Balanced Budget Accountability Act reduces pay for Members of Congress if they fail to adopt a balanced budget.

The Balanced Budget Accountability Act mandates that Members of Congress have their pay reduced if they fail to adopt a balanced budget. The Director of the Office of Management and Budget must certify whether a balanced budget has been adopted. If not, Members' pay is withheld and held in escrow. For fiscal years 2026 and 2027, Members will receive only $1 per year if a balanced budget is not certified by April 16. The act also requires a three-fifths majority vote in the Senate and House to pass any bill, joint resolution, amendment, conference report, or amendment that increases revenue.

Balanced Budget Accountability Act reduces pay for Members of Congress if they fail to adopt a balanced budget.

The Balanced Budget Accountability Act mandates that Members of Congress have their pay reduced if they fail to adopt a balanced budget. The Director of the Office of Management and Budget must certify whether a balanced budget has been adopted. If not, Members' pay is withheld and held in escrow. For fiscal years 2026 and 2027, Members will receive only $1 per year if a balanced budget is not certified by April 16. The act also requires a three-fifths majority vote in the Senate and House to pass any bill, joint resolution, amendment, conference report, or amendment that increases revenue.