Institute for Legislative Analysis

Jill N. Tokuda

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #175 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds from being used to carry out the observance of Pride Month authorized by the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness for the "Cultural Observances and Awareness Events list". According to the sponsor, the bill is in response to cases of Air Force Bases, such as Robins and Nellis, holding various Pride events for the LGBTQ+ community, including diversity color runs and attempted drag shows. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is not the proper role of government to promote and fund the activities of select individuals based on race, religious belief, or sexual orientation. While gratitude should be provided to every member of our Armed Forces for serving our country, such celebratory activities and events should be privately organized and promoted by the LGBTQ+ community, not by government bureaucrats.

Ensuring Taxpayer Funds within the Defense Bill are Not Spent on Pride Activities and LGBTQ+ Events which Should be Privately Organized.

The Rep. Andrew Ogles (R-TN) amendment #87 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds to finalize the Federal Labor Relations Authority's proposed rule that would restrict Federal employees' ability to opt out of membership in a labor union. Under the rule, Federal employees are limited to a certain window each calendar year to opt-out of union due collections, while also then re-enrolling them each year and requiring them to opt-out. Support is the Limited Government Position as public sector unions not only hike taxpayer costs but also make it even more difficult to terminate poor-performing employees. The Federal rule also violates the Supreme Court's decision in Janus v. AFSCME and the "right to work" without being forced to join a labor union.

Protecting Federal Employees' "Right to Work" by Defunding a Federal Labor Relations Rule Limiting the Ability of Workers to Opt-Out of Union Membership and Dues Collections.

The Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) amendment #24 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" requires the President, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of State, to develop and submit a report to Congress that contains a strategy for U.S. involvement in Ukraine. The amendment prohibits disbursement of any Ukraine aid until the submission of the report. Support is the Limited Government Position as over $113 billion has already been provided to Ukraine with no clear strategy or accountability system established to ensure American taxpayer funds are being utilized effectively in the war-torn country.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility by Requiring the Submission of a Ukraine Strategy to Congress Prior to Delivery of any Additional Aid.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #50 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" cuts funding for the Great Lakes Authority in half and transfer the difference to the spending reduction account. This program was created in 2022 to fund watershed programs in a handful of states. As the sponsor has noted for multiple years, the program serves as an example of waste as it "does not have a Federal co-chair, it has no website, it has no programs funded", yet is receiving a $5 million appropriation. Support is the Limited Government Position as every program and initiative not pertaining to a core function or duty of government must be cut or significantly scaled back to get our nation's fiscal house back in order. 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 $2.5 Million from a Wasteful "Great Lakes Authority" that has No Website, Programs, or Federal Co-Chair.

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #58 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" reduces the total appropriation for the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies by $1.55 billion, bringing the total cost of the bill down from $58 billion to $56.4 billion. According to the sponsor, the bill contains multiple wasteful spending provisions, such as $1.2 billion for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Support is the Limited Government Position as this appropriations package is chock full of wasteful initiatives that do not align with the core duties and function of government. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Increasing Fiscal Responsibility through a 2.8% Cut in Appropriations to the Departments of Interior and Environment.

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

Protecting Consumer Choice through the "Refrigerator Freedom Act".

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

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

The Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) amendment #2 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts funding for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) by 50 percent. The sponsor noted BLM's operations have exceeded its stated purpose, including the establishment of conservation leases and other policies that lockout land users. Support is the Limited Government Position as the BLM has become a bloated and wasteful entity that places unnecessary barriers to land usage. 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 through a 50% Cut in the Bloated Bureaucracy of the Bureau of Land Management.

The Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO) amendment #4 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would insert language from the "Increasing Investor Opportunities Act" into the underlying bill which expands investment by removing certain financial regulations. Specifically, this measure creates a more competitive investment environment by allowing publicly offered closed-end funds (CEFs) to invest up to 100% of their assets in private securities. According to the sponsor, "SEC bureaucrats have taken another step toward reserving safe access to investment opportunities for wealthy, accredited investors" and this measure would "increase investment opportunities for millions of Americans and eliminate unnecessary barriers restricting investor access". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure reduces overreaching regulations, strengthens individual liberties and boosts capital formation for startup businesses.

Expanding Investment Opportunities Through a Reduction in Financial Regulations on "Closed-End Funds" by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

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

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

The "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC) is a package of bills which would reduce various financial securities regulations. Under the bill, a number of reporting and registration requirements for companies, brokers, and advisors would be decreased, plus provides an exemption for companies that sell less than $250,000 in securities in a year from having to register the transactions with the SEC. Additionally, the bill relaxes qualifications to become an "accredited investor", giving more people the ability to invest in private markets regardless of their wealth or income levels. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill removes unnecessary regulatory barriers on businesses and provides 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 Overreaching Government Regulations in the Financial Sector and Providing More Americans with the Ability to Invest Through the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023".

