Institute for Legislative Analysis

Randy Weber

This resolution, introduced by Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify the Environmental Protection Agency rule titled "Control of Air Pollution From New Motor Vehicles: Heavy-Duty Engine and Vehicle Standards". The rule, covering commercial trucks imposes much stricter emissions standards covering nitrogen oxides and other air pollutants, including particulate matter, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide. According to the sponsor, the rule "saddles the trucking industry with an onerous regulation" and that "the prices of newer vehicles will escalate, incentivizing truckers and businesses to hold onto their older, higher-emitting trucks". Support is the Limited Government Position as the rule imposed by bureaucrats within the Biden administration represents regulatory overreach and unnecessarily hike truck prices in order to promote a politicized climate change agenda.

Nullifying an Onerous Truck Emission Regulation Imposed by the Biden Administration that Results in Significant Commercial Vehicle Price Hikes.

This resolution introduced by Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-GA) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives titled"Factoring Criteria for Firearms With Attached Stabilizing Braces". Under the rule, pistols with a stabilizing brace attachment would be reclassified as short-barreled rifles, and subject to additional regulations. Additionally, gun owners who fail to register their pistols with stabilizing braces with the ATF could face ten years in jail and hefty fines. Support is the Limited Government Position as James Madison and our nation's other founding fathers understood that the right to keep and bear arms is a crucial individual liberty and protects the citizenry against a tyrannical government. This measure weakens Second Amendment and privacy rights of law-abiding citizens while doing nothing to deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.

Strengthening Second Amendment Rights by Nullifying a Biden Administration Rule that Subjects Pistols with a Stabilizing Brace to Additional Regulations and Registration Mandates.

This bill, the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024", lays out how the Pentagon will be funded for the next year and includes $886 billion in defense spending. Most notably, this conference version of the bill removes Republican provisions that end Pentagon practices that facilitate abortion, enable taxpayer-funded sex reassignment surgeries, and promote Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the armed forces. Furthermore, the bill reauthorizes the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which has been utilized to conduct surveillance on Americans without a warrant, including President Trump's previous campaign for president. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as Pentagon funding should be contingent on both a full audit, due to reports of tens of billions of taxpayer funds being "misplaced", and safeguards that protect funds from being utilized for politicized and other improper purposes. The FISA reauthorization violates the protections provided to Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Authorizing a Defense Bill without the Removal of Countless Radical Left Policies Surrounding Abortion, Transgenderism, Critical Race Theory and Civil Liberty Violations.

This bill, the "Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act" serves as a short-term "CR" that funds government for another 45 days, delaying an otherwise imminent government shutdown to right before the holidays. While this CR contains no funding for Ukraine, it does provide $16 billion in additional federal disaster funds - $10 billion more than previously negotiated - and the full amount sought by President Biden. The CR follows previous funding proposals by Republicans, which contained conservative policy items like border security and spending cuts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. The measure shifts negotiations to right before the holidays when history has shown (as recently as the previous year) lawmakers refuse to make any spending cuts or shutdown 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.

Harming the Ability to Negotiate a Fiscally-Responsible Budget by Passaging a CR that Delays a Government Shutdown to Right Before the Holidays.

This bill, "making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024", is a "CR" that funds portions of government through January 19, 2024 or February 2, 2024, depending on the department. The CR does not contain provisions demanded by conservative lawmakers, such as spending cuts or border security measures. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this "kick the can down the road" approach weakens the ability of conservatives to obtain meaningful spending cuts. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Continuing Out-of-Control Spending through a CR Without Any Fiscal Restraints or Border Security Measures

This resolution introduced by Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau titled "Small Business Lending under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)". This rule implements a section of the Dodd-Frank Act and requires banks to collect and report data on race, ethnicity, and sex across 81 fields. According to the sponsor, this rule imposes a significant additional cost on lenders and creates privacy concerns for small businesses that do not want such information made public. Support is the Limited Government Position as this Biden Administration rule further worsens the draconian regulatory framework of Dodd-Frank, while unnecessary driving up lending costs and infringing privacy rights.

