Institute for Legislative Analysis

Ken Buck

The Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) amendment #73 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits any funding within the bill from being provided to UNESCO. According to the sponsor, UNESCO is "incredibly corrupt and mismanaged" and has a long history of anti-American and anti-Israel bias. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be provided to foreign entities that hate America and its allies. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Preventing Funding from Being Provided to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has an Anti-American Bias.

The Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) amendment #57 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prevents any funds within the appropriation from being provided to the United Nations unless explicitly authorized by Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens accountability of taxpayer funds and helps prevent their misuse. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Strengthening Accountability of Taxpayer Funds by Ensuring No Cash is Provided to the United Nations Unless Explicitly Authorized by Congress.

The Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) amendment #67 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funding within the bill from being utilized for the Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. The envoy has been led by former U.S. Senator, Secretary of State, and presidential candidate John Kerry. According to the sponsor, "Kerry uses his position in this special envoy to fly around the world in private and heavy-polluting jets so he can attend the coronation of King Charles III on the taxpayers' dime" and "has stated the American people would need to contribute trillions of dollars to fix the climate". Support is the Limited Government Position as John Kerry and his envoy are pushing a radical politicized environmental agenda, which, if implemented, would devastate the U.S. economy. Such politicized initiatives should not be funded by taxpayers.

Defunding the "Special Presidential Envoy for Climate" led by John Kerry, which Advances a Radical Left-wing Environmental Agenda.

The Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) amendment #54 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funding for the "Refugee Travel Loan Program", which is administered by the United Nations International Organization for Migration. According to the sponsor, this program is a taxpayer-funded slush fund that channels money to foreign NGOs, which take a 25 percent cut of the cash before providing the recourses to refugees. Support is the Limited Government Position as all taxpayer funds should be protected from waste, fraud, and abuse. Additionally, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion.

Protecting Taxpayers by Cutting Funding to the "Refugee Travel Loan Program", which Serves as a Slush-Fund Enriching Politically Connected Foreign NGOs.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #74 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" provides nearly $5 billion in savings by cutting the significant spending growth within sections 101, 103 and 1111 of the underlying bill, which far exceed the levels originally set by Congress in the 2018 reauthorization bill. These sections pertain to airport planning, operations, and research and development. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill contains countless runaway spending initiatives that are unnecessary. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility by Cutting Nearly $5 Billion in Runaway Spending Surrounding Airport Planning, Operations, and Research and Development.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #73 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" strikes a provision that allows the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to consider expanding the Continuous Lower Energy, Emissions, and Noise (CLEEN) program. This program provides financial awards to industries to develop and integrate technology that will reduce noise, emissions, and fuel burn. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not government - is the best mechanism to drive investment into the technologies that provide the greatest level of benefits for their cost. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Government Interference within the Energy and Aviation Industries by Striking Funding for the "CLEEN" Program which Provides Subsidies for Environmental Technology.

The Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) amendment #62 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" strikes authorization for the "Essential Air Service" program. This program provides subsidies to airline companies for commercial flights to small airports typically in more rural regions. According to the sponsor, the program provides a "direct subsidy paid to airline companies to fly empty and near-empty planes from small airports to regional hubs with per-passenger subsidies on some flights are now nearly $1,000 per passenger". Support is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to determine airline service and set routes. This program serves as a wealth distribution scheme to individuals who choose to reside in rural regions. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Wasteful Spending and Government Central Planning through the Elimination of the "Essential Air Service" Program that Forces Taxpayers to Subsidize Unprofitable Airline Flights.

The Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) amendment #65 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" prohibits any funds within the bill from being used to hire any diversity, equity, and inclusion officials or conduct training on diversity, equity, and inclusion. According to the sponsor "Secretary Buttigieg and President Biden's DEI initiatives which hire and promote people based on their physical characteristics over their merits and qualifications violate Title VII and the Constitution." Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote DEI or CRT, which are ideologies that sow division amongst Americans and are intended to further grow the role of government. These programs also fuel cronyism by enriching the providers of these services, who are typically politically connected.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds within the Aviation Appropriation Bill from Being Utilized to Fund Politicized Initiatives Surrounding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

The "One Seat Ride Act", introduced by Rep. Thomas Kean (R-NJ), directs the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study on the feasibility of single-seat commuter rail trips, particularly on New Jersey's Raritan Valley Line. Currently, Raritan Valley Line passengers are forced to change trains at Newark Penn Station to access New York City. A 'One-Seat-Ride' allows passengers to take a single train to NYC. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as implementation of a "one-seat-ride" would inevitably result in greater taxpayer-funded subsidies for transit. It should not be the role of federal government to set train schedules and routes. Instead, lawmakers should work to privatize all such transit systems - especially Amtrak - to end the practice of taxpayers subsidizing travel costs of individuals who wish to utilize such systems.

Advancing Greater Taxpayer Spending on Transit Subsidies through the "One Seat Ride Act" Which Studies the Creation of Direct Rail Routes from NJ to NYC.

The Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) amendment #23 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" strikes a provision for a feasibility study for a "center of excellence" (trauma hospital system) in Ukraine. According to the sponsor, the stated mission of the Department of Defense is to deter war and to protect our nation's national security interest, and "paying for a feasibility study on creating a center of excellence in Ukraine does not deter war, nor does that protect our national security interest". Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of the U.S. to serve as the world police and medical provider, especially at a time when Veterans and Americans are facing difficulties in receiving quality care. Furthermore, Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing Americans First by Striking Funding for a Feasibility Study on the Construction of a "Center of Excellence" Trauma Hospital in Ukraine.

The Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) amendment #24 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" requires the President, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of State, to develop and submit a report to Congress that contains a strategy for U.S. involvement in Ukraine. The amendment prohibits disbursement of any Ukraine aid until the submission of the report. Support is the Limited Government Position as over $113 billion has already been provided to Ukraine with no clear strategy or accountability system established to ensure American taxpayer funds are being utilized effectively in the war-torn country.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility by Requiring the Submission of a Ukraine Strategy to Congress Prior to Delivery of any Additional Aid.

The Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN) amendment #63 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" prohibits the use of funds to discriminate on the basis of race and ethnicity in admission to the military service academies. According to the sponsor "all of the military service academies use race and ethnicity as selection criteria for admissions. Not only is this a violation of the Constitution, as recently affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court, but it is a violation of the military's longstanding meritocratic principles." Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers have a duty to ensure government provides equal treatment and opportunity to all under the law. Government should be held strictly accountable to ensure discrimination is prohibited across every category, including race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and any other class.

Prohibiting Racial Discrimination by Government in Admission Practices for Military Service Academies.

The Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #35 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" prohibits Department of Defense Education Activity schools from purchasing and having "pornographic and radical gender ideology books" in their libraries. According to the sponsor, several inappropriate books have been placed in DoDEA libraries such as "This Book Is Gay" by Juno Dawson, "Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe, "Middle School is a Drag" by Greg Howard, and "Some Girls Bind" by Rory James. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of parents - not government bureaucrats - to introduce and discuss these sensitive issues with their children. All school curriculum and learning materials should pertain only to core subject areas and be accessible to parents for review.

Strengthening Parental Rights by Prohibiting the Display of Pornographic and Racial Gender Ideology Books in DoDEA School Libraries.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #31 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" prohibits Department of Defense schools (DoDEA) from using funds to promote or compel teachers to adhere to Critical Race Theory (CRT). Support is the Limited Government Position as all public education systems should be solely utilized to prepare children for their careers and promote excellence in core subject fields, such as reading, mathematics, and the sciences. Schools should be held accountable to parents and measures, such as this bill, are crucial to ensure classrooms are not weaponized to advance any political or social agendas onto children.

Strengthening the Integrity of the DoDEA School System by Prohibiting the Promotion of Divisive Concepts, such as Critical Race Theory.

The Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) amendment #27 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" would remove a section in the bill relating to the B83-1 nuclear gravity bomb and prohibit any funding for B83 sustainment. According to the sponsor, the elimination of funding for the B83 will save $1.5 billion over the next 30 years, with no risk at all to our security. Opponents claim: "the B83 is the last megaton-class nuclear weapon in our arsenal. It exists to destroy deeply buried targets. China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran are putting some of the things they value most underground, covered in steel and concrete. The B83 is currently our only way of getting to those targets." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military are some of the most essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Striking Funding for the B83-1 Nuclear Gravity Bomb Designed to Destroy Deeply Buried Targets in Adversary Nations.

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #10 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" would prohibit TRICARE (Department of Defense (DoD) healthcare program) from covering sex reassignment surgeries and hormone treatment for transgender individuals. According to the sponsor, the DoD has performed over 240 gender reassignment surgeries. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to provide elective services surrounding gender reassignment, as is the current case with Botox and other procedures designed to improve physical appearance. All such services and costs should be the responsibility of the individuals seeking to obtain them, not U.S. taxpayers.

Protecting Taxpayers from Being Forced to Pay for Transgender Sex Reassignment Surgeries through the DoD TRICARE Health Program.

The Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) amendment #28 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" eliminates the statutory requirement that the U.S. hold a minimum of 400 nuclear Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military is one of, if not the most, essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Reducing the Number of Nuclear ICB Missiles Held by the United States.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #12 to the "Lower Energy Costs Act" repeals section 115 of the Clean Air Act. This section gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to impose emission reductions on the States if the administrator finds that American air pollution endangers the public health and welfare of another country. According to the sponsor, "removing the broadly written language in section 115 is the only way to prevent the delegation of nearly unlimited power over State energy sectors to the EPA bureaucrats and removes the ability of international organizations to meddle in our energy sector." Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment provides a critical safeguard against unaccountable EPA bureaucrats imposing draconian regulations on state economies to promote politicized climate change agendas. Considering the Biden Administration has reentered the Paris climate agreement, this amendment is especially necessary to prevent the implementation of "America Last" policies.

Ensuring an "America First" Energy Agenda by Repealing an EPA Policy that Grants Bureaucrats the Power to Implement Draconian Regulations to Benefit Foreign Nations.

The "Lower Energy Costs Act", introduced by Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA), implements several regulatory reforms designed to boost American energy production. For example, the bill streamlines the permitting process to bring new energy projects online quicker, repeals tax and fee increases imposed by the Biden administration on energy production, and opens up a greater amount of federal lands and water for resource development. Support is the Limited Government position as American energy dominance is critical to not only making our nation and industry competitive abroad, but to lowering consumer costs. The Biden administration's war on American energy has unnecessarily driven up gasoline prices and costs across the U.S. economy.

Promoting Economic Growth through the "Lower Energy Costs Act", which Streamlines Regulations to Boost American Energy Production.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #11 to the "Lower Energy Costs Act" prohibits the Delaware River Basin Commission (as well as the Susquehanna River Basin Commission and the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin) from imposing more stringent regulations on hydraulic fracking than passed by the state legislature. According to the sponsor, "unaccountable bureaucrats at the Delaware River Basin Commission have instituted a hydraulic fracturing ban for a portion of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, stripping away property rights and mineral rights from Pennsylvanians in contravention of the will of their very own legislature." Support is the Limited Government Position as state legislatures - not unaccountable commissions - should be the ones with authority to increase the stringency of regulations. This amendment strengthens property rights while also promoting stronger economic growth through energy extraction.

Strengthening Property Rights and Promoting American Energy Production by Restoring Regulatory Authority to State Legislatures Rather than the Delaware River Basin Commission.

The Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX) amendment #7 to the "Lower Energy Costs Act" requires the EPA, in consultation with the DOE, to submit a report to Congress identifying and assessing existing regulations that have negatively affected domestic energy independence and increased energy cost for Americans. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps strengthen government transparency and accountability by ensuring both lawmakers and everyday Americans are made aware of the costs associated with energy regulation. Since January 2021, the EPA has waged war on American energy and undone critical reforms implemented by the Trump administration, which boosted economic growth.

Strengthening Government Transparency by Reporting the Impact Regulations have on Energy Costs for Americans and Domestic Energy Independence.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #20 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" block grants funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to the states. The funds would be distributed based on the number of students in each state relative to the number of students within the United States. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Department of Education has become a bloated bureaucracy that goes against our Founding Father's belief in the concept of "laboratories of democracy". This measure helps eliminate waste, such as the distribution of federal funds to unnecessary and politicized initiatives, and instead helps empower state and local educational entities.

Cutting Waste Within the Federal Education System by Block Granting the Funds to the States.

The Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) amendment #76 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" implements reforms to commodity checkoff programs. Under these programs, producers of certain products, such as beef, dairy, or poultry, are forced to pay into a fund (ex. $2 for a cow) that is used for industry research or advertising campaigns. The amendment increases transparency on how the funds are utilized and ensures taxpayer funds are used by the boards of these programs. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while government-mandated checkoff programs should be eliminated entirely, this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing corruption. It is the role of the private sector to voluntarily organize and fund product promotion for industry, not for big producers to utilize government to financially coerce small producers to fund their activities.

Increasing Transparency and Accountability within the Crony Commodity Checkoff Programs Mandated by Government.

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #102 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" reduces the overall appropriation by $717 million to restore spending back to the level it was in fiscal year 2022, when accounting for inflation. Therefore, the overall spending increase would be roughly $600 million instead of the $1.3 billion proposed under the bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Spending to 2022 Levels (a $717 Million Reduction) within the Department of Agriculture and FDA Appropriation Bill.

The Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) amendment #57 to the Strategic Production Response Act bans oil and gas leasing on federal land if the land is viable for renewable energy production. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment is primariy designed to shut down nearly all oil and gas extration on federal land as part of a politicized environmental agenda. U.S. access to low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans.

Hiking Energy Prices by Banning American Oil and Gas Extraction Across All Federal Land that Could be Viable for Renewable Energy Production.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #76 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes the $707 million in funding provided to the Institute of Education Sciences (IES). According to the sponsor, the entity represents the "educational-industrial complex", with funding directed to programs "interested in the disclosure of gender, racial, and ethnic composition of governing boards of higher education to promote DEI institutions". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as IES represents one of countless government-funded entities advancing politicized initiatives across the American education system. Like many taxpayer-funded entities across the "educational-industrial complex", the mission of the IES should be funded through the private sector, not government.

Cutting $707 Million in Wasteful Spending for the Institute of Education Sciences, which Promotes Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) within the Education System.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #71 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $2.7 billion in funding to the higher education account. This account provides appropriations for grant programs that provide direct taxpayer support to higher education institutions. This funding is in addition to student federal aid, research specific aid, and the funding provided to colleges from state and local governments. Support is the Limited Government Position as college and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e. tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades.The enormous amount of government funding that has been channeled to colleges and universities has resulted in the creation of gigantic unaccountable bureaucracies that push radical left agendas and discriminate against conservative students.

Cutting $2.7 Billion in Funding that Enriches Woke Colleges and Universities that Indoctrinate Students in Radical Left Agendas.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #69 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts funding for the student financial assistance account by $9.25 billion. The underlying bill funds the account at a level of $22 billion for FY 2024. This funding is in addition to both the direct subsidies received by colleges and the significant levels of subsidies and student aid provided by state governments. Support is the Limited Government Position as individuals who elect to not attend college and pursue career paths, such as the trades or starting a business, should not be forced to pay the tuition costs of other individuals. This, and other wealth redistribution schemes like student loan forgiveness, merely hike costs, as confirmed by a 2017 study from the Federal Reserve, which found the average tuition increase associated with expansion of student loans is as much as 60 cents per dollar. The enormous amount of government funding that has been channeled to colleges and universities has resulted in the creation of gigantic unaccountable bureaucracies that push radical left agendas and discriminate against.

Reducing Wealth Redistribution through a $9.25 Billion Cut in Appropriations to the Higher Education Student Financial Assistance Account

The Rep. Mariannette Miller-MeeksBiggs (R-IA) amendment #123 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" bans funding from being provided to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's firearm injury and mortality prevention research. The Biden administration requested $35 million for this program in his fiscal year 2024 budget request, which is a $22.5 million increase from fiscal year 2023. Support is the Limited Government Position as the role of the CDC is to prevent and contain diseases and pandemic outbreaks, which, as the nation witnessed with COVID-19, the Center needs to improve on. This amendment helps ensure the CDC does not utilize taxpayer funds to pursue purely politicized initiatives, such as gun control.

Cutting $22.5 Million at the Center for Disease Control that is Directed to Advancing Politicized Initiatives Surrounding Gun Control.

The Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-WI) amendment #9 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" eliminates funding ($240 million) for the Department of the Treasury's Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. The sponsor cited a study by the Heritage Foundation that found the program "to be largely ineffective at meeting its goals of increasing community investment and development". Support is the Limited Government Position as this fund represents corporate welfare at its finest through the distortion of the free market to enrich government-favored entities. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Eliminating $240 Million in Wasteful Spending for the Crony Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, which Provides Corporate Welfare.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #16 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the appropriation for the Energy Department's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (roughly $2 billion). The office's mission is to "to equitably transition America to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by no later than 2050". Support is the Limited Government Position as this Office largely promotes a politized environmental agenda, which inflicts serious damage to the U.S. economy and hikes 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. Additionally, Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers and the U.S. Economy by Defunding the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, which has Advanced a Radical Politicized Climate Change Agenda.

The Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) amendment #37 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts all funding for the "W87-1 modification program", which is developing the latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) nuclear weapon system. According to the sponsor, the $120 billion cost for development over the next decade does not need to be spent now due to the reliability of the existing Minuteman III rockets originally developed in the 1960s. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military are some of the most essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Defunding the Continued Development and Upgrade of the U.S. Nuclear ICBM Program.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #20 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts foreign aid "economic support" funding from $2.9 billion to $1.8 billion, or the level of spending in 2018. According to the sponsor, the country can no longer afford to support the various cooperative projects abroad when Americans are facing many of these same challenges within our own country. Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Providing a $1.1 Billion Cut to "Economic Support" Foreign Aid that Restores the Spending Level Back to Pre-Covid.

The Rep. Elijah Crane (R-AZ) amendment #13 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" provides a 50% cut ($607 million) to foreign aid under the USAID program. According to the sponsor, the current budget allocation at USAID "indicates a shift toward a social and cultural agenda that caters to the radical priorities of woke global elites". Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Providing a 50% Cut ($610 Million) to the USAID Program - An Entity where Expenditures have Become Heavily Politicized.

The Rep. Elijah Crane (R-AZ) amendment #10 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes nearly $3 million in funding for the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, salaries, and expenses. According to the sponsor this entity should exist as a private independent think tank and that "funding goes towards functions such as gender equality, and there has even been a Gender Action Plan". Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to determine the need and provide the necessary funding for this initiative. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility by Striking Funding for an Unnecessary "Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe", which has Advanced a Politicized Gender Equality Agenda.

The Rep. Elijah Crane (R-AZ) amendment #8 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts nearly $39 million in funding for the United States Institute of Peace. According to the sponsor the entity has become heavily politicized by covering "issue areas such as gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate policy" and "whose mission would be better accomplished by nonprofits, charities, and religious groups". Support is the Limited Government Position as the Institute for Peace represents an unnecessary bureaucracy that has become heavily politicized and whose mission should be advanced and funded through the private sector - not the American taxpayer. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility by Striking $39 Million in Funding for the "United States Institute of Peace", which Advances a Left-Wing Political Agenda.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #4 to the "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023" increases congressional oversight of regulations by applying the REINS Act to regulations with an economic impact of $50 million or more - it was previously just $100 million or more. Under the REINS Act, new rules imposed by federal agencies must be approved by Congress if they have an annual effect on the economy of more than $100 million or result in a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, among other conditions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment strengthens the REINS Act, which provides a critical check on executive branch power. Federal agencies are comprised of countless unaccountable bureaucrats who have tremendous authority to impose regulations that directly impact the lives of Americans and the growth of the U.S. economy.

Strengthening the Check on Executive Branch Power by Requiring Congressional Approval for Regulations with Impacts of $50 Million or More (Previously $100 Million) Under the "REINS" Act.

The "Encouraging Public Offerings Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO), makes Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) more attractive for companies by allowing communication with potential investors to determine interest in a securities offering, either before or after the filing of a registration statement. According to the sponsor, the bill "will encourage more companies to go public and expand provisions of the JOBS Act by codifying an existing SEC rule to allow all companies to 'test the waters' and communicate directly with potential investors before filing for an IPO." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps reduce regulatory barriers for businesses to attract potential investors and go public, thus boosting economic growth.

Reducing Regulatory Barriers for Businesses to Evaluate Potential Investors Ahead of an IPO through the "Encouraging Public Offerings Act".

The "Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE), relaxes qualifications to become an accredited investor, giving more people the ability to invest in private markets regardless of their wealth or income levels. Unlike stocks and bonds, which are open to all individuals, only accredited investors are permitted to invest in private market vehicles, such as venture capital, private equity, and hedge funds. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill removes unnecessary regulatory barriers to provide 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.

Reducing Government Overreach and Providing More Americans with the Ability to Invest in Venture Capital and Hedge Funds through the "Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act".

The "Fight and Combat Rampant Iranian Missile Exports Act or the Fight CRIME Act", sponsored by Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX),imposes sanctions on a wide range of activities supporting Iran's missile and drone program ahead of the October 2023 expiration of the UN missile ban on Iran. Support is the Limited Government Position as even with the existing UN sanctions, Iran's missiles and drones have targeted U.S. troops, allies, and partners across the Middle East. Iran is one of the top U.S. adversary nations and terminating these sanction programs would worsen the already significant national security challenges Iran has placed on the U.S. and its allies.

Ensuring National Security through the Continuation of Sanctions on Iran's Missile and Drone Program upon the Expiration of the UN Ban.

This concurrent resolution, sponsored by Rep. Maria Salazar (R-FL), states that Congress denounces socialism in all its forms and opposes the implementation of socialist policies in the United States of America. Support is the Limited Government Position as the"Father of the Constitution", President James Madison, wrote that it "is not a just government, nor is property secure under it, where the property which a man has in his personal safety and personal liberty, is violated by arbitrary seizures of one class of citizens for the service of the rest".

Denouncing Socialism and Opposing the Implementation of Socialist Policies in the United States.

This joint resolution, sponsored by Rep. James Comer (R-KY), nullifies the "Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022," enacted by the council of the District of Columbia. The DC law provides non-citizens, including illegal immigrants, the right to vote in the nation's capital. 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.

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

This concurrent resolution, sponsored by Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO), recognizes local law enforcement officers and condemns calls to defund or abolish the police, as well as other anti-police criminal justice reforms. According to the sponsor, the resolution is designed "to show support for our men and women in blue after they have been "mercilessly attacked" following the 2020 George Floyd riots." Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety through a well-staffed and protected police force serve as essential components of government.Unfortunately, the defund the police movement and 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.

