[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 34 (Wednesday, March 10, 2010)]
[House]
[Page H1224]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                BALANCED BUDGET CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

  (Mr. BRIGHT asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. BRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, last Tuesday I introduced a constitutional 
amendment bill to balance the Federal budget. I am proud that 36 of my 
colleagues have joined me in cosponsoring H.J. Res. 78, and I urge all 
Members of Congress who believe that government should live within a 
budget join me and my colleagues to pass this bill.
  Balancing the budget is a simple concept that Alabama families follow 
every day. Without question, there are many steps that must be taken to 
improve our financial situation, but balancing the budget on a yearly 
basis is the only way to ensure that we don't repeat the mistakes of 
our past.
  We know we can achieve this goal because we have done so in the past. 
From 1998 to 2001, our country achieved balanced budgets through 
adherence to PAYGO. Forty-nine States currently require an annual 
balanced budget. Passing a constitutional amendment is a long process 
but is absolutely necessary to ensure America remains strong for 
generations to come.
  I urge the entire Congress to join me in this effort. I want to thank 
you for your support.

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