Kentucky House Bill HCR45

Kentucky 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/26
• Refer: 1/29/26
• Refer: 2/3/26

Caption

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION calling on the United States Congress to submit to the states for ratification a balanced budget amendment to the United States Constitution and making a formal application to Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call a convention for the sole purpose of proposing for ratification an amendment to the United States Constitution which requires a balanced federal budget.

Impact

If enacted, HCR45 directs Congress to enable a balanced budget amendment, which would mandate that total federal expenditures for any fiscal year do not exceed total federal revenues, unless under a declared national emergency. This constitutional amendment would significantly impact federal fiscal policy, requiring the government to operate within its means and potentially affecting various sectors reliant on federally funded programs. Additionally, this may set a precedent for state-level accountability regarding fiscal management.

Summary

HCR45 is a concurrent resolution from the Kentucky General Assembly that calls on the United States Congress to submit a balanced budget amendment to the states for ratification. The resolution is framed under Article V of the United States Constitution, which states that upon the request of two-thirds of the states, Congress is mandated to call a convention to propose amendments. HCR45 emphasizes the urgency of this action due to the growing federal debt, which it claims threatens the stability of the U.S. economy and national security.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR45 appears to be supportive among those who prioritize governmental fiscal responsibility. Proponents argue that a balanced budget amendment is essential to prevent the accumulation of unsustainable debt and to foster a stable economic environment. However, some critics may voice concerns about the potential implications for federal funding of essential services during economic downturns or emergencies, suggesting that strict adherence to a balanced budget could hinder government responsiveness to crises.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the inherent limitations that a balanced budget amendment would impose on federal flexibility in responding to economic crises or unforeseen national emergencies. Critics may also raise concerns about state sovereignty in fiscal matters, questioning whether such an amendment could disproportionately affect certain states based on their economic conditions. The resolution is part of a broader national dialogue on fiscal discipline and governance, which is likely to evoke varied opinions regarding the best approaches to managing federal budgets.