report to accompany H.R. 1854, p. 9) states , H.Rept. 104-212, report to accompany H.R. 1854, p. 9) states
Inasmuch as the amendment relates solely to the Senate and in accord with long practice under Inasmuch as the amendment relates solely to the Senate and in accord with long practice under
which each body concurs without intervention, the managers on the part of the House, at the which each body concurs without intervention, the managers on the part of the House, at the
request of the managers on the part of the Senate, have receded to the Senate amendment, as request of the managers on the part of the Senate, have receded to the Senate amendment, as
amended. amended.
Similarly, the FY2010 conference report (U.S. Congress, conference committee, Similarly, the FY2010 conference report (U.S. Congress, conference committee, FY2010 Legislative Branch
Appropriations Bill, H.Rept. 111-265, report to accompany H.R. 2918, p. 33) states , H.Rept. 111-265, report to accompany H.R. 2918, p. 33) states
Inasmuch as these items relate solely to the House, and in accord with long practice under which Inasmuch as these items relate solely to the House, and in accord with long practice under which
(continued...) (continued...)
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

3 3

link to page 8 link to page 9 link to page 8 link to page 9 Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

to the Architect of the Capitol at different stages of consideration, adjustments may be necessary to the Architect of the Capitol at different stages of consideration, adjustments may be necessary
to address any omissions due to this practice. to address any omissions due to this practice.
How has funding for the legislative branch changed in recent years in current
and constant (inflation-adjusted) dollars?
Table 1 provides information on the enacted funding levels provided for the legislative branch provides information on the enacted funding levels provided for the legislative branch
from FY2008 to FY2023. from FY2008 to FY2023.
What funding has been provided in recent years for the Senate, House of
Representatives, and legislative branch agencies?
Table 2 provides information on funding levels for the Senate, House of Representatives, and provides information on funding levels for the Senate, House of Representatives, and
legislative branch agencies in recent years as well as the requested, House-legislative branch agencies in recent years as well as the requested, House-~~reported~~passed (H.R. 4364), (H.R. 4364),
and Senate-reported (S. 2302) levels for FY2024. and Senate-reported (S. 2302) levels for FY2024.
By law, the President includes the legislative branch request in the annual budget submission By law, the President includes the legislative branch request in the annual budget submission
without change. without change.

each body determines its own housekeeping requirements and the other concurs without each body determines its own housekeeping requirements and the other concurs without
intervention, the managers on the part of the Senate, at the request of the managers on the part of intervention, the managers on the part of the Senate, at the request of the managers on the part of
the House, have receded to the amendment of the House as amended. the House, have receded to the amendment of the House as amended.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

