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Patrick T. McHenry Voting Record & Scorecard | Institute for Legislative Analysis

US Representative from NC

District: 10 • Republican

2024 Alignment:

68.21%

Lifetime Alignment:

68.43%

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District Performance
Cook PVI Rating: R+9 (Solid R)
District Estimate: 82%
District Performance: -14 (68.21%)
District Based Rating:
D
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Lifetime Ratings by Policy Category

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Title

Lawmaker Position

Expressing Opposition to a Carbon Tax and its Detriment on Families and Businesses.

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) expresses the sense of Congress that a carbon tax is not in the best interest of the country and would be detrimental to families and businesses. The resolution highlighted that the share of energy consumption during 2023 in the United States that was derived from fossil fuels was approximately 80 percent and a carbon tax will increase the cost of every good manufactured in the United States.
Support is the Limited Government Position as a carbon tax would not only unnecessarily hike the cost of consumer goods, but place the U.
S. at a significant competitive economic disadvantage on the national stage, all while having a miniscule impact on reducing global emissions.
Supports
Limited
Government

Blocking Biden Administration Mandates that Force 70% of New Car Sales to be Electric by 2032.

This resolution introduced by Rep. John James (R-MI) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency on April 18, 2024, titled "Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles". This rule, which requires roughly 70% of new car and truck sales to be electric in less than 10 years, imposes much stricter emission standards for cars and light-duty trucks.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this draconian EPA rule infringes consumer choice, drives up the cost of automobiles, and will result in the elimination of gas-powered performance vehicles.
This bill is critical to combatting the actions of government bureaucrats to centrally plan the product sales of automotive manufactures in order to advance a radical and politicized environmental agenda.
Supports
Limited
Government

Repealing the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and other Politicized Environmental Program Harming Economic Growth Through the "Cutting Green Corruption and Taxes Act".

The "Cutting Green Corruption and Taxes Act" sponsored by Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL) would rollback climate and environmental justice programs established in the Inflation Reduction Act (IFA) including the repeal of the "Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund". The bill also eliminates an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program which provides incentives for petroleum and natural gas systems to reduce their emissions of methane and other greenhouse gases, as well as a charge placed on certain facilities for their methane emissions.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill guts multiple politicized environmental programs which inflict serious damage to the U.
S. economy and unnecessarily hike consumer costs. The country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.
Supports
Limited
Government

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Government Funding Package with a 2-Year Debt Limit Suspension, $100 Billion in Disaster Aid and Farm Subsidies with No Fiscal Offsets.

This version of the "American Relief Act, 2025" passed on December 19, 2024 and sponsored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) would fund the government through March 14, 2025. The bill also includes more than $100 billion in disaster aid and $10 billion in economic aid to farmers, as well as an extension of the farm bill through Sept. 30, 2025. The bill also contains a two-year suspension of the debt limit until Jan. 30, 2027, a provision advocated by President-elect Trump.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the debt limit serves as a critical tool to combating runaway spending and promoting implementation of fiscally sound policies such as the sequester.
Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Note: Democrat lawmakers who voted "nay" were also recorded as opposing the limited government position due to the fact their opposition was for political reasons and not fiscal.
Against
Limited
Government

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Government Funding Package Containing Over $100 Billion in Disaster Aid and Farm Subsidies with No Fiscal Offsets.

The final version of the "American Relief Act, 2025" passed on December 20, 2024 and sponsored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) would fund the government through March 14, 2025. The bill also includes more than $100 billion in disaster aid and $10 billion in economic aid to farmers, as well as an extension of the farm bill through Sept. 30, 2025. This version of the bill does not include a two-year suspension of the debt limit as had been advocated by President-elect Trump.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Preventing Any President from Banning Hydraulic Fracking Through the "Protecting American Energy Production Act".

The "Protecting American Energy Production Act" sponsored by Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC) would prevent any president from banning hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" and expresses that the states themselves should regulate fracking for oil and natural gas production on state and private lands. Hydraulic fracking is a process to extract oil or gas from a geologic formation by injecting water, a propping agent (e.g., sand), and chemical additives into a well under enough pressure to fracture the formation.
Support is the Limited Government Position as hydraulic fracking helps to significantly boost oil and gas extraction - low-cost energy which is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans.
With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.
Supports
Limited
Government

Strengthening National Security and Intellectual Property Rights through the "Protect America's Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act".

