Institute for Legislative Analysis

Jennifer Kiggans

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 "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 "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL) establishes a process whereby 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 cost or prices for consumers, among other conditions. According to the sponsor, the bill "would reassert Congress' legislative authority and prevent excessive overreach by the executive branch in the federal rulemaking process." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill places a critical check on executive branch power and unaccountable bureaucrats within federal agencies who have tremendous authority to impose regulations that directly impact the lives of Americans. The REINS Act is a critical tool to fight back against overreaching regulations and boost economic growth.

Placing a Critical Check on the Regulatory Power of Unaccountable Bureaucrats within the Executive Branch through the "REINS" Act.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This joint resolution, sponsored by Rep. James Comer (R-KY), nullifies the "Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022," enacted by the council of the District of Columbia. The DC law provides non-citizens, including illegal immigrants, the right to vote in the nation's capital. Support is the Limited Government Position as the DC law disenfranchises American citizens by allowing their votes to be cancelled out by individuals residing in the country unlawfully. Ensuring the ability to vote is reserved only for citizens is a critical component to ensure free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This resolution, introduced by Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the Environmental Protection Agency rule titled "Control of Air Pollution From New Motor Vehicles: Heavy-Duty Engine and Vehicle Standards". The rule, covering commercial trucks imposes much stricter emissions standards covering nitrogen oxides and other air pollutants, including particulate matter, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide. According to the sponsor, the rule "saddles the trucking industry with an onerous regulation" and that "the prices of newer vehicles will escalate, incentivizing truckers and businesses to hold onto their older, higher-emitting trucks". Support is the Limited Government Position as the rule imposed by bureaucrats within the Biden administration represents regulatory overreach and unnecessarily hike truck prices in order to promote a politicized climate change agenda.

Nullifying an Onerous Truck Emission Regulation Imposed by the Biden Administration that Results in Significant Commercial Vehicle Price Hikes.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives titled"Factoring Criteria for Firearms With Attached Stabilizing Braces". Under the rule, pistols with a stabilizing brace attachment would be reclassified as short-barreled rifles, and subject to additional regulations. Additionally, gun owners who fail to register their pistols with stabilizing braces with the ATF could face ten years in jail and hefty fines. 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. This measure weakens Second Amendment and privacy rights of law-abiding citizens while doing nothing to deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.

Strengthening Second Amendment Rights by Nullifying a Biden Administration Rule that Subjects Pistols with a Stabilizing Brace to Additional Regulations and Registration Mandates.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This bill, the "Strategic Production Response Act", limits the drawdown of petroleum in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) until the Department of Energy submits to Congress a plan to increase the percentage of federal lands leased for oil and gas production. The bill is in response to the Biden Administration draining the Strategic Oil Reserve to its lowest level since 1983 in an attempt to drive down gas prices. Support is the Limited Government Position as low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The "Prove It Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN) would give small businesses a seat at the table during the regulatory process by requiring government agencies to assess and limit the direct and indirect costs of their rules and regulations. Under the bill, if an agency imposes a regulation but did not participate or assist in the full review process, the finalized rule shall not apply to small entities. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure places a critical check on unaccountable executive branch bureaucrats who have enormous powers to control the daily lives of Americans.

Protecting Small Businesses from Overreaching Federal Regulations by Requiring a Full Review Process Under the "Prove It Act".

The Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) amendment #1 to the "Prove It Act of 2024" would significantly weaken the underlying bill (which requires government agencies to assess and limit the direct and indirect costs of their rules and regulations). Instead, the amendment would strike all text and then just require rule-writing staff at agencies to be trained on the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act every four years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment eliminates the pro-growth regulatory reforms within the underlying bill. Checks must be placed on unaccountable bureaucrats who have enormous powers to control the daily lives of Americans.

Subjecting Small Businesses to Draconian Regulations by Removing a Critical Check on the Regulatory Power of Unaccountable Bureaucrats by Amending the "Prove It Act".

The "America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024" sponsored by Sen. Thomas Carper (R-DE) increases spending on several wildlife and conservation programs and reauthorizes them through 2030. A significant portion of the funding is directed towards non-profit organizations such as the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and certain quasi-government entities like the Chesapeake Bay Program. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector and free market is best equipped to direct funding to conservation as opposed to central planning by government bureaucrats. Additionally, this measure worsens cronyism by enriching select government favored non-profits and further hiking spending. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Run-Away Spending and Enriching Government Favored Non-Profits Through the "America's Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act".

