Institute for Legislative Analysis

Derrick Van Orden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #71 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $2.7 billion in funding to the higher education account. This account provides appropriations for grant programs that provide direct taxpayer support to higher education institutions. This funding is in addition to student federal aid, research specific aid, and the funding provided to colleges from state and local governments. Support is the Limited Government Position as college and university-level education should be funded through user fees (i.e. tuition) by those who wish to pursue their selected career path. These costs should not be imposed on individuals who elect to pursue activities other than higher education, such as those who start their own businesses or work in the trades.The enormous amount of government funding that has been channeled to colleges and universities has resulted in the creation of gigantic unaccountable bureaucracies that push radical left agendas and discriminate against conservative students.

Cutting $2.7 Billion in Funding that Enriches Woke Colleges and Universities that Indoctrinate Students in Radical Left Agendas.

The Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) amendment #69 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts funding for the student financial assistance account by $9.25 billion. The underlying bill funds the account at a level of $22 billion for FY 2024. This funding is in addition to both the direct subsidies received by colleges and the significant levels of subsidies and student aid provided by state governments. Support is the Limited Government Position as individuals who elect to not attend college and pursue career paths, such as the trades or starting a business, should not be forced to pay the tuition costs of other individuals. This, and other wealth redistribution schemes like student loan forgiveness, merely hike costs, as confirmed by a 2017 study from the Federal Reserve, which found the average tuition increase associated with expansion of student loans is as much as 60 cents per dollar. The enormous amount of government funding that has been channeled to colleges and universities has resulted in the creation of gigantic unaccountable bureaucracies that push radical left agendas and discriminate against.

Reducing Wealth Redistribution through a $9.25 Billion Cut in Appropriations to the Higher Education Student Financial Assistance Account

The Rep. Mariannette Miller-MeeksBiggs (R-IA) amendment #123 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" bans funding from being provided to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's firearm injury and mortality prevention research. The Biden administration requested $35 million for this program in his fiscal year 2024 budget request, which is a $22.5 million increase from fiscal year 2023. Support is the Limited Government Position as the role of the CDC is to prevent and contain diseases and pandemic outbreaks, which, as the nation witnessed with COVID-19, the Center needs to improve on. This amendment helps ensure the CDC does not utilize taxpayer funds to pursue purely politicized initiatives, such as gun control.

Cutting $22.5 Million at the Center for Disease Control that is Directed to Advancing Politicized Initiatives Surrounding Gun Control.

The Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-WI) amendment #9 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" eliminates funding ($240 million) for the Department of the Treasury's Community Development Financial Institutions Fund. The sponsor cited a study by the Heritage Foundation that found the program "to be largely ineffective at meeting its goals of increasing community investment and development". Support is the Limited Government Position as this fund represents corporate welfare at its finest through the distortion of the free market to enrich government-favored entities. 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 $240 Million in Wasteful Spending for the Crony Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, which Provides Corporate Welfare.

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. Andrew Ogles (R-TN) amendment #21 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" reduces funding for the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) back to the level it was in FY 2019. The level of funding for the CPSC under the amendment is roughly $13 million less than under the original bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as the CPSC has been engaging in politicized activities beyond the role it was assigned, such as attempting to ban gas stoves. 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.

Promoting Fiscal Responsibility by Reducing Spending at the Consumer Product Safety Commission to 2019 Levels.

The Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) amendment #15 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes funding for firearms and ammunition at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Support is the Limited Government Position as the role of the IRS should be to assist constituents with tax compliance and calculating liabilities, not serve as a weaponized law enforcement entity.

De-Weaponizing the IRS by Prohibiting Funding for Firearms and Ammunition.

The Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) amendment #63 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funding for the White House Gender Policy Council. According to the sponsor, the entity is promoting a "woke DEI agenda" and is "pro-abortion and pro-transgender". Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to push politized initiatives or for an entity that does not perform a core function of government.

Eliminating Funding for the White House Gender Policy Council, which Promotes DEI, Transgenderism, and Abortion.

