House Republicans may tie balanced budget to raising the nation’s debt limit

[Joanne98]

House Republican leaders are considering holding a vote on a constitutional balanced-budget amendment in tandem with an impending vote to increase the debt limit.

Leadership sources familiar with the GOP’s strategy told The Hill that calling up a balanced-budget amendment on the floor for consideration is under discussion — as are many other ideas.

Michael Steel, spokesman for Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio), said Boehner has been clear that reforms need to be implemented along with spending cuts if the White House wants Republicans to vote for an increase to the $14.3 trillion debt ceiling.

“That means cutting spending and implementing spending reforms to keep cutting. The details of those reforms will be discussed by members in the weeks ahead,” Steel said.

http://thehill.com/homenews/house/138987-house-gop-may-tie-balanced-budget-to-raising-the-nations-debt-limit-

Bad idea. It just makes the country INFLEXIBLE!

[Imperialism Inc.]

1. Surely there are plenty of reasons to run a deficit.

People do it all the time when they buy a home, or send their kids to college, etc. Sometimes spending money that you don't currently have will ensure more income later. A balanced budget amendment is like driving a nail with a sledge hammer.