Institute for Legislative Analysis

Adam Smith

This resolution introduced by Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service titled"Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat". The rule changed the classification of the northern-long eared bat from "threatened" to "endangered" under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) due to the population suffering from an outbreak of white-nose syndrome. According to the sponsor, the Biden administration rule "is an example of the ESA being used to stifle development rather than its intended purpose, which is to protect species from human-caused harm". Support is the Limited Government Position as the rule results in a disproportionate regulatory burden imposed by unaccountable bureaucrats who will empower radical environmental groups to shutdown development and infrastructure expansion through much of the continental United States.

Protecting Property Rights by Nullifying an Overreaching Biden Administration Rule Concerning the Northern-Long Eared Bat on the Endangered Species Act.

The "Keep Kids Fed Act" of 2022 extends certain eligibility waivers and the elevated reimbursement rates provided to schools and afterschool program providers for breakfasts, lunches and snacks under the Department of Agriculture's Child and Adult Care Food Program through 2024. These waivers and higher reimbursement rates were "temporary" measures implemented at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the country is no longer experiencing the same restrictions and challenges faced during the pandemic and the extension of this additional funding was done without other desperately needed reforms, such as restricting the free meals provided under such programs to only children from low-income families instead of to all students.

Extending "Temporary" Spending Hikes and Eligibility Waivers to the Federal School Lunch Program Implemented Under COVID-19 to 2024.

The Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) amendment #76 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" implements reforms to commodity checkoff programs. Under these programs, producers of certain products, such as beef, dairy, or poultry, are forced to pay into a fund (ex. $2 for a cow) that is used for industry research or advertising campaigns. The amendment increases transparency on how the funds are utilized and ensures taxpayer funds are used by the boards of these programs. Support is the Limited Government Position as, while government-mandated checkoff programs should be eliminated entirely, this bill serves as a step in the right direction to reducing corruption. It is the role of the private sector to voluntarily organize and fund product promotion for industry, not for big producers to utilize government to financially coerce small producers to fund their activities.

Increasing Transparency and Accountability within the Crony Commodity Checkoff Programs Mandated by Government.

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

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

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #23 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" would curb the Endangered Species Act's (ESA) application in areas used for national defense-related operations and prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from designating areas necessary for military operations as crucial habitats. According to the sponsor, "two million acres of Army training and testing lands have training restrictions in place related to stringent ESA requirements" and "these restrictions, when applied, harm our readiness and our mission". Support is the Limited Government Position as the Endangered Species Act has resulted in a disproportionate regulatory burden being placed on the Department of Defense. These regulations have been imposed by unaccountable bureaucrats and empowered radical environmental groups to shutdown development and infrastructure expansion through much of the continental United States.

Strengthening National Security by Exempting Areas Utilized for Defense-Related Operations from Certain Provisions of the Endangered Species Act.

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 "National Heritage Area Act" reauthorizes programs and funding for roughly 50 "national heritage areas." One entity funded by the act is located in the bill sponsor's state, the MotorCities National Heritage Area Partnership in Southeast Michigan, which is a non-profit that has a mission to preserve and promote the region's automotive and labor heritage. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free market and private sector is best equipped to fund and determine the activities and initiatives that most effectively promote national heritage, not politicians and government employees who are not subject to "profit and loss" signals like the private sector.

Reauthorizing the "National Heritage Area" System and Hundreds of Millions in Unnecessary Spending for Initiatives that Should Be Privately Funded.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #60 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $186.3 million in funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. The sponsor provided multiple examples of waste within the entity, such as the Art in Architecture program that commissions art for Federal buildings, and the Arts and Artifacts Indemnity Program, which subsidizes the insurance of art exhibitions, both domestic and international, including private collections. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to evaluate the most impactful initiatives within the Arts and Humanities and provide the associated funding. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $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 by Striking $186.3 Million in Funds for the National Endowment for the Arts.

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

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

The Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) amendment #23 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" provides a $14.3 million cut to the Peace Corps budget to restore the agency appropriation to pre-COVID-19 levels. According to the sponsor, the Peace Corps has engaged in numerous politicized initiatives, including helping illegal immigrants at the southern border, promoting DEI amongst its volunteers, and various activities surrounding climate change. Support is the Limited Government Position as the Peace Corps serves as just one of many foreign aid programs of the United States and the country is not in the position to grow its foreign aid spending when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Providing a Slight Cut to Wasteful Spending within the Peace Corps by Restoring Funding to Pre-COVID-19 Levels.

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

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

The "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 "Energy Cybersecurity University Leadership Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), provides grants, scholarships, and other forms of funding to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers focusing on cybersecurity and energy infrastructure. The bill also directs outreach to be targeted towards historically black colleges and universities, tribal colleges, and minority-serving institutions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector and free market - not government - to direct research and funding into the most promising industries. Like countless other higher education wealth redistribution schemes, this measure forces individuals who choose to pursue a trade or start a business, to subsidize the training costs of individuals who chose to enroll in higher education.

