HR-4364 is formally known as the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2024, a crucial piece of United States federal legislation designed to allocate funds for the operations of the U.S. Congress and its related agencies for the fiscal year 2024.
Understanding H.R. 4364
The designation "H.R." in HR-4364 signifies that the bill originated in the House of Representatives. In the U.S. legislative system, bills are assigned prefixes that indicate their chamber of origin, such as H.R. for the House and S. for the Senate, followed by a sequential number.
An "Appropriations Act" is a type of federal legislation that provides the legal authority for federal agencies to incur obligations and to make payments out of the Treasury for specific purposes. These acts are essential for the annual funding of government operations and programs.
The specific focus of HR-4364, as the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, is to fund the various components that enable the U.S. Congress to function, along with several associated agencies. This bill is part of the broader appropriations process for the 118th Congress (2023-2024).
Key Details and Scope of H.R. 4364
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Title | Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2024 |
| Bill Number | H.R. 4364 |
| Originating Body | U.S. House of Representatives |
| Congress | 118th Congress (2023-2024) |
| Primary Purpose | To provide appropriations for the operational expenses of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government for the fiscal year 2024. |
What the Act Funds
The Legislative Branch Appropriations Act plays a vital role in ensuring the continuous operation and functionality of the U.S. Congress and its supporting entities. The funding allocated through this act covers a wide range of expenses, including:
- Salaries and benefits for Members of Congress and their staff.
- Operational costs for congressional offices, committees, and leadership.
- Funding for support agencies that serve Congress, such as:
- The Library of Congress, which provides research and information services.
- The Government Accountability Office (GAO), responsible for auditing federal programs and expenditures.
- The Congressional Budget Office (CBO), which provides economic and budget analysis.
- The U.S. Capitol Police, ensuring the security of the Capitol complex.
- The Architect of the Capitol, responsible for the maintenance and preservation of the Capitol grounds and buildings.
By appropriating funds, HR-4364 ensures that the legislative branch has the necessary resources to carry out its constitutional duties, including lawmaking, oversight, and constituent services.
