Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

# Summary of HJRES 110: Balanced Budget Amendment **What it would do:** This proposed constitutional amendment would require the federal government to balance its budget—meaning total spending cannot exceed total revenue—though Congress would have up to 10 years after ratification to achieve this. The amendment counts all federal spending except debt payments, and doesn't count money borrowed. In emergencies, Congress could approve additional spending if two-thirds of both the House and Senate agree, but only temporarily and with the requirement to pay back any debt "as soon as practicable." **Who it affects:** This would impact every American by potentially limiting government spending on programs, services, and infrastructure, though the specific effects would depend on how Congress chooses to balance the budget (through spending cuts, revenue increases, or both).

It would also constrain Congress's flexibility in responding to economic crises or national emergencies. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Congress. To become law, a balanced budget amendment must pass both chambers of Congress by a two-thirds majority, then be ratified by 38 of the 50 states—a high threshold that makes constitutional amendments rare.