Institute for Legislative Analysis

August Pfluger

The final version of the "American Relief Act, 2025" passed on December 20, 2024 and sponsored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) would fund the government through March 14, 2025. The bill also includes more than $100 billion in disaster aid and $10 billion in economic aid to farmers, as well as an extension of the farm bill through Sept. 30, 2025. This version of the bill does not include a two-year suspension of the debt limit as had been advocated by President-elect Trump. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through a Government Funding Package Containing Over $100 Billion in Disaster Aid and Farm Subsidies with No Fiscal Offsets.

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

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

The "Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act" sponsored by Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to contract with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (a private non-profit entity) to study and make recommendations about various aspects of youth residential programs. This includes the publishing of various studies, educational training resources and risk assessment tools. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while actions should be taken to combat institutional child abuse, such work should be performed at the state and local level - not by the federal government. Additionally, this bill enriches a government-favored non-profit and creation of one-size-fits all materials as opposed to locally driven solutions.

Growing the Role of the Federal Government and Enriching a Select Non-Profit through the "Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act".

The "Lumbee Fairness Act" sponsored by Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC) would extend federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and makes its members eligible for a series of services and new federal financial benefits. The Tribe has about 60,000 members and was granted partial federal recognition in 1956. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as for nearly 70 years the Tribe has already had access to certain benefits and resources. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending through an Expansion of Federal Welfare Benefits for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina through the "Lumbee Fairness Act".

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

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

The "Elizabeth Dole Home and Community Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act of 2023" sponsored by Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) would expand the home care and caregiver programs provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Most notably, the bill hikes the expenditure limit for "noninstitutional alternatives to nursing home care" (ex. homecare) from 65% of what would be expended for a nursing home to 100% of the cost. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while our Veterans deserve to receive the highest quality care, this bill largely enriches private care-giving companies by significantly hiking a critical cost control cap. 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.

Enriching Private Caregiving Companies through a Significant Hike of a Critical Cost Control Cap at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The "Autism CARES Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) increases spending on federal autism programs by $279 million and authorizes $2.1 billion in total spending over the next five years. Much of the spending is directed towards research at the National Institute for Health (NIH). This includes expanding the number of centers of excellence dedicated to autism from five to seven, with the new centers focusing on behavioral support needs and "health equity issues". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as our society faces many health challenges well deserving of research including Alzheimer's, cancer, heart disease and countless other chronic conditions. Unfortunately, our nation is not in a fiscal position to hike spending at the enormous levels contained in this bill, especially on wasteful and politicized initiatives such as "health equity". 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.

Hiking Spending by $279 Million - Including on Politicized Initiatives such as "Health Equity" - via the "Autism Cares Act".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The "Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area Enhancement Act" sponsored by Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) directs the National Park Service to assess the suitability and feasibility of adding the rest of Saratoga County and Washington County in New York to the "Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area" in New York. Areas which receive designation as National Heritage Areas receive additional federal funding. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the costs to maintain such regions should not be imposed on taxpayers nationwide. Additionally, the free market and private sector (through private foundations) is best equipped to fund and determine the landmarks and properties most deserving of protecting - unlike government which is not subject to "profit and loss" signals of the private sector.

Further Growing the Size and Scope of the Federal Government by Adding a Larger Region of New York's Saratoga and Washington Counties to the National Heritage Areas 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 "Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act" sponsored by Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) would strip U.S.-based organizations of their tax-exempt status if they are found to be materially supporting terrorist organizations, such as Hamas. Additionally, the bill prevents the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from imposing penalties on taxes owed by Americans if during that time they were held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps prevent the abuse of the U.S. tax code and the funding of terrorism across the globe.

Revoking the Tax-Exempt Status of U.S. Based Organizations which Materially Support Terrorist Organizations such as Hamas.

The "Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts Authorization Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) would officially codify the Department of State's Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE) which was established in 2021 during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The office is tasked with relocating and resettling eligible Afghan allies and facilitating the departure from Afghanistan of U.S. citizens who request assistance. The bill would provide CARE with greater flexibility to hire personnel and allow the office to transfer funds to and from other federal agencies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this entity is no longer needed considering the U.S. Armed Forces completed their withdrawal from Afghanistan on 30 August 2021 - over 3 years ago. This bill merely grows bureaucracy and wasteful 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.

Advancing an "America Last" Agenda and Growing Bureaucracy through the "Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts Authorization Act".

