Continuing resolution
A joint resolution of Congress that provides funds to continue the operation of federal agencies and programs at the beginning of a new fiscal year if their annual appropriation bills have not yet been enacted; also called continuing appropriations.
Enacted shortly before or after the new fiscal year begins, the first continuing resolution usually makes funds available for a specified period; additional resolutions are often needed after the first expires. Some continuing resolutions have provided appropriations for an entire fiscal year.
SOURCE: House Budget Committee
National Debt Glossary
Looks up the key terms for understanding America's financial crisis