The "Protect America's Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act" sponsored by Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) would reestablish the "China Initiative" at the Department of Justice (DOJ), which the Biden administration ended in 2022. Under the bill, the program is renamed the "CCP Initiative" and will (1) counter nation-state threats to the United States; (2) curb spying by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on U.S. intellectual property and academic institutions; (3) identify and prosecute individuals engaged in trade secret theft, hacking, and economic espionage; and (4) protect U.S. critical infrastructure from foreign threats.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen national security and American intellectual property rights by providing greater oversight of one the United States' top adversaries.
Supports
Limited
Government

Ensuring Americans Maintain Control over Public Health Policy and Not the World Health Organization Through the "No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act".

The "No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act" sponsored by Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) would require any agreement on pandemic prevention or response reached by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be approved by a two-thirds majority of the U.S. Senate. According to the sponsor, the bill is aimed at protecting American sovereignty against the WHO.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps ensure Americans remain in control over the public health policy of our nation and not globalist entities which do not place the interest of Americans first.
Supports
Limited
Government

Advancing American Energy Dominance by Requiring the Department of Interior to Hold More Frequent Lease Sales and Speed up the Permitting Process through the "CLEAN Act".

The "Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN) Act" sponsored by Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID) would require the Department of Interior (DOI) to hold lease sales every year, rather than every two years. Additionally, the bill helps speed up the permit process for lease sales by setting a 30-day deadline for the DOI to notify an applicant if a permit has been approved. According to the sponsor, the bill "will hold the Department of Interior accountable and is key to bolstering domestic energy production, reducing our reliance on foreign adversaries and meeting America's growing energy demands."
Support is the Limited Government Position as low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans.
Lawmakers must open up federal land to safe and responsible energy extraction, so Americans are provided with the lowest possible energy costs.
Supports
Limited
Government

Blocking DHS Funds from Being Provided to Colleges and Universities with a Confucius Institute or any Ties with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The "DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act" sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) would prevent funding from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from being provided to any college or university that has a relationship with a Confucius Institute (a cultural institute directly or indirectly funded by the Chinese government). According to the sponsor, "the Chinese Community Party is utilizing Confucius Institutes to infiltrate American university campuses and engage in espionage, steal intellectual property, intimidate Chinese dissidents, promote communist propaganda, and funnel sensitive information back to the People's Liberation Army".
Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to pay for the educations of individuals who chose to enroll in colleges and universities, especially entities which partner with one of America's top adversaries, the CCP.
Supports
Limited
Government

Strengthening National Security by Requiring DHS to Report which Colleges and Universities Have a Confucius Institute or Relations with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA) amendment #4 to the "DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act" would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress any institution of higher education that has a relationship with a Confucius Institute or Chinese entity of concern and receives funds from the Department of Homeland Security. According to the sponsor, "it is well documented that the CCP uses Confucius Institutes to disseminate their Communist propaganda, encourage censorship, and discourage academic freedom in the United States".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by providing greater oversight of woke colleges and universities that have decided to build a relationship with the CCP and one of America's top adversaries.
Supports
Limited
Government

Growing the Size and Scope of the Consumer Product Safety Commission to Impose New Mandates on Electric Bicycles and Scooters.

The "Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act" sponsored by Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to impose new mandates on micromobility devices (such as electric bicycles and scooters) relating to lithium-ion batteries and fire risk. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the bill is expected to increase taxpayer cost by $6 million to hire additional government employees to carry out these duties over the next five years.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows the government regulatory state.
There are already processes in place at the CPSC to generally monitor the safety of consumer products, and companies within the private sector are incentivized to ensure the products they bring to the market are safe. This includes maintaining the integrity of their brands and the threat of other legal enforcement mechanisms.
Against
Limited
Government

Preventing Voter Disenfranchisement by Nullifying a District of Columbia Law that Provides Voting Rights to Illegal Immigrants.