Expressing Support for Law Enforcement and Opposing Calls to "Defund the Police" and Other Anti-Police Criminal Justice Reforms.

The "Save Our Gas Stoves Act", sponsored by Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-AZ), prohibits the Department of Energy from implementing the proposed rule titled "Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Consumer Conventional Cooking Products". This regulation would impose energy efficiency standards on gas cooking products. Support is the Limited Government Position as the government should not infringe consumer appliance choices in order to advance a politicized environmental agenda. This measure is critical to combat the draconian regulations being advanced by the Biden administration, which may result in millions of Americans no longer being able to enjoy utilizing a gas stove to cook.

Combatting the Biden Administration's Efforts to Infringe Consumer Cooking Options through the "Save Our Gas Stoves Act".

The "Middle Class Borrower Protection Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH), rolls back a rule by the Federal Housing Finance Agency that changed fees for mortgages under the loan-level-pricing-adjustment framework used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The rule resulted in higher fees for individuals seeking mortgages with good credit, and lower fees for those with marginal credit and riskier borrowers. According to the sponsor, "responsible homebuyers with good credit are forced to subsidize those with bad credit" due to the rule. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule represents a wealth redistribution scheme that drives up housing costs for responsible homebuyers while rewarding those who have not been as fiscally responsible. Additionally, taxpayers are ultimately placed on the hook for this riskier lending through the government's backing of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - as was the case in the 2008 financial crisis.

Repealing the Biden Administration's Mortgage Rule that Hiked Fees on Responsible Borrowers to Subsidize the Loans of those with Bad Credit.

The "Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act", sponsored by Rep. John Joyce (R-PA), prevents the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing Clean Air Act waivers for state policies that seek to ban or otherwise limit the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles. The bill is largely in response to California, which has banned the sale of combustion engines starting in 2035 that is requiring all cars sold by that year to have zero emissions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure is critical to protecting automotive freedom amid pushes by California and other states to force electric vehicle purchases. It is the role of the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - to determine the propulsion of new vehicle sales.

Protecting Automotive Freedom and the Internal Combustion Engine by Preventing California and Other States from Imposing Mandates that All New Vehicles be Electric or Zero Emission.

The "Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA), permits schools under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) to serve whole milk (3.25% milkfat). Since 2012, schools have only been able to serve fat-free or low-fat milk (2% milkfat) due to regulations championed by Michelle Obama. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of parents - not politicians - to determine the food and beverages consumed by their child. This bill helps combat government overreach and strengthens parental rights.

Strengthening Parental Rights by Repealing an Obama-Era Regulation that Prohibits Whole Milk from being Served in School Cafeterias.

The "Family and Small Business Taxpayer Protection Act" sponsored by Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE) rescind roughly $72 billion from the $80 billion in additional funding provided to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) under last year's Inflation Reduction Act. According to the sponsor, the "bill would simply prevent the IRS from using its massive infusion of taxpayer dollars to harass and squeeze more revenue out of American families." Support is the Limited Government Position as the enormous cash infusion into the IRS further grows an agency with a long history of fraud and abuse, with examples ranging from the wrongful disclosure of private donor lists to the denial of organizational non-profit status due to politics. The hiring of 87,000 new IRS agents will merely drive greater harassment and suck even more resources out of the private sector. The most effective way to ensure tax compliance is by the transition to a simple flat tax system.

Protecting Taxpayers by Rescinding $72 Billion in Funding that was Provided to Weaponize the IRS Under the Inflation Reduction Act.

The "Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), lifts the debt ceiling by $1.5 trillion (through March 2024) contingent on a number of conditions. Some of the major conditions include limiting increases in the federal budget to 1% per year, imposing stricter work requirements on the federal SNAP program, rescinding $70 billion in IRS funding, nullifying Biden's $20,000 per borrower student loan forgiveness, repealing spending provisions within the Inflations Reduction Act surrounding climate change, and enacting the H.R. 1 "Lower Energy Cost Act". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves as a solid step in the right direction to restoring some level of fiscal order to the nation. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Promoting Fiscal Responsibility through the "Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023", which Makes a $1.5 Trillion Debt Limit Hike Contingent on Multiple Spending Cuts.

The "Secure the Border Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), contains a long list of provisions surrounding immigration and security at the southern border. Some of the major provisions include restarting border wall construction, hiring thousands of additional Border Patrol agents, equipping officers with better technology to detect drugs and illegal immigration, and additional E-Verify requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as an unsecured southern border presents a major national security risk and places an enormous strain on taxpayer-funded resources ranging from law enforcement, welfare and education. While lawmakers should work to boost merit-based immigration to expand the U.S. workforce and economy, major policy changes must be made to curb illegal immigration and prevent dangerous individuals from entering the country.

Strengthening National Security through the "Secure the Border Act", which Contains a Long List of Provisions Designed to Stop Illegal Immigration.

The "Separation of Powers Restoration Act (SOPRA)of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), is designed to counter the Supreme Court's 1984 decision inChevron U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc., which declared courts must defer to agency interpretations of statues. According to the sponsor, the Chevron ruling "has led to executive branch agencies circumventing Congress to issue rules with the force of law. The"Separation of Powers Restoration Act"repeals that precedent, restores congressional intent, and stops executive branch overreach." Support is the Limited Government Position as Chevron represents one of the very worst Supreme Court decisions in our nation's history, from a limited government perspective. This measure is critical to combatting regulatory overreach and restoring a critical legislative check on the actions of unaccountable bureaucrats within the executive branch.

Placing a Critical Check on the Powers of Unaccountable Bureaucrats within the Executive Branch through the "Separation of Powers Restoration Act" which Counters the "Chevron Deference".

