GPO requests $135.4M appropriations for FY26 amid rising costs and crucial initiatives

The U.S. House Committee on Appropriations convened on April 29, 2025, to review the Fiscal Year 2026 budget requests for key government agencies, including the Government Publishing Office (GPO), the Congressional Budget Office, and the Government Accountability Office. The GPO presented a request for $135.4 million, marking a $3.4 million increase from the previous fiscal year. This request aims to address rising labor and material costs while supporting essential initiatives for Congress and the legislative branch.

The GPO emphasized that its funding request represents only a small portion—approximately 9%—of its total revenue, which is primarily generated through billings to federal customers such as the Department of Defense and the National Archives. Despite the increase, the GPO noted that the requested budget increase of 2.6% is below the current inflation rate, indicating a careful approach to fiscal management.

Key components of the budget request include $83 million for congressional publishing needs, which remains unchanged from FY 2025, and $42.9 million for the Federal Depository Library Program, reflecting a $5 million increase due to labor costs. Additionally, the GPO seeks $9.5 million for its revolving fund to support technology upgrades, including the development of XPUB, a next-generation composition engine that is currently in user acceptance testing.

The GPO's commitment to efficiency and innovation is evident as it continues to enhance its digital repository, GovInfo, which facilitates access to government information for millions of users each month. The agency reported a net positive income of $57.5 million for FY 2024, allowing for ongoing investments in its workforce and infrastructure, although it anticipates a lower net income for FY 2025.

The meeting underscored the importance of these budget requests in maintaining the operational capabilities of the GPO and ensuring that Congress's publishing needs are met effectively. As discussions continue, the GPO remains focused on delivering results while adapting to the evolving demands of government publishing and information access.