This bill, sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) prohibits individuals who are not citizens of the United States from voting in elections in the District of Columbia and repeals the "Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022". While federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting in a federal election, DC enacted a law that allows illegal immigrants to vote in local elections. This bill repeals the DC law, which went into effect on February 23, 2023.
Support is the Limited Government Position as the DC law disenfranchises American citizens by allowing their votes to be cancelled out by individuals residing in the country unlawfully.
Ensuring the ability to vote is reserved only for citizens is a critical component to ensure free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.
Supports
Limited
Government

Growing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to Award Grants to Government-Favored Non-Profits Under the "Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act".

The "Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Bill Keating (D- MA) would grow the size and scope of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through the creation of a new "Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Grant Program". In 2023, NOAA allocated about $1 million for sea turtle stranding response and rehabilitation activities. Under this bill, NOAA would hire additional employees and spend an estimated $33 million to provide grants to various non-profits which assist sea turtles.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while rehabilitating sea turtles is a worthy initiative, it is a duty of state and non-profit entities - not the federal government.
Taxpayers cannot afford to further grow the federal bureaucracy to support every animal group or the mission of every non-profit entity. The private sector is best equipped to fund these types of initiatives, which ensures waste is minimized and resources directed to the most needed initiatives.
Against
Limited
Government

Growing the State Department and Unnecessary Foreign Intervention by Facilitating Discussion of Human Rights in China through the "Uyghur Policy Act of 2023".

The "Uyghur Policy Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) would create a "Special Coordinator for Uyghur Issues" position within the Department of State which advocates for the human rights of minority groups residing primarily in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) in China. The bill is estimated to cost $6 million over the next five years to implement and makes federal funds available to human rights advocates and to "facilitate the presence of such human rights advocates at public diplomacy forums".
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while the human rights abuses in China (and within countless other nations) is a travesty, the U.
S. government and its taxpayers cannot afford to intervene and solve all of the world's problems. Additionally, the effectiveness of this government initiative is unknown, and a host of organizations already exist within the non-profit sector to address such issues. Lawmakers must prioritize the needs of Americans - not China - and rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Reducing Overreaching Government Regulations in the Financial Sector and Providing More Americans with the Ability to Invest Through the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023".

The "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC) is a package of bills which would reduce various financial securities regulations. Under the bill, a number of reporting and registration requirements for companies, brokers, and advisors would be decreased, plus provides an exemption for companies that sell less than $250,000 in securities in a year from having to register the transactions with the SEC. Additionally, the bill relaxes qualifications to become an "accredited investor", giving more people the ability to invest in private markets regardless of their wealth or income levels.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill removes unnecessary regulatory barriers on businesses and provides more individuals the freedom to invest in whatever entity or security of their choosing.
This reduction in government overreach will further empower the free-market and grow the U.S. economy.
Supports
Limited
Government

Reducing Unnecessary Business Costs Through the Default "E-Delivery" of Investor Notices Rather than Traditional Mail by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

The Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) amendment #2 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would direct the SEC to create rules allowing electronic delivery to become the default communication method for investment companies with their investors. According to the sponsor, "the amendment aims to modernize the policy, with investors opting in to paper disclosures instead of opting out while ensuring that paper will always be an option."
Support is the Limited Government Position as this regulatory reform helps reduce waste and unnecessary costs for businesses and investment companies.
Supports
Limited
Government

Reducing a Regulatory Barrier to Expanding Investment Opportunities for Small Businesses by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

The Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) amendment #1 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would insert language from the "Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act" into the underlying bill which would eliminate a regulatory barrier and make it easier for startup businesses to attract investors. Specifically, the bill clarifies the definition of "general solicitation" and "angel investor" under federal securities law so startups can discuss their products and business plans at "demo days" or other events in which no specific investment solicitation is made. Current rules effectively bar this type of communication between startups and angel investors. According to the sponsor, this measure will allow businesses "to engage with a wider audience of investors and spread word of the products and services that they can offer to help develop a thriving and diverse economy".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure reduces unnecessary regulatory barriers to help small businesses gain investment and grow the U.
S. economy.
Supports
Limited
Government

Expanding Investment Opportunities by Reforming Regulations on "403(b) Retirement Plans" by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

The Rep. Frank Lucas (R-OK) amendment #3 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would revise federal securities laws to allow 403(b) retirement plans (offered by public schools and certain non-profits) to invest in collective investment trusts (CITs) and insurance contracts, just like can be done with other retirement plans like 401(k)s. According to the sponsor, the reform is needed considering over the past decade "401(k) plan assets increased by 88 percent, government 457(b) plans increased by 82 percent, but total assets in 403(b) plans only increased by 46 percent".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure reduces overreaching regulatory barriers imposed by government, thus providing greater investment opportunities.
Supports
Limited
Government

