Institute for Legislative Analysis

Steve Daines

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 motion waives (defeats) Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) Point of Order to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024". The Point of Order removes the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) from the bill. This section of FISA 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 this motion helps strengthen civil liberties. The reauthorization of this FISA section violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Weakening Civil Liberties by Maintaining the FISA Provision within the NDAA, which has Allowed the Warrantless Surveillance of the Trump Campaign and Thousands of Other Americans.

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, a stopgap spending bill known as a "Continuing Resolution" funds government for another 45 days, delaying an otherwise imminent government shutdown to right before the holidays. This CR also contains $6.15 billion in additional funding for Ukraine and $6 billion in federal disaster relief funding. 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 (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.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Providing $6 Billion in Additional Funding to Ukraine and Passing a Short-Term CR that Weakens the Chance of Passing a Responsible Budget.

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

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1366 to the continuing resolution would reduce funding by 15 percent (except for the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs) and rescind $30 billion for the enforcement funds provided to the IRS as part of President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment serves as a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity in Congress. 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 through a 15% Cut in Spending within the Short-Term CR Government Funding Bill.

This "Minibus" appropriations package provides a year of funding for certain government agencies and functions including veterans affairs, agriculture, transportation, housing and military construction . The package includes several "historic" spending hikes in a range of areas including military construction and government welfare programs surrounding housing. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill represents yet another example of fiscal insanity. 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.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Minibus Appropriations Package with "Historic" Levels of New Welfare Spending and Enormous Agency Budgets.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1121 to the Minibus Appropriations Package adds the "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny" (REINS) Act to the package. The REINS Act would require Congress to affirmatively approve every new major rule proposed by the executive branch before it is permitted to become effective. The sponsor noted that in 2022 the Biden Administration imposed an additional $117.1 billion in additional regulatory costs onto the U.S. economy. Support is the Limited Government Position as the REINS Act places a critical check on unaccountable executive branch bureaucrats who have enormous powers to control the daily lives of Americans.

Placing a Critical Check on the Regulatory Power of Unelected Bureaucrats through the REINS Act.

The Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) amendment #1249 to the Minibus Appropriations Package enforces a provision of a treaty made between the United States and Mexico in 1944. Specifically, the amendment requires water negotiators to press Mexico to meet the 350,000 acre-feet of water the country committed to provide American farmers in the Rio Grande Valley. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should ensure any treaty commitments by foreign nations to the U.S. are enforced and upheld. Failure to do so not only weakens the standing of the United States abroad, but, in this case, harms American farmers, as they face a severe drought.

Protecting U.S. Standings Abroad and American Farmers by Enforcing a Treaty Commitment with Mexico.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #98 to the Fiscal Responsibility Act ensures that the bill's "pay-go" requirement cannot be waived by the Biden Administration's Office of Management and Budget. The "pay-go" requirement ensures that any new spending must be offset by cuts elsewhere. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment serves as a critical safeguard to even greater reckless spending. 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.

Preventing the Debt Limit Bill's "Pay-Go" Provision from Being Bypassed thus Ensuring Any Additional Spending is Offset by Cuts Elsewhere.

The Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) amendment #104 to the Fiscal Responsibility Act makes the food stamp work requirement within the bill permanent by removing the sunset provision. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while significant reforms must be made to government welfare programs to reduce government dependency, the existing work requirements should be, at the very least, enforced. Programs, such as the federal SNAP program, crowd out the private sector, which is much more effective and better equipped to solve underlying challenges faced by individuals and making them self-sufficient.

Promoting Self-Sufficiency by Making Permanent the Work Requirement Provisions within the Debt Limit Bill.

The Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) amendment #110 to the Fiscal Responsibility Act adds a major border security provision modelled after the House-passed "Secure the Border Act". The amendment includes restarting border wall construction, hiring thousands of additional Border Patrol agents, equipping agents 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 to welfare to 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.

Combatting Illegal Immigration by Including the "Secure the Border Act" within the Debt Limit Bill.

The Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) amendment #93 to the Fiscal Responsibility Act imposes an additional tariff of 25 percent on all imports from China until the alleged trade deficit between the U.S. and China reaches zero. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure will inflict tremendous harm on the U.S. economy through an additional 25 percent tax (tariff) on countless products used every day by Americans. It will also make U.S. businesses less competitive globally by hiking costs on materials sourced from China. Additionally, the amendment represents a misunderstanding of economic principles by attempting to reduce the "trade deficit" to zero, a level it is already at when accounting for factors such as Chinese investment in U.S. securities, stocks, real estate, services, and other items that do not physically cross the border. Free trade has been a foundational principle of limited government dating back to Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, who identified the disastrous consequences of protectionist trade practices in his 1775 book "The Wealth of Nations".

Spiking Business and Consumer Costs by Imposing an Additional 25% Tax on Imports from China to Balance a Fictitious Trade Deficit.

This resolution, introduced by Sen. Bill Casidy (R-LA), utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the rule issued by the Department of Education titled "Improving Income Driven Repayment for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program". Under the rule, the amount students have to repay the federal government for their student loans is reduced by roughly 40 percent, with $156 billion in student loan forgiveness expected to be provided over the next 10 years as a result of the rule. Support is the Limited Government Position as this rule further expands wealth redistribution through higher education. While it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education, individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education - such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades - should not be forced to pay for others' college tuition. 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.

Combatting Wealth Redistribution by Blocking the Biden Administration's $156 Billion Student Loan Forgiveness Scheme.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Bob Good (R-VA) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the rule issued by the Department of Education on October 12, 2022, that suspends federal student loan payments and discharges debt. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the total cost of the Biden administration's student loan forgiveness plan is between $500 billion and $650 billion. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration's plan further expands wealth redistribution through higher education. While it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education, individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education - such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades - should not be forced to pay for others' college tuition. 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 by Blocking $650 Billion in Student Loan Forgiveness Authorized by the Biden Administration.

