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Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring that the Federal budget be balanced.
3/18/2024, 9:01 PM
Summary of Bill HJRES 75
The amendment aims to address the issue of the growing national debt and the annual budget deficits that the United States has been running for many years. Supporters of the amendment argue that a balanced budget is necessary to ensure fiscal responsibility and prevent the government from accumulating unsustainable levels of debt.
If passed, the Balanced Budget Amendment would likely have significant implications for government spending and taxation. It would require Congress to make difficult decisions about how to prioritize spending and potentially lead to cuts in certain programs or increases in taxes in order to balance the budget. Opponents of the amendment argue that it could have negative consequences for the economy, such as limiting the government's ability to respond to economic downturns or emergencies. They also point out that balancing the budget could be difficult or even impossible in certain circumstances, such as during times of war or recession. 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 nation's fiscal challenges. It remains to be seen whether the amendment will gain enough support to be passed by Congress and ratified by the states.
Congressional Summary of HJRES 75
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year or 18% of the U.S. gross domestic product unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing.
The amendment requires a two-thirds vote of each chamber of Congress to levy a new tax, increase the rate of any tax, or increase the debt limit.
The amendment provides any Member of Congress with standing and a cause of action to seek judicial enforcement of this amendment if authorized by a petition signed by one-third of the Members of either chamber of Congress. Courts are prohibited from ordering any increase in revenue to enforce this amendment.
