Government and Civil Service Public Administration and Government Operations

Question 1

What is the federal fiscal year in the United States?

Accepted Answer

October 1 to September 30

Answer

The US federal fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30, meaning FY2026 begins on October 1, 2025.

Question 2

What happens during a federal government shutdown?

Accepted Answer

Non-essential federal agencies and operations cease due to lack of appropriations

Answer

A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass appropriations legislation, forcing non-essential federal agencies to furlough employees and cease operations.

Question 3

What is the difference between discretionary and mandatory federal spending?

Accepted Answer

Discretionary requires annual appropriations; mandatory is automatically funded by law

Answer

Discretionary spending requires annual appropriations from Congress, while mandatory spending like Social Security and Medicare is automatically funded by existing law.

Question 4

What is an appropriations bill?

Accepted Answer

Congressional legislation that funds specific federal agencies and programs

Answer

An appropriations bill is legislation passed by Congress that actually allocates specific amounts of money to fund federal agencies and programs for a fiscal year.

Question 5

Which principle requires that federal money be spent only for purposes Congress has approved?

Accepted Answer

Anti-Deficiency Act

Answer

The Anti-Deficiency Act prohibits federal agencies from obligating or spending funds beyond what Congress has appropriated, or in advance of appropriations.

Government and Civil Service Practice Test

Government and Civil Service Practice Test

Government and Civil Service Public Administration and Government Operations