WatchGov

119th Congress

H.J.Res. 139

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

  1. Introduced
  2. In committee
  3. Passed House
  4. Passed Senate
  5. To President
  6. Became law
Sponsor
Andy Biggs(R-AZ)
Introduced
Jan 9, 2026
Policy area
Economics and Public Finance
Committees
House Committee on the Judiciary
Official text
Reported in House · Congress.gov page

Cosponsors (2)

Added later (2)

Summary

Summary by the Congressional Research Service· describes the “Reported to House” version

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.

Roll-call votes

DateVoteResultYour members
Mar 18, 2026
House #95		On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring a balanced budget for the Federal GovernmentFailedSet your home to see

Actions