### Question
How is the term spending authority defined?


### Answer
The term **spending authority** is defined in *2 U.S.C. § 651* as the following:

> authority (whether temporary or permanent)—


(A) to enter into contracts under which the United States is obligated to make outlays, the budget authority for which is not provided in advance by appropriation Acts

#### Citation:
  - *2 U.S.C. § 651*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 17A-CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET AND FISCAL OPERATIONS > SUBCHAPTER II-FISCAL PROCEDURES > Part A-General Provisions**