4 4

link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8
Table 1. Legislative Branch Funding, FY2008-FY2023: Current and Constant Dollars
(in billions of dollars) (in billions of dollars)
Fiscal
Year
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Current Current
3.970 3.970
4.50 4.501a
4.66 4.669b
4.54 4.543c
4.307 4.307
4.06 4.061d
4.259 4.259
4.300 4.300
4.363 4.363
4.440 4.440
4.70 4.700e
4.84 4.846f
5.04 5.049g
5.30 5.304h
5.924 5.924
6.89 6.899i
Dol ars Dol ars
Constant Constant
5.458 5.458
6.196 6.196
6.314 6.314
6.009 6.009
5.581 5.581
5.179 5.179
5.348 5.348
5.371 5.371
5.413 5.413
5.413 5.413
5.606 5.606
5.682 5.682
5.806 5.806
5.932 5.932
6.252 6.252
6.899 6.899
Dol ars Dol ars
Source: CRS analysis of legislative branch appropriations acts and related budget documents. CRS analysis of legislative branch appropriations acts and related budget documents.
Notes: These figures exclude permanent budget authorities, including funding for Member pay, that are not included in the annual legislative branch appropriations bil . These figures exclude permanent budget authorities, including funding for Member pay, that are not included in the annual legislative branch appropriations bil .
Constant 2023 dol ars calculated using the “Total Non-Defense” deflator in Constant 2023 dol ars calculated using the “Total Non-Defense” deflator in Table 10.1—Gross Domestic Product and Deflators Used in the Historical Tables: 1940–2028 in in
the President’s FY2024 budget request. See notes below or related CRS reports for additional information on specific years. the President’s FY2024 budget request. See notes below or related CRS reports for additional information on specific years.
a. This number contains appropriations provided by P.L. 111-8 (the FY2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act), $25.0 mil ion for the Government Accountability Office a. This number contains appropriations provided by P.L. 111-8 (the FY2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act), $25.0 mil ion for the Government Accountability Office
provided by P.L. 111-5 (the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009), and $73.6 mil ion provided by P.L. 111-32 (the Supplemental Appropriations Act, provided by P.L. 111-5 (the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009), and $73.6 mil ion provided by P.L. 111-32 (the Supplemental Appropriations Act,
2009) for the U.S. Capitol Police and the Congressional Budget Office. 2009) for the U.S. Capitol Police and the Congressional Budget Office.
b. This number contains appropriations provided by P.L. 111-68 (the FY2010 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act), and $12.96 mil ion in supplemental appropriations b. This number contains appropriations provided by P.L. 111-68 (the FY2010 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act), and $12.96 mil ion in supplemental appropriations
provided for the U.S. Capitol Police in P.L. 111-212 (the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2010). provided for the U.S. Capitol Police in P.L. 111-212 (the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2010).
c. This number does not include scorekeeping adjustment. c. This number does not include scorekeeping adjustment.
