A "clean CR" refers to a continuing resolution (CR) that would fund the government at the previous years levels, without any other changes to existing law. It is free of any amendments attempting to alter the rate at which funds are utilized, extend an expiring program authority, or provide a specific dollar amount of funding to a program during the CR. The term "clean" is used to indicate that the CR is unsullied by controversial subjects.

The term "clean CR" has been used in the context of political debates in the United States, particularly in relation to government funding and appropriations. For example, in 2013, columnist Charles Krauthammer criticized the Democrats insistence on a "clean CR," implying that such an approach is actually a ratification of failure. In 2023, an increasing number of House Republicans have said that they will support a clean continuing resolution.

In summary, a "clean CR" is a type of continuing resolution that funds the government at the previous years levels without any other changes to existing law, and is free of any amendments attempting to alter the rate at which funds are utilized, extend an expiring program authority, or provide a specific dollar amount of funding to a program during the CR. The term has been used in the context of political debates in the United States.