The "Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN) Act" sponsored by Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID) would require the Department of Interior (DOI) to hold lease sales every year, rather than every two years. Additionally, the bill helps speed up the permit process for lease sales by setting a 30-day deadline for the DOI to notify an applicant if a permit has been approved. According to the sponsor, the bill "will hold the Department of Interior accountable and is key to bolstering domestic energy production, reducing our reliance on foreign adversaries and meeting America's growing energy demands." 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. Lawmakers must open up federal land to safe and responsible energy extraction, so Americans are provided with the lowest possible energy costs.

Advancing American Energy Dominance by Requiring the Department of Interior to Hold More Frequent Lease Sales and Speed up the Permitting Process through the "CLEAN Act".

The Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) amendment #1 to the "Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN) Act" would enact significant delays in the permitting process for geothermal drilling. Under the bill, the timeline for an agency to respond to a project applicant on whether their geothermal drilling permit application is complete or deficient would triple. Additionally, the amendment would make the overall permitting process for geothermal resources more than 9 times longer than it would take for oil and gas, in part due to new review requirements connected to National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Finally, the amendment would provide new authority for the Bureau of Land Management to deny geothermal permits in the final stages of the permitting process. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment is largely designed to shut down geothermal permitting on federal land as part of a politicized environmental agenda. U.S. access to low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans.

Obstructing American Energy Production through Significant Additional Delays and Requirements for Geothermal Permits by Amending the "CLEAN Act".

The "Harnessing Energy At Thermal Sources (HEATS) Act sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) would expedite geothermal energy production by clarifying that geothermal operators do not need a federal drilling permit for wells that are on state and private lands where the subsurface geothermal estate is less than 50% federal. While operators would be exempt from federal permitting requirements, they would still be subject to state permitting regulations. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy while not favoring one particular source of energy over another through subsidies or the tax code. This bill helps reduce regulatory burdens and costs while further increasing American energy dominance.

Advancing American Energy Dominance by Reducing Unnecessary Permitting Barriers for Geothermal Energy through the "HEATS ACT".

The "Social Security Fairness Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA) eliminates two federal cost-control policies that barred employees with a public pension from then also collecting the full-level of benefits under the federal retirement program. The bill is estimated to increase taxpayer spending by $195.65 billion and shorten the window for insolvency of the Social Security Trust Fund by 6 months - triggering a 23 percent cut for all seniors in 2033. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill largely serves as a political ploy to gain favorability from federal workers and labor unions while worsening the unfunded liability crisis of Social Security. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

The "Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act" sponsored by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI) would combat radical bail policies by ensuring judges and prosecutors know a defendant's criminal history, while also bring accountability to the bail system. Specifically, the bill would allow state and local jurisdictions to use Byrne grant funding to develop and maintain a public safety report for each defendant charged with a violent offense and report this information to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The legislation would also define bail bonds as an "insurance product" to require compliance with federal insurance fraud laws and background check requirements - thus preventing "bail crowdsourcing". Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety through a well-staffed police force serve are 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 both liberal and conservative advocacy organizations.

Combatting Lawless Criminal Justice Reforms and Bail Policies through the "Keeping Violent Offenders Off Our Streets Act".

The "Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025" sponsored by Tom Cole (R-OK) helps avert a shutdown by extending government funding through December 20, 2024. The bill extends disaster relief and contains $230 million in additional funding for Secret Service in response to the two assassination attempts against President Trump. However, the bill does not include a GOP-backed provision requiring proof-of-citizenship when registering to vote. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill fails to include a critical provision needed to strengthen the integrity of elections and merely further "kicks the can down the road" on fiscal responsibility. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Extending Government Funding without a Critical Provision to Strengthen Election Integrity or Other Fiscal Restraints Through the "Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025".

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

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

The "United States Commission on International Religious Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2024" sponsored by Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) reauthorizes the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) through FY2026. According to opponents of the bill "rather than purely defending international religious freedom, USCIRF can now be found championing 'beliefs' encompassing radical gender ideologies that are antithetical to the very freedom of religion USCIRF was created to defend". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the United States is no longer fiscally able to serve as a world missionary considering the nation's national debt now exceeds $35 trillion. Additionally, the USCIRF has become a politicized entity which no longer adheres to its founding mission.

