This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless (1) Congress authorizes the excess by a three-fifths vote of each chamber, and (2) total outlays do not exceed a specified percentage of the estimated gross domestic product of the United States. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment requires a three-fifths vote of each chamber of Congress to increase revenue or increase the limit on the debt of the United States. The amendment also requires the President to submit an annual budget in which total outlays do not exceed total receipts. The President's budget must also include justifications and specified details regarding funding proposed for departments and agencies. Congress may waive the requirements due to a declaration of war, a military conflict, an event that causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security, or a natural disaster.
Impact
Should HJR11 be enacted, its implications would reverberate across state finances and governance structures. The requirement for justifying funding could transform the budgetary process, potentially leading to more stringent evaluations of state agency expenditures. This change may encourage agencies to prioritize essential services and eliminate unnecessary spending, thereby enhancing overall efficiency in government operations. However, concern exists that such stringent measures could limit funding for vital programs, particularly those addressing public service needs like health and education.
Summary
HJR11 proposes an amendment to the Constitution that mandates a balanced budget for the state government. This legislation aims to ensure that each agency and department within the state government must justify its funding in order to maintain fiscal discipline. The concept of a balanced budget is rooted in the idea that government should not spend more than it earns, thereby preventing excessive debt accumulation and promoting economic stability. By enforcing this requirement, state legislators hope to establish a financial framework that supports responsible governance and sustainability.
Contention
The discussion surrounding HJR11 involves significant debate regarding the balance between fiscal responsibility and the need for flexibility in government budgeting. Proponents of the bill argue that requiring a balanced budget would enhance accountability and prevent financial mismanagement. Critics, however, voice concerns that the rigidity imposed by a mandatory balanced budget could hinder the state's ability to respond to economic downturns or unexpected fiscal challenges. This lead to potential underfunding of essential services during crises, underscoring the tension between financial discipline and responsive governance.
Related bill
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that prohibits total outlays for any fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year.The amendment also prohibits (1) increases to the federal debt limit, and (2) a bill that increases revenue from becoming law unless the bill has been approved by two-thirds of each chamber of Congress with a roll call vote.
Related bill
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds roll call vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment also requires the President to submit an annual budget in which total outlays do not exceed total receipts.
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds roll call vote of each chamber. The prohibition excludes outlays for repayment of debt principal and receipts derived from borrowing. The amendment also requires the President to submit an annual budget in which total outlays do not exceed total receipts.
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total outlays for a fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year unless Congress authorizes the excess by a two-thirds roll call vote of each chamber. The amendment also requires the President to submit an annual budget in which total outlays for the fiscal year do not exceed total receipts. Congress may waive the requirements for any fiscal year in which (1) a declaration of war is in effect by a roll call vote, or (2) a declaration of a natural disaster or a national emergency is in effect that was declared by a joint resolution that became law after being adopted by a majority of each chamber of Congress.
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that prohibits total outlays for any fiscal year from exceeding total receipts for that fiscal year.The amendment also prohibits (1) increases to the federal debt limit, and (2) a bill that increases revenue from becoming law unless the bill has been approved by two-thirds of each chamber of Congress with a roll call vote.
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