What is a balanced budget amendment?

Simply put, a balanced budget amendment would limit the spending of the federal government to be equal or less than the revenue it collects each year. There would be an allowance whereby Congress could spend more in times of war, severe recession, or other emergency if 60% of both houses of Congress approved. To prevent misuse of the clause, Congress would have to renew this emergency allowance each year.

What do you support, and why?

We believe that passage of a balanced budget amendment will be one of the greatest, most meaningful achievements of our generation. It is the best way to control government spending, keep our country out of debt, and help the economy when we need it most.

Americans for a Balanced Budget advocates grassroots action because recent years have demonstrated that politicians in Washington are out of control. They continue to add unprecedented levels of debt to each and every American, and it is up to us to stop them before it's too late. Our national debt is already over $12 trillion, which amounts to nearly $160,000 for a family of four. This year the federal government will increase our deficit almost $1.5 trillion. That's $1,500,000,000,000 of extra debt.

A balanced budget amendment is the best way to control government spending because it is the only method that is fail-safe, unlike other schemes (such as Pay-Go, Gramm-Rudman, etc) that are easily abused by budget gimmicks and political maneuvering. The emergency provision will also ensure that our government can respond to crises like the tough times we are experiencing today.

Forty-nine of the fifty states' constitutions require a balanced budget, and we should demand the same from our federal government. If you believe as we do, please join us.