Pork Barrel Legislation

Definition

Pork barrel legislation refers to government spending that benefits constituents of a politician in return for their political support, either in the form of campaign contributions or votes.

Related terms

Earmark: Funds set aside by Congress for specific projects or programs within an appropriations bill.

Appropriations Bill: Legislation that authorizes the government to spend money from the public treasury for specified purposes.

Lobbying: The act of attempting to influence decisions made by officials in government.