This resolution, introduced by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS), utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) titled "Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility". This rule largely undermines the reforms implemented under the Trump administration, reforms that made it less likely that an immigrant is provided permanent legal status if they obtain taxpayer-funded welfare benefits, such as food stamps, housing vouchers, or Medicaid. Under the Biden administration's rule, immigrants can receive a much greater amount of welfare and not be considered a "public charge" (primarily dependent on the government for subsistence), which would negate their application for residency. Support is the Limited Government Position as U.S. immigration policy should be merit-based, wherein residency status is only provided to individuals who are able to fully support themselves and contribute to society. An open border coupled with lavish welfare benefits fuels illegal immigration, which will further bankrupt the nation.

Overturning a Biden Administration Policy that Provides Residency Status to Immigrants who Are Reliant on Government Welfare Programs

This resolution, introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), overturns the D.C. Council's Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2022. According to the sponsor, the District has lost over 1,000 officers and the D.C. Council's act "gives more power to anti-police activists, allows individual police officers to be targeted by protestors, and strips officers of collective bargaining rights regarding discipline." 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", like the DC Council's acts 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.

Combatting Skyrocketing Crime and Attacks on Police by Overturning the D.C. Council's Dangerous Policing and Criminal Justice Reforms.

This resolution, introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), overturns the D.C. Council's Revised Criminal Code Act of 2022. The act contained several criminal justice reforms that would cut mandatory minimum sentences and reduced penalties for a range of violent crimes, including carjackings, robberies, and homicides. Support is the Limited Government Position as mandatory minimum sentences are critical measures that help combat the practice of "judge shopping" whereby career criminals attempt to have their cases moved to be heard by the most lenient judge to avoid significant penalties. The D.C. Council's criminal justice "reforms" would lead to skyrocketing crime rates, which has been the case of similar reform policies which have been advanced across the nation by George Soros and other left-leaning Billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations.

Overturning a Package of Dangerous Criminal Justice Reforms in DC that Weaken Mandatory Minimum Sentences and Fuel Greater Lawlessness.

The Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) amendment #40 to a bill repealing use of military force against Iraq establishes a new Office of the Special Inspector General for Ukraine Assistance. The amendment is designed to correct the current patchwork of oversight by departmental inspectors. Various federal agencies have so far uncovered no cases of fraud with the $113 billion provided to Ukraine, but Ukraine journalists on the ground have been reporting fraud. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen government accountability. Taxpayer funds should always be properly accounted for and necessary safeguards should be established to protect against waste, fraud, and abuse.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Establishing an Office of the Special Inspector General for Ukraine Assistance.

The Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) amendment #72 to the Fire Grants and Safety Act restructures FEMA's Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Over the past couple of years, appropriations to this program have grown by nearly five-fold to approximately $1 billion. According to the sponsor, the Board distributing these funds is comprised of the very same organizations receiving these funds. The amendment restructures the board to ensure the individuals sitting on it do not have a conflict of interest. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens government integrity by correcting a clear conflict of interest, and, as the sponsor stated, "ensure the pitcher is not also the umpire".

Strengthening Government Integrity by Reorganizing a FEMA Program Board to Ensure the Individuals Appropriating $1 Billion in Funds are not also the Recipients of the Cash.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #79 to the Fire Grants and Safety Act prohibits funds from being provided to fire departments that terminated staff for failing to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Support is the Limited Government Position as this crony grant program should not be reauthorized in the first place as it is the role of state and local entities - not the federal bureaucracy - to fund and determine the best use of fire protection resources. This amendment helps promote the protection of individual liberties by penalizing localities that refused to respect the right of individuals to decide whether or not to obtain the COVID-19 vaccination.

Strengthening Individual Liberties by Penalizing Localities that Terminated Employees for Refusing to Obtain a COVID-19 Vaccination.

The Paul Amendment #5184 to the "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022" helps offset the estimated $700 billion price tag of the bill by placing a 10-year moratorium on funding provided to the United States Agency for International Development (U.S. AID) except for funds that have been appropriated for Israel. Support is the Limited Government Position as the gigantic cost of the PACT Act (which runs contrary to limited government principles) must be offset, especially considering the U.S. national debt has exceeded $30 trillion and congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. The countless documented cases of waste, fraud, and abuse within U.S. AID makes the initiative a prime candidate to be cut.

Protecting Taxpayers by Offsetting a Portion of the PACT Act Cost through a 10 Year Moratorium on Foreign Aid Spending.

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 all veterans who sustained injuries due to their service should receive the highest levels of treatment and care, but 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 Paul amendment #5191 to the treaty document backing Finland's and Sweden's accession to NATO clarifies that Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty does not supersede the constitutional requirement that Congress declare war before the United States engages in war. Support is the Limited Government Position as the ultimate decision as to whether the economy and, most importantly, American lives, be placed at risk through warfare should be determined by Congress - as enshrined in the U.S. constitution - not a foreign entity.

Ensuring NATO Does Not Supersede Congress' Constitutional Authority to Declare War.

This resolution invokes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify new rules authored by the White House Council on Environmental Quality to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The new rules require federal agencies to consider indirect and cumulative environmental impacts, such as those related to climate change, during the permitting process for major infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, pipelines and oil wells. These additional regulations are expected to lengthen the permitting process, which already takes between 8 to 10 years for infrastructure projects, such as bridges. Support is the Limited Government Position as, instead of further lengthening the draconian federal permitting process through new rules, lawmakers should work to grow the economy and increase job creation by eliminating all unnecessary regulations that hinder development and energy extraction.

Overturning Unnecessary Rules within the National Environmental Policy Act that Obstruct Permitting for Highways, Pipelines, Oil Wells and Major Infrastructure Projects.

The Tester amendment #5480 to the "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" prohibits title 42 (a policy invoked at the start of COVID-19 that grants border patrol the ability to expel migrants seeking asylum) from being lifted until a comprehensive plan has been presented to congress and members are allowed 30 days to review. The amendment is in response to an enormous gathering of migrants seeking asylum along the border, with the U.S. Border Patrol reporting 2.76 million encounters with migrants over the past year. Support is the Limited Government Position as, despite the need to grow the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country, the promotion of an open-border immigration system places an immense drain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious law enforcement and national security issues.

