Congressional Directed Spending (CDS)- 2026 Takeaways
Looking back on this year’s Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) submission cycle, we wanted to share updates and key takeaways for our clients who worked with us to submit applications.
The Aubrey Group submitted applications for 18 different projects for Congressionally Directed Spending across the state! These projects spanned recreation, economic development, and water infrastructure. We helped our clients apply for the projects that supported their most pressing needs. This includes Senators Booker and Kim, as well as the offices of Congressman Pallone and Congressman Conaway! In total, we requested approximately $86,727,519.60 in funding. We’re proud of the work we accomplished on behalf of our clients. We also want to send our kudos to our peers and the other firms that serve our clients. It takes effort and coordination across several different teams to make these requests happen and start these projects.
We recently received the news that requests are capped at $1.5 million for democratic offices and are under a bit more scrutiny than in previous years. While this is an unfortunate show of partisanship, we are confident in the legislators who will advocate for the projects and their communities. If you recall, two years ago, CDS requests were completely removed from consideration; the precedent this set is important to keep in mind and prepare for in case it happens again, especially amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
The most important thing to remember is that this is just the beginning of the process. Now that the requests have been submitted, the appropriations committees in Congress will evaluate them and decide which projects to include in spending bills. Approved projects will then get funding through annual appropriations legislation. Some offices are already conducting meetings to discuss CDS funding. The final decisions on these requests will come in at the start of next year, which marks the start of the full funding process, including the application and agreement.
It is crucial to involve us and keep us in the loop early to ensure a clear plan for awarded funds! The Aubrey Group can help with the full application process, from start to finish. We can ensure award agreements are executed and that performance and fiscal reports are submitted on time, so you are properly spending award funds.
In the coming years, we strongly encourage clients to work with us on starting earlier. With this preparation and momentum, we hope to start planning next year’s applications now!
We’re hopeful for a positive result, and as always, we’re here alongside you to navigate each step of the process.