Institute for Legislative Analysis

Sam Graves

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 "Jackie Walorski Maternal and Child Home Visiting Reauthorization Act of 2022" reauthorizes and further expands a program that funds home visits in select local communities for expectant and new parents. The congressional budget office estimates this program will cost federal taxpayers over $3 billion. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as such an initiative should not be the role of the federal government, but rather local community and non-profit groups that can judge the effectiveness of such initiatives and maximize their impact.

Increasing Government Dependency by Further Expanding a Federal Program Funding Maternal and Child Home Visiting.

The "Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2022" provides the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) a series of new powers and duties, including assessing the domestic terrorism threat posed by "white supremacist and neo-Nazi infiltration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and the uniformed services." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides employees within the DOJ, DHS, and FBI overreaching new surveillance and investigative powers and does not contain critical safeguards to protect civil liberties under the Fourth Amendment. Additionally, there have been numerous cases of recent politicized actions taking place within the FBI, including their support of a letter from the National School Boards Association that characterized parental engagement on school curriculums as "heinous actions" that "could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism."

Weakening Civil Liberties by Providing the Department of Justice Overreaching New Powers Through the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act.

The Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) amendment #9 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would restrict funds at the Department of State from being used to finalize any rules or regulations with an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. The sponsor noted that "Biden's State Department is pursuing radical climate initiatives abroad" and we "should not allow unelected bureaucrats to impose regulatory costs behind closed doors". Support is the Limited Government Position as regulations with any substantial impact on the U.S. economy should be imposed by Congress, not unaccountable bureaucrats. This amendment is especially necessary to prevent the implementation of "America Last" policies which enrich other countries at the expense of American taxpayers and businesses.

Preventing "America Last" Foreign Policies by Denying Authorization of Any Department of State Rule with An Economic Impact Above $100 Million without Congressional Approval.

The "No Hidden Fees on Extra Expenses for Stays Act of 2023 (No Hidden FEES)" sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) imposes a new federal mandate on providers of short-term lodging (e.g., hotels, motels, inns, and short-term rentals) to include each mandatory fee when displaying or advertising the price for a reservation. 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 Hotels and Short-Term Rentals Concerning Fee Disclosures in Advertising through the "No Hidden FEES Act".

The Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) amendment #36 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit funding for the American Climate Corps that the Biden administration established through an executive order last year. The sponsor noted the cost is $30 billion and the Corps is part of the administration's Justice40 goal, which focuses on equity and environmental justice. 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.

Defunding the "American Climate Corps" which was Established through a Biden Executive Order and Focuses on Equity and Environmental Justice.

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".

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

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

The Rep. 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 "Right to Contraception Act" establishes within federal law a new right to use and obtain contraceptives. The bill is also expected to nullify conscience protections for healthcare providers and employers who object on moral grounds to providing contraception or sterilization services. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as using and purchasing contraceptives should be a choice of the individual, not something a religious employer should be forced to fund and provide, as this is a clear violation of the freedom of religion protection under the First Amendment.

Advancing Frivolous Litigation and Mandates on Employers by Establishing a "Right to Contraception."

The "Custom Health Option and Individual Care Expense (CHOICE) Arrangements Act", sponsored by Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), allows employees to receive tax exempt funds from their employer to purchase a healthcare plan of their choosing. Through this system, employees could use the funds to purchase health plans that are exempt from many of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) regulations, which results in much cheaper healthcare plan options than what an employer could otherwise provide. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps provide greater choice in healthcare at significantly lower cost, which benefits both businesses and their employees. The countless coverage mandates under the Affordable Care Act have caused healthcare premiums to skyrocket, with many individuals paying for coverage they do not need and can't afford.

Reducing Healthcare Costs for Both Businesses and Employees through the "CHOICE Arrangements Act", which Bypasses Costly Mandates Under Obamacare.

The "Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) would provide $61 billion in additional aid to Ukraine, bringing the total U.S. commitment to $175 billion. The bill includes $7.9 billion in "economic support" to Ukraine, $1.6 billion in humanitarian aid for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia, as well as funding for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill contains countless wasteful spending provisions beyond the underlying Ukraine military support. Americans cannot afford to continue to pour hundreds of billions into Ukraine - especially without proper safeguards to prevent corruption and waste. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Billions in Wasteful Spending Through a $61 Billion Appropriations Package for Ukraine and USAID.

