Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026

Maintenance of Essential Services: The bill provides for automatic appropriations to keep programs, projects, and activities running at previous rates during a lapse in funding (Section 2(b)(1)). This could ensure that essential government functions continue without interruption.

Protection of Entitlements: For entitlements and certain food and nutrition activities, the bill ensures funding is provided at a rate necessary to maintain current program levels (Section 2(b)(3)). This could provide stability for individuals relying on these specific programs.

Accountability for Official Travel: The bill restricts "covered officers or employees" from using funds for official travel during a covered period, except for specific return trips or national security events (Section 3(b)(1)). This places a financial restriction on official movements during budget impasses.

Restrictions on Campaign Fund Use: The act limits the use of campaign contributions for official travel during a covered period (Section 3(b)(2)). This establishes a new restriction on how such funds can be utilized by federal officeholders.

Restrictions on Funding Distribution: The bill stipulates that for programs with high initial rates of operation, such as those involving distributions to States or foreign countries, high initial rates or complete distributions shall not be made (Section 2(b)(f)). This could prevent the timely delivery of funds intended for such recipients.

Limitations on Government Personnel Movement: By prohibiting most official travel for covered employees during a covered period, the bill could limit the ability of officials to conduct necessary business (Section 3(b)(1)).

Legislative Restrictions: The bill limits the types of business that can be conducted in the House and Senate during a covered period, such as restricting motions to proceed to most matters except those specifically listed (Section 3(c)(1)). This could prevent the legislative body from addressing other important national issues.