The Executive Budget Process Timetable (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Dec. 5, 2012 |
| Report Number |
RS20152 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Michelle D. Christensen, Analyst in Government Organization and Management; Clinton T. Brass, Specialist in Government Organization and Management |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
The executive budget process is a complex set of activities that includes (1) development of the President's budget proposal, (2) submission and justification of the President's budget proposal, and (3) execution of enacted appropriations and other budgetary legislation. While some of the activities are required by specific dates, many follow a more flexible schedule established by formal and informal rules and procedures.
Under Title 31 of the U.S. Code, the President is responsible for developing and submitting a consolidated budget to Congress no later than the first Monday in February prior to the start of the fiscal year. The President is also required to submit a supplemental summary of the budget, commonly referred to as the mid-session review (or MSR), on or before July 15 each year.
Development of the President's Budget Proposal. Generally, development of the President's budget proposal begins approximately 10 months before the President must submit the proposal to Congress, which is about 18 months prior to the start of the fiscal year that the budget will cover. Early in the development phase, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issues a budget planning guidance memorandum, also referred to as the "Spring Guidance." In accordance with this guidance, executive agencies submit their budget requests and supporting materials to OMB for review, culminating in final approval by the OMB Director and the President.
Submission and Justification of the President's Budget Proposal. Early in the congressional budget process, shortly after the President submits the budget proposal to Congress, agencies submit written justifications of their budget requests to each chamber's appropriations committee and subcommittees of jurisdiction. In addition, Administration and agency officials may be called before the appropriations subcommittees to justify and explain the budget requests to Congress.
Execution of Enacted Appropriations and Other Budgetary Legislation. Once appropriations and other budgetary legislation have been enacted, OMB apportions available funds to executive agencies by time period, program, project, or activity. Throughout the fiscal year, agencies allocate, obligate, and expend funds. If necessary, agencies may request supplemental appropriations, and the President may propose supplemental appropriations or other budgetary adjustments to Congress.
