H.J.Res. 2In committeeJobs & the economy
Proposed amendment would mandate balanced federal budget each year
Data as of July 11, 2026
This proposed constitutional amendment would require a balanced federal budget and freeze the current debt limit.40-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill proposes a constitutional amendment requiring the federal government to balance its budget yearly, meaning spending could not exceed revenue collected. It would also freeze the current legal debt limit held by the public and require a two-thirds vote in both chambers of Congress to pass any future tax or revenue increase.
Who does it affect?
This affects nearly everyone in the country, since it would change how Congress funds programs like Social Security, Medicare, and defense. It requires approval from two-thirds of Congress and three-fourths of state legislatures to take effect.
Why does it matter?
Supporters say it would force fiscal discipline, while critics warn it could limit the government's ability to respond to wars, recessions, or natural disasters. As a constitutional amendment, it faces a much higher approval bar than a regular law.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.
- Introduced:
- January 3, 2025
- Latest action:
- January 3, 2025
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.