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HJRES 139

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

119th Congress Introduced by Andy Biggs and 2 co-sponsors

Proposes constitutional amendment mandating federal budget balance; failed House vote 211-207, falling 4 votes short of required two-thirds supermajority approval.

Failed of passage/not agreed to in House On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 - 207 (Roll no. 95).
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJRES 139

Legislative bill overview

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment requiring the federal government to balance its budget annually (or establish a mechanism for balanced budgets). Constitutional amendments require approval from two-thirds of both chambers of Congress and ratification by 38 states. The bill failed in the House on March 18, 2026, falling just 4 votes short of the required two-thirds majority (211-207).

Why is this important

A balanced budget amendment would fundamentally constrain federal fiscal policy, potentially limiting the government's ability to respond to recessions, wars, or crises through deficit spending. The outcome reflects deep partisan disagreement about macroeconomic management, with significant real-world implications for future spending on Social Security, Medicare, defense, and infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic flexibility: Critics argue balanced budget requirements prevent counter-cyclical spending during recessions and could worsen economic downturns; supporters contend chronic deficits are unsustainable
  • Exemption definitions: The amendment's language likely includes carve-outs (e.g., war, recession triggers) that determine practical impact, and disputes over these exceptions could prove contentious
  • Entitlement reform: Implementation would likely require major cuts to mandatory spending programs or revenue increases, forcing politically difficult tradeoffs that Congress currently avoids

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

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