Delaying a Surge of Migrants from Crossing the Southern Border by Requiring a Comprehensive Plan Before Title 42 is Lifted

The Kennedy amendment #5387 to the "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" requires the Department of the Interior to authorize two leases per year for five years in the Gulf of Mexico to oil producers and requires the department to authorize one lease in the Alaskan Cook Inlet. 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.

Expanding American Energy Production by Increasing Oil and Gas Leases in the Gulf of Mexico and the Alaskan Cook Inlet

This motion on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 overrides the parliamentarian\'s objection (violation of the Byrd) to allow language proposed by Sen. Warnock that was within the "Affordable Insulin Now Act" to be inserted within the IRA. This measure places a $35 price control on all out-pocket costs or copayments for insulin products. The bill applies to all private health insurance and Medicare prescription drug benefits. 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.

Increasing Health Insurance Premiums by Imposing Price Controls on Insulin Co-Payments.

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".

This resolution ratifies the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which was adopted at Kigali on October 15, 2016, on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The amendment calls for the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), gases used in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR). Furthermore, foreign manufacturers, including China, are provided with preferential (i.e., cheaper) access to HFCs during Kigali's phase-out period and are also provided with millions of dollars in subsidies through a U.S. financed adaptation fund. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as membership in world-wide initiatives and ratification of such treaties nearly always result in overly-stringent environmental regulations being placed on the United States. Meanwhile, countries that are engaging in horrendous environmental practices, such as China, must meet and comply with much lower standards. As a result, the U.S. is placed at a significant competitive economic disadvantage on the national stage and Americans are faced with higher A/C and cooling costs.

Hiking Consumer A/C and Cooling Costs and Subsidizing China and other Foreign Countries through the Ratification of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which Cuts Usage of HFCs.

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 the government'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 Lee amendment #6482 to the "Respect for Marriage Act" (which repeals the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act and codifies federal recognition of same-sex marriages that are legal in the state where the marriage was performed) ensures the federal government does not take any discriminatory action against an individual due to their religious beliefs on marriage. Discriminatory actions include targeting by the IRS or Department of Education and exclusion from any federal grants, loans, entitlements, scholarships, employment, or contracting opportunities. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of private religious institutions - not government - to define and officiate marriages. Instead, government should ensure equal application of all laws and services while protecting the freedom of speech and religion as enshrined under the First Amendment to the Constitution.

Protecting Religious Liberties by Ensuring the Respect for Marriage Act Does Not Result in Government Discrimination.

The Sullivan amendment #6503 to a resolution requiring unions and railroads to accept the most recent tentative agreement to end the labor dispute provides a 60 day "cooling off" period beyond the December 8th deadline to let both parties further negotiate their differences and avoid congressional interference. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to interfere in the private negotiations of parties within the private sector. Instead, lawmakers should seek to prevent such problems from occurring in the first place by removing regulatory barriers that restrict competition and drive-up labor costs, as well as ensure all employees have the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union.

Delaying Government Interference in the Private Negotiations of the Railroad Industry and Union through a 60 Day "Cooling off" Period before Congressional Involvement.

This resolution invokes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify new rules imposed by the Department of Education in July which create additional hurdles for charter schools to receive federal funding. For example, charter school applicants must now prove a need and community support for the charter school, undergo analysis for the enrollment and diversity of the school, and disclose contracts the charter school may have with for-profit companies. Support is the Limited Government Position as the responsible expansion of school choice not only benefits taxpayers, but, most importantly, improves educational outcomes for all students by creating competition through a "marketplace" of educational options for parents.

Protecting School Choice by Overturning Department of Education Rules that Burden Charter Schools with Significant Red Tape and Regulatory Barriers.

The Scott amendment #6540 to the "Further Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023" rescinds the $70 billion in funding provided to the Internal Revenue Service under the "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" to hire an additional 87,000 agents. Furthermore, the amendment repeals the $600 threshold implemented under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which triggers IRS notification on transactions through platforms such as Paypal, Cash App, and Venmo, and instead raises the threshold to $20,000. Support is the Limited Government Position as this significant growth in the size of the IRS raises serious concerns over unjust harassment and auditing, especially at an agency with a troubled past concerning politicized actions. Additionally, the extremely low $600 surveillance threshold unduly infringes privacy rights and protections against searches and seizures enshrined under the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution.

Rescinding Funding for 87,000 Additional IRS Agents and Protecting Americans from Undue Surveillance by Restoring the IRS Transaction Threshold to $20,000 from $600.

The Paul amendment #6561 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023" requires 67 Senators to waive a budget point of order instead of 60 under the "pay-go rules" which require any new spending to be offset. As a result, it will be more difficult to pass massive omnibus spending packages that add to the deficit. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure will at least increase the difficulty to advance horrendous spending packages that have become a common occurrence over the past few years. However, even greater measures and large 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.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility by Requiring a Two-Thirds Vote (Instead of Three-Fifths) to Override the "Pay-Go Rules" which Require Any New Spending to be Offset.

This motion on the "Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act" defeats a change to the Senate rules, thereby protecting the "filibuster" or the requirement of 60 votes to invoke cloture (end debate) and advance most legislation. Due to the political make-up of the senate (50-50 party split with VP Kamala Harris the tie-breaking vote), the elimination of the filibuster, coupled with Democratic party control over the House of Representatives, significantly increases the likelihood of Democratic policy priorities. Support is the Limited Government Position as the elimination of the filibuster would allow for the passage of policy that would unprecedently expand the size and scope of government.

Blocking an Unprecedented Expansion of Government by Preserving the Senate Filibuster Rule.

The Warnock amendment #5262 to the "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" would expand Medicaid under Obamacare (free healthcare for individuals earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level) to the 12 red states that have not yet expanded Medicaid, including Texas, Florida, Wisconsin, Georgia, South Carolina, Mississippi, Kansas, Wyoming, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Dakota, with the latter two states passing expansion in 2023. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the federal government should not strong-arm the residents of states that, through their electoral and legislative processes, have chosen to not expand their Medicaid systems, which is extremely costly to federal taxpayers and results in an even greater number of individuals being trapped into government dependency.