The Rep. Aaron Bean (R-FL) amendment #39 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prevents implementation of a Biden administration rule at the Community Advantage Small Business Lending Companies (CA SBLC) program. The CA SBLC program provides credit to certain businesses whose owners can't qualify for traditional loans due to lack of credit. According to the sponsor, the initiative was originally a pilot program, but a rule issued by the Biden administration has reclassified the program, making it no longer accountable to Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps restore executive branch accountability to Congress. Additionally, this program should not be reauthorized as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to provide small business lending based on the associated risk.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Restoring Congressional Oversight to the Community Advantage Small Business Lending Companies Program.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #61 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 Humanities. The sponsor provided multiple examples of waste within the entity, such as $150,000 to build a comics and social justice curriculum at San Diego State University and $360,000 for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at the University of Central Oklahoma. 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 Humanities.

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. 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. Michael Burgess (R-TX) amendment #78 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from utilizing a title 42 special pay authority. According to the sponsor, this authority has resulted in EPA employees being overpaid through the bypassing of the standard federal GS pay schedule. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps restore government accountability and protect taxpayers from overpaying the agency workforce. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers by Ending the EPA's Utilization of a Special Pay Schedule that has Resulted in Overpayment of Agency Employees.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #126 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibit any funds in the appropriations bill from being used to carry out "environmental justice activities". According to the sponsor, the amendment is in response to cases of employees engaging in environmental justice activities that overlap divisive racial ideology with radical environmentalism. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps ensure taxpayer funds are not used to promote politicized agendas surrounding racial justice, climate change, and other extreme environmental beliefs. The implementation of environmental justice policy places significant harm on the U.S. economy and unnecessarily drives up costs for consumers.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds from being Utilized for Politicized "Environmental Justice Activities".

The Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) amendment #59 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the appropriation for the US Army Corp of Engineers by $620 million to match the level of funding it was provided in FY 2022. This funding amount is still more than $290 million than provided in FY 2023, but less than the nearly $1 billion spending hike in the underlying bill compared to last year. According to the sponsor, the amendment is intended to promote responsibility within the Army Corp of Engineers as the entity has a long history of running over budget and out of schedule. Support is the Limited Government Position as an entity with a long track record of poor fiscal management should undergo a significant management reform, not be bailed out with even more taxpayer funds. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers by Limiting the Level of Increased Spending for the US Army Corp of Engineers - An Entity with a Dismal Fiscal Management Track Record.

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 Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #32 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the appropriation for the Great Lakes Authority in half ($2.5 million). This program was created in 2022 to fund watershed programs in a handful of states. According to the sponsor, 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. Our $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Cutting $2.5 Million from a Wasteful "Great Lakes Authority" that has No Website, Programs, or Federal Co-Chair.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #28 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $17 million in funding for the Denali Commission. The Denali Commission is one of seven regional commissions that help direct Federal funds to State and local projects surrounding job training and economic development. However, unlike other commissions, the Denali Commission serves only one State: Alaska. According to the sponsor, both the Obama and Trump administrations have suggested eliminating the commission as funds could instead be provided directly to Alaska for distribution rather than funding a costly additional layer of bureaucracy. Support is the Limited Government Position as every unnecessary bureaucracy and initiative within government must be eliminated or scaled back in order to restore fiscal order in our nation. Our $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Providing $17 Million in Savings to Taxpayers through the Termination of the Denali Commission - a Bureaucracy Recommended for Elimination by both the Trump and Obama Administrations.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #20 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes $470 million in funding for the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). The ARPA-E provides grants to companies for high-risk, high-reward projects, grants they are unable to receive funding for within the private sector. According to the sponsor, multiple GAO reports have found the entity is not following its guidelines: nearly half of the grants have gone towards projects that companies previously received private-sector investments or funding for. Support is the Limited Government Position as regardless of the fact much of this agency's funding is being misused, it is not the proper role of government to provide such funding in the first place. The free-market and private sector - not government bureaucrats - are best equipped to direct funding to the most promising initiatives. The ARPA-E merely fuels cronyism by enriching select entities which are oftentimes politically connected while also further fueling out-of-control taxpayer spending.

