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A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring that the Federal budget be balanced.
12/15/2023, 4:05 PM
Summary of Bill SJRES 14
This resolution is aimed at addressing 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 resolution argue that a balanced budget amendment would force the government to make tough decisions about spending and prioritize fiscal responsibility.
Opponents of the resolution, however, argue that a balanced budget amendment could have negative consequences, such as limiting the government's ability to respond to economic downturns or emergencies. They also point out that balancing the budget could require significant cuts to important programs like Social Security, Medicare, and defense spending. Overall, Bill 118 SJRes 14 is a controversial proposal that seeks to address the issue of the Federal budget deficit by enshrining a requirement for a balanced budget in the Constitution. The resolution has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public about the best way to address the country's fiscal challenges.
Congressional Summary of SJRES 14
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.

