Institute for Legislative Analysis

Sharice Davids

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #61 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" would restore spending within the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to 2019 levels and direct the $77 million in savings to deficit reduction. The funding proposed within the underlying bill is 30 percent above the pre-COVID level. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Spending to 2019 Levels within the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and Redirecting the $77 Million in Savings to Deficit Reduction.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #57 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes funding for the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. The $240 million is then redirected to deficit reduction. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Eliminating an Unnecessary International Food Program and Redirecting the $240 Million in Savings to Deficit Reduction.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #54 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes funding for the Food for Peace Title II grant program. The $1.74 billion is then redirected to deficit reduction. Both the Trump and Obama administrations have cited issues with the program. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Eliminating an Unnecessary International Foreign Aid Program and Redirecting the $1.74 Billion in Savings to Deficit Reduction.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #45 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the Rural Business Program Account in half from last year's enacted budget amount of $43,125,000. Funds within the account are in part utilized for construction of solar energy systems and other renewable energy systems. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting the Appropriation to a Rural Business Program Account, which is Utilized to Subsidize Solar and other Renewable Energy Initiatives, by 50% ($43 million).

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #43 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" would eliminate the USDA rental assistance program, providing a savings of $1.6 billion. According to the sponsor, the program is 1 of 25 duplicative housing programs across the federal government. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps reduce duplicative spending and restore fiscal sanity. Rental assistance programs merely distort the market, ultimately bidding up prices and making housing even less affordable. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Eliminating a Duplicative Rental Assistance Welfare Program within the USDA to Provide $1.6 Billion in Savings to Taxpayers.

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #41 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" provides a 6.5 percent cut within the underlying bill to funding for the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). After the $60.5 million cut, $850 million is provided to the entity. The sponsor noted the NCRS has a number of politicized programs and practices, including an Equity Division and LGBTQ emphasis programs. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a small step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. In addition to politicized programs, the NRCS funds countless wasteful initiatives that are not core functions of government, including conservation farming, conservation easements, and climate change related programs. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Spending by 6.5% within the National Resource Conservation Service, which has Funded Countless Politicized Initiatives Surrounding "Equity" and Climate Change.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #33 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" restores funding for the National Agriculture Statistic Services to the fiscal year 2019 level. The $13 million in savings is directed to deficit reduction. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Spending to 2019 Levels within the National Agriculture Statistic Services and Redirecting the $13 Million in Savings to Deficit Reduction.

The Rep. Peter Stauber (R-MN) amendment #99 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds from being utilized for the Farm to School Network Racial Equity Learning Lab. The stated goal of the program is to teach participants to apply a ''racial equity lens'' to their work. According to the sponsor, the lab "seeks to inject critical race theory and identity politics into our educational institutions". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to fund politicized initiatives surrounding racial equity or critical race theory. Such programs serve as an example of how out-of-control-spending is leading to waste within the bloated bureaucracies.

Defunding the Farm to School Network's Racial Equity Learning Lab, which Promotes Critical Race Theory.

The Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) amendment #133 to the Strategic Production Response Act prohibits any change to the current moratorium on oil and gas leasing within the South Atlantic Planning Area. In September of 2020 President Trump issued a 10-year ban on oil and gas drilling along both coasts of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. Lawmakers must open up the South Atlantic to safe and responsible energy extraction, so Americans are provided with the lowest possible energy costs.

Harming American Energy Production by Reinforcing a Moratorium on Oil and Gas Drilling in the South Atlantic.

This bill, the "Strategic Production Response Act", limits the drawdown of petroleum in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) until the Department of Energy submits to Congress a plan to increase the percentage of federal lands leased for oil and gas production. The bill is in response to the Biden Administration draining the Strategic Oil Reserve to its lowest level since 1983 in an attempt to drive down gas prices. 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.

Boosting American Energy Production by Prohibiting a Further Drain of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Until a Larger Percentage of Federal Lands are Leased for Oil and Gas Production.

The Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) amendment #64 to the Strategic Production Response Act strikes the entire underlying bill and requires the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to be stocked with oil from the United States, thereby prohibiting the ability to restock with lower-cost oil from Canada and Mexico. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment unnecessarily drives up taxpayer costs and places barriers to restocking the Strategic Oil Reserve. This amendment is largely designed to obstruct North American energy production and provide financial benefits to the sponsors' state.

Obstructing North American Energy Production by Prohibiting the Procurement of Oil from Canada or Mexico for the Restocking of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Andrew Ogles (R-TN) amendment #87 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds to finalize the Federal Labor Relations Authority's proposed rule that would restrict Federal employees' ability to opt out of membership in a labor union. Under the rule, Federal employees are limited to a certain window each calendar year to opt-out of union due collections, while also then re-enrolling them each year and requiring them to opt-out. Support is the Limited Government Position as public sector unions not only hike taxpayer costs but also make it even more difficult to terminate poor-performing employees. The Federal rule also violates the Supreme Court's decision in Janus v. AFSCME and the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union.

Protecting Federal Employees' "Right to Work" by Defunding a Federal Labor Relations Rule Limiting the Ability of Workers to Opt-Out of Union Membership and Dues Collections.

The Rep. Andrew Ogles (R-TN) amendment #21 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" reduces funding for the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) back to the level it was in FY 2019. The level of funding for the CPSC under the amendment is roughly $13 million less than under the original bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as the CPSC has been engaging in politicized activities beyond the role it was assigned, such as attempting to ban gas stoves. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Promoting Fiscal Responsibility by Reducing Spending at the Consumer Product Safety Commission to 2019 Levels.

The Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) amendment #15 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes funding for firearms and ammunition at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Support is the Limited Government Position as the role of the IRS should be to assist constituents with tax compliance and calculating liabilities, not serve as a weaponized law enforcement entity.

De-Weaponizing the IRS by Prohibiting Funding for Firearms and Ammunition.

The Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) amendment #63 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funding for the White House Gender Policy Council. According to the sponsor, the entity is promoting a "woke DEI agenda" and is "pro-abortion and pro-transgender". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to push politized initiatives or for an entity that does not perform a core function of government.

Eliminating Funding for the White House Gender Policy Council, which Promotes DEI, Transgenderism, and Abortion.

The Rep. Aaron Bean (R-FL) amendment #39 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prevents implementation of a Biden administration rule at the Community Advantage Small Business Lending Companies (CA SBLC) program. The CA SBLC program provides credit to certain businesses whose owners can't qualify for traditional loans due to lack of credit. According to the sponsor, the initiative was originally a pilot program, but a rule issued by the Biden administration has reclassified the program, making it no longer accountable to Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps restore executive branch accountability to Congress. Additionally, this program should not be reauthorized as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to provide small business lending based on the associated risk.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Restoring Congressional Oversight to the Community Advantage Small Business Lending Companies Program.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #25 to the "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $150 million in grants from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, known as WMATA. This entity operates metro rail and bus services across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia metropolitan area. WMATA has faced scrutiny for years over its unsustainable budget practices. Even pre-COVID, it has relied on state and local entities for the majority of its funding rather than fares and other user-fees of passengers. Support is the Limited Government Position as WMATA should cut unprofitable routes and adjust its user fee model to sustain itself, rather than force taxpayers from across the country to subsidize the transportation costs of local residents.

Ensuring Taxpayers Across the Country Aren't Forced to Subsidize the Commuting Costs of Individuals within the DC Region Under WMATA.

The Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ) amendment #47 to the "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts discretionary spending within the bill by 57 percent. According to the sponsor, this is the percentage of discretionary funding within the bill that is directed to entities that have their own taxing authorities (i.e. can obtain funding from their residents). Support is the Limited Government Position as, unlike mandatory spending, which is generally directed towards primary functions of government, discretionary spending is often directed towards unnecessary initiatives or programs that can also be funded through other avenues. 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.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility through a 57% Cut in Discretionary Spending within the Transportation and HUD Appropriations Bill.

The Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) amendment #60 to the "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" defunds the Federal mandate that requires all new vehicles after 2026 be equipped with a kill switch that can disable a vehicle if the vehicle has monitored the driver's performance and the vehicle determines that the driver is not performing well (such as if the driver appears to be driving while intoxicated). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, not only does this one-size-fits all federal mandate unnecessarily drive-up new vehicle costs, including for those who do not consume alcohol, this presents serious Fouth Amendment and civil liberty concerns. Plus, like all new technology, it has the potential to misdiagnose driving habits or fail, leaving motorists stranded.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Defunding the 2026 Mandate that All New Vehicles be Equipped with "Kill Switches" Based on Driver Performance.

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #30 to the "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts spending by $19.7 million at the Department of Housing and Urban Development's by reducing the "fair housing activities" appropriation amount back to the fiscal year 2019 level. According to the Congressional Research Service, only three to five percent of fair housing complaints lead to a formal charge, and between zero to one percent of complaints lead to a referral to the Department of Justice. Support is the Limited Government Position as the vast majority of complaints directed to the fair housing division represent frivolous allegations and are primarily designed to harass landlords, which will ultimately drive up rental costs. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Wasteful Spending by Lowering Funding for HUD "Fair Housing Activities" to 2019 Levels.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #61 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $186.3 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities. The sponsor provided multiple examples of waste within the entity, such as $150,000 to build a comics and social justice curriculum at San Diego State University and $360,000 for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at the University of Central Oklahoma. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to evaluate the most impactful initiatives within the Arts and Humanities and provide the associated funding. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Wasteful Spending by Striking $186.3 Million in Funds for the National Endowment for the Humanities.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #60 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $186.3 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. The sponsor provided multiple examples of waste within the entity, such as the Art in Architecture program that commissions art for Federal buildings, and the Arts and Artifacts Indemnity Program, which subsidizes the insurance of art exhibitions, both domestic and international, including private collections. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to evaluate the most impactful initiatives within the Arts and Humanities and provide the associated funding. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Wasteful Spending by Striking $186.3 Million in Funds for the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) amendment #2 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts funding for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) by 50 percent. The sponsor noted BLM's operations have exceeded its stated purpose, including the establishment of conservation leases and other policies that lockout land users. Support is the Limited Government Position as the BLM has become a bloated and wasteful entity that places unnecessary barriers to land usage. 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 through a 50% Cut in the Bloated Bureaucracy of the Bureau of Land Management.

The Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX) amendment #78 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from utilizing a title 42 special pay authority. According to the sponsor, this authority has resulted in EPA employees being overpaid through the bypassing of the standard federal GS pay schedule. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps restore government accountability and protect taxpayers from overpaying the agency workforce. 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 Ending the EPA's Utilization of a Special Pay Schedule that has Resulted in Overpayment of Agency Employees.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #126 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibit any funds in the appropriations bill from being used to carry out "environmental justice activities". According to the sponsor, the amendment is in response to cases of employees engaging in environmental justice activities that overlap divisive racial ideology with radical environmentalism. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps ensure taxpayer funds are not used to promote politicized agendas surrounding racial justice, climate change, and other extreme environmental beliefs. The implementation of environmental justice policy places significant harm on the U.S. economy and unnecessarily drives up costs for consumers.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from being Utilized for Politicized "Environmental Justice Activities".

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #59 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the appropriation for the US Army Corp of Engineers by $620 million to match the level of funding it was provided in FY 2022. This funding amount is still more than $290 million than provided in FY 2023, but less than the nearly $1 billion spending hike in the underlying bill compared to last year. According to the sponsor, the amendment is intended to promote responsibility within the Army Corp of Engineers as the entity has a long history of running over budget and out of schedule. Support is the Limited Government Position as an entity with a long track record of poor fiscal management should undergo a significant management reform, not be bailed out with even more taxpayer funds. 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 Limiting the Level of Increased Spending for the US Army Corp of Engineers - An Entity with a Dismal Fiscal Management Track Record.

