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SJ 4

Joint resolution calling for convention of the states to require a balanced budget

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Noland

SJ 4 sought to call a convention of states to propose a constitutional amendment requiring a balanced federal budget, impacting government spending and taxpayers.

(S) Died in Process
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Bill Summary · SJ 4

Summary of SJ 4: Joint Resolution Calling for Convention of the States to Require a Balanced Budget

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: SJ 4
  • Title: Joint resolution calling for convention of the states to require a balanced budget
  • Status: Died in Process
  • Introduced: October 30, 2024
  • Classification: Joint Resolution
  • Subject: Federal Government, General Joint Resolution, Legislature

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SJ 4 is to initiate a convention of the states for the purpose of proposing an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would require the federal government to maintain a balanced budget. This resolution reflects a growing concern among some lawmakers and constituents regarding federal spending and the national debt.

Key Provisions

While the specific text of the resolution is not provided, the key provisions typically associated with such resolutions include:
- Balanced Budget Requirement: Mandating that federal expenditures do not exceed revenues, thereby prohibiting deficit spending.
- State Convention Call: The resolution calls for a convention of the states, which is a constitutional mechanism allowing states to propose amendments to the Constitution without congressional approval.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Federal Government: The resolution aims to impose stricter fiscal discipline on federal budgeting practices.
  • States: States may have to adjust their financial policies and practices in response to potential changes in federal funding and mandates.
  • Taxpayers: A balanced budget could lead to changes in taxation and government services, impacting taxpayers directly.

Legislative Process and Timeline

The legislative journey of SJ 4 included several key actions:
- October 30, 2024: Bill introduced.
- January 6, 2025: First reading in the Senate.
- January 7, 2025: Referred to the Judiciary Committee.
- January 26, 2025: Hearing held by the Judiciary Committee.
- January 29, 2025: Committee report passed, and resolution adopted.
- February 13, 2025: Scheduled for second reading, but faced delays.
- March 27, 2025: The motion to pass the second reading failed, and the bill was indefinitely postponed.
- May 23, 2025: The bill ultimately died in process, indicating it would not advance further in the legislative session.

Conclusion

SJ 4 aimed to address concerns regarding federal fiscal responsibility through a constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget. Despite its introduction and initial support, the bill did not progress through the legislative process and ultimately died in committee, reflecting the challenges of enacting significant constitutional changes.

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

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