d. FY2013 level obtained from the CBO cost estimate for “Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2014 (H.J.Res. 59), Including the Amendment Reported by the d. FY2013 level obtained from the CBO cost estimate for “Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2014 (H.J.Res. 59), Including the Amendment Reported by the
House Committee on Rules on September 18, 2013 (H.Res. 352) Discretionary spending (in mil ions of dol ars),” which lists a total for legislative branch budget House Committee on Rules on September 18, 2013 (H.Res. 352) Discretionary spending (in mil ions of dol ars),” which lists a total for legislative branch budget
authority of $4.061 bil ion, noting that it “includes effects of the 2013 sequestration.” This bil contained a small anomaly for the legislative branch. authority of $4.061 bil ion, noting that it “includes effects of the 2013 sequestration.” This bil contained a small anomaly for the legislative branch.
e. Does not include $14.0 mil ion provided to the Government Accountability Office “for audits and investigations relating to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria and e. Does not include $14.0 mil ion provided to the Government Accountability Office “for audits and investigations relating to Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria and
the 2017 wildfires” (P.L. 115-123, Title IX of Division B, enacted February 9, 2018). the 2017 wildfires” (P.L. 115-123, Title IX of Division B, enacted February 9, 2018).
f. f.
The total includes $10.0 mil ion in FY2019 supplemental appropriations for GAO for audits and investigations related to storms and disasters (P.L. 116-20, enacted The total includes $10.0 mil ion in FY2019 supplemental appropriations for GAO for audits and investigations related to storms and disasters (P.L. 116-20, enacted
June 6, 2019). June 6, 2019).
g. The total does not include $93.1 mil ion in FY2020 supplemental appropriations, including $10.0 mil ion for the Senate, $25.0 mil ion for the House of g. The total does not include $93.1 mil ion in FY2020 supplemental appropriations, including $10.0 mil ion for the Senate, $25.0 mil ion for the House of
Representatives, $400,000 for the Office of the Attending Physician, $12.0 mil ion for the Capitol Police, $25.0 mil ion for the Architect of the Capitol, $700,000 for Representatives, $400,000 for the Office of the Attending Physician, $12.0 mil ion for the Capitol Police, $25.0 mil ion for the Architect of the Capitol, $700,000 for
the Library of Congress, and $20.0 mil ion for the Government Accountability Office (CARES Act, P.L. 116-136, enacted March 27, 2020). the Library of Congress, and $20.0 mil ion for the Government Accountability Office (CARES Act, P.L. 116-136, enacted March 27, 2020).
h. The total does not include funding provided in the Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 117-31, July 30, 2021), which provided $448.6 h. The total does not include funding provided in the Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 117-31, July 30, 2021), which provided $448.6
mil ion. mil ion.
i. i.
The total does not include $7.5 mil ion in supplemental appropriations provided for GAO in P.L. 117-328. The total does not include $7.5 mil ion in supplemental appropriations provided for GAO in P.L. 117-328.
CRS-5 CRS-5

