Principles of Federal Appropriations Law (Red Book)

The Principles of Federal Appropriations Law, commonly referred to as the Red Book, is a multi-volume treatise published by GAO concerning federal fiscal law.  The publication provides text discussion with reference to specific legal authorities to illustrate the principles discussed, their application, and exceptions.  The legal authorities include GAO decisions and opinions, judicial decisions, statutory provisions, and other relevant sources.

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Third Edition


Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Third Edition, Volume I

GAO-04-261SP, January 1, 2004

Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Third Edition, Volume II

GAO-06-382SP, February 1, 2006

Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Third Edition, Volume III

GAO-08-978SP, September 1, 2008

Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Third Edition: Index and Table of Authorities (Supersedes GAO-06-1059SP)

GAO-09-576SP, August 6, 2010

Interactive Index and Table of Authorities


Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Annual Update of the Third Edition (Volumes I, II and III)

GAO-12-413SP, March 8, 2012

Second Edition


Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Second Edition, Volume III - no longer updated since topics covered are no longer GAO’s responsibility 

OGC-94-33, November 1, 1994

Principles of Federal Appropriations Law

Second Edition, Volume V – Index and Table of Authorities for Second Edition; use to research Volume III, Second Edition

GAO-02-271SP, April 1, 2002