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Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.
12/29/2022, 9:33 PM
Summary of Bill HJRES 77
The bill outlines several key provisions, including a requirement for Congress to pass a balanced budget each fiscal year. This would prevent the government from accumulating excessive debt and would promote fiscal responsibility.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for emergency situations, allowing for temporary deficits in times of war or other national emergencies. However, these deficits would need to be approved by a supermajority vote in Congress. Supporters of the Balanced Budget Amendment argue that it is necessary to prevent the government from overspending and accumulating unsustainable levels of debt. They believe that a balanced budget requirement would force Congress to make tough decisions about spending priorities and would ultimately lead to a more fiscally responsible government. Opponents of the bill, however, argue that a balanced budget requirement could limit the government's ability to respond to economic downturns or other crises. They believe that the flexibility to run deficits when necessary is an important tool for managing the economy and ensuring the well-being of the American people. Overall, the Balanced Budget Amendment is a controversial proposal that has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public. It remains to be seen whether this bill will gain enough support to be passed into law and become a part of the US Constitution.
Congressional Summary of HJRES 77
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total federal expenditures for a year from exceeding the average annual federal revenue collected in the three prior years, adjusted for changes in population and inflation. Expenditures for payment of debt and revenues derived from borrowing are excluded.
Congress may authorize specific expenditures in excess of the limit for up to one year by declaring an emergency with a roll call vote of two-thirds of each chamber.
The requirements take effect in the first year beginning at least 90 days following ratification, except that expenditures are permitted to exceed the limit by specified amounts during each of the first nine years that the requirements are in effect.


