The article examines whether Fiscal Responsibility Laws have improved fiscal performance in Latin American and advanced economies. The researchers found that using traditional methods to analyze the impact of these laws on fiscal outcomes may lead to biased results. Their approach considers the uncertain timing of the laws' effects and controls for business and commodity cycles. Overall, the study suggests limited evidence that Fiscal Responsibility Laws have significantly improved fiscal performance, but they may still have positive effects on fiscal policy through increased transparency and guidance in the budget process.