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #58 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" reduces the total appropriation for the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies by $1.55 billion, bringing the total cost of the bill down from $58 billion to $56.4 billion. According to the sponsor, the bill contains multiple wasteful spending provisions, such as $1.2 billion for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Support is the Limited Government Position as this appropriations package is chock full of wasteful initiatives that do not align with the core duties and function of 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.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility through a 2.8% Cut in Appropriations to the Departments of Interior and Environment.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #32 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the appropriation for the Great Lakes Authority in half ($2.5 million). This program was created in 2022 to fund watershed programs in a handful of states. According to the sponsor, the program serves as an example of waste as it "does not have a Federal co-chair, it has no website, it has no programs funded", yet is receiving a $5 million appropriation. Support is the Limited Government Position as every program and initiative not pertaining to a core function or duty of government must be cut or significantly scaled back to get our nation's fiscal house back in order. Our $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting $2.5 Million from a Wasteful "Great Lakes Authority" that has No Website, Programs, or Federal Co-Chair.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #28 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $17 million in funding for the Denali Commission. The Denali Commission is one of seven regional commissions that help direct Federal funds to State and local projects surrounding job training and economic development. However, unlike other commissions, the Denali Commission serves only one State: Alaska. According to the sponsor, both the Obama and Trump administrations have suggested eliminating the commission as funds could instead be provided directly to Alaska for distribution rather than funding a costly additional layer of bureaucracy. Support is the Limited Government Position as every unnecessary bureaucracy and initiative within government must be eliminated or scaled back in order to restore fiscal order in our nation. Our $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Providing $17 Million in Savings to Taxpayers through the Termination of the Denali Commission - a Bureaucracy Recommended for Elimination by both the Trump and Obama Administrations.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #20 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $470 million in funding for the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). The ARPA-E provides grants to companies for high-risk, high-reward projects, grants they are unable to receive funding for within the private sector. According to the sponsor, multiple GAO reports have found the entity is not following its guidelines: nearly half of the grants have gone towards projects that companies previously received private-sector investments or funding for. Support is the Limited Government Position as regardless of the fact much of this agency's funding is being misused, it is not the proper role of government to provide such funding in the first place. The free-market and private sector - not government bureaucrats - are best equipped to direct funding to the most promising initiatives. The ARPA-E merely fuels cronyism by enriching select entities which are oftentimes politically connected while also further fueling out-of-control taxpayer spending.

Combatting Cronyism by Cutting $470 Million in Funding for the Advanced Research Projects Agency, which Awards Taxpayer Cash to Select Energy Companies Favored by Government.

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

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

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

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

The Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) amendment #36 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" defunds the "Savannah River Plutonium Modernization Program". This project, which is roughly half-way complete, will serve as a production facility for plutonium ,which is a source of fuel for nuclear weapons. According to the sponsor, the project has experienced significant cost overruns, and the U.S. already has a significant supply of plutonium which still has many years before it ages out. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while significant steps should certainly be taken to end the cost overruns, protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military are some of the most essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Defunding the "Savannah River Plutonium Modernization Program", which Produces Fuel for Nuclear Weapons.

The Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) amendment #23 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" provides a $14.3 million cut to the Peace Corps budget to restore the agency appropriation to pre-COVID-19 levels. According to the sponsor, the Peace Corps has engaged in numerous politicized initiatives, including helping illegal immigrants at the southern border, promoting DEI amongst its volunteers, and various activities surrounding climate change. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Peace Corps serves as just one of many foreign aid programs of the United States and the country is not in the position to grow its foreign aid spending when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Providing a Slight Cut to Wasteful Spending within the Peace Corps by Restoring Funding to Pre-COVID-19 Levels.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 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.

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 Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #85 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits any funds within the bill from being used for "environmental justice activities". According to the sponsor, the amendment is necessary considering President Biden's Justice40 Initiative directs 40 percent of Federal clean energy and energy efficiency spending based on ethnicity, migrant status, and income status. This includes fifty million dollars which went to the Climate Justice Alliance, an entity which organized anti-Israel protests in the Capitol rotunda last year. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote politicized agendas or distributed in discriminatory manners on such basis as race, ethnicity or gender.