Combatting Cronyism by Cutting $470 Million in Funding for the Advanced Research Projects Agency, which Awards Taxpayer Cash to Select Energy Companies Favored by Government.

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #16 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts the appropriation for the Energy Department's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (roughly $2 billion). The office's mission is to "to equitably transition America to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by no later than 2050". Support is the Limited Government Position as this Office largely promotes a politized environmental agenda, which inflicts serious damage to the U.S. economy and hikes consumer costs. The country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs. Additionally, Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Protecting Taxpayers and the U.S. Economy by Defunding the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, which has Advanced a Radical Politicized Climate Change Agenda.

The Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) amendment #37 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts all funding for the "W87-1 modification program", which is developing the latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) nuclear weapon system. According to the sponsor, the $120 billion cost for development over the next decade does not need to be spent now due to the reliability of the existing Minuteman III rockets originally developed in the 1960s. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military are some of the most essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

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

The Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) amendment #36 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" defunds the "Savannah River Plutonium Modernization Program". This project, which is roughly half-way complete, will serve as a production facility for plutonium ,which is a source of fuel for nuclear weapons. According to the sponsor, the project has experienced significant cost overruns, and the U.S. already has a significant supply of plutonium which still has many years before it ages out. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while significant steps should certainly be taken to end the cost overruns, protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military are some of the most essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Defunding the "Savannah River Plutonium Modernization Program", which Produces Fuel for Nuclear Weapons.

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

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

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #20 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" cuts foreign aid "economic support" funding from $2.9 billion to $1.8 billion, or the level of spending in 2018. According to the sponsor, the country can no longer afford to support the various cooperative projects abroad when Americans are facing many of these same challenges within our own country. Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Providing a $1.1 Billion Cut to "Economic Support" Foreign Aid that Restores the Spending Level Back to Pre-Covid.

The Rep. Elijah Crane (R-AZ) amendment #13 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" provides a 50% cut ($607 million) to foreign aid under the USAID program. According to the sponsor, the current budget allocation at USAID "indicates a shift toward a social and cultural agenda that caters to the radical priorities of woke global elites". Support is the Limited Government Position as other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Providing a 50% Cut ($610 Million) to the USAID Program - An Entity where Expenditures have Become Heavily Politicized.

The Rep. Elijah Crane (R-AZ) amendment #10 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes nearly $3 million in funding for the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, salaries, and expenses. According to the sponsor this entity should exist as a private independent think tank and that "funding goes towards functions such as gender equality, and there has even been a Gender Action Plan". Support is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of the private sector - not government - to determine the need and provide the necessary funding for this initiative. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing Fiscal Responsibility by Striking Funding for an Unnecessary "Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe", which has Advanced a Politicized Gender Equality Agenda.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #18 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prevents funds from being used to implement, administer, or enforce section 134 of the Clean Air Act. This section of the act pertains to the EPA greenhouse gas reduction fund created under the Inflation Reduction Act. According to the sponsor, this $27 billion dollar fund is more than three times the EPA's entire fiscal year 2023 appropriation and "sends taxpayer dollars to far-left political organizations and-their favorite-the Chinese Communist Party." Support is the Limited Government Position as the slush fund wastes billions of dollars of taxpayer resources to further grow the size and scope of government and choke economic growth.

Strengthening Government Integrity by Blocking Expenditures Within the $27 Billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Slush Fund.

The "Allowing Contractors to Choose Employees for Select Skills (ACCESS) Act" sponsored by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) would prohibit minimum experience or educational requirements for proposed contractor personnel in government contract solicitations unless deemed necessary by the agency. In cases where such requirements are included, contracting officers must provide a written justification explaining why they are essential. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps reduce taxpayer costs by cutting red tape and allowing contractors to hire the most qualified workers for the job. Many college degrees, such as "gender studies", are virtually worthless and do not relate to the work being performed.

