Senate Joint Resolution No. [insert number] is a legislative proposal from the State of Montana that seeks to apply for a convention of the states under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The primary aim of this resolution is to propose an amendment that mandates a balanced federal budget, stipulating that federal outlays for any fiscal year cannot exceed estimated federal revenues, except in cases of national emergency. The resolution highlights the current fiscal crisis, noting the U.S. national debt exceeding $36 trillion and annual deficits surpassing $2 trillion, which the legislature believes jeopardizes the financial health of Americans.

The resolution also establishes that this application will remain active until at least two-thirds of the states have made similar applications on the same subject. Additionally, it directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the application to various federal and state officials, including the President, members of Congress, and legislative leaders in other states, to seek their cooperation in this initiative.