Growing Cronyism and Wealth Redistribution through Additional Scholarships and Grants to Individuals Pursuing Cybersecurity or Energy Infrastructure at Universities.

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 "Special District Grant Accessibility Act" sponsored by Rep. Pat Fallon (R-TX) would require the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring "special districts" to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations. As a result, special districts - which the state of Colorado has over 3,500 alone - could begin receiving federal funds for services including wastewater management, health care, transit, natural resource conservation, etc. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local entities - not the federal government - to fund the local-level services the bill is intended to address. This bill would inevitably result in runaway spending and further growth of the federal bureaucracy. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending by Requiring "Special Districts" to be Recognized as Local Governments and Become Eligible for Federal Funding.

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

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

The "Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) would establish a procedure for Congress to review any action by the President to terminate, waive, or modify sanctions on Iran. Under the bill, the President must report to Congress on any planned sanctions relief and the reasons for the change in policy. Congress could then approve or disapprove of the administration's action within a review period; a joint resolution of disapproval would block it from going into effect. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps strengthen national security by preventing the free flow of billions of dollars to Iran, a country known to harbor terrorists.

Strengthening National Security by Preventing the Biden Administration for Lifting Iran Sanctions without Congressional Approval Through the "Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act".

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

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

The Rep. 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 #10 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" would prohibit TRICARE (Department of Defense (DoD) healthcare program) from covering sex reassignment surgeries and hormone treatment for transgender individuals. According to the sponsor, the DoD has performed over 240 gender reassignment surgeries. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to provide elective services surrounding gender reassignment, as is the current case with Botox and other procedures designed to improve physical appearance. All such services and costs should be the responsibility of the individuals seeking to obtain them, not U.S. taxpayers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #43 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" would eliminate the USDA rental assistance program, providing a savings of $1.6 billion. According to the sponsor, the program is 1 of 25 duplicative housing programs across the federal government. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps reduce duplicative spending and restore fiscal sanity. Rental assistance programs merely distort the market, ultimately bidding up prices and making housing even less affordable. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Eliminating a Duplicative Rental Assistance Welfare Program within the USDA to Provide $1.6 Billion in Savings to Taxpayers.

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

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

The Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX) amendment #1 to the "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21)" would weaken the underlying bill relating to digital asset (crypto) regulations by reducing the crowdfunding exemption from $75 million to $5 million. As a result, investors could only crowdfund up to $5 million for crypto before being forced to register and meet a series of additional regulations. According to the sponsor, the reduced cap represents the exemption level that is applied to other traditional investments. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure harms innovation within the crypto industry by making it more costly and difficult to raise investment.

Imposing Greater Regulatory Burdens on the Crypto Industry by Reducing the Crowdfunding Exemption within the "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act".

The 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 "en bloc No. 2" amendment to a major appropriations bill consists of 31 separate amendments that provide funding for a wide range of specific projects advocated by lawmakers ranging from affordable housing initiatives to agricultural and crop research projects, to fusion energy advancement. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the majority of these amendments are unnecessary spending initiatives surrounding lawmaker pet projects and do not pertain to the core role or duties of government.

Advancing Unnecessary Spending Through a Package of 31 Amendments Largely Funding Lawmaker Pet Projects.

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

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

The "South Asian Heart Health Awareness and Research Act of 2022" requires the Department of Health and Human Services to create a new program supporting research and awareness surrounding heart diseases within the South Asian population and other communities that may be impacted. 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 resources are used effectively.

Expanding Bureaucracy within the Department of Health and Human Services for a South Asian Heart Health Awareness Campaign.

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

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

The "Separation of Powers Restoration Act (SOPRA)of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), is designed to counter the Supreme Court's 1984 decision inChevron U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc., which declared courts must defer to agency interpretations of statues. According to the sponsor, the Chevron ruling "has led to executive branch agencies circumventing Congress to issue rules with the force of law. The"Separation of Powers Restoration Act"repeals that precedent, restores congressional intent, and stops executive branch overreach." Support is the Limited Government Position as Chevron represents one of the very worst Supreme Court decisions in our nation's history, from a limited government perspective. This measure is critical to combatting regulatory overreach and restoring a critical legislative check on the actions of unaccountable bureaucrats within the executive branch.

Placing a Critical Check on the Powers of Unaccountable Bureaucrats within the Executive Branch through the "Separation of Powers Restoration Act" which Counters the "Chevron Deference".

The "Cutting Green Corruption and Taxes Act" sponsored by Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL) would rollback climate and environmental justice programs established in the Inflation Reduction Act (IFA) including the repeal of the "Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund". The bill also eliminates an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program which provides incentives for petroleum and natural gas systems to reduce their emissions of methane and other greenhouse gases, as well as a charge placed on certain facilities for their methane emissions. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill guts multiple politicized environmental programs which inflict serious damage to the U.S. economy and unnecessarily hike consumer costs. The country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

Repealing the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and other Politicized Environmental Program Harming Economic Growth Through the "Cutting Green Corruption and Taxes Act".