Weaking Individual Liberties Through Government-Imposed Limits on Investment Risk by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

The Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) amendment #5 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would weaken the underlying bill's regulatory relief and the provision redefining the definition of "qualified investor" which allows more individuals to invest in private markets. Under this amendment, an individual could now only invest 5 percent of their net worth on any one private offering, and no more than 25 percent of their net worth (excluding their primary residence) on all such private offerings. According to the sponsor, the amendment "gives us a better definition of those who can afford the risks and the risk of liquidity that comes with these private investments".
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as individuals - not politicians - should have the right to set their own risk tolerances and determine how to invest their earnings.
This amendment weakens individual liberties and the ability of everyday Americans to grow their wealth through investment.
Supports
Limited
Government

Undermining the Regulatory Relief within the "Expanding Access to Capital Act" by Inserting a Poison Pill Provision Concerning "Junk Fees".

The Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) amendment #7 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would require the exemptions or benefits provided by the bill only apply to companies that do not impose "junk fees" on customers. However, the amendment, nor the SEC provide any definition of "junk fees". According to the sponsor, "If you want your child to sit next to you on the airplane, expect a fee. If you cancel your cable early, expect a fee. If you pay your credit card late, in Michigan, average credit card late fees from big banks are more than $20. Sadly, even the medical industry imposes hidden costs and surprise bills. Collectively, these junk fees cost our residents billions of dollars each year."
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment - which fails to provide a definition of "junk fees" - is clearly not a serious policy provision and designed to undermine the entire bill.
Considering the sponsor believes that there should be no financial penalties for violating a contact or failing to pay a debt on time, the term "junk fee" could define the billing practice of any company.
Supports
Limited
Government

Expanding Investment Opportunities Through a Reduction in Financial Regulations on "Closed-End Funds" by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

The Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO) amendment #4 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would insert language from the "Increasing Investor Opportunities Act" into the underlying bill which expands investment by removing certain financial regulations. Specifically, this measure creates a more competitive investment environment by allowing publicly offered closed-end funds (CEFs) to invest up to 100% of their assets in private securities. According to the sponsor, "SEC bureaucrats have taken another step toward reserving safe access to investment opportunities for wealthy, accredited investors" and this measure would "increase investment opportunities for millions of Americans and eliminate unnecessary barriers restricting investor access".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure reduces overreaching regulations, strengthens individual liberties and boosts capital formation for startup businesses.
Supports
Limited
Government

Advancing DEI Through a Politicized Mandate Forcing Private Companies to Disclose their Investments into Minority, LGBTQ and Women-owned Businesses.

The Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) amendment #9 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would require any investment adviser, private fund, or an investment company that is subject to the bill to annually and publicly disclose their investments into women-owned, minority-owned, LGBTQ-owned, and other businesses. According to the sponsor, the measure "provides needed transparency into the opaque world of private equity and venture capital funds" considering "Black-founded companies receive less than 1 percent of venture capital funding annually, while women-founded businesses receive just about 2 percent".
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not politicized mandates surrounding DEI - is the best mechanism to rout out discrimination and penalize companies that discriminate through profit and loss.
This politicized mandate merely grows fuels division while imposing unnecessary costs on private businesses and investors.
Supports
Limited
Government

Maintaining Fiscal Irresponsibility through the "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" that Fails to Include a Critical Border Security Provision.

The "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" would avoid a shutdown by extending government funding through either March 1 or March 8, 2024 depending upon agency. Notably, the bill does not contain border security provisions advocated by conservatives.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill maintains fiscal irresponsibility by kicking the can down the road, while also failing to include the critical border security provision.
Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Encouraging the European Union to Designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Terrorist Organization and Impose Sanctions.

