Government articles
How much debt does the US have?
The US has $39 trillion in debt as of April 2026. The federal government borrows money when its spending and investments cannot be funded by federal revenue alone; this debt enables the government to pay for programs and services when funds aren’t immediately available.
How much federal money goes toward all state and local governments?
The federal government provided $1.22 trillion to state and local governments in fiscal year (FY) 2025. This total includes money transferred to states, tribal governments, and local governments, such as cities and counties. Federal funding helps state and local governments pay for things like infrastructure, education, and health care for low-income people. In FY 2025, these transfers made up 17% of all federal spending.
How much money does the US federal government collect?
The federal government collected $5.26 trillion in fiscal year 2025. This is about $15,400 per person in the US, however individual contributions vary based on income, spending, and other factors. Government revenue is the total amount of money received from individual and corporate taxes, and other sources that are used to pay for government spending.
How much does the federal government spend on SNAP every year?
The federal government spent $101.7 billion on SNAP during fiscal year (FY) 2025. That’s 1.4% of all federal spending. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), once known as the Food Stamp program, is administered by the Department of Agriculture providing food assistance to low-income people.
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.
How many people receive SNAP benefits in the US every month?
About 42.1 million people received SNAP benefits during fiscal year (FY) 2025. That’s 12.3% of the US population. Participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is determined based on household income levels. SNAP, once known as the Food Stamp program, is administered by the Department of Agriculture providing food assistance to low-income individuals.
How do marijuana laws differ between states?
While marijuana remains illegal at the federal level per the 1970 Controlled Substances Act (CSA), the US has become a patchwork of state-determined laws pertaining to the drug. Some states have legalized recreational marijuana, others allow medicinal use and/or CBD oil. A few states have decriminalized the plant, and a handful follow the federal guidelines. What does marijuana legalization mean?In the United States, marijuana legalization refers to the process of making marijuana use, possession, and sales legal under certain conditions. Adults in states where the drug is legal can use it for both medical and recreational purposes, following state laws. Legalization allows for regulated sales of products that contain cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Medical cannabis laws also fall under this category, permitting patients with conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, insomnia, and depression to use the substances for treatment. Since marijuana remains federally classified as an illegal drug, state legalization has many implications on federal income taxes filed by dispensaries, as well as the cross-border sale and transportation of cannabis products.
How much do you pay in gas taxes?
US gas prices increased by $1.11 per gallon — about 37% — from March to April while the global economy responded the limited crude oil supply passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The average per-gallon price rose from $3.02 on March 2 to $4.12 on April 27, according to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). But prices vary broadly by state. Californians, who are paying $5.79 at the average station as of the latest data, may not feel much sympathy for their Texan counterparts, who pay $3.66 (even after an increase of over a dollar locally, as well). Gas prices in California haven’t been that low in over five years. So why the regional differences? The EIA says it’s everything from a region’s proximity to the supply to competition among local gas stations. Some factors — like supply disruptions — can be out of government’s (and even industry’s) control. But other factors are more directly in the hands of regional governments. Perhaps most directly: taxes. How do gas taxes work? A little over half of what you pay per gallon of gas covers the cost of the crude oil. Another 20% is refinery costs, and 11% is marketing and distribution. The remaining 18% is tax. When you fill up at the pump, your purchase is subject to multiple layers of taxation. The federal government imposes a flat tax on all gas purchases. Congress raised this to 18.4 cents per gallon in 1993 and it hasn’t changed since. Plus, every state government and Washington, DC, levy their own per-gallon gasoline excise taxes. On top of any volume-based taxes, most states have general sales taxes that add some percentage of all purchases, including gas. Finally, state legislation sometimes includes additional fees for storage, inspection, environmental cleanup, or other considerations.
What percentage of public school funding in the US comes from the federal government?
About 12.9% or one in every eight dollars of public school funding came from the federal government during the 2022–23 school year. Local and state governments typically provide most school district funding, with the federal government providing in the rest. Federal sources provide as little as 0% and as much as 88.2% of funding, depending on the district. Federal funding depends on factors such as poverty levels and other student demographics, availability of state and local revenues, and whether a district is urban, suburban, or rural. During 2022–23, which is the latest year of data available, public schools received $126.4 billion, or $2,558 in federal funds per student.
What does the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) do?
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for protecting and promoting US agricultural health, regulating genetically engineered organisms, administering the Animal Welfare Act, and carrying out wildlife damage management activities. APHIS works to ensure the health and care of animals and plants, in relation to the economy and public health. It was established in 1972.
What does the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) do?
