Texas Lawmakers Release RSC Budget to Balance Federal Books in 10 Years

Rep. Beth Van Duyne

Republican Study Committee leaders, Representatives Beth Van Duyne and August Pfluger, have released the RSC Budget, a comprehensive fiscal blueprint aimed at balancing the federal budget within ten years by returning spending to pre-pandemic levels and curbing what they describe as Washington's reckless spending habits.

Rep. Van Duyne, chair of the RSC Budget and Spending Task Force, said the proposal proves fiscal responsibility can be achieved without cutting Social Security or Medicare benefits, raising the retirement age, or eliminating agricultural programs.

The budget also prioritizes border security, military strength, American energy production, and protection for unborn life.

"For too long, Washington has ignored the basic math that every American family understands," said Rep. Pfluger. "Families balance their budgets and make tough choices every day. They expect their government to do the same."

According to the RSC leaders, the budget incorporates more than 220 bills introduced by committee members and includes provisions aligned with the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation. The proposal emphasizes cutting waste, fraud, and abuse while maintaining assistance for those most in need.

Van Duyne said the budget was built after months of coordination with RSC members, the House Budget Committee, the White House, and outside stakeholders.

"Washington must live within its means," she said, calling the plan a return to fiscal discipline.

The RSC Budget also rejects what Republicans describe as a false choice between responsible spending and maintaining essential government functions. Supporters argue that it strengthens economic growth by allowing free markets rather than federal intervention to drive opportunity.

The proposal serves as a policy marker for House conservatives as debates over federal spending and debate continue. While it faces opposition from Democrats, RSC leaders say the budget reflects priorities shared by families nationwide.

Raeylee Barefield

Raeylee Barefield is a student at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a degree in Government. She enjoys reading, writing, and cooking in her spare time.