This bill introduced by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) permanently freezes all Iranian-sanctioned assets, including the $6 billion in funds that the Biden Administration unfroze on September 11, 2023, and prohibits the President from using any waiver authority, including licenses, guidance, or FAQs, to lift sanctions. According to the sponsor, "Americans deserve leaders who unequivocally stand against terror and with our ally Israel, not those who facilitate Tehran's access to billions of dollars". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen national security by preventing the free flow of billions of dollars to Iran, a country known to harbor terrorists.

Strengthening National Security by Permanently Freezing the $6 Billion in Iranian-Sanctioned Assets which the Biden Administration had Recklessly Unfrozen.

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.

This vote (the third attempt) elects Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) as the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives to replace previous Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Support is the Limited Government Position as the research of the Institute for Legislative Analysis confirms that Rep. Jim Jordan has by far the strongest track record of adherence to the limited government principles of the U.S. Constitution of any of the proposed candidates for Speaker.

Electing Rep. Jim Jordan as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives - The Candidate with the Strongest Track Record of Adherence to Limited Government Principles.

The "Fire Weather Development Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Mike Garcia (R-CA) would expand the size and scope of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to engage in greater levels of wildfire prediction and management. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the NOAA already spends approximately $8 million annually on forecasting fire weather events. This bill would boost spending to $32 million annually for additional initiatives such as development of improved communication systems and for research to "better understand the impact of climate change on fire weather environments". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state governments and the private sector to monitor the wildfire threats within their regions - not the federal government through an even more bloated bureaucracy. Considering the majority of the nation's most destructive wildfires have been triggered by utility companies such as Xcel Energy and Edison International - companies with radical ESG and DEI frameworks - lawmakers should instead work to hold these companies accountable for their businesses practices to reduce wildfires.

Hiking Spending within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to Promote Politicized Research on the "Impact of Climate Change on Fire Weather Environments".

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

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

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 "JUDGES Act of 2024" sponsored by Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) represents a bipartisan attempt to alleviate the overburdened federal district court system. Under the bill, 63 new permanent district court judgeships and three new temporary district court judgeships would be created over the next decade. Around 10 judges would be added every two years, staggering them between different presidents. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill will help alleviate the significant backlog of cases and allow for quicker resolutions within the U.S. legal system - a core function of government.

Improving the Efficiency of the U.S. Federal District Court System by Adding 63 Additional Judges over the Next Decade.

The Meng Amendment #289 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct an awareness campaign regarding the types of fertility treatments, procedures, and services available to veterans experiencing issues with fertility. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as rather than further growing the failing bureaucracy and unnecessary initiatives of the VA, lawmakers should work to streamline and shrink the department so that those who served our country can receive the highest possible quality of healthcare from the doctors of their choice.

Requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to Conduct a "Fertility Treatment Awareness Campaign" Despite Much Needed Reforms or Privatizing the Broken System.

The "Crucial Communism Teaching Act" sponsored by Rep. Maria Salazar (R-FL) directs the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation to develop a civic education curriculum and oral history resources for high school students to promote understanding of certain political ideologies (e.g., communism and totalitarianism) that conflict with principles of U.S. democracy. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of local school boards - not the federal government through favored non-profit entities - to develop curriculum and manage high school education. Note: Lawmakers who opposed the bill due to opposition to the specifics of the curriculum were also recorded as opposing the limited government position.

Growing Unnecessary Federal Spending and Competition with Non-Profits through the "Crucial Communism Teaching Act".

The "Hands Off Our Home Appliances Act" sponsored by Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) would make it more difficult for the Department of Energy (DOE) to impose energy conservation standards on home appliances, and easier to revoke current ones. For example, new energy conservation standards must be "technologically feasible and economically justified", while the DOE may revoke or amend an existing energy conservation standard if it finds the standard (1) results in additional costs to consumers, (2) do not result in significant conservation of energy or water, (3) are not technologically feasible, and (4) result in a product not being commercially available in the United States to all consumers. Support is the Limited Government Position as consumers within a free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - should have the freedom to choose the type of home appliance that best meets their needs. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to combatting government overreach which unnecessarily hikes consumer costs.

Protecting Consumer Choice Through the "Hands Off Our Home Appliances Act".

