OR
Oregon Senate Bill SJM1

Oregon 2023 Regular Session

Oregon Senate Bill SJM1

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/12/23  

Caption

Urging Congress to propose amendment to United States Constitution to require federal government to operate under balanced budget wherein federal government expenditures do not exceed federal government revenues.

Impact

If implemented, SJM1 would necessitate a significant overhaul of the federal government's budgeting process and could lead to stricter fiscal controls at the federal level. By requiring a balanced budget, the amendment could limit Congress's ability to engage in deficit spending, which has long been a tool for stimulating the economy during downturns. This measure aims to reduce the national debt's growth and ensure that vital government services are funded responsibly without excessive borrowing.

Summary

Senate Joint Memorial 1 (SJM1) is a legislative proposal from the State of Oregon that urges Congress to consider an amendment to the United States Constitution requiring the federal government to maintain a balanced budget. This would mandate that federal expenditures do not exceed federal revenues, except in the case of national emergencies. The bill reflects a growing concern over the federal budget deficit and the increasing national debt, which its proponents argue places an undue burden on future generations and threatens economic stability.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJM1 appears to be supportive among its sponsors and advocates who view a balanced budget as a necessary step towards responsible governance. However, there are also concerns voiced by critics who argue that such a constitutional requirement could hamper the federal government's ability to respond effectively to economic crises. Overall, the dialogue is characterized by a desire for fiscal responsibility balanced against the necessity for flexibility in government spending.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SJM1 include the debates over the implications of enforcing a balanced budget amendment. Critics worry that the measure could lead to cuts in essential services during economic downturns when government spending is often needed to stimulate recovery. There are also calls for an examination of the potential consequences on state budgets and the broader economic landscape, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of how such an amendment might be enforced and the practical limitations it could impose.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR SJM6

Urging Congress to propose an amendment to the United States Constitution to require the federal government to operate under a balanced budget wherein federal government expenditures do not exceed federal government revenues.

OR HCR18

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states an amendment to the United States Constitution providing for a federal balanced budget.

OR HCR59

Urging Congress to propose an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to provide for a balanced federal budget, except during a war.

OR SCR12

Urging Congress to propose an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to provide for a balanced federal budget except during a time of national emergency.

OR HJR100

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention to propose an amendment to the United States Constitution to require a balanced federal budget.

OR AJR27

Convention of states for proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution: federal balanced budget.

OR HCR61

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

OR HCR10

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

OR HCR13

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

OR HCR7

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.