![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20130218175517im_/http://www.gop.gov/resources/images/news/balancedbudget/icon-scale.jpg)
Fifteen years ago, the BBA passed the House with bipartisan support, only to lose by
one vote in the Senate. Since then, the debt has grown by $9.2 trillion. The BBA is a game-changer, and fighting for its ratification is the ultimate solution to our nation’s fiscal crisis.
The time to act is now. Our debt crisis is a legitimate threat to our nation’s future, and extraordinary problems call for extraordinary action. America cannot afford to wait any longer.
More about the Amendment »
With such an amendment, Americans would be better shielded from excessive spending and excessive deficits which lead to excessive taxes and result in excessive unemployment.
Passing a balanced budget amendment would help inspire renewed confidence among our nation’s job creators, many of whom are closing their doors and leaving the country for better business environments and taking job opportunities with them.
In order to restore certainty in our economy to bolster job growth and keep America competitive, we need to stop spending money we don’t have. A balanced budget amendment would help ensure that, and save the American dream for future generations in the process.
By Majority Leader Cantor (VA) and Rep. Jordan (OH)
Our Constitution has endured the passage of time with remarkably few changes, being amended just 27 times in 223 years. Unfortunately, America’s debt limit has not been nearly so stable.
By Majority Whip McCarthy (CA) and Chief Deputy Whip Roskam (IL)
It’s time for Washington to get serious about a balanced-budget amendment.
Most Americans understand the need for a balanced budget, and most Americans have seen how difficult it is for the Congress to withstand the pressures for more spending. This amendment will force government to stay within the limit of its revenues. Government will have to do what each of us does with our own family budgets – spend no more than we can afford.
— Ronald Reagan, April 29, 1982