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

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

The "Delivering Optimally Urgent Labor Access for Veterans Affairs (DOULA) Act of 2022" requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to study the feasibility and advisability of furnishing doula services to those enrolled in the VA healthcare system. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, rather than further growing the failing bureaucracy and services of the VA, lawmakers should work to streamline and shrink the department so that those who served our country can receive the highest possible quality of healthcare from the doctors of their choice within the private sector.

Requiring a Study to Further Grow the Department Of Veterans Affairs to Include "Doula Services" Despite Much Needed Reforms or Privatization of the Broken System.

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 "America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024" sponsored by Sen. Thomas Carper (R-DE) increases spending on several wildlife and conservation programs and reauthorizes them through 2030. A significant portion of the funding is directed towards non-profit organizations such as the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and certain quasi-government entities like the Chesapeake Bay Program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector and free market is best equipped to direct funding to conservation as opposed to central planning by government bureaucrats. Additionally, this measure worsens cronyism by enriching select government favored non-profits and further hiking spending. 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 Run-Away Spending and Enriching Government Favored Non-Profits Through the "America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act".

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) amendment #1 to the "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act" would weaken the underlying bill that establishes a new federal criminal penalty for fleeing Border Patrol. Specifically, the amendment would remove language which had also applied the new penalty to cases of "fleeing from law enforcement actively assisting the Border Patrol". According to the sponsor, the amendment is needed due to the "aggressive policing tactics and unconstitutional racial profiling directed by rogue Governors like Governor Greg Abbott have led to severe harm to-and has undermined-our legal system all in the name of actively assisting the U.S. Border Patrol". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

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

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #23 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" reduces funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities to FY2019 levels. The cut of $49 million represents 0.13 percent of the entire bill and leaves $155 million for the program to operate. The sponsor noted that "Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution list out those things that Congress is supposed to be responsible for, and yet it leaves the States programs like this". Support is the Limited Government Position as 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 $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Wasteful Spending by Reducing Funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities to Pre-Covid Levels.

The "Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act" provides the federal government new powers to set state election law. The bill includes a long list of provisions including, but not limited to, automatic voter registration, reducing voter ID requirements, increasing voting by mail, limiting voter roll maintenance, and making election day a federal holiday. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure is largely a political tool to benefit select candidates and ultimately reduces election integrity by overriding numerous anti-fraud measures that states across the nation have implemented to ensure free and fair elections.

Weakening Election Integrity by Nationalizing the Election Laws of the States.

The Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) amendment #171 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit funds in the bill from being used to procure "cluster munitions". According to the sponsor, "cluster munitions are shells that contain dozens of smaller bomblets that disperse into the air and scatter over areas the size of several football fields". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure would tie the hands of the U.S. military in future conflicts, prohibiting the option to use these munitions in contingencies where the only other option are larger munitions that cause even more casualties. Additionally, like nuclear weapons, possession of these munitions align with the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength", which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Banning the Procurement of "Cluster Munitions" which Contain Dozens of Smaller Bomblets Used to Blanket a Targeted Area.

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

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

The "Lahaina National Heritage Area Act" sponsored by Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-HI) directs the National Park Service to assess the suitability and feasibility of designating Lahaina, Maui County, Hawaii, as the "Lahaina National Heritage Area" under the National Heritage Areas Act. Upon receiving such designation, the area would receive federal funding. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the costs to maintain such regions should not be imposed on taxpayers nationwide. Additionally, the free market and private sector (through private foundations) is best equipped to fund and determine the landmarks and properties most deserving of protecting, not government which is not subject to "profit and loss" signals like the private sector.

Further Growing the Size and Scope of the Federal Government by Adding Lahaina, Hawaii to the National Heritage Areas Act.

The "Peace Corps Reauthorization Act of 2022" further increases funding for the Peace Corps while making several adjustments to the program, such as larger allowances and greater health benefits to program participants. Oppose 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 $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government in order to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reauthorizing the Peace Corps with a Significant Hike in Spending and New Benefits Provided to Participants.

The "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" would appropriate $38.5 billion, roughly $72 million less than the prior year. The bill would cut EPA spending by 20 percent, with initiatives pertaining to "environmental justice" receiving large cuts. The superfund cleanup program and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Program would receive slightly higher funding levels. Furthermore, the bill blocks funding for the American Climate Corps and provides $3.6 billion for wildfire activities. Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure not only restrains spending but better prioritizes funding across the EPA and Department of Interior. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility with an Appropriations Bill that Reduces EPA Spending by 20% and Makes Significant Budgetary Cuts within the Department of Interior.

