Budget & Spending
Earmark
Definition
A provision in legislation directing funds to a specific project, program, or organization, typically requested by a member of Congress for their district or state.
Related Terms
Appropriation
An act of Congress that provides the legal authority for federal agencies to incur obligations and make payments from the Treasury for specified purposes.
Discretionary SpendingFederal spending that Congress sets annually through the appropriations process, including defense, education, and infrastructure.
More Budget & Spending Terms
Common Questions
- What does "Earmark" mean?
- A provision in legislation directing funds to a specific project, program, or organization, typically requested by a member of Congress for their district or state.
- What terms are related to earmark?
- Related terms include: Appropriation, Discretionary Spending. Understanding these related concepts helps provide context for earmark.