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HJRCA 15

CONAMEND-BALANCED BUDGET

104th Regular Session Introduced by Travis Weaver

Illinois constitutional amendment requiring state budget revenues to equal or exceed expenditures annually, eliminating deficit spending authority with voter approval required.

Referred to Rules Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJRCA 15

Legislative bill overview

HJRCA 15 is a constitutional amendment resolution that would require the Illinois state government to maintain a balanced budget, prohibiting expenditures from exceeding revenues in any fiscal year. The measure seeks to enshrine balanced budget requirements into the Illinois Constitution, which would require voter approval through a referendum before taking effect.

Why is this important

Balanced budget requirements significantly constrain a state's fiscal flexibility during economic downturns, recessions, or emergencies when revenues naturally decline. Illinois has a history of budget deficits and unfunded pension liabilities, making this proposal a fundamental shift in how the state could respond to financial crises or invest in long-term infrastructure and services.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact during recessions: Balanced budget mandates force states to cut spending or raise taxes during downturns, which can deepen recessions by reducing economic stimulus when it's needed most
  • Pension and liability obligations: Illinois carries substantial unfunded pension liabilities; a strict balanced budget requirement could limit the state's ability to meet these long-term obligations or handle unexpected costs
  • Definition and enforcement ambiguity: The resolution's specific language on what constitutes "balanced," accounting methods, and enforcement mechanisms will determine its real-world effect and potential loopholes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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