119-SJRES-97 Journalist Public Summary
119 · SJRES 97 A joint resolution proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States.
A proposed constitutional amendment would require the federal budget to balance (with limited emergency exceptions), phase in over 10 years after ratification, and then be sent to the states for approval; it was introduced on November 20, 2025 and is now in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Public Summary: 119-SJRES-97 (Balanced Budget Amendment)
Headline Summary — Requires the federal government to balance its budget, with narrow emergency exceptions and a 10‑year phase‑in after the amendment is ratified.
What It Does — The amendment says federal spending and revenue must balance, though balance can be measured over more than one year (so multi‑year budgeting is allowed). Interest payments on existing debt don’t count as “spending,” and money from borrowing doesn’t count as “revenue.” If ratified, Congress would have 10 years to bring the budget into balance. In emergencies, Congress could temporarily spend more than it takes in, but only if two‑thirds of both the House and Senate agree; any resulting debt must be paid off as soon as practical.
Why It Matters — It would put a hard rule around federal deficits. In practice, that could limit how much Washington can borrow, potentially reducing long‑term debt; it could also force lawmakers to either cut spending, raise taxes, or both to keep the books balanced. The emergency‑escape valve exists, but it requires broad bipartisan support, which could be difficult during crises or recessions.
- Who’s For It — The sponsors, Sen. Jon Husted (R–OH) and Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R–WY). Support generally comes from fiscal conservatives and groups that push for stricter controls on deficits. They argue a constitutional rule would discipline Congress, protect future generations from rising debt, and provide more predictable budgeting.
- Who’s Against It — Opponents often include lawmakers and economists who worry that strict balance rules can worsen recessions (when revenues fall) or hinder swift responses to wars and disasters. They also warn that achieving balance could require deep cuts to major programs, tax increases, or both, and that supermajority requirements could make government less nimble.
What’s Next — As of November 22, 2025, the measure has been introduced in the Senate (on November 20), read twice, and sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee. If the committee advances it and the Senate and House each approve by two‑thirds, it would go to the states, which would have seven years to ratify. If at least 38 states ratify, it becomes part of the Constitution.
Discussion