The "North Korean Human Rights Reauthorization Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) would reauthorize through FY2028 various activities to promote human rights in North Korea at an estimated cost of $41 million. This includes funding select non-profit organizations to "promote human rights, democracy, rule of law, and the development of a market economy in North Korea". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill advances an "America last" agenda which places initiatives in foreign nations above the needs of Americans, all while forcing taxpayers to enrich government-favored non-profits. 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 an "America Last" Agenda by Spending $40 Million to Promote Democracy and Human Rights in North Korea.

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 #2 to the "Committing Leases for Energy Access Now (CLEAN) Act" would prevent the bill (speeds up federal permits for energy extraction) from taking effect until the Secretary certifies that the Bureau of Land Management and other Federal permitting agencies have sufficient staff and funding to comply with the deadlines established by this act. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Federal agencies (especially under Democratic control) will never admit to having enough funding or enough staff. This amendment represents a poison pill designed to prevent enactment and the opening up of federal land to safe and responsible energy extraction.

Obstructing American Energy Production through a Poison Pill Derailing the "CLEAN ACT" which Reforms the Federal Permitting Process.

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".

This resolution, sponsored by Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) condemns President Joseph Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and 13 other individuals for their role in the Afghanistan withdrawal and noncombatant evacuation operation.Support is the Limited Government Position as regardless of whether or not the U.S. should have withdrawn from Afghanistan, the plan and execution of the Biden-Harris Administration's withdrawal was abominable. Tragically, 13 service members lost their lives and over $7 billion in U.S. military equipment was transferred to the Taliban and other terrorist groups.

Condemning the Biden-Harris Administration for the Afghanistan Withdrawal which Cost the Lives of 13 U.S. Service Members and Transferred $7 Billion in Military Equipment to the Taliban.

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 "Next Generation Pipelines Research and Development Act" sponsored by Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) creates new spending programs for researching and developing advanced technologies and materials for natural gas pipelines. Under the bill, the Department of Energy (DOE) will award financial grants to select companies "involved in the development of next generation pipeline systems, components, and related technologies". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this cronyism provides competitive advantages and enriches government-favored companies at taxpayer expense. The free market - not government bureaucrats - is best equipped to direct funding to the most promising technologies, unlike government which is not subject to "profit and loss" signals like the private sector. Note: The lawmakers who opposed the bill due to their opposition of fossil fuels were also recorded as opposing the limited government position.

Expanding Cronyism and Enriching Government Favored Companies through the "Next Generation Pipelines Research and Development Act".

The "DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training Program Act" sponsored by Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX) would impose new mandates within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which require employees holding non-cybersecurity positions within the department, to be trained in matters relating to cybersecurity. The bill requires the program curriculum to be consistent with the "National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Framework" and is expected to cost $1 million annually to implement (not including lost employee time). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as DHS already has the authority to train any of its employees on cybersecurity. Instead, this one-size-fits-all mandate grows bureaucracy and may take employees already well-versed in cybersecurity unnecessarily away from their duties.

Growing Government Bureaucracy through the "DHS Cybersecurity On-the-Job Training Program 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 "No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act" sponsored by Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY) would deny state and local entities with federal funding intended for non-U.S. nationals if they enact sanctuary policies or fail to cooperate with federal immigration detainers. According to the sponsor, the bill "ensures that federal dollars will not be used to offset costs incurred by prioritizing illegal immigration, and migrants' free hotels and health care, over the safety and well-being of law-abiding tax-paying citizens". Support is the Limited Government Position as an unsecured southern border presents a major national security risk and places an enormous strain on taxpayer-funded resources, ranging from law enforcement to welfare to education. While lawmakers should work to boost merit-based immigration to expand the U.S. workforce and economy, major policy changes such as this measure must be made to curb illegal immigration and prevent dangerous individuals from entering the country.

Strengthening Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law through the "No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act".

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 "End Woke Higher Education Act" sponsored by Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT) bars accrediting organizations from requiring colleges and universities to adopt diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies as a condition of accreditation. Additionally, an accrediting organization must confirm that its standards do not prohibit an institution of higher education from having a religious mission. According to the sponsor, the bill will "stand up for academic freedom, defend students' constitutional rights, and ensure that colleges and universities aren't forced to bend the knee to activist accreditors pushing political agendas as a condition for federal funding". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens religious freedoms and helps combat radical ESG and DEI frameworks on college campuses which sow division and lead to growth in government.