Increasing Government Dependency by Expanding Medicaid Under Obamacare to the 12 Red States that Have Refused Expansion.

The "Further Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023" funds the federal government through December 23, 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.  Oppose is the Limited Government Position as allowing lame duck members of congress to set funding levels - especially with a holiday deadline - will likely result in greater irresponsible spending. Budgets should be set by sitting members of congress, the individuals who are held accountable by the voters, not members who are on their way out of office.

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

The Johnson amendment #6555 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", which funds government through fiscal year 2023, eliminates hundreds of pages of earmarks within the spending package. These earmarks, which total $9.8 billion represent pet projects that individual members of congress have added into the bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure will at least slightly decrease the horrendous level of wasteful spending within the bill. However, much larger 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.

Protecting Taxpayers by "Cutting the Pork" in the Budget through the Elimination of All Earmarks within the 2023 Funding Package.

The Johnson amendment #6559 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", which funds government through fiscal year 2023, would prevent border management funds from being utilized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to transport Migrants within the U.S. unless to a deportation location or detention facility. The amendment is in response to a leaked DHS plan wherein the agency would pay to transport individuals who entered the country unlawfully to destinations away from the border and deeper into the U.S. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, despite the need to grow the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country, the promotion of an open-border immigration system places an immense drain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious law enforcement and national security issues.

Strengthening National Security by Prohibiting DHS from Utilizing Taxpayer Funds to Transport Immigrants that Enter the Country Unlawfully to Destinations Further Within the U.S.

The Cassidy amendment #6558 to the massive lame duck spending bill, known as the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", implants the language of H.R. 1065 "Pregnant Workers Fairness Act" into the bill. This provision makes it an unlawful employment practice if an employer with 15 or more employees fails to provide a series of new benefits and accommodations to a pregnant employee or job applicant. For example, a cause of action can be brought against an employer if they fail to provide additional break periods, require an employee to take leave due to a pregnancy limitation if a reasonable accommodation could be provided, or do not provide certain amenities, such as a stool to sit on during the workday. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as employers are already incentivized to establish safe and productive work environments and this government overreach into the private sector unnecessarily exposes employers to new avenues of frivolous litigation that may be advanced by deviant plaintiffs\' attorneys.

Exposing Employers to Frivolous Litigation by Creating Multiple New Avenues for Plaintiff's Attorneys of Pregnant Workers to Sue for Alleged Discrimination.

The Merkley amendment #6595 to the massive lame duck spending bill, known as the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", places a series of new regulations on private companies concerning accommodations for breastfeeding up to a year after the birth of an employee's child. For example, employers must provide reasonable break times and a shielded location other than a bathroom for employees to express breast milk. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as employers are already incentivized to establish safe and productive work environments and this government overreach into the private sector unnecessarily exposes employers to new avenues of frivolous litigation that may be advanced by deviant plaintiffs\' attorneys.

Imposing Overreaching New Federal Mandates on the Private Sector Concerning Workplace Breast Feeding.

The Gillibrand Amendment #6607 to the massive lame duck spending bill, known as the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", provides an additional $1 Billion to the World Trade Center Health Program. This program, which currently has over 100,000 enrollees, provides compensation for health conditions that individuals may develop who were near the Twin Towers on 9/11 or sometime over the following 9 months, including first responders, residents, workers, teachers, students, tourists, etc. Due to the benefits of the program, such as compensation for physical and mental health conditions - including loss of income and pain and suffering that may have been incurred from the event - the trust fund continues to run low on funds and outpace expected expenditures. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as first responders and workers who spent substantial time assisting with the clean-up of the tragedy deserve care for the health complications that they sustained due to their work. However, this well-intended program has instead been abused at the expense of both victims and taxpayers by greedy plaintiffs' attorneys who search for any individual who may have briefly been in the vicinity during the months following the event, and then work to extract non-economic damages. Additional funding should not be provided to this program until reforms have been implemented to stop this abuse.

Providing an Additional $1 Billion to the 9/11 Compensation Fund without Desperately Needed Reforms to Prevent Continued Cash Grabs by Law Firms.

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 included 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 Johnson instruction for the senate conferees to the "United States Innovation and Competition Act (USICA)" requires the conferees to eliminate any provisions within the final version of the bill that prohibit the possession, acquirement, receipt, transportation, sale, or purchase of mink raised in captivity in the United States for fur production. The motion is in response to actions taken in the House to ban mink farms due to allegations that they increase the spread of COVID-19. Support is the Limited Government Position as a blanket ban on all mink farming represents government overreach, especially considering the fact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has called the reported cases of infected mink, hamsters, and deer spreading the disease rare occurrences. While there is a role of government to combat clear and deliberate cases of animal cruelty and abuse, such actions should be carefully tailored to only address bad actors.

Blocking a Proposed Overreaching Ban on "Mink Farming" Based on Allegations of Increased COVID-19 Transmission Risks.

The Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC) amendment #1243 to the Minibus Appropriations Package prohibits funds from being used to enforce President Biden's Executive Order # 14019, "Promoting Access to Voting". According to the sponsor, the executive order empowers federal agencies to use taxpayer funds to implement or enter into agreements with partisan organizations that conduct voter mobilization activities. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer resources should not be utilized to advance partisan politics. Such actions undermine our election process and democracy.

Safeguarding Democracy by Defunding Biden's Executive Order that Utilizes Taxpayer Resources to Advance Partisan Politics through Voter Mobilization Activities.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1347 to the Minibus Appropriations Package cuts roughly $30 billion in discretionary spending, placing it back at the level approved by the House Appropriations Committee. Additionally, the bill rescinds $25 billion provided for IRS enforcement in the 2022 climate and tax law. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment serves as a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity in Congress. 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 through a $30 Billion Cut in Discretionary Spending within the Minibus Appropriations Package and Rescinding $25 Billion in IRS Funding.

The Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN) amendment #1182 to the Minibus Appropriations Package prohibits any funding from being utilized to implement any earmark, community project funding, or congressionally directed spending. Earmarks direct funds to a specific recipient or congressional district while circumventing merit-based or competitive funds allocation processes. Support is the Limited Government Position as earmarks fuel corruption within the political process and incentivize runaway and wasteful spending for lawmaker pet projects. 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.

Restoring Fiscal Responsibility by Prohibiting Earmarks within the Minibus Appropriations Package that Drive Runaway Spending for Lawmaker Pet Projects.

This resolution introduced by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the policy update issued by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) on May 5, 2022 relating to discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. According to the sponsor, this policy is "weaponizing funding for school lunch programs in an effort to force public schools to embrace Joe Biden's transgender agenda", such as "requiring biological boys to be given access to girls bathrooms and locker rooms or allow biological boys to compete against biological girls in girls' sports". Support is the Limited Government Position as federal funding should not be weaponized by unaccountable bureaucrats to advance politicized initiatives, especially those surrounding sensitive issues that should be handled at the local level by school boards accountable to parents.

Preventing the Weaponization of the Federal Appropriations Process by Bureaucrats Attempting to Push Policies Surrounding Transgenderism in Local Schools.

The Sen. Brian Schatz (D-HI) amendment #1078 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" reauthorizes the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 which expired in 2013. This welfare program provides tribes block grants that may be utilized for a wide range of purposes surrounding affordable housing, such as housing development, rental assistance, and public housing projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill not only hikes government spending for a program with a history of corruption, but grows government dependency. 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.

Growing Government Dependency and Out-of-Control Spending through the Reauthorization of an Old Native American Welfare Program with a History of Corruption.

The Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) amendment #1065 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" provides an additional $450 million to the World Trade Center Health Program as well as expands the program (with another $200 million) to now cover the Pentagon and Shanksville. This program, which currently has over 120,000 enrollees, provides compensation for health conditions that individuals may develop who were near the Twin Towers on 9/11 or sometime over the following nine months, including first responders, residents, workers, teachers, students, tourists, etc. Due to the benefits of the program, such as compensation for physical and mental health conditions - including loss of income and pain and suffering that may have been incurred from the event - the trust fund continues to run low on funds and outpace expected expenditures. For example, just seven months earlier, the fund was provided with $1 billion in additional funding under a previous Gillibrand amendment to an appropriations bill that was expected to last until 2027. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this well-intended program has been abused at the expense of both victims and taxpayers by greedy plaintiffs' attorneys who search for any individual who may have briefly been in the vicinity during the months following the event and then work to extract non-economic damages. First responders and workers who spent substantial time assisting with the clean-up of the tragedy deserve care for the health complications that they sustained due to their work. To ensure this, reforms should be implemented to stop this abuse before additional funding is provided.

Providing an Additional $676 million to the 9/11 Compensation Fund without Desperately Needed Reforms to Prevent Continued Cash Grabs by Law Firms.

The Sen. Joshua Hawley (R-MO) amendment #1058 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" establishes a new entitlement program for residents in St. Louis, Missouri and the surrounding regions who may have been exposed to radioactive contamination from nuclear waste during the federal government-run Manhattan Project. Any individuals who had been present in the regions for any two year period since 1949 would be entitled to compensation if they contracted a cancer or other specified disease. Spouses and children would also be able to obtain compensation if the family member died. The amendment does not contain any funding for the new entitlement, which is estimated to cost at a minimum of between $50 to $100 billion over the next ten years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while well-intended, creation of such an entitlement program without extremely carefully crafted safeguards and limited eligibility could result in a fiscal catastrophe. For example, the previous amendment to this same bill by Sen. Gillibrand, which pertained to the World Trade Center Health Program, demonstrates the skyrocketing costs such entitlement programs create. Unfortunately, greedy plaintiffs' attorneys seek out any individual who may be remotely impacted by an event and work to extract enormous payouts all at the expense of taxpayers.

Threatening a Fiscal Nightmare through the Creation of a New Entitlement Program for any Resident of the St. Louis Region Since 1949 Potentially Impacted by the Manhattan Project.

The Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) amendment #1034 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" prevents funds contributed to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from being channeled to countries that sponsor genocide or state backed terrorism, unless such funds are authorized by the U.S. Congress. The amendment specifically pertains to IMF's "special drawing rights" process. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while the U.S. should arguably not be putting up over $100 billion to the IMF, these funds and the associated dividends provided through "special drawing rights" should certainly not be received by state sponsors of terrorism or other adversaries of the U.S.

Ensuring U.S. Funds and Dividends at the International Monetary Fund are Not Channeled to Countries that Sponsor Terrorism without Congressional Approval.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #438 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" requires an independent and objective audit and investigation be conducted into the over $113 billion in funding the United States has provided Ukraine. The sponsor noted that, so far, departmental inspectors' generals have not substantiated any cases of fraud despite the enormous sums of cash delivered to the war-torn nation and cases of even Ukrainian journalists reporting fraud. Support is the Limited Government Position as all taxpayer funds, regardless of their purpose, should be properly accounted for and necessary safeguards should be established to protect against waste, fraud and, abuse.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from Waste, Fraud and Abuse by Requiring an Audit and Investigation into the $113 Billion in U.S. Funding Provided to Ukraine.

The Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) amendment #421 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" allows U.S. servicemembers who were dismissed as the result of the Biden Administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate to seek reinstatement or a change in their discharge status. The amendment also restores their lost GI and VA benefits. Support is the Limited Government Position as not only was the COVID-19 vaccine ineffective in controlling the virus, but the mandate also resulted in the dismissal of over 8,400 service members and hurt recruitment. The COVID-19 vaccination mandate represented a clear example of government overreach and all service members who were dismissed should be allowed to once again serve their country.

Ensuring U.S. Service Members Dismissed as the Result of the COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate May Seek Reinstatement and Have their Discharge Statuses Changed.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #376 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" requires all member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to meet their commitment of two percent of GDP defense spending before the U.S. provides additional funds to Ukraine. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps place pressure on the other members of NATO to meet their commitments. The taxpayers of the U.S. should not be forced to continue shouldering a disproportionate share of the financial burden.

