Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

1/8/2025, 1:40 PM
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Bill 119 hjres 2, also known as the Balanced Budget Amendment, is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States. The purpose of this amendment is to require the federal government to operate with a balanced budget, meaning that its spending cannot exceed its revenue.

The amendment would require Congress to pass a budget each year that does not result in a deficit, unless a three-fifths majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate vote to allow a deficit in certain circumstances, such as during times of war or national emergency.

Supporters of the Balanced Budget Amendment argue that it would help control government spending and reduce the national debt, which is currently over $28 trillion. They believe that a balanced budget requirement would force Congress to make tough decisions about spending priorities and prevent future generations from being burdened with excessive debt. Opponents of the amendment argue that it could lead to cuts in important government programs, such as Social Security and Medicare, and hinder the government's ability to respond to economic downturns or emergencies. They also point out that balancing the budget could be difficult during times of recession or when facing unexpected expenses. Overall, the Balanced Budget Amendment is a controversial proposal that has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public about the best way to address the federal government's fiscal responsibilities.
Congress
119

Number
HJRES - 2

Introduced on
2025-01-03

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

1/3/2025

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Bill 119 hjres 2, also known as the Balanced Budget Amendment, is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States. The purpose of this amendment is to require the federal government to operate with a balanced budget, meaning that its spending cannot exceed its revenue.

The amendment would require Congress to pass a budget each year that does not result in a deficit, unless a three-fifths majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate vote to allow a deficit in certain circumstances, such as during times of war or national emergency.

Supporters of the Balanced Budget Amendment argue that it would help control government spending and reduce the national debt, which is currently over $28 trillion. They believe that a balanced budget requirement would force Congress to make tough decisions about spending priorities and prevent future generations from being burdened with excessive debt. Opponents of the amendment argue that it could lead to cuts in important government programs, such as Social Security and Medicare, and hinder the government's ability to respond to economic downturns or emergencies. They also point out that balancing the budget could be difficult during times of recession or when facing unexpected expenses. Overall, the Balanced Budget Amendment is a controversial proposal that has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public about the best way to address the federal government's fiscal responsibilities.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedProposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

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Recent Activity

Latest Action1/3/2025
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.