The "Further Additional Extending Government Funding Act" funds the federal government through March 11, 2022 and serves as the third short-term continuing resolution passed since early October. Without passing a continuing resolution, a partial government shutdown would occur, providing advocates of fiscal responsibility greater leverage in budget negotiations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as forcing a hard deadline on budget negotiations raises awareness of the nation's out-of-control spending and helps hinder passage of other wasteful spending measures such as the COMPETES act. Substantial cuts must be made to the budget to eliminate the $1.4 trillion deficit and begin the process of paying down our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Avoiding Fiscal Responsibility through the Continual Passage of Short-Term Government Funding Bills

The "Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act of 2021" expands eligibility for Post-9/11 GI Bill educational assistance to national guardsmen and reservists. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the educational benefits provided under the GI bill serve as a significant recruitment benefit to entice individuals to serve our country in active service roles. Expanding these benefits to all members of the national guard and reserve will not only cost taxpayers billions in additional costs, but may also persuade individuals to select reserve positions over active service roles.

Harming Recruitment Efforts of Active Military Personnel by Providing GI Bill Education Benefits to All National Guard and Reserve Members.

The "Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act" establishes a series of additional coverage mandates surrounding patient anomaly and birth defects (primarily oral treatments) that all public and private health insurers must include in all policy offerings. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents individuals from having the ability to select a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals opting to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.

Establishing Additional Health Insurance Mandates Regarding Dental Birth Defects, which will Drive Up Rates and Make Healthcare Even Less Affordable.

The "Relief for Restaurants and other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act of 2022" provides an additional $42 billion to the restaurant revitalization fund. The bill also requires the Small Business Administration to provide applicants with an explanation for a denied application and establish a reconsideration process for any denials. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the start of the pandemic shutdowns was over two years ago and all restaurants throughout the country have been operating at full capacity for months. Faced with a congressional Budget deficit of $1.4 trillion, the country is no longer in the position to continue to fund non-essential programs. Significant cuts must take place across government to reverse our staggering $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Runaway Spending by Providing the Restaurant Industry an Additional $42 Billion in Funds Two-Years After the Start of the Pandemic.

The "Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022" provides $40.1 billion in additional funding to Ukraine due to the Russian invasion, which follows the $14 billion Congress sent the country a couple months prior. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, regardless of the significant question of whether or not the United States should be engaged in the conflict, this enormous sum of resources (over a quarter of the size of the entire Ukranian economy) is coupled with few safeguards to ensure accountability and proper use, a serious concern due to the significant track record of corruption within Ukraine.

Authorizing an Additional $40 Billion in Spending on Ukraine with Minimal Oversight to Prevent Corruption.

The "Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act" would require hiring three additional government employees at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and increased grant issuance at the National Science Foundation to promote workforce development and research surrounding digital privacy technologies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market and private sector is best equipped to determine investment in the most impactful initiatives surrounding "digital privacy technology", instead of government employees, who are not financially held accountable to the success or outcomes of the grants they issue.

Expanding Government Bureaucracy and Grant Issuance for "Digital Privacy Technologies" that are Best Funded through the Private Sector.

The "Rights for the Transportation Security Administration Workforce Act of 2022" transitions the 60,000 employees within the Transporation Security Administration (TSA) to the personnel system under Title 5 of U.S. code, which includes the General Schedule pay system and full collective bargaining rights. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only will this transition impose billions of dollars of additional costs onto taxpayers, but it makes it more difficult for the government to discipline and terminate poor-performing employees due to collective bargaining.

Hiking Taxpayer Costs and Weakening the Ability to Discipline Poor-Performing Employees by Unionizing 60,000 Employees within the Transporation Security Administration.

The "Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Modernization Act of 2022" grows spending under the CSBG program by over 27 percent and increases eligibility for benefits provided under the program to individuals earning up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level - such benefits were previously reserved for individuals at or below the federal poverty level. The CSBG is touted by proponents as a tool for the federal government to reduce poverty and is subject to less federal oversight, given funds are largely used at the discretion of state and local governments. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector, through charitable endeavors, is best equipped to fund the most impactful initiatives that reduce poverty, not government programs, such as the CSBG program, which has little oversight and a long history of waste, fraud, and abuse.

Growing Government Dependency by Expanding Eligibility and Spending Under the Community Services Block Grant Program.

The "Nonprofit Security Grant Program Improvement Act of 2022" authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to annually administer over $360 million in grants to non-profit entities to be used for improving their physical security. Such purposes include paying security guards, improving physical barriers, and remodeling their facilities. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local law enforcement to protect their communities and fight crime and not the role of a federal entity such as FEMA to manage such a program. Furthermore, if lawmakers are truly concerned about improving public safety, they should focus on combatting efforts to "defund the police" and address crime head-on rather than advance largely politized measures.

Expanding Bureaucracy and Spending within FEMA to Establish a Largely Politicized "Nonprofit Security Grant Program".

The "en bloc No. 1" amendment to the "Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022" consists of 11 separate amendments surrounding studies and funding for a range of different workforce development initiatives. Initiatives included in the study range from increasing the number of electric vehicle automotive mechanics, to creating workforce partnerships with private entities, to marketing and raising awareness of government career centers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the best way to increase hiring and grow the workforce is through a low tax environment - not growing government involvement in workforce development, which results in higher taxation. Additionally, the free market is best equipped to determine which positions are most needed in the workforce, not ineffective government central planning practices.

Advancing Unnecessary Spending through a Package of 11 Amendments Concerning "Workforce Development" that Should be Performed by the Private Sector.

The "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022,", commonly referred to as the "burn pit bill", establishes a presumption that nearly any American service member stationed in a combat zone over the last 32 years could have been exposed to a toxic substance, resulting in additional health and disability benefits for an estimated 3.5 million veterans. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the cost of this bill could exceed $700 billion. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while all veterans who sustained injuries due to their service should receive the highest levels of treatment and care, this bill creates countless avenues for devious plaintiffs\' attorneys to advance fraudulent health and disability claims and will likely further overload the VA, thus preventing veterans with service-sustained injuries from receiving the prompt care they deserve.