Strengthening NATO Accountability by Withholding Aid for Ukraine Until the Other NATO Member Nations Meet their Obligation of Two Percent of GDP Defense Spending.

The Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) amendment #838 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" provides clarity to the term "aggregate value" in relation to calculating the monetary value of equipment being provided to Ukraine under Presidential drawdown authority. Under the amendment, "aggregate value" refers to the cost of the equipment to the American people, not depreciation. The amendment would result in a reduced amount of equipment being provided to Ukraine per dollar amount approved by Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps protect taxpayers by prohibiting the Biden Administration from utilizing budgetary gimmicks to provide larger amounts of aid to Ukraine than approved by Congress.

Combatting Budgetary Gimmicks in Ukraine Spending by Ensuring Equipment Valuation is Based on Actual Cost to Taxpayers and Not Lower Depreciation Values.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #222 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" clarifies that Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty does not supersede the constitutional requirement that Congress declare war before the United States engages in war. Support is the Limited Government Position as the ultimate decision as to whether the economy and, most importantly, American lives be placed at risk through warfare should be determined by Congress - as enshrined in the U.S. constitution - not a foreign entity.

The Sen. Tim Kaine (R-VA) amendment #429 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" prevents the President from withdrawing the United States from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) unless approved by a two-thirds vote of the senate or an act of Congress. The amendment is largely directed at threats President Trump has made about withdrawing the country from NATO unless the member countries meet their obligations to contribute two percent of their GDP towards defense. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this ill-conceived amendment handicaps the ability of the executive branch, regardless of party, administration, or sitting president, to negotiate and hold NATO members accountable. American taxpayers are being forced to shoulder unfair financial burdens due to other countries failing to contribute their agreed upon amounts.

Handicapping a Future Trump Administration from Negotiating and Pulling the U.S. Out of NATO if Other Member Nations Fail to Make their Contributions.

The Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) amendment #926 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" prohibits the sale of emergency crude oil within the United States' strategic petroleum reserve to four adversary nations unless doing so serves a national security interest or is approved by Congress. The four nations are China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The bill is largely in response to actions taken by the Biden Administration, which have drained the reserves to their lowest level since 1983. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while the sale of taxpayer resources should be maximized, oil represents a critical national security resource, and U.S. reserves should not be drained in order to build up the stockpiles of our adversaries.

Prohibiting the Draining of the U.S. Strategic Oil Reserve to Bolster Adversary Nations

The Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) amendment #1359 to the Minibus Appropriations Package corrects a practice whereby veterans lose their Second Amendment rights if they seek assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to have their financial affairs managed. Currently, when a fiduciary is appointed to help manage the financial affairs of a veteran, the VA automatically reports the veteran to the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and the veteran looses their right to have a firearm. This amendment prevents the automatic revocation of Second Amendment rights by instead requiring a judge to rule the veteran is a danger to themselves or others with a firearm. Support is the Limited Government Position as Veterans should not be forced to choose between receiving assistance with their finances or losing their Second Amendment Rights through this poorly devised, one-size-fits-all policy.

Ensuring Veterans don't Lose their Second Amendment Rights if they Seek Assistance to Manage their Finances at the VA.

The Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) amendment #1237 to the Minibus Appropriations Package prohibits funding of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) rule titled ''Adoption of Energy Efficiency Standards for New Construction of HUD- and USDA-Financed Housing''. This HUD rule subjects housing projects financed or subsidized with federal funds to meet much more stringent energy efficiency standards. Support is the Limited Government Position as the new energy efficiency mandates imposed by HUD unnecessarily drive-up housing and taxpayer costs in order to advance a politicized climate change agenda.

Reducing Housing and Taxpayer Costs by Nullifying a Biden Administration Rule Imposing More Stringent Energy Efficiency Standards on Government Subsidized or Financed Housing.

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. The sponsor noted 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 unnecessarily 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.

The "Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024" sponsored by Sen. Thomas Carper would direct the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out 17 new water infrastructure projects and study dozens of other potential ones. Some of the authorized ventures include a $2.7 billion storm risk reduction effort in Miami, a $26.7 million stormwater management initiative outside Memphis, Tennessee, and $2.1 billion toward restoration of the Everglades. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these projects do not pertain to national security or any other national need. The costs of these projects - which provide benefits to only select states or regions - should not be socialized onto federal taxpayers. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Socializing the Costs of Regional Projects onto Federal Taxpayers through the "Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act".

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.

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

This resolution introduced by Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Department of Treasury on November 20, 2023, titled "Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds". The rule changed the definition of "obligation" as it relates to State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and extended the timeline for spending the COVID-19 relief money from 2024 to 2026. According to the sponsor, the rule violates the expiration dates laid out in the American Rescue Plan and treats taxpayer money "as a slush fund for pet projects by Biden's Treasury" and will "cost American families an extra $1,200 per year". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps prevent the waste of an enormous amount of taxpayer funds. 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.

Overturning a Biden Administration Rule which Allows the Waste and Misuse of $13 Billion in Taxpayer Funds through the Extension of the Expiration of Covid-19 Relief Funds.

The Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO) amendment #1626 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would cut $110 million in spending on administrative costs at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) pertaining to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. According to the sponsor, "this is a good government amendment" as only $226 million of the $337 million for BEAD administrative costs has been justified. The amendment also cuts funding for a new initiative related to "Algorithmic Justice" which is undefined. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, $42.45 billion was provided to the BEAD Program for high-speed internet access expansion, providing significant subsidies to companies such as Comcast. Support is the Limited Government Position as the BEAD program should be eliminated in its entirety. The private sector and free market are best equipped to determine where broadband is most needed and which expansion projects are most economically viable. The BEAD program forces taxpayers to enrich woke corporations such as Comcast for infrastructure which is unnecessary due to significant advances in satellite technology from Comcast's competitors, such as Elon Musk's Starlink.

Cutting $110 Million from a Wasteful Program that Enriches Woke Companies Such as Comcast for Broadband Expansion that is No Longer Necessary Due to Musk's Starlink.