Combatting Regulatory Overreach by Nullifying Biden Administration Rules, Forcing Banks to Report and Publish Additional Data Pertaining to Race, Ethnicity, and Sex.

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

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

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

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

The Rep. 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 #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. 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 #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. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #19 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" directs "funds to follow the student" so they can attend the school of their choice (i.e., public, private, or home school). The amendment effectively establishes a nationwide school voucher program with the funds authorized for educational and instructional materials, tutoring, tuition for private school, and extracurricular activities. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure improves educational outcomes for all students by fostering competition and a market in education, which encourages schools to provide the best education so they can attract parents to enroll their child and receive the associated funding.

Improving Educational Outcomes by Establishing a National School Voucher Program to Provide School Choice.

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

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

The Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) amendment #15 to the "Parents Bill of Rights Act" abolishes the Department of Education effective December 31, 2023. According to the sponsor, "it is time to return the power back to the States, back to the people, and back to the school boards to allow them to make these decisions locally." Support is the Limited Government Position as the Department of Education has become a bloated bureaucracy that goes against our Founding Father's belief in the concept of "laboratories of democracy". This measure helps eliminate waste and restore full educational authority back to the state and local level.

Restoring Education Authority Back to the State and Local Level through the Abolishment of the Department of Education.

The "Parents Bill of Rights Act", sponsored by Rep. Julia Letlow (R-LA), provides parents a series of new "rights" that local educational agencies and schools must provide parents. Provisions include the right to review school curriculum, the right to a list of books in school libraries, and the right to know if school restrooms or changing rooms are based on biological sex, among numerous other rights. Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps boost transparency and accountability within the education system. Lawmakers must ensure schools are held accountable to parents and measures, such as this bill, are crucial to ensure classrooms are not weaponized to advance any political or social agendas onto children.

Strengthening Transparency and Accountability within the Education System through a "Parents Bill of Rights".

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

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

The Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) amendment #38 to the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits any of the funding in the MILCON-VA appropriations bill from being used to carry out COVID-19 vaccine mandates at the Department of Veterans Affairs. According to the sponsor, "the mandate is unnecessary to keep our veterans or the VA staff safe. The former CDC director has said that the vaccines can't do anything to prevent transmission." Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens individual liberties by allowing VA staff to determine how best to cope and protect themselves from COVID-19, which has been around for over 3 years. This measure also ensures that congress - which is accountable to voters - sets vaccination policy, as opposed to unaccountable government bureaucrats within the VA.

Protecting Individual Liberties by Terminating the COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

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

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

The Rep. Joaquin Castro (R-TX) amendment #51 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits Federal Homeland Security funding from being diverted for Operation Lone Star. This border security operation was launched by Texas Governor Greg Abbott as a way to reduce the number of illegal crossings from Mexico into Texas. Operation Lone Star is jointly run by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Military Department and includes deployment thousands of police officers and soldiers and miles of barriers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border not only has catastrophic implications on the ability to maintain law and order, but also creates countless other issues, ranging from welfare to the education system.

Weakening an Open Border Immigration System by Defunding the Texas "Operation Lone Star" Border Security Operation, Which Includes Thousands of Police Officers and Miles of Barriers.

The Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX) amendment #25 to the "Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2024" strikes section 224 of the bill, which requires the DHS secretary to prioritize detention of illegal immigrants over alternative options. According to the sponsor, section 224 "hamstrings DHS' operational flexibility to effectively manage their resources" while opponents claim "striking the provision will give the Biden administration a free pass to continue releasing migrants into the country, a total disregard of the law." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as ensuring public safety and national defense is arguably the most important role of government. Failure to secure our nation's border 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.

Promoting an Open Border Immigration System by Eliminating the Requirement that DHS Prioritize the Detention of Illegal Immigrants.