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) is a national institution dedicated to the documentation, study, and interpretation of Holocaust history. The museum's primary mission is to advance and disseminate knowledge about this history, and educate citizens and leaders to confront hatred and prevent genocide. The museum was established in 1993. The Council that founded it, the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, was established by Congress in 1980.
What 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.
What 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.
What does the Maritime Administration (MARAD) do?
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for the waterborne transportation system of the United States. It oversees the US merchant marine and supports national defense and economic needs. It was established in 1950.
What does the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) do?
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for adjudicating immigration cases by interpreting and administering immigration laws. The agency conducts immigration court proceedings, appellate reviews, and administrative hearings. It aims to ensure the fair and uniform application of immigration laws. It was established in 1983.
What 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.
What 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.
What does the Risk Management Agency (RMA) do?
The Risk Management Agency (RMA) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for helping farmers and ranchers manage their business risks. The agency provides crop insurance to protect against agricultural production losses due to natural disasters. It was established in 1996.
What 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.
What 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.
What 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.
What 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.
What does the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) do?
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is a subdivision of The Executive Office of the President responsible for assisting the President in overseeing the preparation of the federal budget and supervising its administration in Executive Branch agencies. The OMB evaluates the effectiveness of agency programs, policies, and procedures, assesses competing funding demands among agencies, and sets funding priorities. It also ensures that agency reports, rules, testimony, and proposed legislation are consistent with the President's budget and administration policies. It was established in 1970.
What does the Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) do?
The Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for promoting and ensuring access to quality postsecondary education. The agency administers programs that support higher education institutions, provide financial assistance to students, and promote innovation and improvement in postsecondary education. It also works to ensure equal access to education and to foster educational excellence throughout the nation. It was established in 1980.
What does the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) do?
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is an independent agency responsible for consumer protection in the financial sector. The bureau's primary mission is to ensure that markets for consumer financial products and services work for Americans. The CFPB enforces federal consumer financial laws, supervises financial institutions, and educates consumers to make informed financial decisions. It was established in 2010 as part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
What does the Farm Service Agency (FSA) do?
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture that administers farm loans, commodity and marketing programs, conservation efforts, and disaster assistance. Its programs help stabilize farm income, support land and water conservation, provide credit to new or disadvantaged farmers, and aid recovery from natural disasters. The agency was established in it's current form in 1994.
What does the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) do?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. The agency collects, analyzes, and disseminates essential economic information to support public and private decision-making. It also conducts research and provides data on employment, unemployment, inflation, productivity, and other economic indicators. It was established in 1884.
What does the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) do?
The Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) is an independent federal agency responsible for investigating industrial chemical accidents. The board's primary mission is to determine the root causes of chemical incidents and provide recommendations to prevent future occurrences. The CSB advocates for the implementation of safety measures to protect workers, the public, and the environment. It was established in 1998.
What does the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) do?
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for providing quality education opportunities from early childhood through life in accordance with a tribe's needs for cultural and economic well-being. It was established in 2006.
What does the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) do?
The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing statistics in service to national agriculture. It was established in 1863.
What does the Economic Research Service (ERS) do?
The Economic Research Service (ERS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing economic research and analysis on policy related to agriculture, food, the environment, and rural development. The agency conducts research to inform public and private decision-making on topics such as agricultural productivity, food safety, and the economic well-being of rural America. It was established in 1961.
What does the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) do?
The 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.
What does the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) do?
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for advancing US national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system. The agency controls which sensitive goods and technologies can be sold or shared abroad. It makes sure companies follow international arms control rules and works to stop the spread of weapons of mass destruction. It was established in it's current form in 2002. Prior to then, it was known as the Bureau of Export Administration.
What does the Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH) do?
The Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for ensuring safe, decent, and affordable housing for low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, as well as the Native American population. It was established in 1965.
What does the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) do?
The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security that provides training for law enforcement professionals throughout their careers. Its programs cover areas such as criminal investigation, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity, preparing personnel to protect and serve the public. The center was established in 1970.
What does the Science and Technology Directorate (ST) do?
The Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for providing the department science and technology support. The directorate conducts research, development, testing, and evaluation of technologies and capabilities to counter threats and enhance security. It was established in 2003.
What 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.
What 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.
What does the Bureau of Engraving and Printing do?
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for designing and producing paper currency (but not coins — those are produced by US Mint), and ensuring enough are in circulation. The agency ensures the integrity and security of the nation's currency and other government documents through advanced printing techniques and technologies. It was established in 1862.
What does the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) do?
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Justice responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. The agency aims to reduce the availability of illicit controlled substances on the domestic and international markets. It also works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations and collaborates with other agencies to combat drug-related crimes. It was established in 1973.