What does a continuing resolution provide in budget terms?

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A continuing resolution provides a temporary budget authority pending the approval of appropriations. This mechanism is essential for maintaining government operations when the formal budget has not been passed. Essentially, it allows federal agencies to continue functioning by funding them at existing levels or at predetermined amounts, ensuring that essential services and programs are not disrupted due to a lapse in appropriations.

During the budgetary process, if Congress has not finalized a new budget before the start of the fiscal year, a continuing resolution stops the government from shutting down by allowing expenditure at previous years' levels. This allows lawmakers additional time to negotiate and agree on a new budget without interrupting government services.

In this context, the other options do not reflect the nature of a continuing resolution. Permanent budget authorization implies a more permanent measure, which does not align with the temporary intent of a continuing resolution. An emergency funding clause typically refers to additional funding in response to unforeseen events, which is different from the regular budget process. Lastly, a proposal for future budget changes refers to planning and alterations moving forward rather than the immediate operational continuity provided by a continuing resolution.

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