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.
Impact
The adoption of HJR60 could lead to substantial changes in how federal financial policies are structured. If a balanced budget amendment were to be enacted, it would require the federal government to limit its spending to the amount of revenue it collects, which could reshape budgetary priorities and fiscal policies at the national level. This resolution also enables a sustained call for action until a sufficient number of states (two-thirds) join in, demonstrating a serious commitment among Texas lawmakers towards promoting fiscal responsibility and reducing government debt.
Summary
HJR60 is a joint resolution introduced in the Texas Legislature that calls for Congress to convene a convention aimed at proposing an amendment to the U.S. Constitution mandating a balanced federal budget. The resolution argues that the current Constitution does not impose any restrictions on the federal government's ability to incur budget deficits. By invoking Article V of the Constitution, this resolution seeks to mobilize state legislatures across the country to join Texas in this effort, potentially leading to significant constitutional changes concerning federal fiscal management.
Sentiment
General sentiment regarding HJR60 appears to skew towards fiscal conservatism, aligning with viewpoints that advocate for reduced government spending and strict budgetary constraints. Supporters of this resolution believe that a balanced budget amendment is essential to prevent future generations from bearing the burden of national debt. Conversely, critics may argue that such limitations could hinder the federal government's ability to respond effectively in times of economic downturn or national emergencies, where additional spending may be necessary.
Contention
The contention surrounding HJR60 primarily revolves around the implications of implementing a balanced budget requirement. Proponents argue that it would foster a culture of fiscal discipline among federal lawmakers, while opponents raise concerns about the rigidity it would impose during economic crises. The requirement to maintain a balanced budget could lead to cuts in essential services or hinder the government's ability to invest in key areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, particularly during periods when increased spending might be warranted.
Similar
Urging the Congress of the United States to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States and, in the event that Congress does not submit such an amendment on or before December 31, 2011, applying to Congress to call a convention for the specific and exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to that constitution to provide, in the absence of a national emergency and on a two-thirds vote of Congress, for a federal balanced budget and requesting that the legislatures of each of the several states that compose the United States apply to Congress to call a convention to propose such an amendment.
TX SJR10
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.
Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.
Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.
Extending the deadline for the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.
Ratifying a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the number of representatives in the United States House of Representatives.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.