Combatting ESG and DEI Frameworks and Strengthening Religious Freedom through the "End Woke Higher Education Act".

The "Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act" sponsored by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) would make immigrants who lack permanent legal status "inadmissible" to the country and "deportable" if they have admitted to committing or have been convicted of sex offenses or domestic violence. Under current law, a non-U.S. national is deportable for certain criminal convictions, including domestic violence, stalking, and child abuse. The bill makes any sex offense (including crimes against minors) or conspiracy to commit a sex offense a basis for deportation. The bill also expands the domestic violence crimes that make a non-U.S. national deportable to include physical or sexual abuse or a pattern of coercive behavior when it occurs within certain close relationships. 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 criminals 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 Public Safety by Deporting Immigrants who Commit Sex Offenses through the "Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act".

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

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

The "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 "DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act" sponsored by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) would prevent funding from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from being provided to any college or university that has a relationship with a Confucius Institute (a cultural institute directly or indirectly funded by the Chinese government). According to the sponsor, "the Chinese Community Party is utilizing Confucius Institutes to infiltrate American university campuses and engage in espionage, steal intellectual property, intimidate Chinese dissidents, promote communist propaganda, and funnel sensitive information back to the People's Liberation Army". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to pay for the educations of individuals who chose to enroll in colleges and universities, especially entities which partner with one of America's top adversaries, the CCP.

Blocking DHS Funds from Being Provided to Colleges and Universities with a Confucius Institute or any Ties with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA) amendment #4 to the "DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act" would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress any institution of higher education that has a relationship with a Confucius Institute or Chinese entity of concern and receives funds from the Department of Homeland Security. According to the sponsor, "it is well documented that the CCP uses Confucius Institutes to disseminate their Communist propaganda, encourage censorship, and discourage academic freedom in the United States". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by providing greater oversight of woke colleges and universities that have decided to build a relationship with the CCP and one of America's top adversaries.

Strengthening National Security by Requiring DHS to Report which Colleges and Universities Have a Confucius Institute or Relations with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) amendment #57 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" reduces the salary of Deputy Assistant Administrator for Pesticide Programs, Ya-Wei (Jake) Li, to $1. According to the sponsor, despite Congress passing language requiring EPA to take USDA feedback into account when developing policy, Li developed a measure without USDA input on a herbicide strategy, which is expected to cost the industry upwards of $5.5 billion to comply with. Support is the Limited Government Position as Li has a long track record of extremist environmental positions, and his actions of circumventing feedback from the USDA has imposed enormous unnecessary regulatory costs on small family farmers and ranchers.

Holding Pesticide Administrator Ya-Wei Li Accountable for Circumventing the USDA by Slashing his Salary to $1.

The Rep. Diane Harshbarger (R-TN) amendment #45 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds from being used for the Board on Geographic Names. According to the sponsor, the Board on Geographic Names was initially designed to be a part of the United States Geological Survey to ensure uniform naming on maps, but has been repurposed as a "woke renaming board". Support is the Limited Government Position as the Board on Geographic Names represents an unnecessary government bureaucracy which has since been hijacked to advance a political agenda.

Defunding the "Board on Geographic Names" - An Unnecessary Bureaucracy Hijacked into a Woke Renaming Board for the Biden Administration.

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

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

The Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) amendment #36 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit funding for the American Climate Corps that the Biden administration established through an executive order last year. The sponsor noted the cost is $30 billion and the Corps is part of the administration's Justice40 goal, which focuses on equity and environmental justice. Support is the Limited Government Position as every program and initiative not pertaining to a core function or duty of government must be cut or significantly scaled back to get our nation's fiscal house back in order. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

This resolution introduced by Rep. Mike Flood (R-NE) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a Biden administration rule issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2022, titled "Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121". This rule requires financial institutions and firms that are safeguarding their customers' digital assets (such as crypto-currency) to hold the assets on their balance sheet. The rule has received criticism due to the fact the regulations makes it cost prohibitive for banks and other financial institutions to serve as custodians for digital assets. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule has largely roadblocked the ability of banks to hold digital assets, thus harming growth and innovation in the crypto-currency industry. This measure provides critical regulatory relief.

