Federal Advocacy

Congressional Appropriations Requests: What Cities Need to Know

Each year, Congress considers appropriations measures that provide discretionary funding for federal activities such as national defense, education, homeland security, and general government operations. These measures fall under the jurisdiction of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.

Among the most relevant opportunities for local governments are Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) in the Senate and Community Project Funding (CPF) in the House. These programs allow cities and eligible nonprofits to request federal funding for qualified local projects through their members of Congress.

How to Submit a Request

Cities should contact their U.S. House Representative to inquire about CPF opportunities. Deadlines vary, but most occur in early spring. It's best to begin conversations with congressional offices in the fall (October/November) of the year prior.

GMA has identified the following Georgia House members who accept (or have accepted) CDS/CPF requests. These links provide examples of submitted projects.

U.S. House of Representatives: Appropriations/CPF Pages

Buddy Carter, GA-01, Appropriations Requests
Sanford Bishop, GA-02, Appropriations Page
Brian Jack, GA-03, Upon Request
Hank Johnson, GA-04, 2024 CPF Page
Nikema Williams, GA-05, Community Projects
Lucy McBath, GA-06, Upon Request
Rich McCormick, GA-07, FY 2026 CPF Requests
Austin Scott, GA-08, FY 2026 Appropriations
Andrew Clyde, GA-09, Grant Assistance Offered
Mike Collins, GA-10, FY 2025, CPF Requests
Barry Loudermilk, GA-11, Appropriations Page
Rick Allen, GA-12, Grant Assistance Offered
David Scott, GA-13, FY 2026 Appropriations
Marjorie Taylor Greene, GA-14, Appropriations Page

U.S. Senate: Congressionally Directed Spending Pages

Jon Ossoff, Senate Appropriations Portal
Raphael Warnock, Senate Appropriations Portal

General Guidance for Cities

Appropriations are not grants. But many of the same requirements apply: documentation, eligibility, local support, match requirements, and reporting.

Prepare for federal compliance. Appropriations come with conditions like environmental reviews, procurement rules, and reporting that may increase costs.

Start early. Most offices begin considering projects in late fall. Early engagement gives cities time to prepare materials and coordinate with federal and state partners.

Be strategic. Projects are more likely to be selected if they:

    • Address a demonstrated need and benefit the broader region.
    • Can obligate and spend funds within 12–18 months.
    • Have a secured local funding match.
    • Represent the final funding gap needed to begin.