H.Con.Res.10 - Emergency Border Control Resolution (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Con.Res.10, the "Emergency Border Control Resolution," establishes the congressional budget for the U.S. Government for fiscal year 2025 and sets budgetary levels for fiscal years 2026 through 2034. Introduced in the House of Representatives, the resolution outlines recommended levels for federal revenues, new budget authority, budget outlays, deficits, and debt. It also specifies budgetary levels for major functional categories, including National Defense, International Affairs, and Health.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would replace prior budget resolutions and set the fiscal course for the government through 2034. The reconciliation instructions would compel specific House committees to propose changes in laws to either increase or decrease the deficit by specified amounts. The policy statement on federal spending indicates an intention to reduce federal outlays to pre-COVID levels, adjusted for Social Security, Medicare, and debt service.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially improved fiscal responsibility through deficit reduction targets.
- Increased national security through continued defense spending.
- Potential for economic growth through controlled federal spending.
- Focus on border control may lead to increased public safety.
- Long-term budget planning provides stability.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential cuts to essential social programs to meet deficit reduction targets.
- Increased debt limit may lead to long-term financial instability.
- Focus on border control may negatively impact international relations.
- Potential negative impacts on economic growth if spending cuts are too severe.
- The reconciliation process could lead to rushed and poorly considered legislation.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, pay debts, and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The budget process itself is a function of Congress's legislative powers, as outlined in Article I, Section 7, which requires all bills for raising revenue to originate in the House of Representatives. However, the specific policies enacted under this budget resolution could face constitutional challenges if they infringe upon individual rights or exceed the enumerated powers of the federal government.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).