Reducing Taxpayer Costs and Ensuring Contractors can Hire the Most Qualified Workers by Eliminating Minimum Experience and Educational Requirements.

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. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #54 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" prohibits funds for Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Order No. 1920. According to the sponsor, this order forces everyday Americans to subsidize the cost of transmission lines so renewable energy developers can reap the benefits of billions of dollars in Federal subsidies. Support is the Limited Government Position as this amendment helps protect Americans from having their electricity rates further unnecessarily hiked to subsidize a radical environmental agenda. Furthermore, the amendment helps protect landowners from having their property rights infringed through eminent domain proceedings to acquire the land needed for these transmission lines.

Defunding a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Rule which Hikes Electricity Rates and Infringes Property Rights to Construct Unneeded Transmission Lines for Renewable Energy.

The Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) amendment #44 to the "Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" eliminates funding ($55 million) for the administration of the Department of Energy Title 17 Loan Program. According to the sponsor, the program reduces market discipline and has cost taxpayers many hundreds of millions, with some of the most egregious examples including Solyndra, Fisker Automotive and A123 Systems. The sponsor also noted that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) was the ultimate beneficiary, as following the bankruptcies of Fisker and A123, the Chinese purchased the companies for pennies on the dollar. Support is the Limited Government Position as this reckless loan program not only inflicts financial harm onto taxpayers, but has forced Americans to enrich the Chinese and provide the CCP with competitive advantages.

Protecting Taxpayers by Defunding a Crony Department of Energy Loan Program which has Enriched Chinese Companies at the Expense of American Taxpayers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. 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 "Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21)" sponsored by Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA) largely prevents the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from imposing overreaching regulations in the digital asset market (including crypto-currency) by providing greater regulatory clarity. Under the bill, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is provided with new jurisdiction over digital commodities and the bill also establishes a process to permit the secondary market trading of digital commodities if they were initially offered as part of an investment contract. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps fuel innovation by preventing overreaching regulations from being imposed on the crypto-currency industry. The bill is especially critical considering the FED, with its central planning and control over interest rates, presents a dire danger to the economy - especially considering the size of its balance sheet and actions surrounding quantitative easing.

Establishing a New Regulatory Framework which Protects the Crypto Industry from Draconian Regulations by the SEC that Hinder Innovation.

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 "Police Our Border Act" sponsored by Rep. Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY) would require the Department of Justice to report on the impact of the Biden Administration's border policies on law enforcement officers at the federal, state, local, and tribal levels. According to the sponsor, "the report will detail the effects the border crisis has had on law enforcement, including the estimated cost of all resources used to address the influx of illegal immigrants". Additionally, the report "must include information on how much exposure law enforcement officers have to fentanyl while encountering illegal immigrants crossing the southern border as well as any injuries sustained while on the line of duty". 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.

Strengthening Government Accountability by Requiring Reports on the Impact of the Border Crisis on Law Enforcement Through the "Police Our Border Act".

The "Transparency In Charges for Key Events Ticketing (TICKET) Act" sponsored by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) imposes new federal mandates on private ticket sellers for concerts, sporting events, performances and other events concerning the disclosure of certain fees and itemization of costs. 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 Ticket Sellers for Events Concerning Fee Disclosures Through the "TICKET Act".

The "Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act" sponsored by Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) requires the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to impose new mandates on micromobility devices (such as electric bicycles and scooters) relating to lithium-ion batteries and fire risk. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the bill is expected to increase taxpayer cost by $6 million to hire additional government employees to carry out these duties over the next five years. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows the government regulatory state. There are already processes in place at the CPSC to generally monitor the safety of consumer products, and companies within the private sector are incentivized to ensure the products they bring to the market are safe. This includes maintaining the integrity of their brands and the threat of other legal enforcement mechanisms.

Growing the Size and Scope of the Consumer Product Safety Commission to Impose New Mandates on Electric Bicycles and Scooters.