Fueling Runaway Spending and the Advancement of Radical Gender Ideologies through the Reauthorization of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

This resolution introduced by Rep. John James (R-MI) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency on April 18, 2024, 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. 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 "Prioritizing Economic Growth Over Woke Policies Act" sponsored by Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) is said to address the threats environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives pose to the American financial system. Most notably, the bill makes changes to SEC disclosure regulations to ensure companies are only required to disclose material information (not ESG) and requires the SEC to publicly list and explain any non-material disclosure demands. According to the sponsor, "rogue Democrat-appointed regulators are forcing companies to waste their limited time and resources on ESG mandates that have little to do with a firm's financial performance". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps protect companies and investors from cancerous ESG and DEI initiatives which stifle company growth and oftentimes lead to a litany of other internal organizational problems.

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

The Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) amendment #21 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" blocks funds for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). According to the sponsor, "FAO is the current target of the Chinese Communist Party influence strategy within the multilateral system, facilitated by FAO Director General Qu Dongyu, a Chinese citizen and former Vice Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the CCP". The sponsor also noted "the U.S. contributes 22 percent of the FAO's regular budget compared to China's 12 percent. If we are going to foot the bill at international organizations, we should not do so at the expense of promoting the CCP". Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States is not in the position to maintain its foreign aid spending 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 Funding for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization - An Entity Led by a Former Minister of the CCP.

The Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene (R-GA) amendment #20 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit $1.6 billion of funding for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). According to the sponsor, "USAID was responsible for the management of more than $40 billion in combined annual appropriations in fiscal year 2022" and used the funds for a multitude of wasteful and politicized initiatives. Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States is not in the position to maintain its foreign aid spending 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 Through a $1.6 Billion Cut to the USAID Program - An Entity where Expenditures have Become Heavily Politicized.

The Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) amendment #11 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025" freezes the funding level of the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to the FY24 enacted level, providing a saving of $57.8 million. According to the sponsor, CISA has strayed far from its mission and was part of the infamous "Disinformation Governance Board", which was established to censor Americans' free speech. The sponsor also noted "business records released by Twitter suggest that CISA distorted its mission from protecting the Nation's critical cyber and physical infrastructure into controlling what Americans can say and what speech is acceptable online". Support is the Limited Government Position as CISA has clearly exceeded its statutory duties and has worked to infringe free speech as protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This fiscally responsible measure helps ensure taxpayer funds are redirected to advancing CISA's core duties.

Combatting CISA's Censorship and Infringement of the Free Speech Rights of Americans by Freezing the Agency Funding Level.

The Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) amendment #53 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" prohibits the inclusion of gender transition procedures, including surgery or medication, within the Exceptional Family Member Program. The Exceptional Family Member Program provides resources to military families with special needs and is designed for military spouses, children, or other dependent family members who require ongoing medical or educational services such as individuals with asthma, autism, chronic respiratory illness and intellectual disabilities. According to the sponsor, "if you don't know whether you are a man or a woman, that is fine, go figure it out, and you pay for it, not the government from money we don't have". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to provide elective services surrounding gender reassignment, as is the current case with Botox and other procedures designed to improve physical appearance. All such services and costs should be the responsibility of the individuals seeking to obtain them, not U.S. taxpayers.

Protecting Taxpayers from Being Forced to Pay for Gender Transition Procedures Under the DOD Exceptional Family Member Program.

The Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #48 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" would prohibit Federal funding for the "Countering Extremist Activity Working Group" or for the implementation of any recommendations from the group. According to the sponsor, "in 2021, Democrats and the Biden regime unjustly used January 6 to prop up this woke working group to provide cover for unjustly targeting members of our military" and "has been weaponized and implemented to almost exclusively target Republicans, Conservatives, and Libertarians". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps eliminate a purely political entity within the U.S. government which censors political opponents and infringes on free speech protected under the First Amendment.

Defunding the "Countering Extremist Activity Working Group" in the DOD which Targets Political Opponents.

The Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX) amendment #45 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" would prohibit funding of companies who function to demonetize domestic entities based on their lawful speech. According to the sponsor, "NewsGuard and similar companies receive funds from the Department of Defense and other Federal agencies to actively suppress and demonetize small businesses by labeling certain speech as untrustworthy, using partisan tactics and skewed determinations of fact". The sponsor noted that this is a "direct effort by the government to skirt the Constitution and force a single viewpoint on America". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps restore government integrity by preventing censorship of political opponents and the infringement of free speech protected under the First Amendment.

Protecting Free Speech by Ending the Federal Funding of Entities Hired to Harras Small Businesses and Label their Speech as "Untrustworthy".