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) urges the European Union (EU) to expeditiously designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization under the EU Common Position 931 on terrorism (a sanction regime). It also encourages the Biden Administration to make the EU designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization a diplomatic priority in engagements with the EU. According to the sponsor, "the world must signal to the Islamic Republic of Iran that they will face severe consequences for their widespread acts of terrorism".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this resolution helps strengthen national security by encouraging the EU to follow President Trump's lead in 2019 and designate the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organization to help weaken the power of Iran, a country known to harbor terrorists.
Supports
Limited
Government

Reauthorizing the Udall Foundation an Unnecessary Politicized Entity Advancing DEI and Climate Change Agendas.

The "Udall Foundation Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would reauthorize through FY 2028 the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, which is an independent executive branch agency. The Foundation engages in public policy pertaining to environmental policy and climate change, as well as funds scholarships for individuals who identify as Native American. The Foundation lists diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as one of its strategic objectives in its strategic plan.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to operate and fund such a Foundation, especially a politicized entity which engages on issues such as climate change and DEI.
There are hundreds of thousands of other non-profit entities with just as deserving of missions yet are rightfully forced to operate and obtain their funding from the private sector.
Against
Limited
Government

Protecting American Mineral Extraction and Cutting Red Tape Through the "Mining Regulatory Clarity Act of 2024".

The "Mining Regulatory Clarity Act of 2024" sponsored by Mark Amodei (R-NV) would help protect mineral production in the U.S. by addressing the Rosemont judicial decision. The ruling in the case could upend projects by prohibiting "ancillary activities" (like processing sites or the storage of waste) on lands without economically viable minerals. This bill sets forth a process to allow mining companies to use, occupy, and conduct operations (e.g., construction of roads and other mining infrastructure activity) on public land regardless of whether a mineral deposit has been discovered on the land.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides regulatory certainty and helps cut red tape preventing many mining projects from moving forward, thus expanding American mineral extraction and economic growth.
Supports
Limited
Government

Advancing an "America Last" Agenda by Spending $40 Million to Promote Democracy and Human Rights in North Korea.

The "North Korean Human Rights Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) would reauthorize through FY2028 various activities to promote human rights in North Korea at an estimated cost of $41 million. This includes funding select non-profit organizations to "promote human rights, democracy, rule of law, and the development of a market economy in North Korea".
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill advances an "America last" agenda which places initiatives in foreign nations above the needs of Americans, all while forcing taxpayers to enrich government-favored non-profits.
Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Making the Sanctions on Iran's Ability to Obtain a Nuclear Weapon Permanent by Eliminating the Sunset Clause in the "Iran Sanctions Act of 1996".

The "Solidify Iran Sanctions Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Michelle Steel (R-CA) would eliminate a sunset clause in the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, thereby making permanent the requirement for the President to impose sanctions on certain individuals or entities engaged in specified transactions related to Iran's energy sector or Iran's efforts to acquire or develop certain weapons (such as chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons). According to the sponsor, "through this bipartisan, bicameral legislation, we can prevent Iran from possessing nuclear weapons and further jeopardizing global peace".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by helping prevent Iran - a known harborer of terrorists - from obtaining the ability to deploy a nuclear weapon or other weapons of mass destruction.
Supports
Limited
Government

Restoring Mineral Extraction in Minnesota which was Banned by a Biden Administration Action Through the "Superior National Forest Restoration Act".

The "Superior National Forest Restoration Act" sponsored by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) would rescind "Public Land Order No. 7917 for Withdrawal of Federal Lands; Cook, Lake, and Saint Louis Counties, MN", which bars mining operations on over 225,000 acres of land within Minnesota's Superior National Forrest. Under the bill, the withdrawal would be overturned and the two decades-old mineral leases in Twin Metals Minnesota, which the Biden administration cancelled in 2022, would be restored.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill boosts American mineral extraction and helps grow the U.
S. economy.
Supports
Limited
Government

Growing Government Bureaucracy through the "DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training Program Act".

The "DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training Program Act" sponsored by Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX) would impose new mandates within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which require employees holding non-cybersecurity positions within the department, to be trained in matters relating to cybersecurity. The bill requires the program curriculum to be consistent with the "National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Framework" and is expected to cost $1 million annually to implement (not including lost employee time).
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as DHS already has the authority to train any of its employees on cybersecurity.
Instead, this one-size-fits-all mandate grows bureaucracy and may take employees already well-versed in cybersecurity unnecessarily away from their duties.
Against
Limited
Government

Repealing an Overreaching Biden Administration Environmental Rule which Reduces Federal Land Usage Through the "Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act".

