HR 5371: Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026

Summary

This bill, known as the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act, 2026, is a broad piece of legislation that provides continuing appropriations for various federal agencies and programs. The main purposes of the bill are:

1. Continuing Appropriations: The bill extends government funding at current levels for agencies and programs whose regular appropriations have not been enacted for the 2026 fiscal year. This allows the government to continue operating without interruption.

2. Specific Appropriations: In addition to the continuing appropriations, the bill provides new funding for the following areas:

   • Agriculture programs
   • Legislative branch operations
   • Military construction projects
   • Veterans Affairs programs

3. Extensions: The bill also extends the authorization and funding for several existing federal programs that were set to expire, including:

   • The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
   • The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program
   • The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

Key Provisions

• Provides continuing appropriations through December 31, 2026 for federal agencies and programs whose regular appropriations have not been enacted
• Appropriates new funding for the following areas:
  • $23.4 billion for the Department of Agriculture
  • $5.2 billion for the legislative branch
  • $12.1 billion for military construction projects
  • $136.4 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs
• Extends authorization and funding for SNAP, TANF, CHIP, and other programs set to expire

Impact

The bill's main impact is to ensure the continued operation of the federal government and key programs by providing temporary funding. It will affect a wide range of federal agencies, programs, and beneficiaries, including:

• Farmers, ranchers, and others who rely on USDA programs
• Members of Congress and legislative branch staff
• Military service members and their families
• Veterans and their families who utilize VA services and benefits

By extending critical social safety net programs like SNAP and CHIP, the bill will also help provide stability and support for low-income individuals and families.

Procedural Details

• The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 16, 2025.
• After passing both the House and Senate, the bill was agreed to without objection, indicating broad bipartisan support.
• The bill provides continuing appropriations through the end of the 2026 fiscal year, giving Congress more time to negotiate and pass regular appropriations bills.