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #52 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" would prohibit TRICARE from covering and the Department of Defense from furnishing gender transition surgeries and gender hormone treatments for individuals that identify as transgender. According to the sponsor, "the DOD spent millions of dollars on these surgeries, and they do nothing to help our servicemembers. The follow-up medications and counseling are even more costly". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to provide elective services surrounding gender reassignment, as is the current case with Botox and other procedures designed to improve physical appearance. All such services and costs should be the responsibility of the individuals seeking to obtain them, not U.S. taxpayers.

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

The "Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act" sponsored by Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI) imposes a new mandate on private manufacturing companies that manufacture certain premoistened, nonwoven wipes (e.g., baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or personal care wipes). Under the bill, a manufacturer must label all such products clearly and conspicuously with the phrase Do Not Flush and accompanying symbol as depicted under specified industry guidelines. The bill is estimated to cost the FTC approximately $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 government to interfere in the private sector.

Growing the Size and Scope of Government to Impose New Mandates on Private Companies Concerning Labeling of Cleaning Wipes Through the "WIPPES Act".

The "No Hidden Fees on Extra Expenses for Stays Act of 2023 (No Hidden FEES)" sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) imposes a new federal mandate on providers of short-term lodging (e.g., hotels, motels, inns, and short-term rentals) to include each mandatory fee when displaying or advertising the price for a reservation. The bill is estimated to cost the FTC $4 million to issue guidance and to monitor and enforce violations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure unnecessarily increases taxpayer costs to further grow the size and scope of the federal government. If such regulations are truly necessary, they should be carefully tailored and imposed at the state and local level - not federally.

Growing the Federal Government to Impose New Mandates on Hotels and Short-Term Rentals Concerning Fee Disclosures in Advertising through the "No Hidden FEES Act".

The "Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act" sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) would impose sanctions on International Criminal Court (ICC) officials who seek to go after U.S. citizens or allies, including Israel. According to the sponsor, "the ICC is an illegitimate body that has no business interfering with our sovereignty or that of our allies" and "the Trump administration was right to impose sanctions on the associates of the ICC" The sponsor noted that following Biden's decision to reverse the Trump policy, the ICC is now "engaged in a shameful lawfare campaign against Prime Minister Netanyahu for doing his duty to protect his fellow citizens from Hamas in the wake of the barbaric October 7th attacks". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps protect America and its allies including Israel from an illegitimate globalist court that represents a massive threat to US sovereignty.

Protecting America and Israel from Frivolous International Lawfare by Imposing Sanctions on International Criminal Court Officials.

This bill, sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) prohibits individuals who are not citizens of the United States from voting in elections in the District of Columbia and repeals the "Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022". While federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting in a federal election, DC enacted a law that allows illegal immigrants to vote in local elections. This bill repeals the DC law, which went into effect on February 23, 2023. Support is the Limited Government Position as the DC law disenfranchises American citizens by allowing their votes to be cancelled out by individuals residing in the country unlawfully. Ensuring the ability to vote is reserved only for citizens is a critical component to ensure free and fair elections, an essential component of democracy under our nation's constitutional republic.

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 "No Foreign Election Interference Act" sponsored by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) would impose restrictions and penalties on tax-exempt organizations that receive funding from foreign nationals. Under existing law, foreign nationals are prohibited from donating to U.S. campaigns, however, there are no laws or regulations preventing foreign nationals from influencing U.S. elections by directing funds to 501(c)(4) organizations or other tax-exempt organizations. Under the bill, tax-exempt entities would be barred from contributing to a political committee eight years from the date it received a contribution from a foreign national. According to the sponsor, foreign entities "have been funding far-left advocacy groups, promoting Chinese Communist Party (CCP) propaganda, and fueling antisemitic protests to influence America's political landscape". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure closes a significant loophole to help strengthen democracy and ensure American elections remain free from foreign interference. This bill failed to receive the 2/3rd vote necessary to pass.

Strengthening Democracy by Prohibiting Foreign Nationals from Influencing Elections through Contributions to Tax-Exempt Entities - "No Foreign Election Interference Act".

The "Protect America's Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act" sponsored by Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) would reestablish the "China Initiative" at the Department of Justice (DOJ), which the Biden administration ended in 2022. Under the bill, the program is renamed the "CCP Initiative" and will (1) counter nation-state threats to the United States; (2) curb spying by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on U.S. intellectual property and academic institutions; (3) identify and prosecute individuals engaged in trade secret theft, hacking, and economic espionage; and (4) protect U.S. critical infrastructure from foreign threats. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen national security and American intellectual property rights by providing greater oversight of one the United States' top adversaries.

