The Committee on Appropriations holds the power of the purse, responsible for writing legislation that allocates federal funds to numerous government agencies, departments, and organizations. Its twelve subcommittees determine spending levels for discretionary programs across the government, after reviewing presidential budget requests and holding hearings.

The Committee on the Budget establishes the annual framework for congressional spending and revenue levels through the budget resolution process. It oversees the Congressional Budget Office and monitors federal budget enforcement, analyzing the financial impact of proposed legislation.