Establishing Unreasonable Presumptions Pertaining to Health of Veterans Which May Advance Fraudulent Disability Claims and Further Overload the VA.

The Jones amendment #247 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD) from contracting with any company that has engaged in anti-union activity within the last three years as broadly defined by the National Labor Relations Board. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill ultimately restricts competition within the contracting and procurement process, which unnecessarily drives up taxpayer costs. Additionally, the amendment establishes a blanket prohibition restricting the DOD from considering the severity or the circumstances around the situation, thus prohibiting contracting for mere paperwork violations.

Driving Up Taxpayer Procurement Costs by Preventing the Department of Defense from Contracting with any Private Company that has Engaged in "Anti-Union Activity".

The Garamendi amendment #258 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" suspends funding for the Sentinel program, including the W-87-1 nuclear warhead. Instead, the amendment instructs a life extension program for the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles (first developed in the late 1960's) through the year 2040. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military is one of - if not the most - essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Pausing the Continued Development and Upgrade of the U.S. Nuclear ICBM Program.

The Tlaib Amendment #259 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" eliminates the statutory requirement that the U.S. hold a minimum of 400 nuclear Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military is one of - if not the most - essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

The Sanchez amendment #261 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" requires the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to develop a report that identifies how their departments are working to mitigate the spread and impact of malign disinformation. The amendment defines "malign disinformation" as any disinformation that is harmful to good order and discipline or related to extremist activities or vaccination. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the amendment's vague definition of "disinformation" can be abused by certain employees within government to censor political opponents and infringe on free speech protected under the First Amendment.

Advancing Government Censorship by Requiring the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs to Report on "Misinformation" that is "Harmful to Good Order and Discipline".

The Keating amendment #273 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" requires the State Department to establish and staff Climate Change Officer positions posted at U.S. embassies, consulates, or diplomatic missions to provide climate change mitigation expertise. Additionally, the Department must develop curriculum at the Foreign Service Institute to provide employees with specialized climate change training. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment imposes significant additional costs onto taxpayers and further grows bureaucracy at the State Department. This additional red tape, such as the new curriculum mandate, may restrict the ability of employees within the department from receiving other training in fields that are more applicable to their job.

Growing Bureaucracy and Taxpayer Costs by Requiring the State Department to Post a "Climate Change Officer" at Embassies, Consulates, and on Diplomatic Missions.

The "Chips and Science Act" provides $52.7 billion in subsidies to manufacturers of semiconductors plus an additional $24 billion in tax credits. The bill also provides over $200 billion in additional funding to the National Science Foundation and the Departments of Energy and Commerce for initiatives surrounding STEM, R&D, and workforce and economic development programs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize government-favored private business entities. The free market is far better equipped to engage in research and development, not government officials who are attempting to centrally plan research efforts without a plan to track financial accountability or measure if taxpayer funded resource are used effectively.

Expanding Cronyism and Corporate Welfare for Semiconductor Manufacturers Through Billions in Subsidies and Tax Credits Under the CHIPS and Science Act.

The "Assault Weapons Ban of 2022" makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer or possess a semi-automatic firearm or large capacity ammunition feeding device. Oppose 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. Additionally, as congressionally mandated studies on the previous federal assault weapon ban concluded, the ban had no impact in curbing violent crime, as these bans do not deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.

Weakening Second Amendment Rights Through a Ban on the Sale and Possession of Semi-Automatic Firearms.

The Velazquez Amd. No. 3 to the "Wildfire Response and Drought Resiliency Act" permanently increases the unsecured credit threshold from $14,000 to $25,000 for disaster loans that the Small Business Administration may issue without requiring collateral. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure places an even greater amount of taxpayer funds at risk if loan recipients refuse to fulfil the terms of the loans. Additionally, the federal government already provides significant amounts of disaster aid through countless other agencies, most notably FEMA, and businesses have a duty to take steps to protect themselves from unexpected events through the private sector (i.e., insurance).

Placing Taxpayer Funds at Greater Risk by Permanently Raising the Disaster Loan Threshold that the SBA can Issue without Requiring Collateral (Unsecured) from $14k to $25k.

This bill expands the expedited environmental review and permitting process under Title 41 of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act to speed up the government approval process for constructing new semiconductor facilities and other computer hardware and software facilities. It is estimated that this bill will reduce the time frame of the regulatory approval process, which currently can take up to five years, to about 18 months. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should advances measures to remove government barriers that prevent the free market from solving the semiconductor shortage, instead of doling out subsidies and corporate welfare.

Expediting U.S. Semiconductor Production by Reducing Unnecessary Government Environmental and Permitting Barriers for New Facility Construction.

The "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" serves as a slightly deflated version of the Biden Administrations "Build Back Better" social spending package. For example, the bill contains $369 billion in additional spending on climate and green energy policies and $64 billion in subsidies to prevent insurance premium spikes under the Affordable Care Act. Furthermore, the bill provides $80 billion to the IRS to hire 87,000 additional agents and imposes a 15% corporate alternative minimum tax. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the tax hikes imposed on corporations will weaken economic growth and investment by transferring an even greater amount of private sector resources to government. Additionally, the country is not in a position to increase wasteful or unnecessary spending when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government in order to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Economic Growth Through $750 Billion in Wasteful Spending and Tax Hikes Under the "Inflation Reduction Act".

The "Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Act" establishes a new spending program within the Department of Transportation that provides grants for drone purchases to state and local governments that follow certain protectionist "buy American" procurement mandates, if the purchase will result in lower carbon emissions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of the federal government to provide states with drones and the bill's multiple costly and protectionist provisions unnecessarily drive-up taxpayer costs.

