§ 1551. Definitions; applicability of subchapter

• (a) In this subchapter—
  • (1) An obligated balance of an appropriation account as of the end of a fiscal year is the amount of unliquidated obligations applicable to the appropriation less amounts collectible as repayments to the appropriation.
  • (2) An unobligated balance is the difference between the obligated balance and the total unexpended balance.
  • (3) A fixed appropriation account is an appropriation account available for obligation for a definite period.
• (b) The limitations on the availability for expenditure prescribed in this subchapter apply to all appropriations unless specifically otherwise authorized by a law that specifically—
  • (1) identifies the appropriate account for which the availability for expenditure is to be extended;
  • (2) provides that such account shall be available for recording, adjusting, and liquidating obligations properly chargeable to that account; and
  • (3) extends the availability for expenditure of the obligated balances.
• (c) This subchapter does not apply to—
  • (1) appropriations for the District of Columbia government; or
  • (2) appropriations to be disbursed by the Secretary of the Senate or the Chief Administrative Officer of the House of Representatives.