The House Appropriations Committee has released three Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills: the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026.
These bills, which were negotiated on a bipartisan and bicameral basis, propose targeted investments across several sectors.
Key Investment Areas:
- Energy and National Security: Bolstering U.S. energy capabilities and nuclear deterrence.
- Law Enforcement and Public Safety: Strengthening law enforcement efforts and initiatives to combat illicit drugs.
- Resource Management: Expanding access to critical minerals, supporting wildland firefighters, and managing land resources.
- Community Projects: Funding for water infrastructure, ports, and flood control projects.
Committee Chairman Tom Cole stated that this package represents progress toward completing FY26 funding. He noted that it invests in community safety, affordable energy, and resource management, while also delivering community projects.
Legislative Process:
The release of these three bills is part of the committee's objective to complete all 12 FY26 appropriations bills. Differences between the House and Senate versions of the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies; and Interior, Environment and Related Agencies appropriations bills were reconciled through bipartisan, bicameral negotiations.
This package maintains existing legislative provisions (referred to as 'legacy riders') concerning abortion and gun rights. Additionally, the total FY26 spending outlined in this agreement is reported to be below the level projected under the current continuing resolution.