Prohibiting Taxpayer Funds from Being Expended on Politized "Environmental Justice Activities" Within the Department of Interior Appropriations Bill.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #83 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" strikes the funding for the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). According to the sponsor, the CEQ is a duplicative entity of the EPA which imposes onerous regulatory burdens on Americans, plus under the Biden Administration, has developed politicized policies on climate change, environmental justice, and Federal sustainability. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps cut unnecessary and duplicative government bureaucracy. Additionally, the CEQ has largely become a politicized entity advancing an extreme left-wing environmental justice agenda.

Cutting Duplicative Government Bureaucracy through the Elimination of the Council on Environmental Quality.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #82 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits the use of funds to take retaliatory actions against States that disagree with the EPA- mandated pollutant reduction goals. According to the sponsor, the amendment is in response to actions taken by the EPA in 2010 (known as the Chesapeake Bay TMDL) which seized the States' authority to determine their own method of compliance and threatened to take over the water quality plants. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps combat federal overreach and one-size-fits-all mandates which unnecessarily drive-up taxpayer and consumer costs.

Combatting Federal Overreach by Prohibiting the EPA from Taking Retaliatory Actions Against States that Disagree with the EPA's Mandated Pollutant Reduction Goals.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #81 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" repeals section 115 of the Clean Air Act. This section gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to impose emission reductions on the States if the administrator finds that American air pollution endangers the public health and welfare of another country. According to the sponsor, "removing the broadly written language in section 115 is the only way to prevent the delegation of nearly unlimited power over State energy sectors to the EPA bureaucrats and removes the ability of international organizations to meddle in our energy sector." Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment provides a critical safeguard against unaccountable EPA bureaucrats imposing draconian regulations on state economies to promote politicized climate change agendas. Considering the Biden Administration has reentered the Paris climate agreement, this amendment is especially necessary to prevent the implementation of "America Last" policies.

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

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #25 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funding within the bill from being used for any diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program or office. According to the sponsor, the amendment is necessary as the Department of the Interior has a DEI office and DEI officers "who train their staff on how to be racist toward White people". The sponsor also noted the National Endowment for the Arts has an equity officer, Nicole Phillips, whose "job is dedicated to advancing racism". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to push politized initiatives or for an entity that does not perform a core function of government.

Banning Funding for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) within the Department of Interior Appropriations Bill.

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #24 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" strikes the $12 million the bill provided to the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. According to the sponsor, the Wilson Center is a "far-left organization dedicated, much like President Wilson, to far-left values around the world". The sponsor cited events where the Wilson Center "promoted ''safe abortion'' access around the world, claiming that denying abortion is violence" and Wilson Center articles "that suggested Europe should accept unfettered mass immigration, claiming that blocking illegal immigration is ''far right." Support is the Limited Government Position as non-profits such as the Wilson Center should obtain their funding from individuals and granting foundations within the private sector, not government. Taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the political initiatives of non-profits.

Cutting $12 Million in Taxpayer Funding to the Wilson Center - A Political Non-Profit with Extremist Abortion and Immigration Positions.

The Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #18 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prevents funds from being used to implement, administer, or enforce section 134 of the Clean Air Act. This section of the act pertains to the EPA greenhouse gas reduction fund created under the Inflation Reduction Act. According to the sponsor, this $27 billion dollar fund is more than three times the EPA's entire fiscal year 2023 appropriation and "sends taxpayer dollars to far-left political organizations and-their favorite-the Chinese Communist Party." Support is the Limited Government Position as the slush fund wastes billions of dollars of taxpayer resources to further grow the size and scope of government and choke economic growth.

Strengthening Government Integrity by Blocking Expenditures Within the $27 Billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Slush Fund.

The "Allowing Contractors to Choose Employees for Select Skills (ACCESS) Act" sponsored by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) would prohibit minimum experience or educational requirements for proposed contractor personnel in government contract solicitations unless deemed necessary by the agency. In cases where such requirements are included, contracting officers must provide a written justification explaining why they are essential. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps reduce taxpayer costs by cutting red tape and allowing contractors to hire the most qualified workers for the job. Many college degrees, such as "gender studies", are virtually worthless and do not relate to the work being performed.

