Institute for Legislative Analysis

Donald M. Payne Jr.

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

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

The "en bloc No. 5" amendment to a multi-agency appropriations bill is a package of 36 individual amendments, each of which cuts various spending initiatives across government. The issues contained in the amendments range from reducing subsidies for electric vehicles to cutting hundreds of millions of dollars for groups and contractors advancing environmental justice and diversity. Support is the Limited Government Position as these initiatives are not among the core duties of government and the country is not in the position to continue funding non-essential programs when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting 36 Wasteful and Unnecessary Spending Initiatives Within a Multi-Agency Appropriations Bill.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The "Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA) would prohibit the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture from banning the use of lead ammunition or tackle on federal lands and waters unless such regulation is consistent with state law and supported by science. The bill is largely in response to a Biden administration rule issued in October of 2023 which prohibits the use of lead ammunition and tackle in eight national wildlife refuges. According to the sponsor, the raw material alternatives to lead tackle and ammo are significantly more expensive. For example, copper ammo is four times more expensive than lead ammo, while using tin for fishing tackle is over 10 times more expensive than lead. Support is the Limited Government Position as while there are some concerns that an individual bird or animals could contract lead poisoning, the science is not settled, and little evidence supports any threats to wildlife populations in general. This measure helps combat regulatory overreach and ensures hunting and shooting remains an affordable sport for all Americans to enjoy.

Protecting the Affordability of Hunting and Fishing by Overturning an Overreaching Biden Administration Rule which Bans the Use of Lead Ammunition and Tackle on Federal Lands.

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

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

The "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would establish a new federal criminal penalty for individuals who are within 100 miles of the U.S. border and are intentionally evading Border Patrol agents or law enforcement officers that are actively assisting Border Patrol. The bill is named after a Border Patrol agent killed in a high-speed chase while pursuing a group of illegal immigrants in Texas. 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 Establishing a New Federal Criminal Penalty for Fleeing Border Patrol Agents through the "Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) amendment #62 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" strikes authorization for the "Essential Air Service" program. This program provides subsidies to airline companies for commercial flights to small airports typically in more rural regions. According to the sponsor, the program provides a "direct subsidy paid to airline companies to fly empty and near-empty planes from small airports to regional hubs with per-passenger subsidies on some flights are now nearly $1,000 per passenger". Support is the Limited Government Position as the free market - not central planning by government bureaucrats - is the best mechanism to determine airline service and set routes. This program serves as a wealth distribution scheme to individuals who choose to reside in rural regions. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting Wasteful Spending and Government Central Planning through the Elimination of the "Essential Air Service" Program that Forces Taxpayers to Subsidize Unprofitable Airline Flights.

The "Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Act" establishes a new spending program within the Department of Transportation that provides grants for drone purchases to state and local governments that follow certain protectionist "buy American" procurement mandates, if the purchase will result in lower carbon emissions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of the federal government to provide states with drones and the bill's multiple costly and protectionist provisions unnecessarily drive-up taxpayer costs.

Establishing a New Spending Program for "Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grants" Containing Multiple Costly and Protectionist Provisions.

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 "Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) would add the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to take necessary actions to prohibit the purchase of U.S. agricultural land by foreign adversaries. Under the bill, the Secretary of Agriculture would be added to CFIUS for transactions involving land, biotechnology, transportation, storage, and processing, and the Secretary would be required to report any transaction that could be considered a threat to national security. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen transparency and combats the attempts of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to take over the U.S. farming industry.

Combatting the Chinese Takeover of U.S. Farmland Through the "Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act".

The "Joint Consolidation Loan Separation Act" allows two borrowers who received a joint consolidation loan (offered at one point federally and at a lower interest rate) to apply to have their loan severed into two separate loans. The bill is primarily designed to expand who is eligible for loan forgiveness initiatives of the Biden administration. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as individuals with joint consolidation loans already enjoyed lower interest rates than other borrowers and this bill shifts their costs onto other individuals and taxpayers, an especially unfair situation for individuals who paid-off their loans or chose not to pursue higher education.

