As a federal agency that administers discretionary programs, IMLS is funded through the annual federal appropriations process. This begins by working with the White House Office of Management and Budget each fall to determine an appropriate budget request for the next fiscal year.

Traditionally, in early February the President issues his request—for IMLS and all federal agencies that use discretionary funds—to Congress. Using this request as a guideline, Congress then works to pass an appropriations bill that the President will sign into law. There are several stages to this process, including adoption of a budget resolution, drafting of the specific appropriations bills, voting on proposed amendments to the bills, and conferences to resolve differences in the House and Senate versions of the bills.

Often Congress is unable to finish its appropriations work before the next fiscal year begins in October. When that happens, the legislature usually passes continuing resolutions, which maintain the current fiscal year’s spending levels until new appropriations are made. Sometimes several appropriations bills are rolled into one "omnibus" bill.

Throughout this process, IMLS works with the congressional appropriations committees and others to increase understanding of the agency’s programs and operational needs.

When both the House and Senate have voted to pass identical versions of an appropriations bill, it is then sent to the President to be signed into law. As with most legislation, the President has the option to veto. But unlike other bills, appropriations measures must eventually be enacted or continuing resolutions must be passed to avert the interruption of government services and programs.

IMLS Appropriations History FY 2016 – FY 2025 (PDF, 67KB)

IMLS Budget Appropriations Table FY 2023 – FY 2025 (PDF, 159KB)