Congresswoman Hartzler: "It's Time to Pass the Balanced Budget Amendment!"

Statement

Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-4) is leading efforts in the U.S. House to pass a Balanced Budget Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. As part of the August debt limit agreement, the House and Senate will have to vote between October 1st and December 31st on a Balanced Budget Amendment. Hartzler, a co-sponsor of the amendment, is urging Representatives and Senators to approve what is truly the only effective way to get a grip on out-of-control Washington spending -- and to pass the Balanced Budget Amendment.

"It is time for Washington to live within its means as American families must do," said Hartzler. "Our national debt is higher than it's been at any time in our history. We are currently borrowing roughly 42 cents of every dollar we spend and saddling our children and grandchildren with the debt. Passing a Balanced Budget Amendment would get Washington on the right track and help to renew confidence among America's job creators by restoring certainty in our economy. This will keep America competitive."

"A Balanced Budget Amendment is a proven, effective tool to ensure sound fiscal action by governments," continued Hartzler. "Missouri and 48 other states currently have some form of a balanced budget requirement -- Washington needs to join the states in being responsible with taxpayers' dollars."

"In 1995, a version of the Balanced Budget Amendment lost by only one vote in the Senate," added Hartzler. "Since that time, the debt has grown by more than $9 trillion. Had we passed this amendment in 1995, our country would surely be in a better financial situation now. Our debt crisis is a legitimate threat to our nation's future. America cannot afford to wait any longer -- the time to act is now!"

To pass Congress, this Constitutional amendment will require two-thirds' majorities of both the House and Senate. The amendment would then be sent to the states for ratification, with approval of three-fourths (38) of the states required.

Vicky Hartzler was elected to Congress on November 2, 2010. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Agriculture Committee.

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