Strengthening National Security and Intellectual Property Rights through the "Protect America's Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act".

The "No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval Act" sponsored by Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) would require any agreement on pandemic prevention or response reached by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be approved by a two-thirds majority of the U.S. Senate. According to the sponsor, the bill is aimed at protecting American sovereignty against the WHO. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps ensure Americans remain in control over the public health policy of our nation and not globalist entities which do not place the interest of Americans first.

Ensuring Americans Maintain Control over Public Health Policy and Not the World Health Organization Through the "No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treaty Without Senate Approval 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 "Emergency Medical Services for Children Reauthorization Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) reauthorizes through FY2029 the Emergency Medical Services for Children State Partnership Program, which is administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration. This program awards grants to state governments and medical schools for a range of initiatives surrounding emergency medical services that pertain to children. Examples include pediatric readiness plans, education programs, cultural competency, and specialized equipment. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of local government entities and private healthcare institutions to plan and fund the healthcare services provided within their communities. The funding of these duties is not the proper role of the federal government, plus merely creates bureaucratic waste and inefficiencies in the distribution of taxpayer funds.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The "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 "Carbon Sequestration Collaboration Act" sponsored by Rep. Jim Baird (R-IN) would grow the Department of Energy (DOE) to increase research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) on carbon dioxide sequestration. Emphasis would be placed on "terrestrial carbon sequestration" (i.e., the storage of carbon in plants and biomass)and carbon sequestration in geologic formations (e.g., carbon sequestration in basins or aquifers). The bill is expected to increase DOE spending by $32 million. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to fund the research and development of any technology pertaining to carbon sequestration. This bill merely grows bureaucracy within the DOE and forces taxpayers to fund a politicized environmental agenda. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Forcing Taxpayers to Spend an Additional $31 Million at the Department of Energy to Advance a Politicized Environmental Agenda Through the "Carbon Sequestration Collaboration Act".

The "Extending Limits of U.S. Customs Waters Act" sponsored by Rep. Michael Waltz (R-FL) would extend the customs waters territory of the United States from 12 to 24 nautical miles from the baselines of the United States. The expansion is intended to provide the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) greater ability to interdict vessels engaged in drug and human trafficking from attempting to enter the United States. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by improving the ability of federal law enforcement authorities to combat illegal immigration and drug and human trafficking. The measure is especially necessary considering in the last year alone, CBP reported a record 2.7 million encounters and hundreds of thousands of tons of seized narcotics.

Reducing Drug and Human Trafficking by Extending the Waters Territory of the U.S. Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection from 12 to 24 Nautical Miles Offshore.

The "Privacy Enhancing Technology Research Act" sponsored by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) would grow the size and scope of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support research, workforce development, standard setting, and government coordination for "privacy enhancing technologies". According to the sponsor, "the rise of AI exposes individuals to new privacy threats" and this bill "supports privacy-enhanced datasets and tools for training AI systems". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not federal bureaucrats - to drive innovation in "privacy enhancing technologies". This measure imposes unnecessary costs onto taxpayers and merely grows bureaucracy and government competition with the private sector. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

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

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

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

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

The Kat Cammack (R-FL) amendment #4 to the "Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" would eliminate all non-military funding in the Ukrainian aid package, amounting to a cut of $10.5 billion from the $61 billion bill. According to the sponsor, "this new spending, $60 billion, is designated as emergency spending, meaning it goes straight to our national debt, a national debt that grows every single second to the tune of $8 billion every single day". Support is the Limited Government Position as Americans cannot afford to continue to pour hundreds of billions into Ukraine - especially without proper safeguards to prevent corruption and waste. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting $10.5 Billion in Wasteful Non-Military Spending within the Ukraine Aid Bill.

The Victoria Spartz (R-IN) amendment #4 to the "Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" would strike sections 401, 402, 403, and 407, thus reversing the Presidential drawdowns which were increased within the underlying bill (increased from $100 million to $8 billion). According to the sponsor, we should not "be giving a true blank check to President Biden of $16 billion" and "we have the power of the purse for a reason". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen government accountability and limit the wasteful spending being directed towards Ukraine. 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.

Restraining Wasteful Spending Directed Towards Ukraine by Eliminating a Provision which Hikes the Drawdown Authority of President Biden.

