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Donald M. Payne Jr. Voting Record & Scorecard | Institute for Legislative Analysis

US Representative from NJ

District: 10 • Democrat

2024 Alignment:

N/A

Lifetime Alignment:

3.57%

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District Performance
Cook PVI Rating: >D+25 (Solid D)
District Estimate: N/A
District Performance: N/A (N/A)
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Lifetime Ratings by Policy Category

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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.
Against
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.
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.
Against
Limited
Government

Fueling Wasteful Spending and Enriching Woke Companies Through the "Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-Bridge) Act".

The "Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-Bridge) Act" sponsored by Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) would increase federal spending on broadband projects, particularly last-mile projects, which connect to homes and other buildings in "distressed communities". Specifically, the bill would make it easier to receive broadband grants from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) by allowing grant recipients to use in-kind donations, such as real property, to meet the cost sharing requirements.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the costs to provide broadband to select individuals should not be socialized onto federal taxpayers.
Additionally, broadband infrastructure is no longer necessary due to new technologies such as Elon Musk's Starlink internet. Federal and state broadband subsidy schemes merely distort the free-market by providing competitive advantages, and enrich woke companies such as Comcast.
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.
Against
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.
Against
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.
Against
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.
Against
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.
Against
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.
Against
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.
Against
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.
Against
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

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

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

Strengthening National Security by Establishing a New Federal Criminal Penalty for Fleeing Border Patrol Agents through the "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act".

The "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would establish a new federal criminal penalty for individuals who are within 100 miles of the U.S. border and are intentionally evading Border Patrol agents or law enforcement officers that are actively assisting Border Patrol. The bill is named after a Border Patrol agent killed in a high-speed chase while pursuing a group of illegal immigrants in Texas.
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 and deport those residing in the country unlawfully 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.
Against
Limited
Government

Weakening Border Security by Removing Increased Penalties for Fleeing Law Enforcement within the "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act".

The Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) amendment #1 to the "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act" would weaken the underlying bill that establishes a new federal criminal penalty for fleeing Border Patrol. Specifically, the amendment would remove language which had also applied the new penalty to cases of "fleeing from law enforcement actively assisting the Border Patrol". According to the sponsor, the amendment is needed due to the "aggressive policing tactics and unconstitutional racial profiling directed by rogue Governors like Governor Greg Abbott have led to severe harm to-and has undermined-our legal system all in the name of actively assisting the U.S. Border Patrol".
Oppose 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 and deport those residing in the country unlawfully 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.
Against
Limited
Government

Advancing a Human Trafficking Bill Containing Wasteful U.S. AID Spending - "Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act".

The "Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) would authorize $1.2 billion in additional federal spending on anti-human trafficking initiatives over the next five years. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) a majority of this spending would be for "foreign assistance to address trafficking overseas" which would be carried out in part by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as only a small portion of funding within the bill is directed towards law enforcement actions to combat human trafficking domestically.
The U.S. government and its taxpayers cannot afford to solve all of the world's problems surrounding human trafficking and the USAID has a lengthy history of waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds. Lawmakers must place the needs of America first - not the world - 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

Overturning Biden Administration Rules which Limit Oil and Gas Production on Federal Lands Through the "Restoring American Energy Dominance Act".

The "Restoring American Energy Dominance Act" sponsored by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) would nullify the Bureau of Land Management's proposed rule entitled "Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process." This rule would (1) increases bonding rates for oil and gas production on federal lands, (2) introduces new "preference criteria" for onshore oil and gas leasing that would limit areas available for production, (3) prevent leasing outside of currently producing areas.
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.
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.
Against
Limited
Government

Reducing Government Waste by Selling Federal Buildings being Utilized at a Capacity of 60% or Less Through the "Utilizing Space Efficiently and Improving Technologies (USE IT) Act".

The "Utilizing Space Efficiently and Improving Technologies (USE IT) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) would require the federal government to use 60% of the capacity of federal buildings or sell them. According to the sponsor, "American taxpayers have been forced to pay $2 billion a year for office space" and "the federal government has been grasping onto more than 11,000 acres of old, unused buildings, and won't force its employees into the offices".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill represents an easy solution to help reduce government waste.
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

Expanding U.S. Energy Production by Streamlining Permitting for Nuclear Energy through the "Atomic Energy Advancement Act".

The "Atomic Energy Advancement Act" sponsored by Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC) would accelerate the deployment of nuclear energy technologies, such as advanced nuclear reactors. Most notably, the bill makes reforms within the Department of Energy to help expedite permits and environmental reviews as well as reduce regulatory costs for nuclear energy companies. Furthermore, the bill reduces certain licensing fees charged by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for advanced nuclear reactors.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces barriers for nuclear energy expansion and promotes 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 Public Safety by Deny Entry and Deporting Illegal Immigrants who Committed Social Security or ID Fraud through the "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act".