Establishing a New Spending Program for "Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grants" Containing Multiple Costly and Protectionist Provisions.

The "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", which was passed on December 23, 2022 funds government through the rest of fiscal year 2023. The package is over 4,000 pages long and includes numerous earmarks, ultimately amounting to $1.7 trillion in spending. Spending increases included 5.5% in domestic spending and 10% in defense spending. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure was voted upon only days before the new congress, which would likely have significantly cut spending within the bill due to Republicans taking control of the House. The bill also contained nearly $50 billion in additional spending on Ukraine (without safeguards to prevent corruption), bringing the year's total to $113 billion - totaling more than half the size of Ukraine's entire pre-war economy.

Bypassing the New Congress by Ramming Through $1.7 Trillion in Spending in the Final Days of the Lame Duck Session.

The "Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023" funds the federal government through December 16, 2022, as opposed to January 2023 when a new congress will be sworn in following the November election. Such an action will result in members of congress who lost their election, but are still sitting in office (a concept commonly known as "lame duck"), to set government funding for the next year, rather than the next congress . Additionally, the bill provides $12.3 billion in funding to Ukraine, which is on top of the $53 billion congress has already spent on the country. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as allowing lame duck members of congress to set funding levels will likely result in much greater irresponsible spending than allowing the new congress to set spending levels, as they are still held accountable to voters. Additionally, the bill's Ukraine spending includes $4.5 billion of funding directed towards helping the Ukraine government maintain operations, a specially troubling provision considering the lack of oversight and Ukraine's long history of corruption.

Paving the Way for Irresponsible Spending Through a CR which Allows the Lame Duck Congress, Not the New Congress, to Set Government Funding.

The Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) amendment #13 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" strikes provisions within the bill that permit parents and guardians to review professional development materials for educators. According to the sponsor, these provisions "would impact educators' and school districts' already limited time and resources without any positive gain," while opponents claim "parents need to know who is teaching the teachers, and taxpayers have a right to know what kind of professional development they are paying for." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these provisions help boost transparency and accountability within the education system. The provisions are especially necessary due to the fact that many professional development groups are creating materials that seek to push radical ideologies onto teachers so they are then passed onto students.

Eliminating Safeguards Against Teachers being Trained in Radical Leftist Ideologies Which May be Passed Down to Students.

The Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) amendment #15 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" abolishes the Department of Education effective December 31, 2023. According to the sponsor, "it is time to return the power back to the States, back to the people, and back to the school boards to allow them to make these decisions locally." Support is the Limited Government Position as the Department of Education has become a bloated bureaucracy that goes against our Founding Father's belief in the concept of "laboratories of democracy". This measure helps eliminate waste and restore full educational authority back to the state and local level.

Restoring Education Authority Back to the State and Local Level through the Abolishment of the Department of Education.

The "Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), provides grants, scholarships, and other forms of funding to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers focusing on cybersecurity and energy infrastructure. The bill also directs outreach to be targeted towards historically black colleges and universities, tribal colleges, and minority-serving institutions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector and free market - not government - to direct research and funding into the most promising industries. Like countless other higher education wealth redistribution schemes, this measure forces individuals who choose to pursue a trade or start a business, to subsidize the training costs of individuals who chose to enroll in higher education.

Growing Cronyism and Wealth Redistribution through Additional Scholarships and Grants to Individuals Pursuing Cybersecurity or Energy Infrastructure at Universities.

This bill, the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024", lays out how the Pentagon will be funded for the next year and includes $886 billion in defense spending. Most notably, this conference version of the bill removes Republican provisions that end Pentagon practices that facilitate abortion, enable taxpayer-funded sex reassignment surgeries, and promote Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the armed forces. Furthermore, the bill reauthorizes the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which has been utilized to conduct surveillance on Americans without a warrant, including President Trump's previous campaign for president. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Pentagon funding should be contingent on both a full audit, due to reports of tens of billions of taxpayer funds being "misplaced", and safeguards that protect funds from being utilized for politicized and other improper purposes. The FISA reauthorization violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Authorizing a Defense Bill without the Removal of Countless Radical Left Policies Surrounding Abortion, Transgenderism, Critical Race Theory and Civil Liberty Violations.

This bill, the "Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act" serves as a short-term "CR" that funds government for another 45 days, delaying an otherwise imminent government shutdown to right before the holidays. While this CR contains no funding for Ukraine, it does provide $16 billion in additional federal disaster funds - $10 billion more than previously negotiated - and the full amount sought by President Biden. The CR follows previous funding proposals by Republicans, which contained conservative policy items like border security and spending cuts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. The measure shifts negotiations to right before the holidays when history has shown (as recently as the previous year) lawmakers refuse to make any spending cuts or shutdown government. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Harming the Ability to Negotiate a Fiscally-Responsible Budget by Passaging a CR that Delays a Government Shutdown to Right Before the Holidays.

This bill, "making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024", is a "CR" that funds portions of government through January 19, 2024 or February 2, 2024, depending on the department. The CR does not contain provisions demanded by conservative lawmakers, such as spending cuts or border security measures. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Continuing Out-of-Control Spending through a CR Without Any Fiscal Restraints or Border Security Measures

This resolution introduced by Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau titled "Small Business Lending under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)". This rule implements a section of the Dodd-Frank Act and requires banks to collect and report data on race, ethnicity, and sex across 81 fields. According to the sponsor, this rule imposes a significant additional cost on lenders and creates privacy concerns for small businesses that do not want such information made public. Support is the Limited Government Position as this Biden Administration rule further worsens the draconian regulatory framework of Dodd-Frank, while unnecessary driving up lending costs and infringing privacy rights.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Nullifying Biden Administration Rules, Forcing Banks to Report and Publish Additional Data Pertaining to Race, Ethnicity, and Sex.

Ken Buck

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