The "Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act" (RECA) sponsored by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) would extend RECA for an additional six years past its current sunset date of June 7, 2024. RECA was enacted in 1990 under George H.W. Bush to compensate individuals exposed to fallout from nuclear weapons testing between 1947 and 1961. The bill also includes provisions which increase payouts and eligibility, as well as expand the regions covered to include the bill sponsor's district in St. Louis, Missouri. The bill does not contain any funding for the new entitlement, which is estimated to cost at a minimum of between $50 to $100 billion over the next ten years for the St. Louis region alone. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as expansion and creation of a new entitlement program that lacks critical safeguards and limits on eligibility will result in a fiscal catastrophe. Federal taxpayers have already experienced a similar fiscal nightmare and skyrocketing costs resulting from the poorly crafted World Trade Center Health Program, which requires constant additional taxpayer cash infusions. Unfortunately, greedy plaintiffs' attorneys seek out any individual who may be remotely impacted by an event and work to extract enormous payouts at the expense of taxpayers.

Threatening a Fiscal Nightmare through the Extension and Expansion of the Entitlement Program "Radiation Exposure Compensation Act" (RECA).

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.

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

The Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) motion to the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to insert the text of H.R. 2 (the Secure the Border Act of 2023), as passed by the House of Representatives on May 11, 2023. According to the sponsor, "H.R. 2 contains a comprehensive plan to secure the border, to stop catch-and- release, to build the wall, to stop visa overstays, and to reform abuse of immigration, parole, and asylum laws". 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.

Combatting Illegal Immigration by Inserting the "Secure the Border Act" into the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024".

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) motion to the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to adjust the bill into a full-year CR funding government through September 30, 2024. According to the sponsor, this adjustment would save taxpayers $130 billion and place regular nondefense at a level $40 billion less than in fiscal year 2023. Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion increases fiscal responsibility. 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.

Cutting Government Spending by $130 Billion by Extending the Duration of the CR through September of 2024.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #1614 to the "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" would prevent the Federal Reserve from purchasing the debt of states or municipalities through its Open Market Operations. According to the sponsor, "we now know that the Federal Reserve is not only buying the Federal debt; they are buying the debt of profligate, large-spending States like California, New York, and Illinois. It was never intended that Congress give the Fed the power, and we should make sure that it is explicit that the Federal Reserve cannot buy the debt of individual States." This action by the Federal Reserve generally lowers the borrowing costs for the states and localities the Fed purchases the debt. Support is the Limited Government Position as the reckless actions by the Federal Reserve to purchase state and local bonds places the entire U.S. financial system - including the U.S. dollar - at risk in the event of widespread defaults. The continued monetization of debt coupled with the enormous balance sheet of the Fed, merely heightens the risk of a hyper-inflationary event.

Ending a Reckless Federal Reserve Policy Jeopardizing the Stability of the U.S. Monetary System through the Purchase of State and Municipal Debt.

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.

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

The Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) motion to the "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to adjust the bill into a full-year CR funding government through September 30, 2024. According to the sponsor, this adjustment would "result in a spending cut of $73 billion, bringing our total discretionary spending down to 1.56 trillion, a significant cut from the $1.66 trillion funding deal that is in the works currently". Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion increases fiscal responsibility. 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.

Cutting Government Spending by $73 Billion by Extending the Duration of the CR through September of 2024.

The Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) motion to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to remove all Community Project Funding and Congressionally Directed Spending (commonly referred to as "earmarks) within the bill. The bill contains roughly 6,600 earmarks at a cost of $12 billion. According to the sponsor, "Earmarks are a corrupt practice" and "the American taxpayer should not be used as a political piggybank". Support is the Limited Government Position as earmarks fuel corruption within the political process and incentivize runaway and wasteful spending for lawmaker pet projects. 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.

Restoring Fiscal Responsibility in the Appropriations Bill by Cutting the 6,600 Earmarks that Total $12 Billion in Runaway Spending for Lawmaker Pet Projects.

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. Note: Democratic Lawmakers who opposed the bill because they wanted greater levels of spending were also recorded as opposing the limited government position.

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 "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA) eliminates two federal cost-control policies that barred employees with a public pension from then also collecting the full-level of benefits under the federal retirement program. The bill is estimated to increase taxpayer spending by $195.65 billion and shorten the window for insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by 6 months - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors in 2033. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill largely serves as a political ploy to gain favorability from federal workers and labor unions while worsening the unfunded liability crisis of Social Security. 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.

Quickening the Insolvency of Social Security to Gain Political Favorability from Federal Workers and Labor Unions through the "Social Security Fairness Act".

The Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) amendment #3331 to the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" would delay the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act until changes are made that would offset the bill's negative effects on Social Security's actuarial balance as determined by the Social Security board of trustees. The underlying bill eliminates two federal cost-control policies that barred employees with a public pension from then also collecting the full-level of benefits under the federal retirement program. The bill is estimated to increase taxpayer spending by $195.65 billion and shorten the window for insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by 6 months - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors in 2033. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure serves as a step in the right direction to prevent the further worsening of the unfunded liability crisis surrounding Social Security. 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.

Promoting Fiscal Responsibility by Delaying Implementation of the "Social Security Fairness Act" Until Changes Are Enacted to Offset the Bill's Negative Effects on the Actuarial Balance.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #3352 to the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" would enact the "Government Shutdown Prevention Act" which would keep government open but institutes a six percent cut to then-current funding levels for any agency, program and activity that Congress failed to fund. Funding would continue to be reduced by another one percent every 90 days thereafter that an agreement is still not enacted. Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure helps provide lawmakers an alternative to either enacting a wasteful, bloated budget or a government shutdown. 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.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility through the "Government Shutdown Prevention Act" which keeps Government Operating Albeit a Six Percent Cut to All Unfunded Programs.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #3346 to the "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" would gradually raise the retirement age to reflect current life expectancies, by three months per year until the retirement age reaches 70, and would save the program nearly $400 billion. The amendment will help pay for the cost of the Social Security Fairness Act, which will total $200 billion over 10 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure helps lengthen the solvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by another year. The program will enter insolvency in 2033 - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors.