The "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act" sponsored by Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) would prevent illegal immigrants who have committed Social Security fraud or identification document fraud from entering the U.S. and automatically deports illegal immigrants who have engaged in such fraud within the United States. According to the sponsor, "the current process for holding aliens accountable for Social Security fraud and identification document fraud is bureaucratized to the point of absurdity. In one case, an alien trafficking in phony identification documents was placed in removal proceedings in 2005, with the lengthy appeals process not concluding until 2013."
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 and deport those residing in the country unlawfully 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.
Against
Limited
Government

Strengthening Public Safety by Deny Entry and Deporting Illegal Immigrants who Committed Fraud Concerning COVID-19 Grants or Funding.

The Rep. Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY) amendment #1 to the "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act" would expand the underlying bill to prevent illegal immigrants who have committed fraud concerning COVID-19 grants or funds from entering the U.S. and automatically deports illegal immigrants who have engaged in such fraud within the United States. The sponsor cites statistics from the SBA Inspector General which estimated that more than $200 billion of the roughly $1.2 trillion in pandemic loans were distributed to potentially fraudulent actors.
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 and deport those residing in the country unlawfully 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.
Against
Limited
Government

Strengthening Public Safety by Deny Entry and Deporting Illegal Immigrants Convicted of DUI Offenses in the U.S. through the "Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act".

The "Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act" sponsored by Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL) would prevent illegal immigrants who have committed a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offense from entering the U.S. and automatically deports illegal immigrants who commit DUI within the United States. The bill is largely in response to statements made by President Biden that he would fire ICE agents who deport illegal immigrants who have not committed felonies and his view that ICE agents should "only arrest for the purpose of dealing with a felony that's been committed, and I do not count drunk driving as a felony."
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 and deport those residing in the country unlawfully 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.
Against
Limited
Government

Cutting Overreaching Environmental Regulations through the "Creating Confidence in Clean Water Permitting Act".

The "Creating Confidence in Clean Water Permitting Act" sponsored by Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC) is comprised of five standalone bills previously introduced in the U.S. House and would reform the Clean Water Act (CWA) to reduce regulatory barriers. Firstly, the bill reforms procedures pertaining to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits and places limits on litigation. Secondly, the bill limits EPA veto authority and the judicial review timelines for CWA Section 404 dredge and fill permits.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill implements multiple reforms which cut overreaching environmental regulations and help protect businesses from frivolous litigation.
These reforms will provide greater regulatory certainty which will boost business and economic growth.
Against
Limited
Government

Protecting Taxpayers by Ensuring Wasteful Renewable Energy Projects Do Not Receive Expedited Permits from the "Creating Confidence in Clean Water Permitting Act".

The Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA) amendment #8 to the "Creating Confidence in Clean Water Permitting Act" would exclude nearly all renewable energy infrastructure projects authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) from the expedited permitting process established within the underlying bill. Specifically, the bill excludes taxpayer-funded linear infrastructure projects within the IRA if the actual cost of the federal subsidies exceeds the amount originally estimated by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). According to the sponsor, many assessments have found the true cost of the federal subsidies to exceed the amount projected by the CBO by a factor of three or four times.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps protect taxpayers by ensuring the wasteful green energy projects from the IRA remain delayed, but other needed infrastructure projects receive expedition.
Furthermore, the measure helps protect families and businesses from higher electricity costs that would result from the construction of the unnecessary transmission lines and increased renewable energy usage.
Against
Limited
Government

Growing the Welfare State and Tax Cronyism through the "Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act".

The "Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) would expand numerous tax credit programs that benefit select businesses and certain individuals with low-incomes. For example, the bill expands the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and increases welfare payments for low-income families under the child tax credit program from $1,600 to $2,000 per child, including allowing a greater number of illegal immigrants to receive benefits. Additionally, the bill provides businesses with research and development expenses with more favorable tax deductions, while also extending certain provisions under the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017, including the bonus depreciation provision.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill grows the welfare state and government dependency - including for illegal immigrants - while continuing to distort the tax code to provide benefits to select businesses and taxpayers.
Instead of this cronyism, lawmakers should provide broad tax relief by lowering the tax brackets or most preferably, transition to a flat tax.
Against
Limited
Government

Boosting American Energy Dominance by Circumventing a Biden Administration Ban on Liquid Natural Gas through the "Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act".

