Appropriate Timing: Appropriations Legislation Enters the Home Stretch

As 2026 kicks off, Congress looks to be on the brink of an impossible task: passing all FY 2026 appropriations legislation and avoiding a shutdown at the end of the month. However, the finish line has not yet been crossed, and policymakers must address potential obstacles in the House and Senate. Our team analyzes the status of funding bills, discusses possible last-minute dealmaking and outlines what to expect as negotiations for FY 2027 approach.