GAO Glossary of Terms and Definitions (September 2005)

Current Rate

Used in a continuing resolution, the total amount of budget authority that was available for obligation for an activity during the fiscal year immediately prior to the one for which the continuing resolution is enacted. Congress often uses the “current rate” as part of a formula to indicate a level of spending that it desires for a program for the duration of the continuing resolution. The current rate does not allow agencies to fund new initiatives, programs, or both requested for the current year unless Congress specifically authorizes them to be funded. (See also Continuing Appropriation/Continuing Resolution; Seasonal Rate.)

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