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

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

The "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 "Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO) would expand numerous tax credit programs that benefit select businesses and certain individuals with low-incomes. For example, the bill expands the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and increases welfare payments for low-income families under the child tax credit program from $1,600 to $2,000 per child, including allowing a greater number of illegal immigrants to receive benefits. Additionally, the bill provides businesses with research and development expenses with more favorable tax deductions, while also extending certain provisions under the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017, including the bonus depreciation provision. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill grows the welfare state and government dependency - including for illegal immigrants - while continuing to distort the tax code to provide benefits to select businesses and taxpayers. Instead of this cronyism, lawmakers should provide broad tax relief by lowering the tax brackets or most preferably, transition to a flat tax.

Growing the Welfare State and Tax Cronyism through the "Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act".

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

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

The "Middle Class Borrower Protection Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH), rolls back a rule by the Federal Housing Finance Agency that changed fees for mortgages under the loan-level-pricing-adjustment framework used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The rule resulted in higher fees for individuals seeking mortgages with good credit, and lower fees for those with marginal credit and riskier borrowers. According to the sponsor, "responsible homebuyers with good credit are forced to subsidize those with bad credit" due to the rule. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration rule represents a wealth redistribution scheme that drives up housing costs for responsible homebuyers while rewarding those who have not been as fiscally responsible. Additionally, taxpayers are ultimately placed on the hook for this riskier lending through the government's backing of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - as was the case in the 2008 financial crisis.

Repealing the Biden Administration's Mortgage Rule that Hiked Fees on Responsible Borrowers to Subsidize the Loans of those with Bad Credit.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #45 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" cuts $35 million in spending for the Appalachian Regional Commission, thus restoring the appropriation to pre-Covid-19 levels. The Appalachian Commission is one of seven regional commissions that direct federal funds to state and local projects surrounding job training and economic development. According to the sponsor, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) already provides the Commission with an annual $200 million appropriation through 2026, therefore every dollar provided in the underlying bill is above the authorized level. The sponsor also noted that even at the $365 million appropriation, the program is still extremely bloated, especially considering the only performance metric used to determine program success is the number of loan applications received. 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.

Reducing Spending by Cutting a Duplicative Appropriation for the Appalachian Regional Commission - an Unnecessary Government Central Planning Bureaucracy.

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".

This resolution, introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA), overturns the D.C. Council's Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2022. According to the sponsor, the District has lost over 1,000 officers and the D.C. Council's act "gives more power to anti-police activists, allows individual police officers to be targeted by protestors, and strips officers of collective bargaining rights regarding discipline." 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.

Combatting Skyrocketing Crime and Attacks on Police by Overturning the D.C. Council's Dangerous Policing and Criminal Justice Reforms.

The "A Stronger Workforce for America Act" sponsored by Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) would reauthorize the "Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and approximately $6.4 billion in annual spending. The "WOIA is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of employers and non-profits within the private sector - not the government - to train employees working in the private sector. This bill continues to fuel wasteful spending and the central planning schemes of government bureaucrats which enrich select government-favored companies. 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.

Forcing Taxpayers to Spend Billions to Subsidize the Job Training Costs of Government-Favored Businesses Through the "A Stronger Workforce for America Act".

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

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

The Connolly amendment #287 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" ends the policy placed on U.S. embassies that prevents their artwork purchases from exceeding $25,000 unless it is approved by congress. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as significant abuse of taxpayer funds has been occurring at small embassy offices across the world, such as expenditures of $400,000 on a sculpture of clouds in Montenegro, over $250,000 on a mural in Mexico City, and $350,000 on a mosaic in Rio. The country is not in the position to continue funding non-essential programs when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Unnecessary Spending by Eliminating the $25,000 Cap Placed on the Artwork Purchases of U.S. Embassies Unless they Receive Congressional Approval.