The "Transnational Criminal Organization Illicit Spotter Prevention and Elimination Act" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would increase punishments on individuals who aid cartel operations at the southern border plus enhances penalties for carrying or using a firearm in connection with certain criminal immigration violations. According to the sponsor, the bill targets "spotters" who help cartels evade law enforcement by surveilling portions of the border, communicating the positions of law enforcement agents and officers, and destroying hard infrastructure and communications devices. 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. This bill failed to receive the 2/3rd vote necessary to pass.

Strengthening Border Security by Enhancing Penalties Against "Spotters" for Assisting Cartels to Evade Law Enforcement.

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 Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) amendment #6 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would modify the definition of "electronic communication service provider" under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). 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. This amendment would significantly expand the application of Section 702 and warrantless surveillance by now requiring a whole new class of businesses and other entities to take part in FISA. For example, entities such as hotels, libraries, and coffee shops could now serve as surrogates for the spying if customers within the establishments are connected to the Wi-Fi equipment and engaged in international communications. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment merely further worsens the underlying bill and violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Weakening Civil Liberties by Expanding Warrantless Surveillance Under Section 702 of FISA to Encompass a Greater Number of Americans and Business Entities.

The Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) amendment #1 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would insert language from the "Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act" into the underlying bill which would eliminate a regulatory barrier and make it easier for startup businesses to attract investors. Specifically, the bill clarifies the definition of "general solicitation" and "angel investor" under federal securities law so startups can discuss their products and business plans at "demo days" or other events in which no specific investment solicitation is made. Current rules effectively bar this type of communication between startups and angel investors. According to the sponsor, this measure will allow businesses "to engage with a wider audience of investors and spread word of the products and services that they can offer to help develop a thriving and diverse economy". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure reduces unnecessary regulatory barriers to help small businesses gain investment and grow the U.S. economy.

Reducing a Regulatory Barrier to Expanding Investment Opportunities for Small Businesses by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

The "Action for Dental Health Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) would reauthorize a program within the Health and Human Services (HHS) which provides grants to organizations that provide oral health care to "underserved populations". The reauthorization is expected to cost taxpayers $55 million over the next five years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector through non-profit entities - not central planning by federal bureaucrats - is best equipped to fund and assist those most needy of oral healthcare. Such grant programs merely grow government dependency and inevitably waste taxpayer funds due to the bureaucratic cost of administering the program.

Reauthorizing a Government Wealth Redistribution Program which Provides Oral Health Care to "Underserved Populations" Through the "Action for Dental Health Act".

The "Laken Riley Act" sponsored by Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA) would require the federal detention of illegal immigrants who are accused of theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, and any crime that causes death or serious bodily injury. The Laken Riley Act is named after a Georgia nursing student who was killed by an illegal Venezuelan immigrant who had previously been arrested and paroled into the United States. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border and deport those residing in the country unlawfully not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Strengthening National Security by Ensuring the Detention of Illegal Immigrants Accused of Theft, Burglary and Serious Crimes Under the "Laken Riley Act".

The "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" sponsored by Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) is a $460 billion minibus funding several government agencies through Fiscal Year 2024. Overall spending levels are generally flat compared to the prior year with increases for some agencies and decreases for others. For example, the bill provides a 10% cut to the EPA, 7% cut to ATF, and a 6% cut to the FBI. However, the bill continues to fund the Essential Air Service program and contains countless earmarks which fund pet projects of lawmakers, especially at the Army Corps of Engineers where spending is increased 7-fold. The bill also provides increased spending for a number of welfare programs such as WIC, plus $3.3 billion for community development block grants. Furthermore, hundreds of millions of dollars are directed to fight climate change through carbon capture. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill maintains the unsustainable spending levels which were hiked during the COVID-19 pandemic and is chock-full of wasteful pet-projects of special interests. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Note: two Democratic lawmakers who opposed the bill were marked as "X" due to the fact their opposition was not the spending but rather minor provisions pertaining to gun control.

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

The "Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX) would increase federal spending by nearly two-fold for a program which funds state-based maternal mortality review committees (MMRCs). The MMRCs review pregnancy-related deaths to identify causes and associated disparities to make recommendations for the prevention of future mortalities. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as such an initiative should not be the role of the federal government, but rather private healthcare entities and non-profit groups that can judge the effectiveness of such initiatives and maximize their impact. Furthermore, taxpayers cannot afford to continue to hike spending at such enormous levels. 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.

Doubling Federal Government Spending on the "Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act" - An Initiative Best Run by the Private Health Care Industry.

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.

Jennifer Kiggans

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