Summary of Bill S. 2354: Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026

Bill Number: S. 2354

Introduced: July 17, 2025

Status: Introduced in Senate

Primary Sponsor: Senator Jerry Moran

Total Appropriations: $82,648,000,000 for FY 2026

Purpose of the Bill

The Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 aims to allocate federal funding for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, various science agencies, and related commissions for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. The bill seeks to enhance the operational capabilities of these departments and agencies, ensuring they can effectively fulfill their missions.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant funding allocations and provisions:

1. Total Funding Increase: The bill proposes a total of $82.65 billion, which is an increase of approximately $7.06 billion from the previous fiscal year (2025), which had appropriations of $75.59 billion.

2. Departmental Allocations:

   • Department of Commerce: Funding for various agencies including:
     • International Trade Administration: $605 million for international trade activities.
     • Bureau of Industry and Security: $211 million for export administration and national security activities.
     • Economic Development Administration: $360 million for economic development assistance programs.
     • Minority Business Development Agency: $55 million to promote minority business enterprises.
   • Department of Justice: Funding for law enforcement, legal activities, and community-oriented policing services.
   • Science Agencies: Support for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, NASA, and the National Science Foundation.

3. Reporting and Oversight: The bill includes provisions for enhanced reporting requirements to combat waste, fraud, and abuse within the funded agencies.

4. Child Care Access: It emphasizes access to high-quality, affordable child care for federal employees, aiming to improve workforce participation and support.

5. General Provisions: The bill outlines various operational guidelines and compliance measures for the funded agencies, including provisions for reprogramming funds and managing indirect costs.

Impact

The bill is expected to impact a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Federal Agencies: Enhanced funding will allow agencies to improve services, increase staffing, and expand programs.
- Businesses: Increased support for trade and economic development initiatives will benefit U.S. businesses, particularly in export and minority business sectors.
- Communities: Funding for law enforcement and community programs aims to enhance public safety and support local initiatives.

Procedural Aspects

• The bill was reported favorably by the Senate Committee on Appropriations on the same day it was introduced.
• It is currently placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 122) for further consideration.

This summary provides an overview of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on various sectors.