link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 10
Table 2. Legislative Branch Appropriations: Prior Enacted, FY2024 Requested, ~~and House-Reported (H.R. 4364)~~House-Passed, and Senate-Reported Levels
(in thousands of dollars) (in thousands of dollars)
FY2024
FY2024
FY2015
FY2016
FY2017
FY2018
FY2019
FY2020
FY2021
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
House-
Senate-
Entity
Enacted
Enacted
Enacted
Enacteda
Enactedb
Enactedc
Enactedd
Enacted
Enacted
Requeste
~~reported~~passed
reported
Senate Senate
$864,286 $864,286
$870,159 $870,159
$871,177 $871,177
$919,932 $919,932 $934,66$934,667e
$969,396 $969,396
$998,560 $998,560
$1,094,894 $1,094,894
$1,150,349 $1,257,494 $1,150,349 $1,257,494
— —
$1,238,495 $1,238,495
House House
1,180,735 1,180,735
1,180,909 1,180,909
1,189,223 1,189,223
1,200,173 1,200,173
1,232,66 1,232,663e
1,365,725 1,365,725
1,476,607 1,476,607
1,715,170 1,715,170
1,847,745 1,847,745
1,902,831 1,902,831
1,850,998 1,850,998
— —
Joint Item Joint Itemsf
19,056 19,056
20,732 20,732
19,565 19,565
20,654 20,654
20,656 20,656
22,643 22,643
21,513 21,513
22,337 22,337
23,114 23,114
30,148 30,148
23,378 23,378
29,849 29,849
USCP USCP
347,959 347,959
375,000 375,000
393,300 393,300
426,500 426,500
456,308 456,308
464,341 464,341
515,541 515,541
602,509 602,509
734,576 734,576
840,942 840,942
780,916 780,916
792,473 792,473
OCW OCWRg
3,959 3,959
3,959 3,959
3,959 3,959
4,959 4,959
6,333 6,333
6,333 6,333
7,500 7,500
7,500 7,500
8,000 8,000
8,550 8,550
8,000 8,000
8,300 8,300
CBO CBO
45,700 45,700
46,500 46,500
46,500 46,500
49,945 49,945
50,737 50,737
54,941 54,941
57,292 57,292
60,953 60,953
63,237 63,237
70,775 70,775
64,637 64,637
70,125 70,125
AOC AOC
600,261 600,261
612,904 612,904
617,887 617,887
712,105 712,105
733,745 733,745
695,933 695,933
675,073 675,073
773,898 773,898
1,315,002 1,315,002
1,128,086 1,128,086
787,103 787,103
797,699 797,699
LOC LOC
590,921 590,921
599,912 599,912
631,958 631,958
669,890 669,890
696,112 696,112
725,359 725,359
757,346 757,346
794,019 794,019
828,548 828,548
895,204 895,204
843,747 843,747
855,848 855,848
(w/CRS) (w/CRS)
CRS (non-
106,945
106,945
107,945
119,279
125,688
120,495h
125,495
129,106
133,600
146,574
135,797
136,080
add)
GPO GPO
119,993 119,993
117,068 117,068
117,068 117,068
117,068 117,068
117,000 117,000
117,000 117,000
117,000 117,000
124,237 124,237
129,854 129,854
132,488 132,488
129,854 129,854
131,566 131,566
GAO GAO
522,000 522,000
531,000 531,000
544,506 544,506
578,91 578,917a
589,75 589,750b
630,000 630,000
661,139 661,139
719,230 719,230
790,319 790,319
859,653 859,653
806,004 806,004
813,968 813,968
COI COILi
5,700 5,700
5,600 5,600
5,600 5,600
5,600 5,600
5,600 5,600
5,900 5,900
6,000 6,000
6,000 6,000
6,000 6,000
7,200 7,200
6,000 6,000
6,000 6,000
Stennis Stennis
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
430 430
Admin. Admin.
-1,000 -1,000
-1,000 -1,000
-1,000 -1,000
-2,000 -2,000
-2,000 -2,000
-2,000 -2,000
-2,000 -2,000
-2,000 -2,000
-3,000 -3,000
— —
— —
— —
Prov. Prov.
Oth Otherj
0 0
0 0
0 0
-4,000 -4,000
-6,000 -6,000
-7,000 -7,000
7,000 7,000
5,000 5,000
5,000 5,000
— —
— —
-4,000 -4,000
Total Leg.
$4,300,000
$4,363,172 $4,440,173 $4,700,173a $4,836,001b $5,049,000c $5,304,213d
$5,924,177
$6,899,174k
$7,133,801e
$5,301,067
$4,740,753
Branch
Sources: P.L. 113-76, P.L. 113-235, P.L. 114-113, P.L. 115-31, P.L. 115-141, P.L. 115-244, P.L. 116-94, P.L. 116-260, P.L. 117-103, P.L. 117-328, explanatory materials for P.L. 113-76, P.L. 113-235, P.L. 114-113, P.L. 115-31, P.L. 115-141, P.L. 115-244, P.L. 116-94, P.L. 116-260, P.L. 117-103, P.L. 117-328, explanatory materials for
FY2014, FY2015, FY2016, FY2017, FY2018, FY2020, FY2021, FY2022, and FY2023 inserted into the FY2014, FY2015, FY2016, FY2017, FY2018, FY2020, FY2021, FY2022, and FY2023 inserted into the Congressional Record, H.Rept. 115-929, the , H.Rept. 115-929, the Budget for Fiscal Year 2024, ,
H.R. 4364, H.Rept. 118-120, S. 2302, S.Rept. 118-60, and CRS calculations. See notes below or related CRS reports for additional information on specific years. H.R. 4364, H.Rept. 118-120, S. 2302, S.Rept. 118-60, and CRS calculations. See notes below or related CRS reports for additional information on specific years.
CRS-6 CRS-6

