Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring a balanced budget for the Federal Government.
House Committee Advances Balanced Budget Constitutional Amendment
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- This proposal would change the U.S. Constitution to stop the government from spending more money than it brings in. It limits yearly spending to the average amount of tax money collected over the last three years, adjusted for inflation and population changes.
- To make it harder to raise taxes, the amendment would require a two-thirds 'supermajority' vote in both the House and Senate for any new tax or tax rate increase. This is a much higher bar than the simple majority usually needed for most laws.
- There are safety valves for emergencies. Congress could spend more than the limit if two-thirds of members agree to a specific cost, or if the United States is in a formal state of war.
- This would be a massive change to how the government works. Supporters say it would stop the national debt from growing, while critics often worry it could lead to deep cuts in programs like Social Security or education during economic downturns.
- Changing the Constitution is a long process. Two-thirds of both the House and Senate must approve the plan, and then 38 states must agree to it before it becomes law. If that happens, the new rules would start five years after the states finish voting.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
Life & Work
With overall federal spending capped, the federal workforce would likely face hiring freezes, pay constraints, or reductions in force as agencies try to stay within budget limits. Federal employee benefits and retirement programs could also be targets for savings when Congress needs to trim spending to meet the constitutional requirement.
Programs
Broader Impacts
State Impacts
Milestones
On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 - 207 (Roll no. 95).
The House fast-tracked this bill — limited debate, no amendments allowed, but needs two-thirds support to pass.
Failed of passage/not agreed to in House On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 - 207 (Roll no. 95).
The House fast-tracked this bill — limited debate, no amendments allowed, but needs two-thirds support to pass.
Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H2583-2584)
At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1115, the House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.J. Res. 139
Vote Results
1 voteOn Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass
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Divided Idaho House calls for constitutional convention; Critics warn of risk to U.S. Constitution
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Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring a balanced budget for the Federal Government.
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(2)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.