Newly elected U.S. Rep. Charles Djou, R-Hawai'i, is backing a proposal for a constitutional amendment requiring the federal government to balance its budget.

"As the country faces a looming fiscal crisis, it's time to finally do something about Washington's out-of-control spending," Djou said in a statement. "A balanced budget amendment will force Congress to take a serious look at its priorities and find a solution rather than handing the problem to future generations."

Djou yesterday joined more than 170 other co-sponsors of House Joint Resolution 1.

The measure, introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., would prohibit most federal spending from exceeding total receipts in a fiscal year.

The House and Senate could authorize exceptions by a three-fifths roll call vote.

It also would require a three-fifths roll call vote of each chamber to increase the public debt limit.

"Hawai'i families know all too well that when times get tough, we must tighten our belts, make difficult decisions and balance our budgets in order to live within our means," Djou said. "Now is the time for Washington to learn that lesson as well. A balanced budget amendment will force Congress to follow the same rules as the hard-working families I represent.

"Fiscal responsibility is my first order of business in Congress. I am proud to co-sponsor legislation that will pave the way for a balanced budget and put an end to Congress' runaway spending problem."

Djou on Saturday won a special election to serve the remaining seven months of Hawai'i's 1st Congressional District term. The seat became vacant when Rep. Neil Abercrombie resigned to run for governor. Djou is the first Republican in 20 years to hold the seat.