This CLE program provides attorneys with a clear introduction to the federal appropriations process and its critical role in government operations. Participants will examine how Congress authorizes, appropriates, and directs funding for federal departments and agencies—covering expenditures that range from routine supplies to massive infrastructure projects and defense contracts.

The session will highlight how the U.S. Constitution and federal statutes shape the use of appropriated funds, including the restrictions on when, how, and why agencies may spend them. Special attention will be given to the duties and potential liabilities of individuals serving as accountable officers, offering practical insights into their responsibilities under federal law.