This bill, the "Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023", raises the $31.4 trillion U.S. debt ceiling through January 1, 2025. The bill is estimated to allow for $4 trillion in additional debt while providing roughly $1.5 trillion in discretionary spending reductions over ten years, which may or may not be fully realized. The bill also paves the way for a natural gas pipeline from West Virginia to Virginia and claws back some funding, which was provided to the Internal Revenue Service to hire additional employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the budgetary gimmicks within the bill provide little, if any, significant reduction in spending, merely continuing the country's march to a financial collapse. 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 a U.S. Financial Collapse by Lifting the Debt Limit without Enacting Any Significant Fiscal Restraints to Stop the Deficit Spending.

The Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene (R-GA) amendment #57 to the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2025" would ensure that no additional military funding is authorized for the war in Ukraine. According to the sponsor, "Congress has appropriated $174.2 billion of taxpayer dollars in emergency supplemental funding for Ukraine while our southern border is invaded by murderers, rapists, and terrorists, the Biden administration cares more about protecting the borders of Ukraine than the country he swore to protect and that many people in this body swore to protect." 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.

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

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

The Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) amendment #5 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would weaken the underlying bill's regulatory relief and the provision redefining the definition of "qualified investor" which allows more individuals to invest in private markets. Under this amendment, an individual could now only invest 5 percent of their net worth on any one private offering, and no more than 25 percent of their net worth (excluding their primary residence) on all such private offerings. According to the sponsor, the amendment "gives us a better definition of those who can afford the risks and the risk of liquidity that comes with these private investments". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as individuals - not politicians - should have the right to set their own risk tolerances and determine how to invest their earnings. This amendment weakens individual liberties and the ability of everyday Americans to grow their wealth through investment.

Weaking Individual Liberties Through Government-Imposed Limits on Investment Risk by Amending the "Expanding Access to Capital Act".

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. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #1 to the "Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act" would prohibit warrantless searches of U.S. person communications in the FISA 702 database, with exceptions for imminent threats to life or bodily harm, consent searches, or known cybersecurity threat signatures. While Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) 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 largely prevent American information from being collected without a warrant. Support is the Limited Government Position as countless Americans have had their Fourth Amendment rights infringed through warrantless spying under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This amendment helps protect civil liberties by significantly limiting the scope of warrantless government spying under FISA.

Strengthening Civil Liberties and Fourth Amendment Protections by Limiting the Scope of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).

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 "Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA), permits schools under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) to serve whole milk (3.25% milkfat). Since 2012, schools have only been able to serve fat-free or low-fat milk (2% milkfat) due to regulations championed by Michelle Obama. Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of parents - not politicians - to determine the food and beverages consumed by their child. This bill helps combat government overreach and strengthens parental rights.

Strengthening Parental Rights by Repealing an Obama-Era Regulation that Prohibits Whole Milk from being Served in School Cafeterias.

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

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

The "Secure the Border Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), contains a long list of provisions surrounding immigration and security at the southern border. Some of the major provisions include restarting border wall construction, hiring thousands of additional Border Patrol agents, equipping officers with better technology to detect drugs and illegal immigration, and additional E-Verify requirements. Support is the Limited Government Position as an unsecured southern border presents a major national security risk and places an enormous strain on taxpayer-funded resources ranging from law enforcement, welfare and education. While lawmakers should work to boost merit-based immigration to expand the U.S. workforce and economy, major policy changes must be made to curb illegal immigration and prevent dangerous individuals from entering the country.

Strengthening National Security through the "Secure the Border Act", which Contains a Long List of Provisions Designed to Stop Illegal Immigration.

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

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

The "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. 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.

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

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

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #56 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" fully defunds the Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE). The sponsor noted the "office's mission is to equitably transition America to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by no later than 2050." According to the sponsor, the office is "woke" and "actively promotes divisive concepts like energy equity and environmental justice". Support is the Limited Government Position as an "equitable energy transition", like other ESG frameworks, harms U.S. economic growth and enriches select entities through government central planning.

Defunding the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy which Actively Promotes "Energy Equity" and "Environmental Justice".