The Rep. Bob Good (R-VA) amendment #28 to the "Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024" transfers $10 million allocated for the Office of Diversity in Biomedical Research to the Spending Reduction Account. According to the sponsor, "When it comes to the future of biomedical research, we want to know that the best of the best are researching ways to cure cancer, fight heart disease, and help us lead longer and healthier lives. None of those are racial problems. They are human problems." Support is the Limited Government Position as the Office of Diversity represents a wasteful bureaucracy and taxpayer funds should not be expended on politicized initiatives, such as diversity, inclusion, and social engineering. Furthermore, lawmakers must cut similar bureaucratic waste throughout countless other agencies to reign 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 and Politicized Bureaucracy through Defunding the "Office of Diversity in Biomedical Research" and Transferring the Savings to the Spending Reduction Account.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Perry Amendment #167 to the ""America COMPETES Act of 2022" requires the United States to withdraw from the United Nations Climate Framework Convention, which strives to control global greenhouse gas emission levels. Support is the Limited Government Position as membership in world-wide initiatives, such as the UNCFC, nearly always result in overly-stringent environmental regulations being placed on the United States. Meanwhile, countries that are engaging in horrendous environmental practices, such as China, must meet and comply with minimal standards. As a result, the U.S. is placed at a significant competitive economic disadvantage on the national stage and Americans are faced with higher consumer costs, all while having a miniscule impact on reducing global emissions.

Increasing Regulatory Certainty and Economic Growth by Removing the U.S. from the United Nations Climate Framework Convention.

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

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

The "Postal Service Reform Act of 2022" repeals a key fiscal safeguard implemented in 2006 which requires the United States Postal Service to prepay future retirement health benefits (i.e. "pay as you go"), thus now allowing USPS to further grow the over $60 billion in unfunded liabilities on its books. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the repeal of this essential safeguard will result in even less fiscal accountability at the agency and further balloon the already enormous amount of unfunded liabilities, which will ultimately become the responsibility of taxpayers.

Eliminating a Key Fiscal Safeguard within the U.S. Postal Service Resulting in $60 Billion in Unfunded Liabilities being Placed on Taxpayers.

The "Further Additional Extending Government Funding Act" funds the federal government through March 11, 2022 and serves as the third short-term continuing resolution passed since early October. Without passing a continuing resolution, a partial government shutdown would occur, providing advocates of fiscal responsibility greater leverage in budget negotiations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as forcing a hard deadline on budget negotiations raises awareness of the nation's out-of-control spending and helps hinder passage of other wasteful spending measures such as the COMPETES act. Substantial cuts must be made to the budget to eliminate the $1.4 trillion deficit and begin the process of paying down our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Avoiding Fiscal Responsibility through the Continual Passage of Short-Term Government Funding Bills

This vote authorizes the non-defense related components of the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022" which funds government through the remainder of 2022. The package hikes spending by an average of 7 percent, sets aside over $20 billion for climate change research and resilience, and revives the practice of earmarks - congressionally directed spending - which has not been permitted for years due to the cronyism of the practice. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further fuels out-of-control spending despite the fact congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Significant cuts must take place across government in order to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represent the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Hiking Non-Defense Domestic Spending by 7% and Promoting Cronyism through the Revival of Earmarks.

The Fitzgerald amendment #184 to the "Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal (FAIR) Act of 2022" removes an "unfair" provision that exempted union employees from having to comply with the FAIR act, which prohibits pre-dispute arbitration agreements from being enforceable if the arbitration surrounds an employment, consumer, antitrust, or civil rights dispute. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as arbitration serves as a significantly less costly alternative to litigation and if lawmakers are going to enact such a policy - which ultimately enriches trial attorneys - then union employees should not be granted political favoritism through a special benefit not also afforded to non-union employees.

Eliminating an Unfair Carve-out Provided to Only Union Employees Within the Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal (FAIR) Act.