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

This resolution introduced by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) holds U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland in contempt of Congress for defying two congressional subpoenas from the House Committees on Judiciary and Oversight & Accountability. The subpoenas demanded the recordings of President Biden's interview with special counsel Robert Hur, who was investigating the president's handling of classified documents. The measure also fines Garland $10,000 for each day he continues to defy the congressional subpoenas. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure provides a critical check on power and helps ensure the AG is held accountable considering the fact the Department of Justice is controlled by Garland.

Holding AG Merrick Garland in Contempt of Congress for Defying Two Congressional Subpoenas.

The "Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2025" sponsored by Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) allocates roughly $7 billion in discretionary funding (a 5.6 percent increase in spending from the previous level). This includes increases in spending for chamber operations, U.S. Capitol Police, the Congressional Budget Office, the Government Accountability Office and the Library of Congress. The bill decreases funding for the Architect of the Capitol, the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled and joint items including the Joint Economic Committee and Joint Committee on Taxation. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should lead by example and cut spending within their own house, not further balloon the deficit through a 5.6 percent increase in 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. Note: Lawmakers who opposed the bill due to its fiscal implications were recorded as supporting the limited government position, while lawmakers who opposed due to the removal of DEI and climate change provisions were recorded as opposing the limited government position.

Refusing to "Lead by Example" and Fueling Runaway Spending Through a 5.6% Increase in Appropriations for the Legislative Branch.

The "Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2025" sponsored by Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) contains key provisions which eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and other politicized initiatives surrounding climate change. This includes the removal of provisions which cut plastic waste in the legislative branch and the elimination of a requirement that members lease low-emission vehicles. Support is the Limited Government Position as politicized frameworks pertaining to DEI and Equity, Social and Governance (ESG) merely drive-up taxpayer costs and grow division. Note: Lawmakers who supported the removal of DEI and climate change, but opposed the bill due to the fiscal impact were recorded as supporting the limited government position.

Advancing a Legislative Appropriations Bill Without Politicized Provisions Surrounding DEI and Climate Change.

The Rep. Ronnie Jackson (R-TX) amendment #4 to the "Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2025" reduces funding for the Office of the Attending Physician to the Congress to FY20 levels (a roughly 15 percent cut). According to the sponsor, funding needs to be brought back to a reasonable level, and the "nonpartisan role of Attending Physician to Congress has been highly politicized by the current Attending Physician (Dr. Monahan)". The sponsor noted that Dr. Monahan actively did the bidding of former Speaker Nancy Pelosi's "by implementing a politically motivated mask mandate in the House of Representatives despite that not being in line with the best available science or the CDC recommendations at the time." Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reducing Funding for the Office of the Attending Physician to the Congress to FY2020 Levels - An Entity that has Advanced Politicized Mask Mandates.

The Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) amendment #1 to the "Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2025" eliminates funding for the Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL). According to the sponsor, the program has been "inappropriately used to host social justice themed adventures for foreign delegations on the U.S. taxpayer dime". The sponsor noted that in 2023 and 2024 COIL organized at least 13 trips dedicated exclusively to social advocacy or diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to push politized initiatives such as DEI or ESG frameworks. Furthermore, lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Defunding the Congressional Office for International Leadership - An Unnecessary Entity that Organizes Politicized DEI Trips for Foreign Delegations.

The "Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act" or SAVE Act sponsored by Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) requires individuals to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections. The bill also requires each state to take affirmative steps on an ongoing basis to ensure that only U.S. citizens are registered to vote, including the removal of noncitizens from their official lists of eligible voters. Support is the Limited Government Position as public trust in the integrity of our elections - especially ensuring U.S. elections are decided solely by Americans - is essential to safeguarding democracy.

Safeguarding Democracy and Preventing Foreign Interference in U.S. Elections by Ensuring Only U.S. Citizens are Eligible to Vote.

The "Stop Unaffordable Dishwasher Standards Act" sponsored by Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-NY) places limits on the authority of the Department of Energy (DOE) to impose energy conservation standards for dishwashers unless DOE can prove the standards are economically justified and not likely to result in additional net costs to consumers. The bill is in response to DOE's own analysis that found the efficiency mandates of the Biden administration could increase the upfront cost of dishwashers by 28% and it could take consumers 12 years to payback the increased costs on a product that may only last 7-12 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as consumers within a free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - should have the freedom to choose the type of dishwasher that best meets their needs. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to combatting government overreach which unnecessarily hikes consumer costs.