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

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

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

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 "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 "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.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #20 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" block grants funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to the states. The funds would be distributed based on the number of students in each state relative to the number of students within the United States. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Department of Education has become a bloated bureaucracy that goes against our Founding Father's belief in the concept of "laboratories of democracy". This measure helps eliminate waste, such as the distribution of federal funds to unnecessary and politicized initiatives, and instead helps empower state and local educational entities.

Cutting Waste Within the Federal Education System by Block Granting the Funds to the States.

The "Ensuring a Fair and Accurate Census Act" provides greater decision-making authority to the Census Bureau director and limits the number of political appointees at the bureau. The bill is largely in response to the Trump Administration's attempt to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure provides greater power to unelected government employees who are not held accountable to voters by taking away the oversight provided by the executive branch of government. Additionally, citizenship is a legitimate line of inquiry on the census, especially since the census determines state representation in the House of Representatives and impacts a litany of other government operations.

Weakening Integrity of the Census Through an Attempt to Prohibit Questions on Citizenship.

The Keating amendment #273 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" requires the State Department to establish and staff Climate Change Officer positions posted at U.S. embassies, consulates, or diplomatic missions to provide climate change mitigation expertise. Additionally, the Department must develop curriculum at the Foreign Service Institute to provide employees with specialized climate change training. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment imposes significant additional costs onto taxpayers and further grows bureaucracy at the State Department. This additional red tape, such as the new curriculum mandate, may restrict the ability of employees within the department from receiving other training in fields that are more applicable to their job.

Growing Bureaucracy and Taxpayer Costs by Requiring the State Department to Post a "Climate Change Officer" at Embassies, Consulates, and on Diplomatic Missions.

The "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act" sponsored by Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA) would prevent illegal immigrants who have committed Social Security fraud or identification document fraud from entering the U.S. and automatically deports illegal immigrants who have engaged in such fraud within the United States. According to the sponsor, "the current process for holding aliens accountable for Social Security fraud and identification document fraud is bureaucratized to the point of absurdity. In one case, an alien trafficking in phony identification documents was placed in removal proceedings in 2005, with the lengthy appeals process not concluding until 2013." 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 Social Security or ID Fraud through the "Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act".

The "Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act" sponsored by Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA) would expand the size and role of the Department of Energy (DOE) to create a research, development, and demonstration program concerning abandoned oil and gas wells. According to the sponsor, "methane emissions from oil and gas wells - some of which date back as early as the 1850s including orphan wells, remains a significant driver of short-term climate change". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the management of abandoned oil and gas wells is the duty of state and local entities - not the federal government. This measure merely expands government bureaucracy, largely to promote a politicized climate change 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.

Growing the Size and Scope of the Department of Energy to Advance a Politicized Climate Change Agenda Through the "Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act".

The Jayapal Amd. No. 9 to the "America COMPETES Act of 2022" is largely designed to promote the removal of sanctions placed on the $9.5 billion in assets held by the Afghan central bank, which is under Taliban control following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The amendment requires the Treasury Department to examine the humanitarian impact of the sanctions, the projected increases in civilian deaths and refugees, and the resulting effect on additional Chinese Government influence in Afghanistan. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the removal of the sanctions should be based on the merits of national security and foreign policy implication, especially considering the Taliban's ties to terrorist organizations.

Jeopardizing National Security by Advocating the Removal of Sanctions on the Afghan Central Bank which will Provide the Taliban with $9.5 Billion.

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

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

The "America Creating Opportunities for Manufacturing, Pre-Eminence in Technology, and Economic Strength (COMPETES) Act of 2022" as passed by the House on February 4, 2022, authorizes over $318 billion in new spending, including $95 billion in subsidies to semiconductor companies and various other manufacturing entities, $78 billion to the National Science Foundation, and $8 billion for the Green Climate Fund. Furthermore, the bill contains numerous trade-related provisions, such as boosting Trade Adjustment Assistance and subjecting significantly more goods to tariffs by restricting application of the "deminimis" provision, which exempts imports valued under $800 from duties. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as much of this spending merely serves as corporate welfare and is unnecessary, especially at a time when the U.S. national debt has exceeded $30 trillion and congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Furthermore, the bill's protectionist trade policies will drive up consumer costs and inflict significant financial harm onto countless small businesses, which import materials from overseas, and ultimately make American companies less competitive.

