SENATE BILL REPORT

SJM 8004

BYSenators Metcalf, Owen, Rasmussen, Conner, Pullen, Vognild, Deccio, Anderson, Bailey, Lee, Nelson, Bauer, West, Johnson, Craswell, Barr, von Reichbauer, Sellar, Benitz, Newhouse, Cantu, Hayner, McDonald, Saling and Patterson

Urging Congress to initiate a balanced budget amendment.

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 3, 1988

Senate Staff:Gary Benson (786-7715)

AS OF FEBRUARY 1, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The national debt is now $2.3 trillion doubling over the last eight years.  The federal budget deficit is expected to be $178 billion in 1988.

By a two-thirds vote, Congress may propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution.  If asked by two-thirds of the states (34), Congress is to call a Constitutional Convention to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution.  These amendments need to be ratified by three-fourths of the states (38). 

SUMMARY:

Congress is requested to submit to the states a constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget during the absence of a national emergency.

Alternatively, Congress is requested to call a Constitutional Convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing a balanced budget amendment.  This request is rescinded if the Convention is not limited to this specific purpose.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested