1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

NASA's budget, as approved by Congress, represents a mandatory obligation to fund the agency's crucial scientific endeavors and space exploration missions. The attempt to improperly restrict or withhold these appropriated funds through an aggressive interpretation of "impoundment" undermines the legislative intent and poses a severe threat to NASA's ability to pursue its vital work. Congressional appropriations should be viewed as a funding floor, not an arbitrary ceiling subject to unilateral executive branch revision. Preserving the full NASA budget as mandated by Congress is imperative to maintain American leadership in space, drive innovation, expand knowledge, and inspire future generations. The impoundment of congressionally directed funds cannot be accepted, as it would undermine the constitutionally defined power of the purse and disrupt critical NASA programs and projects.