Improving the Solvency of Social Security by Gradually Raising the Retirement Age to 70 to Offset the Costs of the "Government Shutdown Prevention Act".

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

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

This resolution introduced by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) would prohibit the Biden Administration from cancelling $4.65 billion of debt owed by Ukraine to U.S. taxpayers. According to the sponsor "The Biden Administration's proposal shifts the burden of funding Ukraine's small businesses, farmers, and corrupt bureaucrats onto the backs of hardworking Americans, who are already suffering during a time of high inflation." Support is the Limited Government Position as Americans cannot afford to continue to pour hundreds of billions into Ukraine - especially without proper safeguards to prevent corruption and 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.

Protecting U.S. Taxpayers by Blocking the Biden Administration from Forgiving $4.65 in Ukraine Debt.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) amendment #3289 to the "Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" would rescind $2.9 billion in Department of Energy loan guarantees to pay for the provisions in the underlying bill. The bill is in response to the PACT Act (also known as the "burn pit bill") that was passed in 2022 and drastically expanded veteran healthcare coverages - which has now created a $3 billion budget shortfall. According to the sponsor, "Which is more important, subsidizing millionaire owners of green energy or paying for veterans' benefits? Why not take one to pay for the other?" Support is the Limited Government Position as the Institute for Legislative Analysis' had correctly noted two years prior that the PACT Act would "create countless avenues for devious plaintiffs' attorneys to advance fraudulent health and disability claims and will likely further overload the VA". This amendment serves as a step in the right direction in covering the cost of the disastrous PACT Act which is expected to cost taxpayers over $700 billion.

Protecting Taxpayers by Reappropriating Wasteful Funding in the DOE to Pay for the Runaway Costs from the Disastrous PACT Act.

This motion tables (defeats) the Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) amendment #1804 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024". The amendment would prohibit the Biden administration from issuing waivers granting Iran access to escrowed accounts, including a $10 billion account related to Iraqi electricity. According to the sponsor, "The Biden administration has a pathological obsession with boosting the Iranian regime and undermining Israel" and the waivers have allowed Iran "to use that money to fund Hamas, Hezbollah, Iraqi militias, and other terrorist groups". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this motion weakens national security by providing a top adversary nation of the U.S. with billions of dollars of resources that can be used to inflict harm on Americans or our allies such as Israel.

Providing Iran with Access to Billions of Dollars of Funds by Providing Waivers to Sanctions.

The Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) motion to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would instruct the Senate Committee on Appropriations to cut 5 percent from the bill. Amounts made available to the Department of Defense or for securing the international border of the U.S. are exempted from reductions. According to the sponsor, "we are spending at such a rate that we add an average of a trillion dollars to the debt every 90 days. If that pace continues, instead of $1.5 trillion it could be up to $4 trillion in the next year". Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion is a step in the right direction to advancing a fiscally responsible 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.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility through a 5% Cut to the Bloated $1.2 Trillion Spending Package.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1722 to the "Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would block funding for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP One application, or any successor app, to facilitate the entry of any illegal immigrant into the United States. According to the sponsor, "If you are an illegal immigrant under the Biden administration, all you have to do is pull out the CBP One app" and that "between January and September of last year, 221,000 illegal aliens entered the United States this way, and they were allowed to fly around the country without having ID". The sponsor also noted "the danger presented by this is reflected in the fact that Haitian immigrant Cory Alvarez, whose entry into the United States was facilitated by the CBP One app, raped a 15- year-old, mentally impaired girl in the United States". Support is the Limited Government Position as the CBP One app presents a major threat to U.S. national security, and 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.

Strengthening National Security and Combatting Illegal Immigration by Blocking Funding for the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP One App.

The "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. John Carter (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 is 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: A Democratic lawmaker who opposed the bill was recorded as "X" due to the fact their opposition was not the spending but rather minor provisions pertaining to gun control.

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

The Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) amendment #1634 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would require the U.S. Census to determine basic population statistics such as the number of citizens, noncitizens, and illegal immigrants that live in this country, and would require that only U.S. citizens be counted in determining the number of House seats and electoral votes that each State gets. According to the sponsor, "the more illegal aliens and noncitizens in your State or district, the greater your voting power in Congress and Presidential elections. This not only destroys the principle of one person-one vote by making some American's votes more powerful than others, but it encourages illegal immigration in sanctuary cities as a way to increase political power". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen democracy by ending a fraudulent political scheme weakens the integrity of elections and also manipulates federal fund disbursements.

Strengthening Democracy and Election Integrity by Requiring the Census to Account for Illegal Immigrants.

The Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) amendment #1623 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" would prohibit the use of funds to initiate or decline a Federal criminal charge based on impermissible considerations defined in the Justice Manual. According to the sponsor, the Justice Manual has been violated as "the Justice Department has been weaponized against the 45th President, President Biden's lead political opponent". Support is the Limited Government Position as tragically our justice system has been warped by politics at both the federal and local levels. This amendment and other measures are essential to reforming the "Department of Injustice" and restoring the faith of Americans of a fair and unbiased judicial system.

Combatting the Weaponization of the Criminal Justice System Against Trump and Others by Defunding Federal Criminal Charges that Fail to Comply with the Justice Manual.

This resolution sponsored by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) would enact a "Six Penny Plan" federal budget. The plan would balance on-budget outlays and revenues within five years by cutting six pennies off every dollar projected to be spent in the next five fiscal years. According to the sponsor, the plan would reduce spending by $329 billion in the first year, and accomplishes the balanced budget even with the provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act being made permanent. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure represents an excellent pathway to restoring fiscal order to Congress. 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.

Year
2024	—	100.00	100.00	100.00	—	100.00	100.00	100.00	65.31	—
2023	100.00	100.00	100.00	—	100.00	91.67	87.50	100.00	61.90	100.00
2022	100.00	100.00	—	100.00	100.00	100.00	100.00	100.00	68.42	66.67

Year	Score	Role	Party
2024	80.23	Sen	R
2023	82.14	Sen	R
2022	83.33	Sen	R

Steve Daines

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