Appropriations Clause | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Policing

The Appropriations Clause, also known as the “Power of the Purse,” is a clause in the United States Constitution that gives Congress the authority to control the federal government’s spending and financial transactions.


The Appropriations Clause, also known as the “Power of the Purse,” is a fundamental component of the United States Constitution that gives Congress the power to control the federal government’s spending and financial transactions. This is a vital component of the checks and balances system in the U.S. government and ensures that the use of taxpayer funds is subject to democratic processes and scrutiny.

The Appropriations Clause is found in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 of the Constitution, and its wording is concise and to the point: “No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.” This means that no federal agency, department, or branch can use government funds for any purpose without explicit authorization from Congress.

This clause is especially significant in the context of the separation of powers in the U.S. government. The legislative branch has the power to control the purse strings, while the executive branch has the power to execute policies and administer the government. This means that Congress can use its power of the purse to limit the actions of the executive branch and ensure that its policies are in line with the will of the people.

The Appropriations Clause is also an essential component of Congress’s oversight powers. By controlling the funding of federal agencies and departments, Congress can influence and monitor their activities, including their use of taxpayer funds. This is particularly important for ensuring that federal agencies are accountable and transparent in their operations.

In practice, the Appropriations Clause is used to authorize and allocate funds for a wide range of government activities, including defense spending, infrastructure projects, social programs, and research initiatives. Congress must approve a budget every fiscal year to ensure that the government has the necessary funds to carry out its functions.

The Appropriations Clause has also been used as the basis for legal challenges and disputes between Congress and the executive branch. In some cases, the president may attempt to use government funds for a purpose that Congress has not authorized, leading to a constitutional crisis. In such situations, the courts may be called upon to interpret the Constitution and clarify the scope of the Appropriations Clause.


[ Glossary ]

Last Modified: 05/03/2023

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