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #3 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2025" would return funding for the U.S. Institute of Peace back to fiscal year '19 funding levels, which represents a reduction of $16.3 million. The sponsor noted that "peace through strength is something that many of us believe in" and that "it is the concern over the lack of our economic prowess, the lack of our strength why this amendment is before this body". Support is the Limited Government Position as the Institute for Peace represents an unnecessary bureaucracy that has become heavily politicized and whose mission should be advanced and funded through the private sector - not the American taxpayer. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

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

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

The Rep. Van Drew (R-NJ) amendment #62 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds from being used for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations of the Department of Energy. According to the sponsor, this Department advances an "equitable energy transition" and results in less reliable energy, higher energy prices and less energy independence. Support is the Limited Government Position as an "equitable energy transition", like other ESG frameworks, harms U.S. economic growth and enriches select entities through government central planning.

Defunding a Wasteful Central Planning Scheme within the Department of Energy which Advances an "Equitable Energy Transition".

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

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

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #12 to the "Lower Energy Costs Act" repeals section 115 of the Clean Air Act. This section gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to impose emission reductions on the States if the administrator finds that American air pollution endangers the public health and welfare of another country. According to the sponsor, "removing the broadly written language in section 115 is the only way to prevent the delegation of nearly unlimited power over State energy sectors to the EPA bureaucrats and removes the ability of international organizations to meddle in our energy sector." Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment provides a critical safeguard against unaccountable EPA bureaucrats imposing draconian regulations on state economies to promote politicized climate change agendas. Considering the Biden Administration has reentered the Paris climate agreement, this amendment is especially necessary to prevent the implementation of "America Last" policies.

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

The "Transnational Criminal Organization Illicit Spotter Prevention and Elimination Act" sponsored by Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) would increase punishments on individuals who aid cartel operations at the southern border plus enhances penalties for carrying or using a firearm in connection with certain criminal immigration violations. According to the sponsor, the bill targets "spotters" who help cartels evade law enforcement by surveilling portions of the border, communicating the positions of law enforcement agents and officers, and destroying hard infrastructure and communications devices. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system. This bill failed to receive the 2/3rd vote necessary to pass.

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

The "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 "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 Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #47 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" cuts $2 million in spending on the Denali Commission, thus restoring the appropriation to pre-Covid-19 levels. The Denali Commission is one of seven regional commissions that direct federal funds to state and local projects surrounding job training and economic development. However, unlike other commissions, the Denali Commission serves only one State: Alaska. According to the sponsor, both the Obama and Trump administrations have suggested eliminating the commission as funds could instead be provided directly to Alaska for distribution rather than funding a costly additional layer of bureaucracy. Support is the Limited Government Position as every 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 to Pre-Covid Levels for the Denali Commission - a Bureaucracy Recommended for Elimination by both the Trump and Obama Administrations.

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) amendment #8 to the "Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025" would prevent funds from this bill from being used to transport Palestinian refugees to the United States of America. According to the sponsor, "The primary mission of the Department of Defense is to ensure the defense and the security of the United States" and "allocating resources to transport Palestinian refugees does not align with the mission of protecting the United States". Support is the Limited Government Position as the United States can no longer afford to serve as the world police force and tend to the needs of non-Americans across the globe. 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 DOD Funds from Being Used to Transport Palestinian Refugees to the United States.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #45 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the Rural Business Program Account in half from last year's enacted budget amount of $43,125,000. Funds within the account are in part utilized for construction of solar energy systems and other renewable energy systems. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting the Appropriation to a Rural Business Program Account, which is Utilized to Subsidize Solar and other Renewable Energy Initiatives, by 50% ($43 million).

The "Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) prohibits federal funding from being used to provide housing for illegal immigrants on any land that is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Land Management agencies. This includes the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Forest Service. Additionally, the bill revokes the lease signed with New York City to house large numbers of illegal migrants in an active community park in Brooklyn. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, such as ones highlighted within this bill. Lawmakers must eliminate all incentives that may encourage illegal immigration, including taxpayer-funded benefits surrounding housing, education, and other welfare programs.

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

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #57 to the "Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes funding for the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. The $240 million is then redirected to deficit reduction. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment represents a step in the right direction to restoring fiscal sanity. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Eliminating an Unnecessary International Food Program and Redirecting the $240 Million in Savings to Deficit Reduction.

The Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) amendment #57 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prevents any funds within the appropriation from being provided to the United Nations unless explicitly authorized by Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens accountability of taxpayer funds and helps prevent their misuse. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $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.

Strengthening Accountability of Taxpayer Funds by Ensuring No Cash is Provided to the United Nations Unless Explicitly Authorized by Congress.

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

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

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

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

Year
2024	0.00	1.90	0.00	0.00	10.00	12.73	13.16	0.00	1.18	0.00
2023	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	5.26	6.67	16.67	0.00	0.00

Year	Score	Role	Party	Dist.
2024	5.28	Rep	D	2
2023	3.17	Rep	D	2

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