About HJRES139

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring a balanced budget for the Federal Government.

Policy Area: Economics and Public Finance

Sponsor: Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5] (R-AZ)

Latest Action (2026-03-18): On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 – 207 (Roll no. 95).

Summary

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total federal expenditures for a year from exceeding the average annual federal receipts collected in the three prior years, adjusted for changes in the population of U.S. citizens and inflation. Expenditures for payment of debt and receipts derived from borrowing are excluded.Under the amendment, Congress may authorize specific expenditures in excess of the limit with (1) a roll call vote of two-thirds of each chamber, or (2) a roll call vote for any year in which a declaration of war is in effect.The amendment also prohibits any bill to levy a new tax or increase the rate of any tax from becoming law unless it has been approved by a roll call vote of two-thirds of the whole number of each chamber of Congress.The requirements take effect in the fifth year beginning after ratification of the amendment.

Subjects: Budget deficits and national debt, Budget process, Constitution and constitutional amendments, Legislative rules and procedure

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