Protecting Consumer Choice through the "Stop Unaffordable Dishwasher Standards Act".

The "Refrigerator Freedom Act" sponsored by Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) places limits on the authority of the Department of Energy (DOE) to impose energy conservation standards for refrigerators and freezers unless DOE can prove the standards are economically justified and not likely to result in additional net costs to consumers. The bill is in response to DOE's own analysis that found the efficiency mandates of the Biden administration could increase the upfront costs on refrigerators and freezers by 25% and it could take consumers 10 years to payback the increased costs for a product that may only last 14-15 years. Support is the Limited Government Position as consumers within a free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - should have the freedom to choose the type of dishwasher that best meets their needs. This measure serves as a step in the right direction to combatting government overreach which unnecessarily hikes consumer costs.

Protecting Consumer Choice through the "Refrigerator Freedom Act".

The "Long Island Sound Restoration and Stewardship Reauthorization Act" sponsored by Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY) appropriates $65 million annually through 2028 for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to carry out programs to restore and protect the environmental health of the Long Island Sound located south of Connecticut and north of Long Island. In 1985, Congress created the Long Island Sound Study (LISS) to identify and address the major environmental problems affecting the Long Island Sound and last reauthorized the program for five years in 2018. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local governmental entities - not the federal government - to fund and manage regional environmental initiatives such as the Long Island Sound. Not only are more localized governments better equipped to determine funding needs and carry out programs most efficiently, but U.S. taxpayers (the vast majority who do not live around the Long Island Sound) can no longer afford to fund such initiatives. 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.

Ballooning the Federal Deficit Through the Reauthorization of an Environmental Program for Long Island Sound that Should be Funded by State and Local Governmental Entities.

The Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) amendment #16 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds for the Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery which will "help forge Ukraine's future as a prosperous, secure, European democracy.'' According to the sponsor, "it is a slap in the face of hardworking Americans that we are wasting taxpayer dollars to pay for this Special Representative for Ukraine's Economic Recovery, but there is no such position for America's economic recovery that has been so ravaged by this administration's Bidenflation". Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the duty of U.S. taxpayers to fund Ukraine's economic recovery, especially considering the U.S. has already provided the country with $175 billion in funding. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Ensuring U.S. Taxpayers Aren't Forced to Also Fund "Ukraine's Economic Recovery".

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

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

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #3 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would return funding for the U.S. Institute of Peace back to fiscal year '19 funding levels, which represents a reduction of $16.3 million. The sponsor noted that "peace through strength is something that many of us believe in" and that "it is the concern over the lack of our economic prowess, the lack of our strength why this amendment is before this body". 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 $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility by Returning Funding for the "United States Institute of Peace" to Pre-Covid Levels.

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #2 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would eliminate funding for the Global Environment Facility at the World Bank, providing savings of nearly $140 million. The Global Environment Facility is an international fund under the World Bank, which uses donor countries' money to pay for climate agenda projects in developing countries. According to the sponsor, "the U.S. Government should not send one more taxpayer dollar to unelected bureaucrats in support of other countries' climate agendas" and that "the Trump administration's budget request for fiscal year 2020 rightly asked for no funding for the Global Environment Facility". Support is the Limited Government Position as U.S. taxpayers should not be forced to enrich foreign countries and companies favored by unaccountable government bureaucrats to advanced a politicized climate change agenda. 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.

Eliminating Funding for the Crony "Global Environment Facility" at the World Bank which Enriches Select Foreign Countries and Companies at the Expense of American Taxpayers.

The Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) amendment #58 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits the expenditure of funds to extend "temporary protected status" (TPS), for nationals of El Salvador. TPS is a tool provided by Congress that allows for the President, acting through the Department of Homeland Security, to allow foreign nationals to remain temporarily in the United States if conditions in their home country are too dangerous to send them back. According to the sponsor, "like so many immigration laws, this narrow authority has been repeatedly abused". The sponsor also noted that nationals of El Salvador have been granted TPS due to the aftermath of an earthquake in the country, but "here is the problem: That earthquake was in 2001, more than two decades ago." Support is the Limited Government Position as despite the need to grow the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country, the continued abuse of TPS places an immense drain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious law enforcement and national security issues.

Strengthening Immigration Enforcement by Ending the Abuse of the "Temporary Protected Status" Program for Nationals of El Salvador.

The Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) amendment #57 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit Immigration and Customs Enforcement from sending funds to the Department of Veterans Affairs to process medical claims for illegal immigrants in ICE custody. The measure is directed at the Department of Veterans Affairs' Financial Services Center which provides administrative support in processing third-party medical claims for those in CBP's and ICE's custody. According to the sponsor, "there are 273,307 outstanding disability claims that have been pending for more than 125 days" and this "amendment would ensure that the VA focuses its resources on veterans, not illegal immigrants". Support is the Limited Government Position as government entities should place the needs of Americans - especially Veterans - ahead of the needs of those residing in our country unlawfully.

Reforming the Dept. of Veterans Affairs to Ensure the Needs of Veterans are Placed Ahead of the Needs of Illegal Immigrants.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #54 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds within the bill from being used to implement the "Process to Promote the Unity and Stability of Families", announced by the Department of Homeland Security on June 18, 2024. According to the sponsor, this Biden administration order would grant mass amnesty "with permanent residence and a path to citizenship to hundreds of thousands of illegal alien spouses of U.S. citizens and their noncitizen minor children". Support is the Limited Government Position as despite the need to grow the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country, this order from the Biden administration places an immense drain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious law enforcement and national security issues.

Blocking a Biden Order Providing Mass Amnesty to Hundreds of Thousands of Illegal Immigrants.

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #53 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibit funds from being used to enforce DHS Secretary Mayorkas' memo titled: ''Worksite Enforcement: The Strategy to Protect the American Labor Market, the Conditions of the American Worksite, and the Dignity of the Individual.'' According to the sponsor, the "memo prohibits ICE from conducting worksite enforcement operations except in extremely limited circumstances" and "tells employers that they no longer need to follow the law and literally incentivizes the hiring of illegal aliens". The sponsor noted this "amendment would allow ICE agents to do their job enforcing immigration law with the most effective methods possible". Support is the Limited Government Position as despite the need to grow the U.S. economy through reforms to the immigration system that increase the number of skilled individuals who may enter and work in our country, this memo results in an immense drain on U.S. infrastructure and taxpayer resources ranging from welfare to the education system, while also creating serious law enforcement and national security issues.

Strengthening Immigration Enforcement by Overturning a Policy that Prevented ICE from Detaining Illegal Immigrants at Worksites.

The Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene (R-GA) amendment #18 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2025" would use the Holman Rule to effectively fire Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas by cutting his salary to $1. According to the sponsor, "Mayorkas' policies have killed Americans, bankrupted communities, overrun schools, besieged towns, drowned hospitals, and incapacitated law enforcement while empowering cartels and foreign entities". Support is the Limited Government Position as Secretary Mayorkas has failed in his duties as Secretary of Homeland Security through the implementation of radical policies that have severely weakened our national security and devastated countless communities across the nation.

Holding DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas Accountable for the Border Crisis by Cutting his Salary to $1.

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. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #56 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" requires the Secretary of Defense to report on the use of taxpayer-funded union time by DOD employees. The sponsor noted that "Congress granted certain employees the ability to perform certain tasks for labor unions while on duty. To be clear, that means that these employees are being paid by our constituents to work for union activities instead of doing the job that they were hired to perform". The sponsor highlighted a 2017 GAO report which found "346 employees spent 100 percent of their time on official union activities instead of taking care of our Nation's veterans" and a Trump administration report which found "3,235 DOD employees used official time in FY19 for a total of 526,990 hours at a cost of millions upon tens of millions of dollars, not to mention the equipment". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen government transparency and accountability. Public sector unions not only unnecessarily hike taxpayer costs but also make it even more difficult to terminate poor-performing employees.

Strengthening Transparency over Public Sector Labor Unions by Requiring the DOD to Report on the Usage of Taxpayer Funded "Official Time".

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 "Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) would prohibit the executive branch from using "enforcement slush funds," the practice where funds paid under settlement agreements are sent to third party groups rather than the federal government. According to the sponsor, the "historical record is littered with examples of these settlement funds not directed toward victims or taxpayer relief but rather toward unrelated and often partisan third-party groups".   Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens government accountability by ensuring settlement funds are directed towards their intended purpose of compensating victims and providing relief to affected parties - not enriching politically connected interest groups.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Ensuring Federal Settlement Funds are Not Sent to Third Party Groups through the "Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act".