The "Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) would repeal the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) "Conservation and Landscape Health" final rule. This rule establishes a series of new regulations concerning the usage of public land and restoration and conservation standards. According to the sponsor, "by elevating conservation as a qualified multiple-use, the BLM is acting outside of the law and is intentionally locking up America's public lands from intended purposes like resource development, mining, grazing, recreation and timber harvesting".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps combat excessive regulations which obstruct mineral extraction and prevent the responsible usage of federal land.
Considering the federal government owns a staggering 28% of all land in the country, the majority of federal land holdings should be turned over to the states or sold to the private sector to better manage.
Supports
Limited
Government

Boosting Public Safety by Authorizing Active and Retired Law Enforcement Officers to Carry Concealed Firearms Across State Lines and in a Greater Range of So-Called "Gun Free Zones".

The "LEOSA Reform Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) broadens the authority for certain law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms across state lines. Specifically, the bill allows qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms and ammunition (including magazines) in school zones; in national parks; on state, local, or private property that is open to the public; and in certain federal facilities that are open to the public.
Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government.
So-called "gun free zones" do nothing to prevent criminals from breaking the law, they merely disarm law-abiding individuals and unduly infringe their Second Amendment protections and leave them defenseless.
Supports
Limited
Government

Strengthening Border Security by Enhancing Penalties Against "Spotters" for Assisting Cartels to Evade Law Enforcement.

The "Transnational Criminal Organization Illicit Spotter Prevention and Elimination Act" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would increase punishments on individuals who aid cartel operations at the southern border plus enhances penalties for carrying or using a firearm in connection with certain criminal immigration violations. According to the sponsor, the bill targets "spotters" who help cartels evade law enforcement by surveilling portions of the border, communicating the positions of law enforcement agents and officers, and destroying hard infrastructure and communications devices.
Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government.
Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system. This bill failed to receive the 2/3rd vote necessary to pass.
Supports
Limited
Government

Combatting ESG and DEI Frameworks and Strengthening Religious Freedom through the "End Woke Higher Education Act".

The "End Woke Higher Education Act" sponsored by Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT) bars accrediting organizations from requiring colleges and universities to adopt diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies as a condition of accreditation. Additionally, an accrediting organization must confirm that its standards do not prohibit an institution of higher education from having a religious mission. According to the sponsor, the bill will "stand up for academic freedom, defend students' constitutional rights, and ensure that colleges and universities aren't forced to bend the knee to activist accreditors pushing political agendas as a condition for federal funding".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens religious freedoms and helps combat radical ESG and DEI frameworks on college campuses which sow division and lead to growth in government.
Supports
Limited
Government

Doubling Federal Government Spending on the "Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act" - An Initiative Best Run by the Private Health Care Industry.

The "Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX) would increase federal spending by nearly two-fold for a program which funds state-based maternal mortality review committees (MMRCs). The MMRCs review pregnancy-related deaths to identify causes and associated disparities to make recommendations for the prevention of future mortalities.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as such an initiative should not be the role of the federal government, but rather private healthcare entities and non-profit groups that can judge the effectiveness of such initiatives and maximize their impact.
Furthermore, taxpayers cannot afford to continue to hike spending at such enormous levels. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Reauthorizing a Government Wealth Redistribution Program which Provides Oral Health Care to "Underserved Populations" Through the "Action for Dental Health Act".

The "Action for Dental Health Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) would reauthorize a program within the Health and Human Services (HHS) which provides grants to organizations that provide oral health care to "underserved populations". The reauthorization is expected to cost taxpayers $55 million over the next five years.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector through non-profit entities - not central planning by federal bureaucrats - is best equipped to fund and assist those most needy of oral healthcare.
Such grant programs merely grow government dependency and inevitably waste taxpayer funds due to the bureaucratic cost of administering the program.
Against
Limited
Government

Further Growing the Size and Scope of the Federal Government by Adding a Larger Region of New York's Saratoga and Washington Counties to the National Heritage Areas Act.