The "Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act" sponsored by Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) requires the Department of Homeland Security to take custody of any illegal immigrant who meets certain criteria and is arrested for, charged with, convicted of, or admits to assaulting a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other first responder. The bill also directs the Government Accountability Office to report to Congress on the number of non-U.S. nationals detained under the bill. Support is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Restoring Law and Order Through the "Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act".

The "Protecting American Energy Production Act" sponsored by Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC) would prevent any president from banning hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" and expresses that the states themselves should regulate fracking for oil and natural gas production on state and private lands. Hydraulic fracking is a process to extract oil or gas from a geologic formation by injecting water, a propping agent (e.g., sand), and chemical additives into a well under enough pressure to fracture the formation. Support is the Limited Government Position as hydraulic fracking helps to significantly boost oil and gas extraction - low-cost energy which is essential to growing the economy and improving the quality of life for all Americans. With renewable energy only accounting for about 20 percent of the U.S. energy supply, the country must adopt an "all of the above" approach to energy production that balances environmental concerns with the need to provide Americans with the lowest possible energy costs.

Preventing Any President from Banning Hydraulic Fracking Through the "Protecting American Energy Production Act".

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".

The Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) amendment #9 to the "Expanding Access to Capital Act of 2023" would require any investment adviser, private fund, or an investment company that is subject to the bill to annually and publicly disclose their investments into women-owned, minority-owned, LGBTQ-owned, and other businesses. According to the sponsor, the measure "provides needed transparency into the opaque world of private equity and venture capital funds" considering "Black-founded companies receive less than 1 percent of venture capital funding annually, while women-founded businesses receive just about 2 percent". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the free-market - not politicized mandates surrounding DEI - is the best mechanism to rout out discrimination and penalize companies that discriminate through profit and loss. This politicized mandate merely grows fuels division while imposing unnecessary costs on private businesses and investors.

Advancing DEI Through a Politicized Mandate Forcing Private Companies to Disclose their Investments into Minority, LGBTQ and Women-owned Businesses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) amendment #10 to the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" 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 loses 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 Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) amendment #8 to the "Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to apply the same access standards for Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (MHRRTP) as for primary care, specialty care, and non-institutional extended care services. According to the sponsor, "veterans are restricted by where they can get their treatment due to the Biden administration's misguided view of the MISSION Act access standards" which has forced veterans to wait months to receive care despite the fact we are losing 17 veterans a day to suicide. Support is the Limited Government Position as those who have served our country deserve to promptly receive the highest standards of care. While the full privatization of the VA and providing our Veterans choice in healthcare is the best policy, this measure serves as a step in the right direction.

Reforming a Biden Administration Policy to Provide Veterans More Prompt Mental Healthcare.

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

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

The "D.C. Criminal Reforms to Immediately Make Everyone Safe (DC CRIMES) Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) would limit the authority of the District of Columbia (DC) government over its criminal sentencing laws and amends the definition of "youth offender" in DC by reducing the maximum age from 24 years to 18 years - thereby eliminating a loophole allowing dangerous criminals to escape jail time. Due to the "criminal justice reforms" implemented by DC's government, violent crime in the District rose 39% from 2023 to 2024. Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety through a well-staffed police force serve as essential components of government. Unfortunately, so-called criminal justice "reforms", like the DC Council's acts, have led to skyrocketing crime rates and are being advanced across the nation by George Soros and other left-leaning Billionaires through their funding of advocacy organizations on both sides of the political aisle.

Combatting Skyrocketing Crime in D.C. by Overturning the Council's Dangerous Policing and Criminal Justice Reforms Through the "DC CRIMES Act".

