Unauthorized Spending Accountability Act

This bill would phase down funding for federal programs whose authorizations have run out. Starting in fiscal year 2026, any program the Congressional Budget Office lists as expired or expiring would face cuts even if it still gets annual funding. The cut is 10% in the first year after the authorization ends, then 15% in the second and third years.

If a program stays unauthorized through three years of these cuts, it would end on October 1 of the next fiscal year. Leftover funds could only be used to wrap up past bills, and no new spending could happen unless Congress reauthorizes the program for up to three years. If Congress reauthorizes during the budget year (with a reauthorization that lasts no more than three years), the cuts would not apply and any reduction already taken would be restored.

Key points

• Who is affected: Federal programs on the CBO’s annual list of expired or expiring authorizations that are funded through yearly appropriations.
• What changes: A three-year reduction cycle—10% in year one after expiration, then 15% in years two and three—with termination after the third unauthorized year unless reauthorized.
• When: Begins in fiscal year 2026; termination takes effect on October 1 following the third unauthorized year.