Bills/H.R. 37

Proposing a Federal debt limit amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

Proposing a Federal debt limit amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

In CommitteeEconomyHouseHouse Bill · 119th Congress
Bill Progress · House
Introduced
Committee
Passed House
Passed Senate
Passed Both
Signed

Plain Language Summary

# Summary of HR 37 **What It Would Do:** This bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would establish a federal debt limit. If passed by Congress and ratified by the states, it would add language to the Constitution restricting how much money the federal government can borrow. The specific mechanics—such as what the actual limit would be or how it could be changed—would be determined through the amendment process itself. **Who It Affects:** This would potentially affect all Americans, as it would constrain federal borrowing capacity and could influence government spending on programs, services, and infrastructure.

It could impact federal employees, Social Security and Medicare recipients, military personnel, and anyone relying on federal programs or services. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. Constitutional amendments require significant support—a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate, followed by ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures—making passage a lengthy and difficult process.

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Latest Action

January 3, 2025

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Subjects

Budget deficits and national debtBudget processConstitution and constitutional amendments

Sponsor

R

Key Dates

Introduced
January 3, 2025
Last Updated
January 3, 2025
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