H.J.Res. 139 Failed Economics and Public Finance

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring a balanced budget for the Federal Government.

  1. Introduced
  2. Committee
  3. Passed House
  4. Passed Senate
  5. To President
  6. Became law
Sponsor Rep. Biggs, Andy [R-AZ-5] Introduced January 9, 2026 Cosponsors 2 (2 R) Latest action March 18, 2026

Summary

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting total federal expenditures for a year from exceeding the average annual federal receipts collected in the three prior years, adjusted for changes in the population of U.S. citizens and inflation. Expenditures for payment of debt and receipts derived from borrowing are excluded.
Under the amendment, Congress may authorize specific expenditures in excess of the limit with (1) a roll call vote of two-thirds of each chamber, or (2) a roll call vote for any year in which a declaration of war is in effect.
The amendment also prohibits any bill to levy a new tax or increase the rate of any tax from becoming law unless it has been approved by a roll call vote of two-thirds of the whole number of each chamber of Congress.
The requirements take effect in the fifth year beginning after ratification of the amendment.

Summary by the Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress.

Congress.gov

Roll-call votes

Actions

  1. Mar 18, 2026 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 - 207 (Roll no. 95).
  2. Mar 18, 2026 Failed of passage/not agreed to in House On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 - 207 (Roll no. 95).
  3. Mar 18, 2026 Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H2583-2584)
  4. Mar 18, 2026 At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
  5. Mar 18, 2026 DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1115, the House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.J. Res. 139
  6. Mar 18, 2026 Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H2560-2568; text: CR H2560-2561)
  7. Mar 18, 2026 Mr. Biggs (AZ) moved to suspend the rules and pass the resolution.
  8. Feb 25, 2026 Placed on the House Calendar, Calendar No. 63.
  9. Feb 25, 2026 Reported by the Committee on Judiciary. H. Rept. 119-520.
  10. Feb 3, 2026 Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 16 - 10.
  11. Feb 3, 2026 Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
  12. Jan 9, 2026 Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

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