Advancing the "COMPETES ACT" with $318 Billion in Wasteful Spending and Protectionist Trade Policies that Unnecessarily Hike Consumer Costs.

This resolution, introduced by Rep. Bob Good (R-VA), utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the rule issued by the Department of Education on October 12, 2022, that suspends federal student loan payments and discharges debt. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the total cost of the Biden administration's student loan forgiveness plan is between $500 billion and $650 billion. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Biden administration's plan further expands wealth redistribution through higher education. While it is a necessary role for government to provide quality K-12 education, individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education - such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades - should not be forced to pay for others' college tuition. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers by Blocking $650 Billion in Student Loan Forgiveness Authorized by the Biden Administration.

The Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ) amendment #47 to the "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts discretionary spending within the bill by 57 percent. According to the sponsor, this is the percentage of discretionary funding within the bill that is directed to entities that have their own taxing authorities (i.e. can obtain funding from their residents). Support is the Limited Government Position as, unlike mandatory spending, which is generally directed towards primary functions of government, discretionary spending is often directed towards unnecessary initiatives or programs that can also be funded through other avenues. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

The "Millennium Challenge Corporation Eligibility Expansion Act" authorizes the Millennium Challenge Corporation (a bilateral U.S. foreign aid agency) to provide aid to a greater range of countries. Previously, the corporation could only provide aid to countries with per capita incomes that were amongst the lowest 75 lowest in the world. This bill now authorizes aid to any country that is within the lowest 125 in the world. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the United States is not in the position to expand its foreign aid initiatives to an even greater range of countries with higher levels of wealth when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government in order to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Providing Foreign Aid to Additional Countries with Higher Levels of Wealth Through the Federal Millennium Challenge Corporation.

The Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) amendment #5 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would expand the use of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) to vet foreigners traveling to the United States. 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. Through this amendment, a larger group of Americans would now be subject to having their communications collected and added to the government FISA database without a warrant. 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 on the Grounds of "Travel Vetting".

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

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

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

Growing the NOAA's Marine Debris Program - a Role of the Private Sector - Through the "Save Our Seas 2.0 Amendments Act".

The Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) amendment #72 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" would prohibit funds from being used to create an "unfunded priorities list" or a wish list of things that individual commanders and generals would like to fund. According to the sponsor, "these wish lists are packed with billions of dollars of excessive line items, this year totaling more than $27.5 billion on top of the $850 billion requested by the White House and a 50 percent increase from last year." The sponsor also noted the lists "have not gone through the level of prioritization and vetting that all of the other things that come in the budget do" such as the White House Budget request where "the Commander in Chief, in consultation with top military brass, determines what is necessary to defend the country based on a holistic analysis of our national security needs". Support is the Limited Government Position as this fiscally responsible measure helps to significantly reduce waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds from a practice not performed in any other government agency. According to the National Priorities Project, the average taxpayer spent a staggering $1,748 subsidizing Pentagon contractors. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) amendment #42 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds from being provided to Ukraine as part of the country's defense against Russia. According to the sponsor, in 2022 the U.S. provided $113 billion in total assistance to Ukraine, which, in addition to weapons, has gone to fund their government, farmers, and small businesses. Additionally, "this is nothing more than a blank check for Ukraine that Joe Biden's State Department will get to write. Even more dangerously, they get to waive oversight, claiming national security. All this will do is fuel another never-ending war and push the United States even closer to the brink of nuclear Holocaust." 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 $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 Halting the Billions Provided to Ukraine at a Time when the U.S. is Facing a Border Crisis and Crippling Debt.

