Institute for Legislative Analysis

Hakeem Jeffries

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

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

The "Parents Bill of Rights Act", sponsored by Rep. Julia Letlow (R-LA), provides parents a series of new "rights" that local educational agencies and schools must provide parents. Provisions include the right to review school curriculum, the right to a list of books in school libraries, and the right to know if school restrooms or changing rooms are based on biological sex, among numerous other rights. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps boost transparency and accountability within the education system. Lawmakers must ensure schools are held accountable to parents and measures, such as this bill, are crucial to ensure classrooms are not weaponized to advance any political or social agendas onto children.

Strengthening Transparency and Accountability within the Education System through a "Parents Bill of Rights".

The Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) amendment #5 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" substitutes the bill in its entirety to a new version. The new version contains provisions that include: protecting a schools ability to teach Critical Race Theory (CRT) and gender and LGBTQ+ ideology to students; protecting a school's library's ability to display books that may have sexual content; and hiking spending for a number of federally-funded education programs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of parents - not government bureaucrats - to introduce and discuss sensitive issues with their children and decide whether they should be introduced to CRT and other politicized content. All school curriculum and learning materials should pertain only to core subject areas and accessible to parents for review.

Granting Schools Authority to Teach Critical Race Theory and Distribute Books with Sexual and LGBTQ+ Content to Students.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #38 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits any of the funding in the MILCON-VA appropriations bill from being used to carry out COVID-19 vaccine mandates at the Department of Veterans Affairs. According to the sponsor, "the mandate is unnecessary to keep our veterans or the VA staff safe. The former CDC director has said that the vaccines can't do anything to prevent transmission." Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens individual liberties by allowing VA staff to determine how best to cope and protect themselves from COVID-19, which has been around for over 3 years. This measure also ensures that congress - which is accountable to voters - sets vaccination policy, as opposed to unaccountable government bureaucrats within the VA.

Protecting Individual Liberties by Terminating the COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) amendment #35 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" corrects a practice whereby veterans lose their Second Amendment rights if they seek assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to have their financial affairs managed. Currently, when a fiduciary is appointed to help manage the financial affairs of a veteran, the VA automatically reports the veteran to the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) and the veteran looses his or her right to have a firearm. This amendment prevents the automatic revocation of Second Amendment rights by instead requiring a judge to rule the veteran is a danger to themselves or others with a firearm. Support is the Limited Government Position as Veterans should not be forced to choose between receiving assistance with their finances or losing their Second Amendment Rights through this poorly devised one-size-fits-all policy.

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

The Rep. Joaquin Castro (R-TX) amendment #51 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits Federal Homeland Security funding from being diverted for Operation Lone Star. This border security operation was launched by Texas Governor Greg Abbott as a way to reduce the number of illegal crossings from Mexico into Texas. Operation Lone Star is jointly run by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Military Department and includes deployment thousands of police officers and soldiers and miles of barriers. 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 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 an Open Border Immigration System by Defunding the Texas "Operation Lone Star" Border Security Operation, Which Includes Thousands of Police Officers and Miles of Barriers.

The Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX) amendment #25 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes section 224 of the bill, which requires the DHS secretary to prioritize detention of illegal immigrants over alternative options. According to the sponsor, section 224 "hamstrings DHS' operational flexibility to effectively manage their resources" while opponents claim "striking the provision will give the Biden administration a free pass to continue releasing migrants into the country, a total disregard of the law." 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 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.

Promoting an Open Border Immigration System by Eliminating the Requirement that DHS Prioritize the Detention of Illegal Immigrants.

The Rep. Bob Good (R-VA) amendment #28 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" transfers $10 million allocated for the Office of Diversity in Biomedical Research to the Spending Reduction Account. According to the sponsor, "When it comes to the future of biomedical research, we want to know that the best of the best are researching ways to cure cancer, fight heart disease, and help us lead longer and healthier lives. None of those are racial problems. They are human problems." Support is the Limited Government Position as the Office of Diversity represents a wasteful bureaucracy and taxpayer funds should not be expended on politicized initiatives, such as diversity, inclusion, and social engineering. Furthermore, lawmakers must cut similar bureaucratic waste throughout countless other agencies to reign 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 and Politicized Bureaucracy through Defunding the "Office of Diversity in Biomedical Research" and Transferring the Savings to the Spending Reduction Account.