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

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

The 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.

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

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

The "Restoring American Energy Dominance Act" sponsored by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) would nullify the Bureau of Land Management's proposed rule entitled "Fluid Mineral Leases and Leasing Process." This rule would (1) increases bonding rates for oil and gas production on federal lands, (2) introduces new "preference criteria" for onshore oil and gas leasing that would limit areas available for production, (3) prevent leasing outside of currently producing areas. Support is the Limited Government Position as low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

Overturning Biden Administration Rules which Limit Oil and Gas Production on Federal Lands Through the "Restoring American Energy Dominance Act".

This resolution introduced by Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MI) condemns calls to defund the police and recognizes that law enforcement officers must have the equipment, training, and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and their fellow law enforcement officers. The resolution also expresses condolences and appreciation to the loved ones of each law enforcement officer who has made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety through a well-staffed police force serve as essential components of government. Unfortunately, so-called criminal justice "reforms", have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced across the nation by George Soros and other left-leaning Billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Condemning Calls to "Defund the Police" and Expressing Condolences to Law Enforcement Officers who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice in the Line of Duty.

The Lucas motion to instruct the conference committee on the "America COMPETES Act of 2022" ensures that section 2502 of the version passed by the Senate is included in the final bill. This section ensures that no person or entity of concern, as defined by the Department of Defense, can receive grants or funding from the National Science Foundation, federally funded manufacturing programs, or technology hubs authorized by the bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as this motion establishes guardrails to ensure taxpayer funds do not end up in the hands of foreign adversaries, such as the Chinese Communist Party.

Ensuring Taxpayer Funds within the COMPETES Act Are Not Sent to Foreign Adversaries.

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 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 "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.

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) denounces the energy and federal land policies of the Biden Administration. It also encourages the domestic production of reliable and affordable energy generation sources. The resolution highlights that "energy prices increased roughly 37.2 percent in President Biden's first 26 months in office, which is the largest increase of any of the last 7 Presidents". Support is the Limited Government Position as low-cost energy is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

Denouncing the Biden Administration for its Energy and Federal Land Policies Which Have Hiked Energy Costs by 37.2%.

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

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

The "en bloc No. 2" amendment to the "Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act" strikes section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Act, which requires the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to issue a rule requiring banks and credit unions to collect and report demographic data on small business loan applications. Support is the Limited Government Position as this mandate unnecessarily drives up loan costs for lenders and small businesses, and largely serves as a political measure to help justify additional regulations and further growth of government involvement in the financial sector.

Removing Costly Data Collection Mandates Imposed on Small Business Lenders Under the Dodd-Frank Act.

The Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) amendment #60 to the "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" defunds the Federal mandate that requires all new vehicles after 2026 be equipped with a kill switch that can disable a vehicle if the vehicle has monitored the driver's performance and the vehicle determines that the driver is not performing well (such as if the driver appears to be driving while intoxicated). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, not only does this one-size-fits all federal mandate unnecessarily drive-up new vehicle costs, including for those who do not consume alcohol, this presents serious Fouth Amendment and civil liberty concerns. Plus, like all new technology, it has the potential to misdiagnose driving habits or fail, leaving motorists stranded.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Defunding the 2026 Mandate that All New Vehicles be Equipped with "Kill Switches" Based on Driver Performance.

The "Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act" includes $700 million in subsidies for agricultural producers and initiatives, including $200 million to upgrade infrastructure to blend both biodiesel and ethanol fuel at higher levels (ex. E15). Additionally, the bill establishes a new special investigator of competition within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to regulate and bring civil action concerning competition and trade practices across the agricultural industry. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the amenities of the agricultural industry (or any industry) and the promotion of higher ethanol-blended fuel, which causes significant damage to older cars and trucks. Furthermore, the best mechanism to expand competition is through the free market, not through further the further expansion of government and regulations - which most often has the opposite intended result.

Advancing Unnecessary Spending and Regulatory Overreach in the Agricultural Industry Through Subsidies for Ethanol Fuel Expansion and a New "Special Investigator" for Competition.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #74 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" provides nearly $5 billion in savings by cutting the significant spending growth within sections 101, 103 and 1111 of the underlying bill, which far exceed the levels originally set by Congress in the 2018 reauthorization bill. These sections pertain to airport planning, operations, and research and development. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill contains countless runaway spending initiatives that are unnecessary. 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 Cutting Nearly $5 Billion in Runaway Spending Surrounding Airport Planning, Operations, and Research and Development.

Year
2024	1.85	10.00	1.79	18.06	0.00	1.18
2023	0.00	0.00	5.26	13.33	25.00	0.00
2022	0.00	0.00	6.67	0.00	0.00	0.00

Year	Score	Role	Party	Dist.
2024	4.49	Rep	D	9
2023	4.84	Rep	D	9
2022	1.27	Rep	D	9

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