Number: RS20179 Title: The Role of the President in Budget Development Authors: William Heniff, Jr., Government and Finance Division Abstract: The Budget and Accounting Act of 1921 established the executive budget process, which requires the President to prepare and submit a comprehensive federal budget to Congress each year for the fiscal year that begins on October 1. The President sets out his national priorities and proposes policy initiatives in the federal budget submitted to Congress soon after Congress convenes in January. The President's budget submission provides him the opportunity to influence the agenda for the upcoming budget and policy debate in Congress. Pages: 2 Date: June 17, 2008