Montana Senate advances resolution for constitutional convention on balanced budget amendment

Montana lawmakers took a significant step towards addressing the national debt crisis during a Senate Floor Session on March 27, 2025, by advancing Senate Joint Resolution 4 (SJ 4). This resolution calls for a constitutional convention aimed at proposing an amendment that would require a balanced federal budget.

Senator Noland, the resolution's sponsor, emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing the staggering national debt of over $36 trillion and the unsustainable fiscal practices of Congress. He argued that without intervention, future generations would bear the burden of this debt, which he likened to a family living beyond its means. Noland's passionate plea highlighted the necessity for states to pressure Congress into adopting a balanced budget amendment, asserting that this is the only viable solution to prevent economic collapse.

The resolution received mixed reactions during the session. Supporters argued that a balanced budget amendment would compel Congress to manage its spending more responsibly, while opponents raised concerns about potential negative impacts on essential programs like Social Security and Medicare. They warned that a convention could lead to unintended consequences, including the risk of broader constitutional changes.

Senator Phelan voiced skepticism about the effectiveness of a convention, suggesting that it might not lead to the desired outcomes and could instead open the door to more significant alterations to the Constitution. He pointed out that the current political climate, characterized by numerous national emergencies, complicates the feasibility of implementing a balanced budget requirement.

Despite the debate, the resolution passed with a vote of 27 to 23, reflecting a growing sentiment among some lawmakers that immediate action is necessary to address fiscal irresponsibility at the federal level. The passage of SJ 4 positions Montana as a potential leader in a movement that could see 34 states call for a convention to amend the Constitution regarding budgetary constraints.

As the discussion continues, the implications of this resolution could resonate beyond Montana, potentially influencing national fiscal policy and the future of federal budgeting practices. The next steps will involve rallying support from other states to reach the threshold needed for a constitutional convention, a process that could reshape the financial landscape of the nation.