The "National Aviation Preparedness Plan Act of 2022" requires the Department of Transportation to develop a national aviation preparedness plan that includes the identification of appropriate personal protective equipment to reduce exposure to a communicable disease and consultations with airline and labor groups. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the primary mission of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is to constantly monitor and adjust strategy to best protect the public from pandemics - it is an organization better equipped to carry out these duties than the Department of Transportation.

Creating Unnecessary Bureaucracy within the Department of Transportation to Establish a Duplicative Aviation Industry Pandemic Plan Already Covered by the CDC.

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

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

The "Schools Not Shelters Act" sponsored by Rep. Marcus Molinaro (R-NY) prohibits K-12 schools, colleges, and universities that receive federal funding from being used as shelters to house illegal immigrants. The bill is in response to reports of school gymnasiums in New York City being utilized to house migrants. Support is the Limited Government Position as typically individuals allowed access into schools and around children is limited and often includes background checks. This measure is especially important considering these individuals, with some possibly having violent criminal records, have entered the country unlawfully and are now around vulnerable children. Lawmakers must take whatever actions are needed to secure the nation's borders and enforce immigration law.

Protecting Vulnerable Children from Potentially Dangerous Criminals by Preventing Illegal Immigrants from Being Housed in Public Schools.

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

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

The "Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Technical Corrections Act" amends the STORM Act, requiring that state and local governments comply with the latest edition of building codes, which contains, among other things, stricter efficiency mandates and environmental regulations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as additional red tape and complying with these "one size fits all" regulations are unnecessary to mitigating natural disaster risk and ultimately drive-up taxpayer costs while preventing program funding from being most effectively utilized.

Increasing Regulatory Burdens and Red Tape Under the Hazard Mitigation Revolving Loan Fund.

The Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) amendment #45 to the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit the funds from this bill to be used to give critical skills incentive (CSI) bonuses to senior executives at the Department of Veterans Affairs Central Office. According to the sponsor, the VA Office of Inspector General recently found senior bureaucrats in the VA Central Office had been improperly awarded over $10 million of these bonuses. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen government integrity by establishing a critical fiscal safeguard within the Department of Veterans Affairs following a major misuse of taxpayer funds.

Strengthening Government Integrity by Prohibiting the Issuance of Bonuses to Senior Executives within the Department of Veterans Affairs Following a Misappropriation of Taxpayer Funds.

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

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

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #19 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" directs "funds to follow the student" so they can attend the school of their choice (i.e., public, private, or home school). The amendment effectively establishes a nationwide school voucher program with the funds authorized for educational and instructional materials, tutoring, tuition for private school, and extracurricular activities. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Establishing a National School Voucher Program to Provide School Choice.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #175 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds from being used to carry out the observance of Pride Month authorized by the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness for the "Cultural Observances and Awareness Events list". According to the sponsor, the bill is in response to cases of Air Force Bases, such as Robins and Nellis, holding various Pride events for the LGBTQ+ community, including diversity color runs and attempted drag shows. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to promote and fund the activities of select individuals based on race, religious belief, or sexual orientation. While gratitude should be provided to every member of our Armed Forces for serving our country, such celebratory activities and events should be privately organized and promoted by the LGBTQ+ community, not by government bureaucrats.

Ensuring Taxpayer Funds within the Defense Bill are Not Spent on Pride Activities and LGBTQ+ Events which Should be Privately Organized.

The Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) amendment #91 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" reduces the salary of Council on Environmental Quality, CEQ, Chair Brenda Mallory to $1. According to the sponsor, the amendment is in response to the CEQ's implementation of the ''Federal Acquisition Regulation: Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate-Related Financial Risk" - which the CEQ did not have rulemaking authority to enact. This rule forces all Federal contractors that do business worth more than $50 million with the Federal Government to disclose scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. Furthermore, the rule forces companies to have their climate targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) which is connected to the New Venture Fund, a left-wing entity funded by George Soros. Support is the Limited Government Position as despite the fact the CEQ does not possess rulemaking authority, it pushed the FAR Council to implement this draconian regulatory regime. This amendment serves as a critical means of restoring accountability within the CEQ.