The "Promoting Opportunities for Non-Traditional Capital Formation Act", sponsored by Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), would grow the size and role of the Securities and Exchange Commission's Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation. It calls to provide "educational resources and host events to promote capital-raising options for underrepresented and rural small businesses". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows the size and role of government beyond its core Constitutional duties. The private sector already provides a wealth of knowledge on capital raising options through the internet and business publications. This measure merely grows government bureaucracy and, unlike "profit and loss" signals within the private sector, provides no way to measure need or success. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Growing the Size and Role of Government to Now Provide Education on "Capital-Raising" for Minority and Rural Businesses.

The "Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) prohibits federal funding from being used to provide housing for illegal immigrants on any land that is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Land Management agencies. This includes the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Forest Service. Additionally, the bill revokes the lease signed with New York City to house large numbers of illegal migrants in an active community park in Brooklyn. 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, such as ones highlighted within this bill. Lawmakers must eliminate all incentives that may encourage illegal immigration, including taxpayer-funded benefits surrounding housing, education, and other welfare programs.

Combatting Illegal Immigration by Prohibiting Federal Funding from Being Used to Provide Housing to Individuals Residing in the Country Unlawfully.

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. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #3 to the "Reduce Exacerbated Inflation Negatively Impacting the Nation Act" requires inflation-impact assessments to be published on the Office of Management and Budget's website for public review, not just reported to Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps boost transparency and accountability in public policy. Measures such as this help ensure Americans are educated on the consequences of actions by the federal reserve and government interference in the free market.

Increasing Government Transparency by Ensuring the Inflation-Impact Assessments Provided to Congress are also Made Available to Americans on the OMB Website.

The Rep. Marcus Molinaro (R-NY) amendment #5 to the "Defending Education Transparency and Ending Rogue Regimes Engaging in Nefarious Transactions Act or the DETERRENT Act" clarifies that ties to a designated terrorist organizations, such as Hamas, must be disclosed when a public college or university receives funds from a foreign group or individual. According to the sponsor, the measure "seeks to hold colleges, universities, and foreign actors accountable while providing the transparency necessary into any influence foreign countries are attempting to exert onto our Nation's students and academic institutions." Support is the Limited Government Position as amendment strengthens transparency within taxpayer-funded institutions of higher education and helps reduce potential avenues for terrorist groups to infiltrate and harm our nation.

Strengthening National Security by Requiring Colleges and Universities to Disclose any Funding they Receive that is Tied to Designated Terrorist Organizations.

The Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #1 to the "Protect Our Law enforcement with Immigration Control and Enforcement Act of 2023 or the POLICE Act of 2023" requires the Department of Homeland Security to make publicly available on its website an annual report on the number of illegal immigrants deported for assaulting a law enforcement officer. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen government transparency and accountability. 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.

Boosting Transparency on the Border Crisis by Publishing a Report on the Number of Illegal Immigrants Deported for Assaulting Law Enforcement Officers.

The Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) amendment #12 to the "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023" reduces congressional oversight of regulations by only applying the REINS Act to regulations with an economic impact of $1 billion or more - it was previously $100 million or more. Under the REINS Act, new rules imposed by federal agencies must be approved by Congress if they have an annual effect on the economy of more than $100 million or result in a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, among other conditions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment weakens the REINS Act, which would provide a critical check on executive branch power. Federal agencies are comprised of countless unaccountable bureaucrats who have tremendous authority to impose regulations that directly impact the lives of Americans and the growth of the U.S. economy.

Weakening the Check on Executive Branch Power by Requiring Congressional Approval for Just Regulations with Impacts of $1 Billion or More (Previously $100 Million) Under the "REINS" Act.

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 "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. Andy Barr (R-KY) amendment #38 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds from being used to implement the Biden administration's January 2021 executive order #14008 titled ''Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.'' According to the sponsor, "the Biden administration is calling for the government to put its thumb on the scale of free-flowing capital, pick winners and losers, and pursue an agenda to starve energy companies of the financing that they need and redirect capital into speculative green energy technologies that, frankly, are unproven and will not actually fix the climate." 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.

Protecting American Energy Production by Blocking Biden's Executive Order "Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad".

The Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) amendment #101 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits any funding to implement the Federal Acquisition Regulation Council's proposed ''Federal Acquisition Regulation: Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate-Related Financial Risk'' rule. This rule requires all Federal contractors that do business of more than $50 million with the Federal Government to disclose all scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. This includes everything from emissions produced by the contractor (scope 1) to the emissions produced by things such as office supplies that they buy for their employees (scope 3). The rule also requires companies to comply with the Paris climate accords and set climate targets, which are then to be validated by a company called Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). According to the sponsor, SBTi is tied to the New Venture Fund, a left-wing dark money network funded by George Soros. Support is the Limited Government Position as this proposed federal rule represents a purely political measure designed to advance a radical environmental agenda, which will result in skyrocketing costs for federal contractors - and ultimately taxpayers - to comply with. Additionally, forcing all major federal contractors to comply with a radical-left entity such as the New Venture Fund makes the rule one of the very worst forms of cronyism.

Blocking a Draconian Regulation that Forces Federal Contractors to Disclose Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Submit "Climate Targets" to an Entity Tied to Democratic Donors and George Soros.

The "Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), prohibits the implementation of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule titled "Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles." This rule, which requires roughly 70% of new car and truck sales to be electric in less than 10 years, imposes much stricter emission standards for cars and light-duty trucks. According to the sponsor, this bill "puts a stop to this executive overreach, allowing consumers to have the freedom to decide what car works best for them and their families and preventing auto manufacturers from being forced to meet unrealistic mandates". Support is the Limited Government Position as this draconian EPA rule infringes consumer choice, drives up the cost of automobiles, and will result in the elimination of gas-powered performance vehicles. This bill is critical to combatting the actions of government bureaucrats to centrally plan the product sales of automotive manufactures in order to advance a radical and politicized environmental agenda.

Blocking Biden Administration Mandates that Force 70% of New Car Sales to be Electric by 2032.

The "Ensuring Accountability in Agency Rulemaking Act", sponsored by Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA), requires all rules proposed by federal agencies, except in limited circumstances, to be reviewed, signed, and issued by an individual appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. According to a study by the Pacific Legal Foundation, 98% of rules issued by the FDA from 2001 to 2017 were authorized by non-Senate confirmed officials, a practice that is also prevalent in other agencies.According to the sponsor, "preventing unelected career bureaucrats from initiating and issuing regulations is a common-sense solution to ensure greater accountability to American taxpayers in the rulemaking process." Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps combat practices of unaccountable bureaucrats imposing overreaching regulations that harm economic growth and directly impact the lives of Americans.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Ensuring All Federal Rules Are Only Issued by the Individuals Who Have Been Appointed by the President and Confirmed by the Senate.

This resolution authorizes an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden. The vote primarily provides Republican lawmakers with greater standing to issue and enforce subpoenas. The resolution follows an "impeachment inquiry" memorandum on September 27, 2023 that alleges President Biden may have unlawfully benefited from business dealings of his son, Hunter Biden. Support is the Limited Government Position as the memo issued by Chairman Comer, Jordan, and Smith layout significant evidence of potential wrongdoing by the Biden family. Elected officials at every level of government should be held accountable for their actions and this vote ensures that a proper investigation can take place into the matter.

Ensuring a Proper Investigation into the Business Dealings of Joe and Hunter Biden through the Authorization of an Impeachment Inquiry.

This resolution, introduced by Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY), utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the Department of Labor rule titled "Prudence and Loyalty in Selecting Plan Investments and Exercising Shareholder Rights". Under current law, managers of retirement plans are required to base their investment decisions on what is in the best interest of making their client's portfolios grow. Under the Biden administration rule, fiduciaries can now base their investment decisions on political environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors even if they are not in the best financial interest of their clients. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while all individuals should have the right to have their savings invested in the manor of their choosing, this politicized ESG rule will provide countless new avenues for deviant fiduciaries to act against their unknowing clients best interests and enrich certain companies and industries.

Overturning a Biden Administration Rule Authorizing Fiduciaries to Invest in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Factors Against their Clients Best Interests.

