# Plain Language Summary: Eliminate Congressional Slush Funds Act

This bill would take back money that Congress previously gave to the Department of Commerce. Specifically, it targets funds that were set aside in 2023 for the Commerce Department's "Nonrecurring Expenses Fund"—basically a pool of money meant for unexpected or one-time costs. The bill would permanently cancel any of that money that hasn't already been spent, sending it back to reduce the federal deficit instead.

The practical effect is straightforward: less money available for the Commerce Department to use for unforeseen expenses or special projects. This could affect various Commerce Department operations, from the Census Bureau to trade initiatives to patent and trademark services. However, the impact depends on how much of that money was actually still sitting unused when this bill would take effect.

The bill's supporters call it a "slush fund" elimination, suggesting the money was being held loosely without clear purpose. Critics might argue that having emergency funds available helps agencies respond to unexpected needs without constantly going back to Congress for approval. Either way, if this bill passes, it would represent Congress taking a harder line on how much discretionary money federal agencies can hold onto for future use.

Eliminate Congressional Slush Funds Act

Roy, Chip

Eliminate Congressional Slush Funds ActThis bill rescinds specified unobligated funds that were provided for the Department of Commerce Nonrecurring Expenses Fund by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023.&nbsp;The bill also prohibits the budgetary effects of this bill from being counted for the purposes of certain budget enforcement procedures and spending allocations for congressional committees.