a. Does not include emergency appropriation provided by P.L. 115-123. Title IX of Division B provided $14.0 mil ion to GAO “for audits and investigations relating to a. Does not include emergency appropriation provided by P.L. 115-123. Title IX of Division B provided $14.0 mil ion to GAO “for audits and investigations relating to
Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria and the 2017 wildfires.” Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria and the 2017 wildfires.”
b. Does not include emergency appropriation provided by P.L. 116-20. Title IX provided $10.0 mil ion to GAO for audits and investigations related to storms and b. Does not include emergency appropriation provided by P.L. 116-20. Title IX provided $10.0 mil ion to GAO for audits and investigations related to storms and
disasters. disasters.
c. The table does not include emergency appropriations of $93.1 mil ion provided in P.L. 116-136 ($10.0 mil ion for the Senate, $25.0 mil ion for the House of c. The table does not include emergency appropriations of $93.1 mil ion provided in P.L. 116-136 ($10.0 mil ion for the Senate, $25.0 mil ion for the House of
Representatives, $400,000 for the Office of the Attending Physician, $12.0 mil ion for the Capitol Police, $25.0 mil ion for the Architect of the Capitol, $700,000 for Representatives, $400,000 for the Office of the Attending Physician, $12.0 mil ion for the Capitol Police, $25.0 mil ion for the Architect of the Capitol, $700,000 for
the Library of Congress, and $20.0 mil ion for the Government Accountability Office). the Library of Congress, and $20.0 mil ion for the Government Accountability Office).
d. The table does not include provisions in the Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 117-31, enacted on July 30, 2021) for the House of d. The table does not include provisions in the Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 117-31, enacted on July 30, 2021) for the House of
Representatives, Senate, Capitol Police, or Architect of the Capitol, or emergency appropriations included in P.L. 116-260. Total includes a rescission of $5.212 Representatives, Senate, Capitol Police, or Architect of the Capitol, or emergency appropriations included in P.L. 116-260. Total includes a rescission of $5.212
mil ion. mil ion.
e. The FY2024 requested levels include a budget amendment submitted on May 9, 2023, which would decrease the total legislative branch request by $17 mil ion. The e. The FY2024 requested levels include a budget amendment submitted on May 9, 2023, which would decrease the total legislative branch request by $17 mil ion. The
budget amendments would address the Senate (largely decreases and language requests), joint items (a decrease of $215,000 in the request for the Joint Economic budget amendments would address the Senate (largely decreases and language requests), joint items (a decrease of $215,000 in the request for the Joint Economic
Committee), and the Congressional Office for International Leadership (an increase of $1.2 mil ion in the request). See President Joseph R. Biden, “Letter to the Committee), and the Congressional Office for International Leadership (an increase of $1.2 mil ion in the request). See President Joseph R. Biden, “Letter to the
Speaker of the House of Representatives on Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendments,” May 9, 2023, https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-Speaker of the House of Representatives on Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Amendments,” May 9, 2023, https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-
content/uploads/2023/05/FY_2024_Budget_Amendment_Corrections_5-9-23.pdf. Total does not include gratuity payments for survivors of deceased Members of content/uploads/2023/05/FY_2024_Budget_Amendment_Corrections_5-9-23.pdf. Total does not include gratuity payments for survivors of deceased Members of
Congress. Congress.
f. f.
“Joint Items” generally contains funding for the Joint Economic Committee, the Joint Committee on Taxation, the Office of the Attending Physician, and the Office “Joint Items” generally contains funding for the Joint Economic Committee, the Joint Committee on Taxation, the Office of the Attending Physician, and the Office
of Congressional Accessibility Services. In fiscal years prior to an inauguration, it also contains funding for the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural of Congressional Accessibility Services. In fiscal years prior to an inauguration, it also contains funding for the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural
Ceremonies (e.g., $1.25 mil ion for FY2016; $1.5 mil ion for FY2020). Ceremonies (e.g., $1.25 mil ion for FY2016; $1.5 mil ion for FY2020).
g. Formerly known as the Office of Compliance, the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights (OCWR) was renamed by the Congressional Accountability Act of g. Formerly known as the Office of Compliance, the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights (OCWR) was renamed by the Congressional Accountability Act of
1995 Reform Act (P.L. 115-397). 1995 Reform Act (P.L. 115-397).
h. The House Appropriations Committee report (H.Rept. 116-64) describes “Appropriations Shifts to Reflect Centralized Funding for Information Technology” that h. The House Appropriations Committee report (H.Rept. 116-64) describes “Appropriations Shifts to Reflect Centralized Funding for Information Technology” that
affected the four LOC appropriations headings. The report states that the House-reported FY2020 level represents an increase of $2.99 mil ion for CRS when affected the four LOC appropriations headings. The report states that the House-reported FY2020 level represents an increase of $2.99 mil ion for CRS when
reflecting the centralized IT funding. reflecting the centralized IT funding.
i. i.
The FY2022 appropriations act contained a provision changing the name from the Open World Leadership Center to the Congressional Office for International The FY2022 appropriations act contained a provision changing the name from the Open World Leadership Center to the Congressional Office for International
Leadership (COIL). Leadership (COIL).
j. j.
Includes, for example, scorekeeping adjustments or prior-year outlays. Includes, for example, scorekeeping adjustments or prior-year outlays.
k. Gratuity payments to heirs of deceased Members of the House were provided in P.L. 117-103, P.L. 117-128, P.L. 117-180, and P.L. 117-229. Does not include $7.5 k. Gratuity payments to heirs of deceased Members of the House were provided in P.L. 117-103, P.L. 117-128, P.L. 117-180, and P.L. 117-229. Does not include $7.5
mil ion in supplemental funding provided to GAO (P.L. 117-328). mil ion in supplemental funding provided to GAO (P.L. 117-328).