The "Fort San Gerónimo Preservation Act", introduced by Delegate Jenniffer González-Colón (Puerto Rico), establishes Fort San Gerónimo del Boquerón in San Juan, Puerto Rico as an affiliated area of the National Park System.Under the bill, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture is made the management entity of the area, with the National Park Service (NPS) providing technical and financial assistance to the institute to assist with marketing, interpretation, and preservation efforts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows the size and spending of the National Park Service at a time when our nation has $33 trillion in national debt and has over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities. Lawmakers must shrink, not expand, the operations of the NPS - especially in regions that are not parts of the United States.

Further Growing the Size and Spending of the National Park Service by Making a Fort in Puerto Rico a New Affiliated Area.

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

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

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 "National Defense Authorization Act" (NDAA) as passed on December 11, 2024, spans 1,800 pages and includes key provisions which ban transgender medical treatments for minors and limit diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in the military. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote DEI or provide elective services surrounding gender reassignment, as is the current case with Botox and other procedures designed to improve physical appearance. All such services and costs should be the responsibility of the individuals seeking to obtain them, not U.S. taxpayers. Note: this custom vote only records Democrat positions on the bill on the grounds of DEI and transgender issues. Another custom vote records Republican positions on the basis of spending.

Passing a National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which Bans DEI and Gender Reassignment Surgeries in the Military.

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.

Protecting Consumer Choice and Preventing Bureaucrats from Imposing Overreaching Regulations on Clothes Washers through the "Liberty in Laundry Act".

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 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 "Refrigerator Freedom Act" sponsored by Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) places limits on the authority of the Department of Energy (DOE) to impose energy conservation standards for refrigerators and freezers unless DOE can prove the standards are economically justified and not likely to result in additional net costs to consumers. The bill is in response to DOE's own analysis that found the efficiency mandates of the Biden administration could increase the upfront costs on refrigerators and freezers by 25% and it could take consumers 10 years to payback the increased costs for a product that may only last 14-15 years. 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 dishwasher 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 "Refrigerator Freedom Act".

The Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) amendment #164 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits any funding to implement the Federal Acquisition Regulation Council's proposed ''Federal Acquisition Regulation: Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate-Related Financial Risk'' rule. This rule requires all Federal contractors that do business of more than $50 million with the Federal Government to disclose all scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. This includes everything from emissions produced by the contractor (scope 1) to the emissions produced by things such as office supplies that they buy for their employees (scope 3). The rule also requires companies to comply with the Paris climate accords and set climate targets, which are then to be validated by a company called Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). According to the sponsor, SBTi is tied to the New Venture Fund, a left-wing dark money network funded by George Soros. Support is the Limited Government Position as this federal rule represents a purely political measure designed to advance a radical environmental agenda, which will result in skyrocketing costs for federal contractors - and ultimately taxpayers - to comply with. Additionally, forcing all major federal contractors to comply with a radical-left entity such as the New Venture Fund makes the rule one of the very worst forms of cronyism.

The Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) amendment #163 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds from being used to enforce President Biden's Executive Order # 14019, "Promoting Access to Voting". According to the sponsor, the executive order empowers federal agencies to use taxpayer funds to implement or enter into agreements with partisan organizations that conduct voter mobilization activities. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer resources should not be utilized to advance partisan politics. Such actions undermine our election process and democracy.

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

The Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) amendment #72 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit funds from being used to create an "unfunded priorities list" or a wish list of things that individual commanders and generals would like to fund. According to the sponsor, "these wish lists are packed with billions of dollars of excessive line items, this year totaling more than $27.5 billion on top of the $850 billion requested by the White House and a 50 percent increase from last year." The sponsor also noted the lists "have not gone through the level of prioritization and vetting that all of the other things that come in the budget do" such as the White House Budget request where "the Commander in Chief, in consultation with top military brass, determines what is necessary to defend the country based on a holistic analysis of our national security needs". Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure helps to significantly reduce waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds from a practice not performed in any other government agency. According to the National Priorities Project, the average taxpayer spent a staggering $1,748 subsidizing Pentagon contractors. 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.

Reducing Waste, Fraud and Abuse of Taxpayer Funds by Eliminating the "Unfunded Priorities List" - A Budget Scheme Only Deployed within the Department of Defense.

The Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) amendment #68 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit any funds from being used to pay any United States contribution to the United Nations or any affiliated agency of the United Nations. According to the sponsor, "despite making up less than 5 percent of the world's population, Americans remain the largest single state contributor to the U.N., footing around one-quarter of its multibillion-dollar budget". The sponsor also noted that "we pick up the lion's share of the tab, while unaccountable, international bureaucrats make the rules" and cited how "the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization recently cooked up a plan to take on backyard barbecues, burgers, and brats, demanding that Americans eat less beef, less pork, less poultry to reduce emissions". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps defund the globalist government agenda of the U.N. which infringes the individual liberties of Americans. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of nearly $2 trillion. 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.

Placing America First by Prohibiting U.S. Funding for the United Nations and its Globalist Government Agenda which Infringe the Individual Liberties of Americans.

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.

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 "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 "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 "Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) would avert a partial government shutdown by extending government funding by a week (March 8) for six agencies and March 22 for others. The extension serves as a stopgap as the final details on a broader extension are finalized. According to bill opponents, the broader bill will not provide any substantial spending reductions at a time the nation is facing $1 trillion in annual interest payment on the debt. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure merely kicks the can down the road to advance a fiscally irresponsible budget. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

The "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 "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 "Udall Foundation Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would reauthorize through FY 2028 the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, which is an independent executive branch agency. The Foundation engages in public policy pertaining to environmental policy and climate change, as well as funds scholarships for individuals who identify as Native American. The Foundation lists diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as one of its strategic objectives in its strategic plan. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to operate and fund such a Foundation, especially a politicized entity which engages on issues such as climate change and DEI. There are hundreds of thousands of other non-profit entities with just as deserving of missions yet are rightfully forced to operate and obtain their funding from the private sector.

Reauthorizing the Udall Foundation an Unnecessary Politicized Entity Advancing DEI and Climate Change Agendas.

The "Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024" would avoid a shutdown by extending government funding through either March 1 or March 8, 2024 depending upon agency. Notably, the bill does not contain border security provisions advocated by conservatives. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill maintains fiscal irresponsibility by kicking the can down the road, while also failing to include the critical border security provision. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

The "Protecting Americans' Investments from Woke Policies Act" sponsored by Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA) would prevent the use of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors when making investment decisions for retirement plans. Under the bill, fiduciaries of employer-sponsored retirement plans are required to make investment decisions based solely on pecuniary factors except under limited circumstances. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens current fiduciary law - requiring money management based on the customer's interest - to ensure Americans and their 401(k)s are not unknowingly earning lower investment returns through politicized schemes such as ESG and DEI.

Ensuring Fiduciaries Aren't Advancing ESG through the "Protecting Americans' Investments from Woke Policies Act".

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".

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 "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 "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 "Superior National Forest Restoration Act" sponsored by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) would rescind "Public Land Order No. 7917 for Withdrawal of Federal Lands; Cook, Lake, and Saint Louis Counties, MN", which bars mining operations on over 225,000 acres of land within Minnesota's Superior National Forrest. Under the bill, the withdrawal would be overturned and the two decades-old mineral leases in Twin Metals Minnesota, which the Biden administration cancelled in 2022, would be restored. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill boosts American mineral extraction and helps grow the U.S. economy.

Restoring Mineral Extraction in Minnesota which was Banned by a Biden Administration Action Through the "Superior National Forest Restoration Act".

The "Trust the Science Act" sponsored by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) would direct the Department of the Interior (DOI) to remove protections for the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). Specifically, the bill requires the DOI to reissue a former Trump administration rule issued on November 3, 2020 titled "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Removing the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife". According to the sponsor, "For far too long, farmers and ranchers have been powerless to defend their livestock from gray wolf attacks" and leaving the wolf "on the ESA list in perpetuity prevents scarce taxpayer resources from going to endangered species that actually need help being recovered". Support is the Limited Government Position as due to the fact the gray wolf has fully recovered, leaving the species on the list unnecessarily continues the infringement of property rights and prevents resources from being directed to other animals in actual need of protection.

Removing the Fully Recovered Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species List to Better Direct Taxpayer Resources to Protecting Threatened Species through the "Trust the Science Act".

