Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027

Enumerated powers · passes

Congress has express authority for this act under Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 to pay the debts and provide for the general welfare, and Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 which requires that no money be drawn from the Treasury but in consequence of appropriations made by law. A continuing resolution funding federal agencies is the core exercise of the appropriations power.

Bill of Rights · passes

No provision restricts speech, religion, press, assembly under First Amendment, arms under Second Amendment, or imposes searches under Fourth Amendment. Funding at prior-year levels and extension of existing programs does not abridge any right in Amendments 1-10.

Individual liberty · passes

The bill does not restrict any person in use of person, property, speech, labor, or belief. It directs government funding levels under Article I, Section 8 and imposes no mandate, prohibition, or penalty on private conduct, so no justification burden is triggered.

Decentralization · passes

Funding existing federal agencies and operations cannot be performed by an individual, county, or state alone. The bill maintains the status quo at FY2026 levels through December 4, 2026 rather than creating new federal control over matters reserved by the Tenth Amendment, so it does not consolidate upward beyond the minimum necessary.

Due process and takings · passes

No deprivation of life, liberty, or property without notice and hearing under Fifth Amendment Due Process Clause, and no taking of private property for public use without just compensation under Fifth Amendment Takings Clause. Death gratuities cited are customary payments authorized by law, not confiscations.