Definition

Noun: A legislative bill that proposes to authorize the government to spend public money for a specific, stated purpose. It is a formal request for funds from the legislature, detailing how much money is needed and for what exact use.

Usage

An appropriation bill is a specific type of legislation. It is introduced in a legislative body (like a parliament or congress) to legally permit the withdrawal of funds from the treasury. Its passage is necessary for the government to fund its operations and programs.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The congress debated the annual appropriation bill for the defense department.
  • Passing the appropriation bill is essential to keep government agencies running.
  • The senator proposed an amendment to the appropriation bill to increase funding for education.

Advanced Usage

• "to introduce an appropriation bill": The formal act of presenting the bill to the legislature for consideration.
  • The committee chair will introduce the appropriation bill next week.
• "to pass an appropriation bill": The act of the legislature approving the bill, making it law.
  • The government cannot spend the money until they pass the appropriation bill.

Variants and Related Words

• Appropriation (n): The act of setting aside money for a specific purpose; also refers to the sum of money that is set aside.
  • The budget includes a large appropriation for infrastructure.
• Continuing Resolution (n): A temporary law that funds government agencies at existing levels when a regular appropriation bill has not been passed by the deadline.
  • Congress passed a continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown.

Synonyms

• Spending bill: A legislative bill authorizing government expenditures.
• Supply bill: A term used in some parliamentary systems for legislation granting funds to the government.

Related Phrases

• Appropriations Committee: The legislative committee responsible for reviewing and drafting appropriation bills.
  • The proposal must first be reviewed by the Appropriations Committee.

Noun

1. a legislative act proposing to authorize the expenditure of public funds for a specified purpose