The "Iran Counterterrorism Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) requires Iran to cease support for acts of international terrorism as a condition for the President to waive secondary sanctions imposed on the regime in Tehran. The bill also provides for a congressional review process for national security interest waivers of these sanctions if Iran continues its support for global terror. According to the sponsor, "we cannot afford to embolden Iran-the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism-any further" and this bill "provides Congress with a stronger role in future sanctions relief for Iran". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen Congressional oversight of actions relating to Iran, and ensures sanction relief is only provided if the country meets required conditions. This measure is necessary after the lifting of sanctions by the Biden administration as well as the disastrous Iran Nuclear "deal" made by the Obama administration.

Providing Congressional Oversight of Iran Sanctions to Ensure the Biden Administration Does Not Provide Relief Without Iran Ceasing its Support of Terrorists.

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 "Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) would establish a procedure for Congress to review any action by the President to terminate, waive, or modify sanctions on Iran. Under the bill, the President must report to Congress on any planned sanctions relief and the reasons for the change in policy. Congress could then approve or disapprove of the administration's action within a review period; a joint resolution of disapproval would block it from going into effect. 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 Preventing the Biden Administration for Lifting Iran Sanctions without Congressional Approval Through the "Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act".

The "Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act" sponsored by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) would redesignate Ansarallah, more commonly known as the Houthis, as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO). Trump's former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo designated the Houthis as an FTO on January 19, 2021. Approximately one month later, Biden's Secretary of State Anthony Blinken revoked the FTO designation of the Houthis. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Houthis have relentlessly barraged Israel and the U.S. carrier strike group stationed in the region with rockets, missiles and drones. This measure is critical to cutting off funding to the terrorists group and strengthening U.S. national security.

Redesignating the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization After Biden Revoked the Designation Set by President Trump Through the "Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act".

The "Fourth Amendment Is Not for Sale Act" sponsored by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) would prohibit law enforcement and intelligence agencies from purchasing personal information about customers or subscribers of electronic and remote computing service providers - such as email, social media, cell phone and cloud computing companies - without first obtaining a court order. According to the sponsor, the bill "stops the federal government from circumventing Americans' Fourth Amendment right to privacy by closing loopholes that allow the government to purchase Americans' data from big tech companies without a search warrant". Support is the Limited Government Position as the U.S. Constitution explicitly protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizure. This bill helps strengthen civil liberties as protected under the Fourth Amendment.

Strengthening Civil Liberties by Preventing Government from Purchasing Americans' Data without a Search Warrant Through the "Fourth Amendment Is Not for Sale Act".

The Nick LaLota (R-NY) amendment #3 to the "Fourth Amendment Is Not For Sale Act" would add language stating the bill "shall not limit a governmental entity's ability to obtain information that would be obtainable without a warrant. According to the sponsor, this amendment serves as a massive loophole, as the purchase of information from a third party (collection of data) could then bypass a warrant and "would destroy the whole purpose of the bill". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment significantly weakens the civil liberty protections within the underlying bill. The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution explicitly protects Americans from unreasonable searches and seizure.

Weakening Civil Liberties by Creating a Loophole in the "Fourth Amendment is Not for Sale Act" to Allow Law Enforcement and Intelligence Agencies to Purchase Data to Avoid Obtaining a Warrant.

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) urges the European Union (EU) to expeditiously designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization under the EU Common Position 931 on terrorism (a sanction regime). It also encourages the Biden Administration to make the EU designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization a diplomatic priority in engagements with the EU. According to the sponsor, "the world must signal to the Islamic Republic of Iran that they will face severe consequences for their widespread acts of terrorism". Support is the Limited Government Position as this resolution helps strengthen national security by encouraging the EU to follow President Trump's lead in 2019 and designate the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organization to help weaken the power of Iran, a country known to harbor terrorists.

Encouraging the European Union to Designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Terrorist Organization and Impose Sanctions.

The "Solidify Iran Sanctions Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Michelle Steel (R-CA) would eliminate a sunset clause in the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, thereby making permanent the requirement for the President to impose sanctions on certain individuals or entities engaged in specified transactions related to Iran's energy sector or Iran's efforts to acquire or develop certain weapons (such as chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons). According to the sponsor, "through this bipartisan, bicameral legislation, we can prevent Iran from possessing nuclear weapons and further jeopardizing global peace". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by helping prevent Iran - a known harborer of terrorists - from obtaining the ability to deploy a nuclear weapon or other weapons of mass destruction.

