### Question
How does CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET AND FISCAL OPERATIONS define spending authority?


### Answer
Under *2 U.S.C. § 651*, **spending authority** is defined as:

> 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**

