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Constitutional Amendment: Federal Balanced Budget Requirement

This proposed constitutional amendment aims to mandate that the federal government's annual spending cannot exceed its average revenue from the three prior years, adjusted for population and inflation. This could lead to more disciplined government spending and potentially impact the funding of various public programs and services in the future. For citizens, this might mean greater fiscal stability but also potential limitations on government expenditures.
Key points
The federal government would be required to maintain a balanced budget, limiting spending to average revenues from the past three years, adjusted for inflation and population.
Any new taxes or tax rate increases would need approval by a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress, making it harder to raise taxes.
Spending limits could be exceeded in emergencies like a declared war or with a special two-thirds vote by Congress.
The changes would take effect five years after being ratified by three-fourths of the states, allowing time for adjustment to the new rules.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HJRES_139
Sponsor: Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5]
Process start date: 2026-01-09
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

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

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HJRES_139.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2026-01-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • The federal government would be required to maintain a balanced budget, limiting spending to average revenues from the past three years, adjusted for inflation and population.
  • Any new taxes or tax rate increases would need approval by a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress, making it harder to raise taxes.
  • Spending limits could be exceeded in emergencies like a declared war or with a special two-thirds vote by Congress.
  • The changes would take effect five years after being ratified by three-fourths of the states, allowing time for adjustment to the new rules.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-13.

CATEGORIES

Economy Taxes