Reducing Taxpayer Costs and Ensuring Contractors can Hire the Most Qualified Workers by Eliminating Minimum Experience and Educational Requirements.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #56 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" fully defunds the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). The sponsor noted the "office's mission is to equitably transition America to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by no later than 2050." According to the sponsor, the office is "woke" and "actively promotes divisive concepts like energy equity and environmental justice". Support is the Limited Government Position as an "equitable energy transition", like other ESG frameworks, harms U.S. economic growth and enriches select entities through government central planning.

Defunding the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy which Actively Promotes "Energy Equity" and "Environmental Justice".

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #54 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Order No. 1920. According to the sponsor, this order forces everyday Americans to subsidize the cost of transmission lines so renewable energy developers can reap the benefits of billions of dollars in Federal subsidies. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps protect Americans from having their electricity rates further unnecessarily hiked to subsidize a radical environmental agenda. Furthermore, the amendment helps protect landowners from having their property rights infringed through eminent domain proceedings to acquire the land needed for these transmission lines.

Defunding a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Rule which Hikes Electricity Rates and Infringes Property Rights to Construct Unneeded Transmission Lines for Renewable Energy.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #44 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" eliminates funding ($55 million) for the administration of the Department of Energy Title 17 Loan Program. According to the sponsor, the program reduces market discipline and has cost taxpayers many hundreds of millions, with some of the most egregious examples including Solyndra, Fisker Automotive and A123 Systems. The sponsor also noted that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) was the ultimate beneficiary, as following the bankruptcies of Fisker and A123, the Chinese purchased the companies for pennies on the dollar. Support is the Limited Government Position as this reckless loan program not only inflicts financial harm onto taxpayers, but has forced Americans to enrich the Chinese and provide the CCP with competitive advantages.

Protecting Taxpayers by Defunding a Crony Department of Energy Loan Program which has Enriched Chinese Companies at the Expense of American Taxpayers.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #43 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" eliminates funding ($18 million) for the administration of the Department of Energy Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program. According to the sponsor, this program "provides loans to companies that make Green New Deal cars" and has recklessly spent over $1 trillion, including $8 billion in subsidies on electric vehicle chargers. Support is the Limited Government Position as every program and initiative not pertaining to a core function or duty of government must be cut or significantly scaled back to get our nation's fiscal house back in order. 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 Taxpayers by Defunding the Department of Energy "Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program" which Enriches the Electric Vehicle Industry.

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.

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

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

The "Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act" sponsored by Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) requires the Department of Homeland Security to take custody of any illegal immigrant who meets certain criteria and is arrested for, charged with, convicted of, or admits to assaulting a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other first responder. The bill also directs the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on the number of non-U.S. nationals detained under the bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Restoring Law and Order Through the "Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act".

The "D.C. Criminal Reforms to Immediately Make Everyone Safe (DC CRIMES) Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) would limit the authority of the District of Columbia (DC) government over its criminal sentencing laws and amends the definition of "youth offender" in DC by reducing the maximum age from 24 years to 18 years - thereby eliminating a loophole allowing dangerous criminals to escape jail time. Due to the "criminal justice reforms" implemented by DC's government, violent crime in the District rose 39% from 2023 to 2024. 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 on both sides of the political aisle.

Combatting Skyrocketing Crime in D.C. by Overturning the Council's Dangerous Policing and Criminal Justice Reforms Through the "DC CRIMES Act".

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) amendment #3 to the "Hands Off Our Home Appliances Act" would prevent a Department of Energy rule issued on April 4, 2024, titled "Energy Conservation Program: Energy Conservation Standards for Distribution Transformers" from taking effect. The rule requires a shift towards using energy-efficient amorphous steel cores for transformers as opposed to much less costly grain-oriented electrical steel. According to the sponsor, the rule threatens the long-term viability of a steel mill in Butler, Pennsylvania which employs over 1,300 union workers. Support is the Limited Government Position as this Biden administration rule unnecessarily hikes the cost of transformers, which ultimately will be passed onto all consumers through higher power distribution and electricity costs.