CRS-7 CRS-7

Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

Are Member salaries funded or adjusted in the legislative branch
appropriations bill?
No, salaries for Members of Congress are neither funded nor increased in the legislative branch No, salaries for Members of Congress are neither funded nor increased in the legislative branch
bill. bill.
Member salaries have been included as mandatory spending since FY1983, and the amount of Member salaries have been included as mandatory spending since FY1983, and the amount of
potential Member pay adjustments is calculated pursuant to the Ethics Reform Act of 1989, which potential Member pay adjustments is calculated pursuant to the Ethics Reform Act of 1989, which
established a formula based on changes in the Employment Cost Index (ECI).8 The adjustment established a formula based on changes in the Employment Cost Index (ECI).8 The adjustment
automatically takes effect unless (1) Congress statutorily prohibits the adjustment; (2) Congress automatically takes effect unless (1) Congress statutorily prohibits the adjustment; (2) Congress
statutorily revises the adjustment; or (3) the annual base pay adjustment of General Schedule statutorily revises the adjustment; or (3) the annual base pay adjustment of General Schedule
(GS) federal employees is established at a rate less than the scheduled increase for Members, in (GS) federal employees is established at a rate less than the scheduled increase for Members, in
which case the percentage adjustment for Member pay is automatically lowered to match the which case the percentage adjustment for Member pay is automatically lowered to match the
percentage adjustment in GS base pay. percentage adjustment in GS base pay.
Members of Congress last received a pay adjustment in January 2009. Since then, the Members of Congress last received a pay adjustment in January 2009. Since then, the
compensation for most Senators, Representatives, Delegates, and the Resident Commissioner compensation for most Senators, Representatives, Delegates, and the Resident Commissioner
from Puerto Rico has been $174,000. from Puerto Rico has been $174,000.
Section 6 of P.L. 117-328 prohibited a cost of living adjustment for Members of Congress for Section 6 of P.L. 117-328 prohibited a cost of living adjustment for Members of Congress for
2023.2023. On September 30, 2023, a continuing appropriations resolution (CR) providing funding for legislative branch activities through November 17, 2023, was enacted (P.L. 118-15). This CR also extended Section 6 of P.L. 117-328, prohibiting a pay adjustment for Members of Congress. Subsequent FY2024 CRs extended this prohibition.
The maximum potential 2024 member pay adjustment, based on the ECI, is 4.6%, or $8,000.9 The maximum potential 2024 member pay adjustment, based on the ECI, is 4.6%, or $8,000.9
S. 2302, as reported, includes a provision (Section 211 of the general provisions) to freeze S. 2302, as reported, includes a provision (Section 211 of the general provisions) to freeze
Member pay for FY2024. Member pay for FY2024.
H.R. 4364, as reported H.R. 4364, as reported by the House Appropriations Committee, did not include a provision freezing Member pay, but such a provision , did not include a provision freezing Member pay, but such a provision
was added pursuant to a manager’s amendment, to be considered as adopted, included in the rule was added pursuant to a manager’s amendment, to be considered as adopted, included in the rule
for consideration of the bill. The rule, H.Res. 756 (H.Rept. 118-242), was agreed to in the House for consideration of the bill. The rule, H.Res. 756 (H.Rept. 118-242), was agreed to in the House
on October 3, 2023. on October 3, 2023.
H.R. 4364 was debated and passed the House on November 1, 2023. Although discussion of Member pay is often associated with appropriations bills, these bills do Although discussion of Member pay is often associated with appropriations bills, these bills do
not contain language funding or increasing Member pay, and a prohibition on the automatic not contain language funding or increasing Member pay, and a prohibition on the automatic
annual Member pay adjustments could be included in any bill, or be introduced as a separate bill. annual Member pay adjustments could be included in any bill, or be introduced as a separate bill.
For a list of the laws that have previously contained provisions prohibiting the annual pay For a list of the laws that have previously contained provisions prohibiting the annual pay
adjustments, see “Table 3. Legislative Vehicles Used for Pay Prohibitions, Enacted Dates, and adjustments, see “Table 3. Legislative Vehicles Used for Pay Prohibitions, Enacted Dates, and
Pay Language” in CRS Report 97-1011, Pay Language” in CRS Report 97-1011, Salaries of Members of Congress: Recent Actions and
~~Historical Tables, by Ida A. Brudnick.~~

