Q: What is the Exceptions Clause?

A: It’s in Article III of the Constitution. It lets Congress limit what kinds of cases the Supreme Court can review on appeal.

 

Q: Why does it matter during a government shutdown?

A: Shutdowns are budget fights. The Constitution gives Congress — not the President or the Court — the power of the purse. But the Supreme Court has sometimes sided with executive overreach in spending disputes.

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Q: How could Congress use it?

A: By invoking the Exceptions Clause, Congress could block the Supreme Court from hearing cases that weaken Congress’s control of appropriations during a shutdown.

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Q: What’s the benefit?

A: It keeps spending authority where the Constitution put it — in Congress, the branch closest to the people — and prevents the Court from tipping the balance toward an “imperial presidency.”

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Q: What action can I do?

A: Call your Member of Congress. For more information click HERE

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