The "National Construction Safety Team Enhancement Act of 2024" sponsored by Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) would expand the size and regulatory authority of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and increase agency spending by $5 million annually. Currently, the NIST is authorized to investigate the structural failure of a building that has resulted in substantial loss of life or that had the significant potential to cause a substantial loss of life. Under the bill, NIST's authority is expanded to now also investigate structural failures other than those involving buildings and to recommend related improvements to engineering standards and practices. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local authorities (who set and enforce building codes) to perform these duties - not the federal government. This bill which merely fuels out-of-control spending and grows federal bureaucratic power, while going against the principles of federalism as set forth by our Founding Fathers in the U.S. Constitution.

Fueling Out-of-Control Spending and Growing the Regulatory Power of Federal Bureaucrats Through the "National Construction Safety Team Enhancement Act".

The "Equal Representation Act" sponsored by Chuck Edwards (R-NC) would require any questionnaire used in the decennial census to include a checkbox or other similar option for respondents to indicate whether the respondent and each household member is a U.S. citizen. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps ensure federal funds are fairly and accurately distributed as well as strengthens democracy by ensuring each state receives the proper level of representation in the electoral process.

Protecting Democracy and Ensuring an Accurate Census by Requiring Respondents to Indicate whether Each Household Member is a U.S. Citizen on the Questionnaire.

The "Mining Regulatory Clarity Act of 2024" sponsored by Mark Amodei (R-NV) would help protect mineral production in the U.S. by addressing the Rosemont judicial decision. The ruling in the case could upend projects by prohibiting "ancillary activities" (like processing sites or the storage of waste) on lands without economically viable minerals. This bill sets forth a process to allow mining companies to use, occupy, and conduct operations (e.g., construction of roads and other mining infrastructure activity) on public land regardless of whether a mineral deposit has been discovered on the land. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides regulatory certainty and helps cut red tape preventing many mining projects from moving forward, thus expanding American mineral extraction and economic growth.

Protecting American Mineral Extraction and Cutting Red Tape Through the "Mining Regulatory Clarity Act of 2024".

The "Trust the Science Act" sponsored by Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) would direct the Department of the Interior (DOI) to remove protections for the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). Specifically, the bill requires the DOI to reissue a former Trump administration rule issued on November 3, 2020 titled "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Removing the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife". According to the sponsor, "For far too long, farmers and ranchers have been powerless to defend their livestock from gray wolf attacks" and leaving the wolf "on the ESA list in perpetuity prevents scarce taxpayer resources from going to endangered species that actually need help being recovered". Support is the Limited Government Position as due to the fact the gray wolf has fully recovered, leaving the species on the list unnecessarily continues the infringement of property rights and prevents resources from being directed to other animals in actual need of protection.

Removing the Fully Recovered Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species List to Better Direct Taxpayer Resources to Protecting Threatened Species through the "Trust the Science Act".

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

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

The "Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) would repeal the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) "Conservation and Landscape Health" final rule. This rule establishes a series of new regulations concerning the usage of public land and restoration and conservation standards. According to the sponsor, "by elevating conservation as a qualified multiple-use, the BLM is acting outside of the law and is intentionally locking up America's public lands from intended purposes like resource development, mining, grazing, recreation and timber harvesting". Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps combat excessive regulations which obstruct mineral extraction and prevent the responsible usage of federal land. Considering the federal government owns a staggering 28% of all land in the country, the majority of federal land holdings should be turned over to the states or sold to the private sector to better manage.

Repealing an Overreaching Biden Administration Environmental Rule which Reduces Federal Land Usage Through the "Western Economic Security Today (WEST) Act".

The "Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act" sponsored by Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA) would expand the size and role of the Department of Energy (DOE) to create a research, development, and demonstration program concerning abandoned oil and gas wells. According to the sponsor, "methane emissions from oil and gas wells - some of which date back as early as the 1850s including orphan wells, remains a significant driver of short-term climate change". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the management of abandoned oil and gas wells is the duty of state and local entities - not the federal government. This measure merely expands government bureaucracy, largely to promote a politicized climate change agenda. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control federal spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This resolution sponsored by Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) urges the European Union (EU) to expeditiously designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization under the EU Common Position 931 on terrorism (a sanction regime). It also encourages the Biden Administration to make the EU designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization a diplomatic priority in engagements with the EU. According to the sponsor, "the world must signal to the Islamic Republic of Iran that they will face severe consequences for their widespread acts of terrorism". Support is the Limited Government Position as this resolution helps strengthen national security by encouraging the EU to follow President Trump's lead in 2019 and designate the IRGC as a foreign terrorist organization to help weaken the power of Iran, a country known to harbor terrorists.

