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

3/1/2024, 4:45 AM

Summary of Bill HJRES 113

Bill 118 hjres 113, 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 for a deficit. Additionally, the amendment would require a three-fifths majority in both chambers to increase the debt limit.

Supporters of the Balanced Budget Amendment argue that it is necessary to ensure fiscal responsibility and prevent the government from accumulating excessive debt. They believe that a balanced budget requirement would force Congress to make tough decisions about spending and prioritize the most important programs. Opponents of the amendment argue that it could lead to harmful cuts in essential programs and services, such as healthcare and education. They also argue that it could limit the government's ability to respond to economic downturns or emergencies. Overall, the Balanced Budget Amendment is a controversial proposal that seeks to address the issue of government spending and debt. It has both supporters and critics, and its passage would have significant implications for the country's fiscal policy.

Congressional Summary of HJRES 113

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.

Current Status of Bill HJRES 113

Bill HJRES 113 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 7, 2024. Bill HJRES 113 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on February 7, 2024.  Bill HJRES 113's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. as of February 7, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill HJRES 113

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
12
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
12
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HJRES 113

Primary Policy Focus

Economics and Public Finance

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HJRES 113

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

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