The "Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area Enhancement Act" sponsored by Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) directs the National Park Service to assess the suitability and feasibility of adding the rest of Saratoga County and Washington County in New York to the "Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area" in New York. Areas which receive designation as National Heritage Areas receive additional federal funding.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the costs to maintain such regions should not be imposed on taxpayers nationwide.
Additionally, the free market and private sector (through private foundations) is best equipped to fund and determine the landmarks and properties most deserving of protecting - unlike government which is not subject to "profit and loss" signals of the private sector.
Against
Limited
Government

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending and Growing the Regulatory Power of Federal Bureaucrats Through the "National Construction Safety Team Enhancement Act".

The "National Construction Safety Team Enhancement Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) would expand the size and regulatory authority of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and increase agency spending by $5 million annually. Currently, the NIST is authorized to investigate the structural failure of a building that has resulted in substantial loss of life or that had the significant potential to cause a substantial loss of life. Under the bill, NIST's authority is expanded to now also investigate structural failures other than those involving buildings and to recommend related improvements to engineering standards and practices.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local authorities (who set and enforce building codes) to perform these duties - not the federal government.
This bill which merely fuels out-of-control spending and grows federal bureaucratic power, while going against the principles of federalism as set forth by our Founding Fathers in the U.S. Constitution.
Against
Limited
Government

Imposing an Overreaching Federal Ban on Sodium Nitrite in an Ineffective Attempt to Curb Suicide Through the "Youth Poisoning Protection Act".

The "Youth Poisoning Protection Act" sponsored by Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA) would ban the consumer sale of products containing concentrations of sodium nitrite (a meat-curing chemical) which exceed 10%. According to the sponsor, the chemical can be lethal when ingested in high concentrations and is being popularized and encouraged as an easily accessible method to die by suicide.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while mental health continues to represent a major crisis within our society, bans on sodium nitrite, firearms, or other products than can inflict self-harm, fail to address the underlying cause of the problem.
This one-size-fits-all approach on implementing an outright ban merely drives up costs for small businesses and consumers.
Against
Limited
Government

Strengthening Civil Liberties by Preventing Government from Purchasing Americans' Data without a Search Warrant Through the "Fourth Amendment Is Not for Sale Act".

The "Fourth Amendment Is Not for Sale Act" sponsored by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) would prohibit law enforcement and intelligence agencies from purchasing personal information about customers or subscribers of electronic and remote computing service providers - such as email, social media, cell phone and cloud computing companies - without first obtaining a court order. According to the sponsor, the bill "stops the federal government from circumventing Americans' Fourth Amendment right to privacy by closing loopholes that allow the government to purchase Americans' data from big tech companies without a search warrant".
Support is the Limited Government Position as the U.
S. Constitution explicitly protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizure. This bill helps strengthen civil liberties as protected under the Fourth Amendment.
Against
Limited
Government

Weakening Civil Liberties by Creating a Loophole in the "Fourth Amendment is Not for Sale Act" to Allow Law Enforcement and Intelligence Agencies to Purchase Data to Avoid Obtaining a Warrant.

The Nick LaLota (R-NY) amendment #3 to the "Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act" would add language stating the bill "shall not limit a governmental entity's ability to obtain information that would be obtainable without a warrant. According to the sponsor, this amendment serves as a massive loophole, as the purchase of information from a third party (collection of data) could then bypass a warrant and "would destroy the whole purpose of the bill".
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment significantly weakens the civil liberty protections within the underlying bill.
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizure.
Against
Limited
Government

Strengthening National Security by Preventing the Biden Administration for Lifting Iran Sanctions without Congressional Approval Through the "Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act".

The "Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) would establish a procedure for Congress to review any action by the President to terminate, waive, or modify sanctions on Iran. Under the bill, the President must report to Congress on any planned sanctions relief and the reasons for the change in policy. Congress could then approve or disapprove of the administration's action within a review period; a joint resolution of disapproval would block it from going into effect.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen national security by preventing the free flow of billions of dollars to Iran, a country known to harbor terrorists.
Supports
Limited
Government

Establishing a New Regulatory Framework which Protects the Crypto Industry from Draconian Regulations by the SEC that Hinder Innovation.

