Archive · 12 Aug 2025
Trump's Budget Strategy: Pocket Rescission Power Play
Imagine the government has a budget, and Congress decides how to spend the money.
Sometimes, the President wants to stop spending on certain things.
Usually, this needs Congress's approval.
But, the Trump administration is looking at a tactic called a "pocket rescission".
This means asking Congress to cancel some spending just before the end of the year, when there isn't much time to argue about it.
Some people think this is a sneaky way to avoid what Congress wants, and it might not be legal.
But, the Supreme Court might let it happen anyway, which means the President could have more power over how the government spends money.
The Trump administration is reportedly planning to use "pocket rescissions" to block funding near the end of the fiscal year.
A "pocket rescission" involves the president asking Congress to cancel funds shortly before the fiscal year ends, giving little time for consideration.
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) may use section 1012 of the 1974 Impoundment Control Act for these rescissions.
The legality of pocket rescissions is debated, with some arguing they bypass congressional authority over government funding.
The Supreme Court is unlikely to halt the practice, potentially granting the Trump administration broad authority based on the "unitary executive theory".
- Who
- The Trump administration and Congress.
- What
- The potential use of "pocket rescissions" by the Trump administration to block government funding.
- When
- The current fiscal year ends on Sept. 30. A pocket rescission may be used around the government funding deadline.
- Where
- The United States
- Why
- To potentially bypass congressional authority over government spending.
Critics' Viewpoint
Administration Viewpoint
Authority Over Funding
Critics' Viewpoint
Pocket rescissions bypass congressional authority.
Administration Viewpoint
The OMB asserts there is nothing controversial about the use of pocket rescissions.
Legality
Critics' Viewpoint
It potentially undermines the law.
Administration Viewpoint
Some presidents have employed the maneuver without being accused of causing a constitutional crisis.
- Fiscal Year End
- September 30
- Pocket Rescission Timing
- Around 45 days before the end of the fiscal year
- Legal Basis
- Section 1012 of the 1974 Impoundment Control Act
- Government Agency
- Government Accountability Office (GAO)
- OMB Director
- Russell Vought