Government spending articles
Get unbiased data and visuals on federal budgets, state and local governments, foreign aid, disasters relief, and other government programs.
Everything you need to know about a government shutdown
A shutdown of the United States government affects people, government agencies, and businesses not just here, but worldwide.Here are the answers to some of Americans’ most-asked questions about a government shutdown:What is a government shutdown?A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass or the president refuses to sign a spending bill to fund the federal government’s operations. This results in a funding gap that can cause several government functions to be temporarily disrupted. Government shutdowns are often resolved by Congress passing continuing resolutions, which provide short-term funding while negotiations for a long-term solution continue. Every shutdown since 1990 has been ended with a continuing resolution.
Oct 8, 2025What happens during a government shutdown furlough?
When Congress doesn’t pass a law to fund the government, many federal operations pause until new funding is approved. During these periods, known as government shutdowns, some federal employees are placed on temporary unpaid leave, called furloughs, while others continue working in essential roles.
Oct 8, 2025What happens to data during a government shutdown?
When the government shuts down, some operations continue, and some do not. This depends on what the Antideficiency Act defines as excepted, or “essential,” and nonexcepted, or “nonessential.” Like everything else, data maintenance, upkeep, and availability fall into these categories. Government activities and personnel are considered essential and can continue certain functions if they are: Authorized by law (like Social Security payments) Necessary to protect life or property (like law enforcement, medical care, air traffic control, SNAP benefits) Necessary to facilitate an orderly shutdown of the government (like issuing furlough notices). Federal activities can also continue if they are funded separately from annual appropriations. This includes Postal Service operations, which are funded by revenue from postage and other mail services rather than taxpayer appropriations. This also includes the Federal Reserve, which funds its operations independently from the federal budget through income on its own assets.
Oct 6, 2025How much does FEMA spend on disaster response?
Around $31.7 billion per year on average, according to the last five years of data. In 2024, that would have been around 0.47% of the federal budget. This funding goes toward direct aid for individuals, debris removal, repairing public infrastructure, and projects that reduce future disaster risks.
Updates monthlyHow much money does the government spend per person?
The federal government spent $6.8 trillion in 2024, up 6.7% from the previous year after adjusting for inflation. Spending per person totaled $19,932 per person, a 5.6% increase from 2023. Expenditures were distributed across several major categories, with the largest portions going towards Social Security at $4,295, defense and veterans spending at $3,518, and transfers to state and local governments at $3,368.
Sep 30, 2025How are public schools in the US funded?
Primarily from state and local governments. In the 2021–2022 school year, the most recent year of available data, about 44.1% of public school funding came from state sources like income and retail taxes, and another 42.2% came from local sources like property taxes. The federal government provided the remaining 13.7%, often through programs like Title I or IDEA that are aimed at supporting specific student needs. Altogether, public schools received $909.2 billion in funding, or $18,500 per student.
Updates annuallyGovernment shutdown 2025: What to know
In the final week of the fiscal year, the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) sent a memo to agencies directing them to prepare for layoffs in the event of a government shutdown on October 1.Congress is considering budget legislation to continue to fund the federal government into fiscal year 2026. Without another continuing resolution, the current resolution will expire, shutting down the government.
Sep 26, 2025What does the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) do?
The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for managing and administering land held in trust by the US for Native Americans, Native American tribes, and Alaska Natives. The agency provides services directly or through contracts, grants, and compacts to federally recognized tribes. It was established in 1824.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) do?
The Office of Insular Affairs is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for overseeing federal administration of the US territories. The agency works to ensure that the territories receive appropriate federal support and services and coordinates with territorial governments to address their needs. It was established in 1934.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) do?
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of healthcare for all Americans. The agency conducts research to provide evidence-based information on healthcare outcomes, quality, cost, use, and access. It also develops tools and resources to help healthcare providers and policymakers make informed decisions. It was established in 1989.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) do?
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for ensuring the safe and secure movement of hazardous materials through the nation. It was established in 2005.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) do?
The Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for promoting viable communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income persons.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) do?
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for developing and influencing policies and practices that improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities. It was established in 2001.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) do?
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is a subdivision of the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities responsible for administering grants to America's museums, libraries, and related organizations. It was established in 1996.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) do?
The Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for promoting homeownership by guaranteeing mortgage-backed securities, ensuring that mortgage lenders have the necessary funds to offer loans to homebuyers. It was established in 1968.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) do?
The Bureau of Prisons (BOP) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for the administration of the federal prison system. The agency ensures that federal inmates are confined in facilities that are safe, humane, cost-efficient, and secure. It also provides programs and services to inmates that facilitate their successful reintegration into society. The Bureau of Prisons was established in 1930.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) do?
The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for providing job training, and labor market information to prospective job seekers. The agency aims to strengthen the workforce. It offers programs and initiatives to support job seekers, employers, and communities in achieving economic stability and growth. It was established in its current form in 1975.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) do?
The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for overseeing the safe and environmentally responsible development of the nation's offshore energy resources. The agency enforces safety and environmental regulations, conducts inspections, and ensures compliance with federal laws to prevent oil spills and other hazards. It also promotes the use of best practices and technologies to enhance safety and environmental protection. It was established in 2011.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) do?
The Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for offering the President objective economic advice on the formulation of both domestic and international economic policy. The agency analyzes and interprets economic developments, appraises programs and policies of the federal government, and recommends economic policies that will promote employment, production, and purchasing power. It was established in 1946.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Rural Housing Service (RHS) do?
The Rural Housing Service (RHS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing financial assistance and support to improve housing and infrastructure in rural areas. It was established in 1994.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS) do?
The Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for operating and maintaining the US portion of the Saint Lawrence Seaway, which runs between Montreal and Lake Erie. The agency ensures the safe and efficient movement of vessels through the seaway, conducts infrastructure maintenance, and promotes economic development in the Great Lakes region. It was established in 1954.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission (FCSC) do?
The Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States (FCSC) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for adjudicating claims of US nationals against foreign governments. It was established in 1954.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) do?
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for enforcing and administering laws covering the production, use, and distribution of alcohol and tobacco products. The agency ensures that these products are labeled, advertised, and marketed in accordance with the law, and it collects excise taxes on alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and ammunition. It also works to prevent unfair and unlawful market practices and to protect consumers. It was established in 2003 under the Homeland Security Act. Regulation of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms have existed in some form by federal agencies since 1789.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH) do?
The Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for addressing lead-based paint hazards and other health and safety hazards in homes. The agency works to eliminate lead-based paint hazards in privately-owned and low-income housing, as well as to promote healthy housing through various programs and initiatives. It was established in 1992.
Updates annuallyWhat does the House of Representatives (HOUSE) do?
The House of Representatives (the House) is one of two chambers of the legislative branch responsible for creating and passing federal laws. It has 435 voting members, each representing a district within one of the 50 states. Members serve two-year terms and can be re-elected an unlimited number of times. As one of the chambers of Congress, the House introduces and votes on bills, drafts budget and appropriatons legislation, conducts investigations, and initiates impeachment proceedings against federal officials. It was established in 1789.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) do?
The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for managing US agriculture trade. The agency works to improve foreign market access for US products, build new markets, improve the competitive position of US agriculture in the global marketplace, and provide food aid and technical assistance to foreign countries. It was established in 1953.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) do?
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for helping farmers and landowners conserve natural resources. It was established in 1935.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) do?
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, geographically isolated, or medically vulnerable. The agency provides funding to health providers, supports health workforce training, and oversees discounted prescription drug progams. It was established in 1982.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) do?
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for promoting the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. The agency runs programs that provide services and support for vulnerable populations, including child welfare, early childhood education, and family assistance. It was established in 1991.
Updates annuallyWhat does the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) do?
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for advising the president on telecommunications and information policy issues. It was established in 1978.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) do?
The Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for ensuring the security of retirement, health, and other workplace-related benefits for America's workers and their families. The agency enforces the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and provides assistance to workers in understanding their rights and benefits. It also oversees the administration of pension plans and health plans to ensure compliance with federal regulations. It was established in 1974.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) do?
The Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for ensuring that employers doing business with the federal government comply with the laws and regulations requiring nondiscrimination. It was established in 1965.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) do?
The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for promoting and protecting democracy and integrity within labor unions by enforcing standards for union officer elections, investigating violations, and requiring public disclosure of union financial information. It was established in 1959.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) do?
The Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for establishing the nation's drug control program. The agency aims to reduce illicit drug use, manufacturing, and trafficking, drug-related crime and violence, and drug-related health consequences. It was established in 1988.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Bureau of Trust Funds Administration (BTFA) do?
The Bureau of Trust Funds Administration (BTFA) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for managing financial assets held in trust by the federal government for Native American tribes and individual Native Americans. The agency ensures the proper management, investment, and disbursement of these trust funds, providing accountability and transparency in its operations. It was established to uphold the federal government's trust responsibilities and to support the economic development and financial stability of Native American communities. It was established in it's current form in 2020.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Farm Production and Conservation Business Center (FPAC) do?
The Farm Production and Conservation Business Center (FPAC) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing support services to the agencies within the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area. These services include financial management, human resources, acquisitions, and information technology. The FPAC Business Center aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency, allowing the FPAC agencies to focus on delivering programs and services to farmers, ranchers, and landowners. It was established in 2018.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Program Support Center (PSC) do?
The Program Support Center (PSC) is a subdivision of the US Department of Health and Human Services responsible for providing a wide range of administrative and operational support services to various components of the department and other federal agencies. These services include financial management, human resources, procurement, and other essential functions that help ensure the efficient operation of government programs. The PSC aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of government operations through shared services and innovative solutions. It was established in 1995.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Senate do?
The Senate is one of two chambers of the legislative branch responsible for creating and passing federal laws. It has 100 members — two from each state — who serve six-year terms with no limit. As one of the chambers of Congress, the Senate enacts federal laws, sets federal budgets, declares wars and approves treaties, confirms presidential appointments like judges and cabinet members, and conducts impeachment trials for federal officials. It was established in 1789.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) do?
The Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for coordinating federal environmental efforts and working closely with agencies and other White House offices in the development of environmental policies and initiatives. The CEQ oversees the implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), ensuring that federal agencies meet their obligations under the Act. It also advises the President on environmental policies and initiatives. It was established in 1969.
Updates annuallyWhat does the Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) do?
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for granting patents for the protection of inventions and registering trademarks for product and intellectual property identification. The agency ensures that inventors and businesses have exclusive rights to their discoveries and branding. It was established in 1802.
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