The "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21)" sponsored by Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA) largely prevents the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from imposing overreaching regulations in the digital asset market (including crypto-currency) by providing greater regulatory clarity. Under the bill, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is provided with new jurisdiction over digital commodities and the bill also establishes a process to permit the secondary market trading of digital commodities if they were initially offered as part of an investment contract.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps fuel innovation by preventing overreaching regulations from being imposed on the crypto-currency industry.
The bill is especially critical considering the FED, with its central planning and control over interest rates, presents a dire danger to the economy - especially considering the size of its balance sheet and actions surrounding quantitative easing.
Supports
Limited
Government

Imposing Greater Regulatory Burdens on the Crypto Industry by Reducing the Crowdfunding Exemption within the "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act".

The Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX) amendment #1 to the "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21)" would weaken the underlying bill relating to digital asset (crypto) regulations by reducing the crowdfunding exemption from $75 million to $5 million. As a result, investors could only crowdfund up to $5 million for crypto before being forced to register and meet a series of additional regulations. According to the sponsor, the reduced cap represents the exemption level that is applied to other traditional investments.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure harms innovation within the crypto industry by making it more costly and difficult to raise investment.
Supports
Limited
Government

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Providing Greater Clarity on the Role of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #4 to the "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21)" clarifies that while the underlying bill may provide the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) with the authority to regulate digital asset spot markets, nothing in the bill should be construed as providing the CFTC power beyond digital assets. According to the sponsor, "this amendment simply aims to combat mission creep".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure provides greater clarity to the underlying bill to prevent "mission creep" and additional overreaching actions by the CFTC.
Supports
Limited
Government

Combatting Politicized ESG Rules within the SEC through the "Prioritizing Economic Growth Over Woke Policies Act".

The "Prioritizing Economic Growth Over Woke Policies Act" sponsored by Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) is said to address the threats environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives pose to the American financial system. Most notably, the bill makes changes to SEC disclosure regulations to ensure companies are only required to disclose material information (not ESG) and requires the SEC to publicly list and explain any non-material disclosure demands. According to the sponsor, "rogue Democrat-appointed regulators are forcing companies to waste their limited time and resources on ESG mandates that have little to do with a firm's financial performance".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect companies and investors from cancerous ESG and DEI initiatives which stifle company growth and oftentimes lead to a litany of other internal organizational problems.
Supports
Limited
Government

Forcing Taxpayers to Spend an Additional $31 Million at the Department of Energy to Advance a Politicized Environmental Agenda Through the "Carbon Sequestration Collaboration Act".

The "Carbon Sequestration Collaboration Act" sponsored by Rep. Jim Baird (R-IN) would grow the Department of Energy (DOE) to increase research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) on carbon dioxide sequestration. Emphasis would be placed on "terrestrial carbon sequestration" (i.e., the storage of carbon in plants and biomass)and carbon sequestration in geologic formations (e.g., carbon sequestration in basins or aquifers). The bill is expected to increase DOE spending by $32 million.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to fund the research and development of any technology pertaining to carbon sequestration.
This bill merely grows bureaucracy within the DOE and forces taxpayers to fund a politicized environmental agenda. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Growing the Size and Scope of the Department of Energy to Advance a Politicized Climate Change Agenda Through the "Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act".

The "Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act" sponsored by Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA) would expand the size and role of the Department of Energy (DOE) to create a research, development, and demonstration program concerning abandoned oil and gas wells. According to the sponsor, "methane emissions from oil and gas wells - some of which date back as early as the 1850s including orphan wells, remains a significant driver of short-term climate change".
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the management of abandoned oil and gas wells is the duty of state and local entities - not the federal government.
This measure merely expands government bureaucracy, largely to promote a politicized climate change agenda. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
Against
Limited
Government

Passing a Fiscally Irresponsible National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which Hikes Spending by $9 Billion Despite the Pentagon Recently Failing its Audit.

The "National Defense Authorization Act" (NDAA) as passed on December 11, 2024, spans 1,800 pages and contains $895.2 billion in spending (a $9 billion increase over FY24 and $120 billion increase since FY20). It should be noted that at this time the Pentagon failed its seventh consecutive audit.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers can't continue to pour hundreds of billions of dollars into a broken pitcher.
Major reforms must be made within the department of defense to cut waste, fraud and abuse and ensure our armed forces have the resources they need to protect our nation. Note: this custom vote only records Republican positions on the bill on the grounds of spending. Another custom vote records Democrat positions on the basis of DEI and transgender issues.
Against
Limited
Government
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