Keep the Watchdogs Running Act

This bill ensures federal inspectors general (IGs) can continue essential oversight during government shutdowns. It amends the Inspector General Act to allow IGs to incur expenses in advance of new appropriations, using the previous year's funding rate, for programs that must operate during a shutdown. The law directly affects all federal IG offices (like those in agencies such as HHS or DHS) by enabling them to maintain critical watchdog functions without interruption. Key provisions require IGs to operate under the same authority and conditions as the most recently enacted appropriations bill. This is a procedural change focused on maintaining continuous oversight during funding gaps, not on altering substantive policy.