The Jayapal Amd. No. 5 to the "United States Innovation and Competition Act" requires the State Department coordinate with the Department of Energy to report on the impact of US sanctions related to innovation, emissions reduction, climate cooperation, and economic justice. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as foreign policy - especially the imposition of sanctions - are highly sensitive actions that have enormous impacts on global economic stability and United States national security. Such actions should not be further complicated through unnecessary, poorly defined, and politized requirements.

Placing Unnecessary Requirements Surrounding "Environmental Justice" in U.S. Sanctions and Foreign Policy Operations.

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

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

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

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

The "Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods" (VICTIM) Act of 2022" directs $100 million in new annual spending on grants for local entities to assist victims of crime. The funds are directed to be used for food and housing and other vaguely defined initiatives called "improving relationships with communities." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill is largely politicized, with many ineffective and wasteful provisions. Instead, lawmakers should combat efforts that "defund the police" and allocate funding to proven initiatives that actually prevent crime from occurring in the first place.

Advancing an Ineffective and Wasteful Crime Victim Bill Rather Than Supporting Law Enforcement and Preventing Crime.

The "Puerto Rico Status Act" requires a plebiscite (binding vote on Congress) to be held on November 5, 2023, which would offer Puerto Rico voters a choice of independence, sovereignty in free association with the United States, or statehood. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure serve as a political tool to grow power of select parties in the U.S. but it also burdens taxpayers with enormous new financial liabilities as more than 40 percent of the population lives in poverty and the territory continues to struggle with debt.

Placing Enormous New Financial Liabilities on the U.S. Through a Politicized Effort to Advance Puerto Rico Statehood.

The "Protecting Our Kids Act" is composed of eight separate gun control measures packaged together. Among other things, the bill bans "high capacity" ammunition magazines, places several mandates on how firearms may be stored, and makes it illegal for individuals to build their own firearms or "ghost guns" without serial numbers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these "one-size-fits-all" mandates - especially those surrounding firearm storage - harm the ability of law-abiding individuals to defend themselves and weaken their Second Amendment rights while ultimately doing little, if anything, to deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.

Weakening Second Amendment Rights Through Multiple Overreaching Bans and Mandates Concerning Ammunition Magazines, Firearm Storage, and Home-crafted Firearms.

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. 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. 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. 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 "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 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 "en bloc No. 1" amendment to the "Recovering America's Wildlife Act of 2022" contains a set of four amendments that pertain to various conservation initiatives and includes a mandate requiring the Secretary of the Interior to produce a report detailing the number of contracts, subcontracts, and grants that have been issued to minority-owned businesses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as government has a duty to treat all individuals equally - especially regarding characteristics such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity - in the application of law and in contracting and granting opportunities. Furthermore, any actions that government takes that reduce competition in contracting (such as minority quotas) unnecessarily drives-up taxpayer costs.

Advancing Government Racial Discrimination in Contracting and Unnecessary Conservation Initiatives Through Amendments to the Wildlife Bill.

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 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. Ralph Norman (R-SC) amendment #42 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" would eliminate any offices of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within the Armed Forces and Department of Defense along with the personnel in said offices. According to the sponsor, "woke ideology undermines military readiness" including "cohesiveness by emphasizing differences based on race, ethnicity, and sex" and "leadership authority by introducing questions about whether a promotion is based on merit or quota requirements". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote DEI or CRT, which are ideologies that sow division amongst Americans and are intended to further grow the role of government. These programs also fuel cronyism by enriching the providers of these services, who are typically politically connected.

Strengthening Military Effectiveness by Defunding DOD Offices and Initiatives Surrounding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

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.

Year
2024	10.53	0.00	0.00	0.00
2023	0.00	11.76	14.29	27.27
2022	0.00	0.00	0.00	16.67

Year	Score	Role	Party	Dist.
2024	2.90	Rep	D	10
2023	5.88	Rep	D	10
2022	1.27	Rep	D	10

Donald M. Payne Jr.

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