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

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

The Rep. Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY) amendment #1 to the "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act" would expand the underlying bill to prevent illegal immigrants who have committed fraud concerning COVID-19 grants or funds from entering the U.S. and automatically deports illegal immigrants who have engaged in such fraud within the United States. The sponsor cites statistics from the SBA Inspector General which estimated that more than $200 billion of the roughly $1.2 trillion in pandemic loans were distributed to potentially fraudulent actors. 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 Public Safety by Deny Entry and Deporting Illegal Immigrants who Committed Fraud Concerning COVID-19 Grants or Funding.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #42 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits the Delaware River Basin Commission from implementing or enforcing a ban on hydraulic fracturing. According to the sponsor, "unaccountable bureaucrats at the Delaware River Basin Commission have instituted a hydraulic fracturing ban for a portion of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The ban has blocked desperately needed natural gas from entering the market and striped away property rights and mineral rights from Pennsylvanians in contravention of the will of their very own legislature." Support is the Limited Government Position as state legislatures - not unaccountable commissions - should be the ones with authority to increase the stringency of regulations. This amendment strengthens property rights while also promoting stronger economic growth through energy extraction.

Strengthening Property Rights and Promoting American Energy Production by Restoring Regulatory Authority to State Legislatures Rather than the Delaware River Basin Commission.

The House Version of the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" sponsored by Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA) would provide $833 billion for the Defense Department and is aligned with the cap (less than 1% increase compared to the prior year) mandated by the "Fiscal Responsibility Act". Some key provisions within the bill include pay increase for junior enlisted service members, the procurement of additional F-35 Joint Strike Fighters and purchase of one Virginia-class submarine. Additionally, the bill contains a number of conservative provisions aimed at eliminating abortion services, climate change mitigation efforts, and DEI initiatives. Support is the Limited Government Position as this version of the bill represents a fiscally responsible effort of ensuring the U.S. armed forces is properly equipped and prepared to defend the nation, while also eliminating a multitude of politized initiatives across the Department of Defense.

Advancing a Fiscally Responsible Department of Defense Appropriation Bill which Eliminates Politized Initiatives Across the Armed Services.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) amendment #68 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit any funds from being used to pay any United States contribution to the United Nations or any affiliated agency of the United Nations. According to the sponsor, "despite making up less than 5 percent of the world's population, Americans remain the largest single state contributor to the U.N., footing around one-quarter of its multibillion-dollar budget". The sponsor also noted that "we pick up the lion's share of the tab, while unaccountable, international bureaucrats make the rules" and cited how "the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization recently cooked up a plan to take on backyard barbecues, burgers, and brats, demanding that Americans eat less beef, less pork, less poultry to reduce emissions". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps defund the globalist government agenda of the U.N. which infringes the individual liberties of Americans. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of nearly $2 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

The Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) amendment #64 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits the usage of federal funds to pay the salary of, reinstate, or reemploy Robert Malley. According to the sponsor, prior to Malley's appointment by President Biden as the special envoy to Iran, he "had a storied history of legitimatizing the terrorist organization Hamas, also a U.S.-designated terrorist organization; has blamed Israel for Palestinian attacks; and has facilitated the disastrous 2015 Iran nuclear deal". The sponsor also noted "Malley was working to circumvent U.S. law by striking a deal with Iran without disclosing this to Congress" and since June of 2023 "has been placed on unpaid leave due to investigation into his mishandling of classified information". Additionally, it has since been learned through a bombshell report "that three top aides to Malley were part of an Iranian Government network". Support is the Limited Government Position as Malley should have never been hired by the Biden administration considering his previous history, including his facilitation of the Iran nuclear deal, one of the worst foreign agreements in our nation's history. Considering the latest revelations surrounding Malley and his former team, taxpayers should never again be forced to provide Malley employment.

Ending the Federal Employment of Robert Malley - Facilitator of the Disastrous Iran Nuclear Deal and Currently on Administrative Leave for the Mishandling Classified Information.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #43 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" eliminates funding ($18 million) for the administration of the Department of Energy Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program. According to the sponsor, this program "provides loans to companies that make Green New Deal cars" and has recklessly spent over $1 trillion, including $8 billion in subsidies on electric vehicle chargers. Support is the Limited Government Position as every program and initiative not pertaining to a core function or duty of government must be cut or significantly scaled back to get our nation's fiscal house back in order. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers by Defunding the Department of Energy "Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program" which Enriches the Electric Vehicle Industry.

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