Encouraging the European Union to Designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Terrorist Organization and Impose Sanctions.

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 "No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act" sponsored by Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) is intended to deter Iran and other hostile governments and individuals from hostage-taking or wrongfully detaining United States nationals by imposing sanction and other strict penalties. Most notably, the bill denies a visa to anyone seeking admission to the United States as a representative to the United Nations if they are sanctioned under terrorism or weapons of mass destruction proliferation Executive Orders. According to the sponsor, "mass murderer and terrorist Ebrahim Raisi hates the United States, pledges death to America, yet applies and is granted to travel to New York annually for the United Nations, this hypocrisy is unacceptable". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by denying terrorists entry into the United States.

Strengthening National Security by Denying Terrorists Entry into the U.S. Under the "No Paydays for Hostage-Takers Act".

The "No Technology for Terror Act" sponsored by Rep. Nathan Moran (R-TX) would make permanent existing U.S. export control restrictions that prohibit the transfer of American made technology to Iran. Additionally, the bill would extend the "foreign direct product rule" to Iran, which restricts the re-export or transfer of U.S. originated items from one foreign country to Iran. The products include technology and equipment such as cameras, lasers, and sensors.  Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill strengthens national security by denying technology and other equipment to Iran - a known harborer of terrorists.

Strengthening National Security by Boosting Export Restrictions on Iran Through the "No Technology for Terror Act".

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

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

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

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

The "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act" sponsored by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) would ban the social media platform TikTok, which is a subsidiary of Chinese-owned company ByteDance Ltd. The bill includes a provision which would allow TikTok to continue to operate if ByteDance sells the application to a company deemed acceptable by the President. According to the sponsor, this measure is necessary given the fact TikTok is owned by the Chinese and the potential for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to collect data on American users. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as while the potential for the CCP to collect data on Americans is concerning, TikTok has become a widely popular in America, with over 170 million monthly users. A TikTok ban across government platforms is reasonable considering national security, but ultimately it should be up to individual Americans to weigh the risks of TikTok and determine their usage - not politicians - absent a much more substantial threat to national security.

Imposing an Overreaching Ban on the Social Media Platform TikTok Through the "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act".

The "Utilizing Space Efficiently and Improving Technologies (USE IT) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA) would require the federal government to use 60% of the capacity of federal buildings or sell them. According to the sponsor, "American taxpayers have been forced to pay $2 billion a year for office space" and "the federal government has been grasping onto more than 11,000 acres of old, unused buildings, and won't force its employees into the offices". Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill represents an easy solution to help reduce government 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.

Reducing Government Waste by Selling Federal Buildings being Utilized at a Capacity of 60% or Less Through the "Utilizing Space Efficiently and Improving Technologies (USE IT) Act".

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

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

The "Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-Bridge) Act" sponsored by Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) would increase federal spending on broadband projects, particularly last-mile projects, which connect to homes and other buildings in "distressed communities". Specifically, the bill would make it easier to receive broadband grants from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) by allowing grant recipients to use in-kind donations, such as real property, to meet the cost sharing requirements. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the costs to provide broadband to select individuals should not be socialized onto federal taxpayers. Additionally, broadband infrastructure is no longer necessary due to new technologies such as Elon Musk's Starlink internet. Federal and state broadband subsidy schemes merely distort the free-market by providing competitive advantages, and enrich woke companies such as Comcast.

Fueling Wasteful Spending and Enriching Woke Companies Through the "Eliminating Barriers to Rural Internet Development Grant Eligibility (E-Bridge) Act".

Derrick Van Orden

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