Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HJR9

Introduced

1/3/25

Refer

1/3/25

Caption

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that prohibits the U.S. government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by a law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each chamber of Congress.

Impact

The proposed amendment would impact federal fiscal policy by ensuring that any increase in government debt must be justifiable and sanctioned by a supermajority in Congress. It seeks to curb unchecked government spending and align federal practices with the principles of strict budget management. Consequently, this could mean a decrease in funding for various federal initiatives, particularly in times of economic crisis when increased borrowing might be necessary to stimulate the economy or fund essential services.

Summary

HJR9 proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the United States that would limit the federal government's ability to increase its debt, requiring a specific purpose approved by a law adopted by three-fourths of each House of Congress. This significant legislative effort aims to establish more stringent controls over government borrowing, a contentious topic in fiscal policy discussions. If ratified, it would enforce a constitutional limitation significantly altering how federal borrowing is managed, paving the way for a potential shift towards more fiscally responsible governance.

Contention

The introduction of HJR9 is likely to elicit a range of responses from lawmakers and advocacy groups alike. Proponents argue that such a constitutional amendment is crucial to preventing governmental overreach and ensuring taxpayers are not burdened with excessive debt accumulation. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the potential limitations this would impose on necessary government spending during emergencies, highlighting that requiring a supermajority could hinder quick legislative action in critical situations. The balance between fiscal responsibility and the capacity for responsive governance is at the heart of this debate.

Congress_id

119-HJRES-9

Policy_area

Economics and Public Finance

Introduced_date

2025-01-03

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HJR9

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States prohibiting the United States Government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each House of Congress.

US HJR229

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States related to the public debt.

US SJR1

A joint resolution proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States relative to the line item veto, a limitation on the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve, and requiring a vote of two-thirds of the membership of both Houses of Congress on any legislation raising or imposing new taxes or fees.

US HJR93

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a Government shutdown is in effect.

US HJR101

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a Government shutdown is in effect.

US HJR19

Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution requiring that each agency and department's funding is justified.

US SJR2

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to limiting the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US HB9777

To amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to require any cost estimate for a bill or joint resolution prepared by the Congressional Budget Office to include the cost to each United States citizen for carrying out such measure, and for other purposes.

US HJR4

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation during a fiscal year unless both Houses of Congress have agreed to a concurrent resolution on the budget for that fiscal year prior to the beginning of that fiscal year.

US SR107

A resolution recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.