Overturning a Biden Administration Rule which Hikes Electricity Costs by Imposing Costly Energy Conservation Mandates on Transformers.

The "Alaska's Right to Produce Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) would restore energy development on Alaska's North Slope. Specifically, the bill would reverse the Biden Department of the Interior (DOI)'s decision to prohibit oil and gas development on 13 million acres within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A) and also reinstates the leases that the Biden administration had cancelled within the non-wilderness Coastal Plain of the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). 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 Overturning the Biden Administration's Ban on Oil and Gas Production on Alaska's North Slope.

The "Privacy Enhancing Technology Research Act" sponsored by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) would grow the size and scope of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support research, workforce development, standard setting, and government coordination for "privacy enhancing technologies". According to the sponsor, "the rise of AI exposes individuals to new privacy threats" and this bill "supports privacy-enhanced datasets and tools for training AI systems". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not federal bureaucrats - to drive innovation in "privacy enhancing technologies". This measure imposes unnecessary costs onto taxpayers and merely grows bureaucracy and government competition with the private sector. 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.

Fueling Wasteful Spending and Government Competition with the Private Sector Through the "Privacy Enhancing Technology Research Act".

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

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

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

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

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

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

The "Restoring American Energy Dominance Act" sponsored by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) would nullify the Bureau of Land Management's proposed rule entitled "Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process." This rule would (1) increases bonding rates for oil and gas production on federal lands, (2) introduces new "preference criteria" for onshore oil and gas leasing that would limit areas available for production, (3) prevent leasing outside of currently producing areas. Support is the Limited Government Position as low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

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

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

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

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

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

The "CBDC Anti-Surveillance State Act" sponsored by Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) would prohibit the Federal Reserve from issuing a surveillance-style central bank digital currency (CBDC) that could give the federal government the ability to monitor or control individual Americans' spending habits. According to the sponsor "bill ensures the United States digital currency policy remains in the hands of the American people - not the Administrative State - so that any development of a digital money will reflect our American values: privacy, individual sovereignty, and free market competitiveness". Support is the Limited Government Position as while President Biden issued an executive order to study creation of such a currency under the guise of cracking down on financial crimes, the creation of a CBDC serves as an existential threat to individual liberties and privacy and will further grow government control over the economy. The Fed has already placed the U.S. dollar in dire jeopardy of destruction through its reckless quantitative easing and expansionary practices.

Protecting Individual Liberties and Privacy by Prohibiting the Federal Reserve from Issuing a Surveillance-Style Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The "Police Our Border Act" sponsored by Rep. Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY) would require the Department of Justice to report on the impact of the Biden Administration's border policies on law enforcement officers at the federal, state, local, and tribal levels. According to the sponsor, "the report will detail the effects the border crisis has had on law enforcement, including the estimated cost of all resources used to address the influx of illegal immigrants". Additionally, the report "must include information on how much exposure law enforcement officers have to fentanyl while encountering illegal immigrants crossing the southern border as well as any injuries sustained while on the line of duty". Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Requiring Reports on the Impact of the Border Crisis on Law Enforcement Through the "Police Our Border Act".

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

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

The "Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing (TICKET) Act" sponsored by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) imposes new federal mandates on private ticket sellers for concerts, sporting events, performances and other events concerning the disclosure of certain fees and itemization of costs. The bill is estimated to cost the FTC $4 million to issue guidance and to monitor and enforce violations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure unnecessarily increases taxpayer costs to further grow the size and scope of the federal government. If such regulations are truly necessary, they should be carefully tailored and imposed at the state and local level - not federally.

Growing the Federal Government to Impose New Mandates on Ticket Sellers for Events Concerning Fee Disclosures Through the "TICKET Act".