8 For mandatory spending language, see P.L. 97-51, 95 Stat. 966, September 11, 1981; and, for example, “Table 26-1. 8 For mandatory spending language, see P.L. 97-51, 95 Stat. 966, September 11, 1981; and, for example, “Table 26-1.
Federal Budget By Agency and Account” in Federal Budget By Agency and Account” in Analytical Perspectives, Budget of the United States Government, ,
FY2023, pp. 2, 3. For the Ethics Reform Act, see P.L. 101-194, 103 Stat. 1767-1768, November 30, 1989. FY2023, pp. 2, 3. For the Ethics Reform Act, see P.L. 101-194, 103 Stat. 1767-1768, November 30, 1989.
9 The potential Member pay adjustment was determined by a formula using the Employment Cost Index (private 9 The potential Member pay adjustment was determined by a formula using the Employment Cost Index (private
industry wages and salaries, not seasonally adjusted), based on the 12-month percentage change reported for the quarter industry wages and salaries, not seasonally adjusted), based on the 12-month percentage change reported for the quarter
ending December 31, minus 0.5%. The 4.6% potential adjustment was determined by taking the percentage increase in ending December 31, minus 0.5%. The 4.6% potential adjustment was determined by taking the percentage increase in
the index between the quarters ending December 2021 and December 2022, which was 5.1%, and subtracting 0.5%. the index between the quarters ending December 2021 and December 2022, which was 5.1%, and subtracting 0.5%.
U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Cost Index—December 2022, January 31, 2023, p. , January 31, 2023, p.
15. Pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §4501(2)(A), this amount is “rounded to the nearest multiple of $100.” 15. Pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §4501(2)(A), this amount is “rounded to the nearest multiple of $100.”
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

R43397 · VERSION 27 · UPDATED 8 8

Legislative Branch Appropriations: Frequently Asked Questions

Historical Tables, by Ida A. Brudnick. In contrast, the salaries and benefits for legislative branch employees are provided by the In contrast, the salaries and benefits for legislative branch employees are provided by the
legislative branch appropriations acts, although they generally do not address pay adjustments.10 legislative branch appropriations acts, although they generally do not address pay adjustments.10

Author Information

Ida A. Brudnick Ida A. Brudnick

Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress

Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

10 Rather, adjustments may be determined by employing authorities (in the case of House and Senate employees) or 10 Rather, adjustments may be determined by employing authorities (in the case of House and Senate employees) or
broader or agency-specific pay systems. For example, see the broader or agency-specific pay systems. For example, see the Orders of the Speaker of the House of Representatives
(issued pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §4532 note); (issued pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §4532 note); Orders of the President pro Tempore (issued pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §4571); (issued pursuant to 2 U.S.C. §4571);
and laws governing employment for individual agencies, positions, or pay systems. and laws governing employment for individual agencies, positions, or pay systems.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
R43397 R43397 · VERSION 2527 · UPDATED
9 9