Earmarks are the legislative equivalent of ordering a la carte.
Lawmakers on the appropriations committees can, and frequently do, insert specific language in annual appropriations bills directing federal agencies to spend money in specific ways, often in their own congressional districts or states. For every earmark, NASA has less flexibility to pay for other needs, Wilhide said. NASA's science, technology and aerospace programs would take the biggest hit. Other pro-space House lawmakers remained on the sidelines. They anticipate NASA's budget will be increased by the Senate or in a back-room deal between House and Senate negotiators meeting in a conference committee to work out their differences.