The "Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-IN) would expand the size and scope of the Industry and Analysis office of the International Trade Administration (within the Department of Commerce) to monitor and respond to disruptions in industries and supply chains. This includes the establishment of a new "critical supply chain resiliency program" which maps, monitors, and models critical supply chains which is directed to collaborate with other governmental bodies to reduce supply chain gaps and vulnerabilities. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure further grows the size and scope of government to unnecessarily monitor the flow of goods within the private sector. The free market - not central planning schemes by government bureaucrats - is the most effective method to direct the flow of goods across the economy and respond to any shortages in the supply chain.

Growing the Size and Scope of the Department of Commerce to Create a Government Central Planning Program Pertaining to "Supply Chain Resiliency".

The "Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-IN) would grow the size and scope of the Department of Commerce to "support the leadership of the United States in the use of blockchain technology and other distributed ledger technology, tokens, and tokenization". According to the Congressional Budget Office, the bill would increase annual spending by $10 million to hire 45 new government employees to promote the blockchain technology in both the public and private sector. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure grows government cronyism and central planning to promote the private interests of the blockchain industry. Lawmakers should work to shrink the size and scope of government, not grow it and force taxpayers to subsidize the interests of a government-favored industry.

Forcing the Department of Commerce to Hire 45 New Government Employees to Promote the Interests of the Blockchain Industry Across Both the Public and Private Sectors.

The "Emergency Medical Services for Children Reauthorization Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) reauthorizes through FY2029 the Emergency Medical Services for Children State Partnership Program, which is administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration. This program awards grants to state governments and medical schools for a range of initiatives surrounding emergency medical services that pertain to children. Examples include pediatric readiness plans, education programs, cultural competency, and specialized equipment. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of local government entities and private healthcare institutions to plan and fund the healthcare services provided within their communities. The funding of these duties is not the proper role of the federal government, plus merely creates bureaucratic waste and inefficiencies in the distribution of taxpayer funds.

Furthering Federal Government Waste and Inefficiency Through the "Emergency Medical Services for Children Reauthorization Act".

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

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

The "National Telecommunications and Information Administration Reauthorization (NTIA) Act of 2023", sponsored by Bob Latta (R-OH) would be the first reauthorization of the NTIA since 1992, and significantly expand the size and scope of the agency. The 108-page package also includes provisions from multiple other bills including the "Plan for Broadband Act" and "Open RAN Outreach Act". The NTIA is currently administering the $42.45 billion "Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program" which expands high-speed internet access in unserved and underserved areas. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further expands the size and scope of government, including in broadband - an industry the federal government should not have involvement. Considering the enormous advancements in satellite internet (most notably Starlink), lawmakers should rescind the tens of billions of dollars provided under the infrastructure bill. These broadband funds have largely been used to enrich woke telecom companies such as Comcast.

Fueling Out-of-Control Government Growth and Spending Through the Reauthorization of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

The "Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC) requires the Department of Justice to report: (1) targeted attacks on law enforcement officers, (2) the feasibility of incorporating such attacks into existing crime reporting systems and (3) the mental health resources that are available to law enforcement officers. Support is the Limited Government Position as maintaining public safety through a well-staffed police force is one of the most essential components of government. Unfortunately, so-called criminal justice "reforms", continue to make the duties of law enforcement much more dangerous and are being advanced across the nation by George Soros and other left-leaning Billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Backing the Blue Through the "Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act".

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Clay Higgins (R-LA) acknowledges the dangers and challenges faced by law enforcement officers, condemns the Biden Administration's border policies, urges leaders to encourage and support law enforcement officers, and recognizes and sympathizes with law enforcement officers for the stress they face. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

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

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

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

The "Equal Representation Act" sponsored by Chuck Edwards (R-NC) would require any questionnaire used in the decennial census to include a checkbox or other similar option for respondents to indicate whether the respondent and each household member is a U.S. citizen. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps ensure federal funds are fairly and accurately distributed as well as strengthens democracy by ensuring each state receives the proper level of representation in the electoral process.

Protecting Democracy and Ensuring an Accurate Census by Requiring Respondents to Indicate whether Each Household Member is a U.S. Citizen on the Questionnaire.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sharice Davids

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