The "Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) would eliminate duplication in the permitting process for Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) exports and bypasses the "pause" the Biden administration imposed on LNG exports on January 26, 2024. Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement for the Department of Energy to authorize LNG exports and instead give the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) sole authority over the approval process. As a result, the bill bypasses the specific provision used by the Biden administration to pause approvals of LNG exports.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill grows American energy dominance and U.
S. economic growth.
Against
Limited
Government

Advancing a Fiscally Irresponsible Budget by Kicking the Can Down the Road through the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024".

The "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) would avert a partial government shutdown by extending government funding by a week (March 8) for six agencies and March 22 for others. The extension serves as a stopgap as the final details on a broader extension are finalized. According to bill opponents, the broader bill will not provide any substantial spending reductions at a time the nation is facing $1 trillion in annual interest payment on the debt.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure merely kicks the can down the road to advance a fiscally irresponsible budget.
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

Strengthening National Security by Ensuring the Detention of Illegal Immigrants Accused of Theft, Burglary and Serious Crimes Under the "Laken Riley Act".

The "Laken Riley Act" sponsored by Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA) would require the federal detention of illegal immigrants who are accused of theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, and any crime that causes death or serious bodily injury. The Laken Riley Act is named after a Georgia nursing student who was killed by an illegal Venezuelan immigrant who had previously been arrested and paroled into the United States.
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 and deport those residing in the country unlawfully 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.
Against
Limited
Government

Imposing an Overreaching Ban on the Social Media Platform TikTok Through the "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act".

The "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act" sponsored by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) would ban the social media platform TikTok, which is a subsidiary of Chinese-owned company ByteDance Ltd. The bill includes a provision which would allow TikTok to continue to operate if ByteDance sells the application to a company deemed acceptable by the President. According to the sponsor, this measure is necessary given the fact TikTok is owned by the Chinese and the potential for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to collect data on American users.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while the potential for the CCP to collect data on Americans is concerning, TikTok has become a widely popular in America, with over 170 million monthly users.
A TikTok ban across government platforms is reasonable considering national security, but ultimately it should be up to individual Americans to weigh the risks of TikTok and determine their usage - not politicians - absent a much more substantial threat to national security.
Against
Limited
Government

Strengthening Government Accountability by Ensuring Federal Settlement Funds are Not Sent to Third Party Groups through the "Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act".

The "Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) would prohibit the executive branch from using "enforcement slush funds," the practice where funds paid under settlement agreements are sent to third party groups rather than the federal government. According to the sponsor, the "historical record is littered with examples of these settlement funds not directed toward victims or taxpayer relief but rather toward unrelated and often partisan third-party groups".
Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens government accountability by ensuring settlement funds are directed towards their intended purpose of compensating victims and providing relief to affected parties - not enriching politically connected interest groups.
Against
Limited
Government

Growing the NOAA's Marine Debris Program - a Role of the Private Sector - Through the "Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act".

The "Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act" sponsored by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) would increase spending by $40 million over the next five years within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) by reauthorizing the "Marine Debris Program". Additionally, the bill would accelerate the establishment of a government-funded Marine Debris Foundation and allow the Marine Debris Program to receive additional funding from other federal agencies.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while the removal of marine debris is a worthy initiative, 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.
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

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending Through a Budget Bill Filled with Waste and Funding Earmarked for Pet Projects of Lawmakers.

The "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) is a $460 billion minibus funding several government agencies through Fiscal Year 2024. Overall spending levels are generally flat compared to the prior year with increases for some agencies and decreases for others. For example, the bill provides a 10% cut to the EPA, 7% cut to ATF, and a 6% cut to the FBI. However, the bill continues to fund the Essential Air Service program and contains countless earmarks which fund pet projects of lawmakers, especially at the Army Corps of Engineers where spending is increased 7-fold. The bill also provides increased spending for a number of welfare programs such as WIC, plus $3.3 billion for community development block grants. Furthermore, hundreds of millions of dollars are directed to fight climate change through carbon capture.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill maintains the unsustainable spending levels which were hiked during the COVID-19 pandemic and is chock-full of wasteful pet-projects of special interests.
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: two Democratic lawmakers who opposed the bill were marked as "X" due to the fact their opposition was not the spending but rather minor provisions pertaining to gun control.
Against
Limited
Government

Impeaching DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for his Failure to Secure the Southern Border.