Making the Sanctions on Iran's Ability to Obtain a Nuclear Weapon Permanent by Eliminating the Sunset Clause in the "Iran Sanctions Act of 1996".

The "No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act" sponsored by Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) is intended to deter Iran and other hostile governments and individuals from hostage-taking or wrongfully detaining United States nationals by imposing sanction and other strict penalties. Most notably, the bill denies a visa to anyone seeking admission to the United States as a representative to the United Nations if they are sanctioned under terrorism or weapons of mass destruction proliferation Executive Orders. According to the sponsor, "mass murderer and terrorist Ebrahim Raisi hates the United States, pledges death to America, yet applies and is granted to travel to New York annually for the United Nations, this hypocrisy is unacceptable". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by denying terrorists entry into the United States.

Strengthening National Security by Denying Terrorists Entry into the U.S. Under the "No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act".

The "No Technology for Terror Act" sponsored by Rep. Nathan Moran (R-TX) would make permanent existing U.S. export control restrictions that prohibit the transfer of American made technology to Iran. Additionally, the bill would extend the "foreign direct product rule" to Iran, which restricts the re-export or transfer of U.S. originated items from one foreign country to Iran. The products include technology and equipment such as cameras, lasers, and sensors.  Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by denying technology and other equipment to Iran - a known harborer of terrorists.

Strengthening National Security by Boosting Export Restrictions on Iran Through the "No Technology for Terror Act".

The "Iran Sanctions Accountability Act of 2023" sponsored by Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MO) would require the President to issue regulations to ensure that humanitarian exemptions involving Iran sanctions do not facilitate acts of international terrorism or the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The bill also directs the Department of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Director at the World Bank to oppose providing financial assistance to Iran. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by boosting oversight of sanction exemptions provided to Iran - a known harborer of terrorists.

Ensuring Humanitarian Assistance Provided to Iran is Not Used to Finance Acts of Terror through the "Iran Sanctions Accountability Act".

The "No U.S. Financing for Iran Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) would prohibit the U.S. Treasury from issuing any licenses authorizing a U.S. financial institution to engage in transactions for trade with Iran, other than humanitarian aid benefitting Iranian citizens. The bill also requires the Secretary to oppose IMF assistance to Iran and prohibits "Special Drawing Rights" from being allocated to Iran. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by imposing financial hardships onto the economy of Iran - a known harborer of terrorists.

Weakening the Economy of Iran and its Terrorist Supporters Through the "No U.S. Financing for Iran Act".

The "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" sponsored by Rep. Laurel Lee (R-FL) would reauthorize Title VII of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for five years, including the reauthorization of Section 702 for two years - which allows the government to spy on noncitizens located abroad without a warrant. While Section 702 prohibits the NSA and FBI from "intentionally" targeting Americans through its mass surveillance, these agencies acquire a huge amount of innocent Americans' communications "incidentally." These agencies can then conduct backdoor, warrantless searches of these "incidentally collected" communications. According to a 2021 FBI report, the agency conducted 3.4 million warrantless searches on Americans through Section 702. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the reauthorization of Section 702 of FISA - including with the in-name-only "reforms" - violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Weakening Civil Liberties by Reauthorizing FISA with Section 702 - Which has Allowed the Warrantless Surveillance of the Trump Campaign and Millions of Other Americans.

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 "Utilizing Space Efficiently and Improving Technologies (USE IT) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) would require the federal government to use 60% of the capacity of federal buildings or sell them. According to the sponsor, "American taxpayers have been forced to pay $2 billion a year for office space" and "the federal government has been grasping onto more than 11,000 acres of old, unused buildings, and won't force its employees into the offices". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill represents an easy solution to help reduce government waste. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

The "Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act" sponsored by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) would increase spending by $40 million over the next five years within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) by reauthorizing the "Marine Debris Program". Additionally, the bill would accelerate the establishment of a government-funded Marine Debris Foundation and allow the Marine Debris Program to receive additional funding from other federal agencies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while the removal of marine debris is a worthy initiative, the private sector is best equipped to fund these types of initiatives, which ensures waste is minimized and resources directed to the most needed initiatives. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Hakeem Jeffries

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