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.
| Action Date | Type | Text | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-03-18 | Vote | On motion to suspend the rules and pass the resolution Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 211 - 207 (Roll no. 95). | House floor actions |
| 2026-03-18 | Floor | Considered as unfinished business. | House floor actions |
| 2026-03-18 | Floor | 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. | House floor actions |
| 2026-03-18 | Floor | DEBATE - Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1115, the House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.J. Res. 139 | House floor actions |
| 2026-03-18 | Floor | Considered under suspension of the rules. | House floor actions |
| 2026-03-18 | Floor | Mr. Biggs (AZ) moved to suspend the rules and pass the resolution. | House floor actions |
| 2026-02-25 | Calendars | Placed on the House Calendar, Calendar No. 63. | House floor actions |
| 2026-02-25 | Committee | Reported by the Committee on Judiciary. H. Rept. 119-520. | House floor actions |
| 2026-02-03 | Committee | Ordered to be Reported by the Yeas and Nays: 16 - 10. | House committee actions |
| 2026-02-03 | Committee | Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held | House committee actions |
| 2026-01-09 | IntroReferral | Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. | House floor actions |
| 2026-01-09 | IntroReferral | Introduced in House | Library of Congress |