Number: RL31193 Title: Discretionary Spending Limits for FY2002: A Procedural Assessment Authors: Robert Keith, Government and Finance Division Abstract: The Budget Enforcement Act (BEA) of 1990 established limits on discretionary spending as part of an underlying law, the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. These limits, which have been revised and extended over the years, presently are in effect for most discretionary spending through FY2002. Limits for FY2003 and beyond have been established for some discretionary spending, but no procedures currently are in effect to enforce them. Pages: 11 Date: Updated May 23, 2002