Continuing resolution
Definition
A continuing resolution, or CR, is a temporary law that funds federal agencies at existing levels when Congress misses the October 1 deadline to pass regular appropriations bills. It keeps government open for a set period, from days to months, while lawmakers finish real spending bills.
Why it matters
Governing by repeated short-term CRs freezes agencies out of starting new programs or adjusting to changed needs, since a CR generally just extends last year's funding levels. It also hands whoever controls the CR's expiration date leverage to force unrelated concessions, because letting government funding lapse becomes the alternative to compromise.
Seen in the wild
Fiscal year 2026 began on October 1, 2025 with no appropriations bills enacted, producing the longest government shutdown in history at 43 days, ended by a continuing resolution funding most agencies through January 30, 2026.1