This resolution, sponsored by Rep. Majorie Taylor-Greene (R-GA) would impeach Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) Alejandro Mayorkas for high crimes and misdemeanors, including for his handling of issues involving fentanyl and border security. According to the sponsor, "Mayorkas' policies have killed Americans, bankrupted communities, overrun schools, besieged towns, drowned hospitals, and incapacitated law enforcement while empowering cartels and foreign entities".
Support is the Limited Government Position as Secretary Mayorkas has failed in his duties as Secretary of Homeland Security through the implementation of radical policies that have severely weakened our national security and devastated countless communities across the nation.
Against
Limited
Government

Denouncing the Biden Administration for its Energy and Federal Land Policies Which Have Hiked Energy Costs by 37.2%.

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) denounces the energy and federal land policies of the Biden Administration. It also encourages the domestic production of reliable and affordable energy generation sources. The resolution highlights that "energy prices increased roughly 37.2 percent in President Biden's first 26 months in office, which is the largest increase of any of the last 7 Presidents".
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.
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.
Against
Limited
Government

Overturning a Biden Administration Rule Making it Cost Prohibitive for Banks to Hold Crypto-Currencies for their Customers.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2022, titled "Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121". This rule requires financial institutions and firms that are safeguarding their customers' digital assets (such as crypto-currency) to hold the assets on their balance sheet. The rule has received criticism due to the fact the regulations makes it cost prohibitive for banks and other financial institutions to serve as custodians for digital assets.
Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule has largely roadblocked the ability of banks to hold digital assets, thus harming growth and innovation in the crypto-currency industry.
This measure provides critical regulatory relief.
Neutral

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.
Neutral

Utilizing the Congressional Review Act to Overturn Anti-Small Business Regulations Imposed by the Biden Administration Surrounding "Joint Employer Status".

This resolution introduced by Rep. John James (R-MI) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the National Labor Relations Board on October 27, 2023, titled "Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status". The rule largely reestablished the broad Obama-era standard of "joint employment" whereby one company could be held legally liable for another businesses' employees even if they do not directly oversee them. This rule has a large impact on business and labor law, including collective bargaining, pay, scheduling and employer liability for unfair labor practices.
Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule inflicts significant harm on small businesses including higher compliance, legal and labor costs.
This measure is critical to restoring a small-business friendly regulatory environment which boosts hiring and economic growth.
Neutral

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.
Neutral

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.
Neutral

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through an Expansion of Federal Welfare Benefits for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina through the "Lumbee Fairness Act".

The "Lumbee Fairness Act" sponsored by Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC) would extend federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and makes its members eligible for a series of services and new federal financial benefits. The Tribe has about 60,000 members and was granted partial federal recognition in 1956.
Oppose is the Limited Government Position as for nearly 70 years the Tribe has already had access to certain benefits and resources.
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.
Neutral

Advancing the Elimination of $1.34 Trillion of Biden Administration Regulations through the "Midnight Rules Relief Act".

The "Midnight Rules Relief Act" sponsored by Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) allows Congress to disapprove multiple regulations under one joint resolution of disapproval if the regulations were submitted for review during the last 60 legislative days of the final year of a President's term. Currently, each joint resolution may disapprove of only one regulation. According to the sponsor, the bill "allows Congress to rein in unelected bureaucrats. Biden's bureaucrats imposed more than $1.34 trillion in regulations in 2024 alone."
Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden Administration imposed a near endless list of destructive regulations, and this measure helps prevent the U.
S. economy from taking a $1.34 trillion hit due to the bureaucratic overreach.
Neutral

Condemning the Biden Administration for the Border Crisis and Encouraging the Support of Law Enforcement.

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) acknowledges the dangers and challenges faced by law enforcement officers, condemns the Biden Administration's border policies, urges leaders to encourage and support law enforcement officers, and recognizes and sympathizes with law enforcement officers for the stress they face.
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.
Neutral

Condemning Calls to "Defund the Police" and Expressing Condolences to Law Enforcement Officers who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice in the Line of Duty.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MI) condemns calls to defund the police and recognizes that law enforcement officers must have the equipment, training, and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and their fellow law enforcement officers. The resolution also expresses condolences and appreciation to the loved ones of each law enforcement officer who has made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety through a well-staffed police force serve as essential components of government.
Unfortunately, so-called criminal justice "reforms", have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced across the nation by George Soros and other left-leaning Billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.
Neutral

Holding AG Merrick Garland in Contempt of Congress for Defying Two Congressional Subpoenas.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) holds U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress for defying two congressional subpoenas from the House Committees on Judiciary and Oversight & Accountability. The subpoenas demanded the recordings of President Biden's interview with special counsel Robert Hur, who was investigating the president's handling of classified documents. The measure also fines Garland $10,000 for each day he continues to defy the congressional subpoenas.
Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure provides a critical check on power and helps ensure the AG is held accountable considering the fact the Department of Justice is controlled by Garland.
Neutral

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.
Neutral

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.
Neutral
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