James Madison wrote in Federalist No. 58, “This power of the purse may, in fact, be regarded the most complete and effectual weapon with which any constitution can arm the immediate representatives of the people, for obtaining a redress of every grievance, and for carrying into effect every just and salutary measure.”   The House has the power to pass revenue spending and the Senate can amend to it.  Nowhere in the Constitution does it state how a budget is pass, but this process has evolved over time. In early history, the president’s power was to influence the law making process, and to veto any legislation he did not agree with. With the passing of the Budget and Accounting Act of 1921, the president must prepare and summit an annual federal budget. Congress did not have to pass exactly what the president asks but can use it as a starting point. The fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 20. This blog will explain the steps Congress takes to pass a budget.