Holding Chair Brenda Mallory of the Council on Environmental Quality Accountable for Agency Overreach by Slashing her Salary to $1.

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

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

The "Atomic Energy Advancement Act" sponsored by Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC) would accelerate the deployment of nuclear energy technologies, such as advanced nuclear reactors. Most notably, the bill makes reforms within the Department of Energy to help expedite permits and environmental reviews as well as reduce regulatory costs for nuclear energy companies. Furthermore, the bill reduces certain licensing fees charged by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for advanced nuclear reactors. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill reduces barriers for nuclear energy expansion and promotes low-cost energy, which is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

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

The "End Chinese Dominance of Electric Vehicles in America Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV) would make electric vehicles utilizing battery technology licensed from China ineligible for federal EV tax credit. Specifically, the bill tightens the Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) definition for the 30D electric vehicle (EV) tax credit as well as closes the "billionaire and Chinese manufacturing loopholes" which provide Chinese companies and business owners with subsidy benefits. The bill is in response to plans by Ford, General Motors and other manufactures to license technology from China's Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) to produce lithium-ion batteries. Support is the Limited Government Position as while the federal EV tax credit program should be entirely eliminated, this measure at least reduces distribution of the subsidies and ensures Chinese manufacturers and business owners are not enriched at the expense of American taxpayers.

Ending Subsidies to Vehicle Manufactures Utilizing Chinese Battery Technology Under the Crony Federal Electric Vehicle Tax Credit Program.

The Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) amendment #75 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits American taxpayer humanitarian funding in Syria from also "indirectly supporting" the regime of Bashar al- Assad, a known war criminal. According to the sponsor, "current appropriations law has established that taxpayer dollars do not go to the Assad regime" but "nearly half of the United Nations' aid funds in Syria were funneled to companies directly related to the Syrian Government." Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens national security by ensuring taxpayer funds are not provided to terrorists and used directly to the detriment of Americans.

Enacting a Critical Safeguard to Prevent Taxpayer Funds from Being Provided to Terrorists within the Syria Assad Regime.

The "Fix Our Forests Act" sponsored by Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) contains numerous provisions primarily designed to help reduce wildfires. Some key provisions include improved management of forests on federal land and expedited review of certain forest management projects under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Additionally, the bill provides utility companies greater ability to remove vegetation which may damage powerlines, and also limits the ability of entities (primarily environmental groups) from advancing frivolous litigation. Support is the Limited Government Position as while government should significantly shrink its enormous land holdings, this bill at least helps to reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers to prevent wildfires through improved land management.

Improving Federal Land Management and Reducing Wildfires through the "Fix Our Forests Act".

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

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

The "Advanced Research Projects Agency-Health (ARPA-H) Act" would result in $1.7 billion in additional spending at the Department of Health and Human Services to create a new agency tasked with increasing biomedical innovation and improving disease treatment. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is far better equipped to effectively advance medical innovation, not government officials who are attempting to centrally plan research efforts without a plan to track financial accountability or measure if taxpayer funded resource are used effectively. Instead, lawmakers should work to eliminate all unnecessary regulatory barriers at the FDA so a drug isn't stuck in regulatory limbo for decades at a cost of billions of dollars.

Directing $1.7 Billion in Additional Spending at the Department of Health and Human Services for the Creation of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Health Act.

The "Liberty in Laundry Act" sponsored by Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) limits the ability of the Department of Energy (DOE) to impose energy conservation standards on clothes washers. Under the bill the DOE may only impose such regulations if they (1) are technologically feasible and economically justified, (2) are not likely to result in additional net costs to consumers, and (3) will result in significant conservation of energy. Support is the Limited Government Position as consumers within a free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - should have the freedom to choose the type of clothes washing machine that best meets their needs. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to combatting government overreach which unnecessarily hikes consumer costs.

Year
2024	100.00	85.15	87.50	100.00	80.00	62.26	100.00	85.71	42.53	33.33
2023	66.67	81.82	100.00	100.00	100.00	84.21	100.00	91.67	38.46	50.00
2022	100.00	75.00	100.00	50.00	100.00	80.00	100.00	66.67	61.29	66.67

Year	Score	Role	Party	Dist.
2024	74.87	Rep	R	6
2023	70.97	Rep	R	6
2022	73.42	Rep	R	6

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