The "Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act of 2022" makes a person's hair texture or hairstyle a protected characteristic if is commonly associated with a particular race or national origin. CROWN applies to public accommodations, employment, and federally assisted programs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill allows anyone who alleges they have been discriminated against based on their hair to file a lawsuit in federal court in the same manner one may file under the Civil Rights Act and the Fair Housing Act. As a result, both individuals making frivolous allegations and plaintiffs\' attorneys could abuse the court system and expose businesses to significant legal liabilities, potentially having the opposite intended outcome by making it more difficult for individuals with these hairstyles to find employment and housing.

Increasing Frivolous Litigation and Legal Liabilities by Making "Hair Texture and Style" a Protected Characteristic in Employment and Housing.

The "Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Technical Corrections Act" amends the STORM Act, requiring that state and local governments comply with the latest edition of building codes, which contains, among other things, stricter efficiency mandates and environmental regulations. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as additional red tape and complying with these "one size fits all" regulations are unnecessary to mitigating natural disaster risk and ultimately drive-up taxpayer costs while preventing program funding from being most effectively utilized.

Increasing Regulatory Burdens and Red Tape Under the Hazard Mitigation Revolving Loan Fund.

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

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

The "Affordable Insulin Now Act" imposes a $35 price control on all out-pocket costs or copayments for insulin products. The bill applies to all private health insurance and Medicare prescription drug benefits. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents individuals from having the ability to select a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals opting to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.

Increasing Health Insurance Premiums by Imposing Price Controls on Insulin Co-Payments.

The "Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act" establishes a series of additional coverage mandates surrounding patient anomaly and birth defects (primarily oral treatments) that all public and private health insurers must include in all policy offerings. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as each and every health insurance mandate or price control on co-payments prevents individuals from having the ability to select a plan with just basic or customized coverages to fit their specific needs. As a result, health insurers are forced to only offer costly plans loaded with coverages that most individuals do not need. This can result in lower-income or younger individuals opting to purchase no insurance plan at all due to the high cost.

Establishing Additional Health Insurance Mandates Regarding Dental Birth Defects, which will Drive Up Rates and Make Healthcare Even Less Affordable.

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

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

The Tlaib Amendment #259 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" eliminates the statutory requirement that the U.S. hold a minimum of 400 nuclear Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). Oppose is the Limited Government Position as protecting the nation from foreign adversaries and maintaining a strong military is one of - if not the most - essential roles of government. Adapting the philosophy of "Peace Through Strength" ensures the United States has the most technologically advanced weapons in the world, which is a critical component of avoiding costly and deadly conflict.

Weakening National Security by Reducing the Number of Nuclear ICB Missiles Held by the United States.

The Sanchez amendment #261 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" requires the Secretaries of Defense and Veterans Affairs to develop a report that identifies how their departments are working to mitigate the spread and impact of malign disinformation. The amendment defines "malign disinformation" as any disinformation that is harmful to good order and discipline or related to extremist activities or vaccination. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the amendment's vague definition of "disinformation" can be abused by certain employees within government to censor political opponents and infringe on free speech protected under the First Amendment.

Advancing Government Censorship by Requiring the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs to Report on "Misinformation" that is "Harmful to Good Order and Discipline".

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

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

The DeGette amendment #285 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" adds the text of the "Protecting America's Wilderness and Public Lands Act" to the NDAA. As a result, federal land holdings and management would increase by 1.6 million acres across Colorado, California, New Mexico, and Washington. An additional 1,200 miles of river would be added to the national wild and scenic rivers system. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure will block mineral extraction and energy development while further growing the federal government's management of land. The federal government already owns a staggering 28% of all land in the country, which has led to wildfires and countless other issues due to the Department of the Interior's inability to properly oversee and maintain such a massive amount of property.

Growing Unsustainable Federal Land Holdings by Adding 1.6 Million Acres and 1,200 Miles of Rivers Under the Protecting America's Wilderness and Public Lands Act.

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

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

The Meng Amendment #289 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct an awareness campaign regarding the types of fertility treatments, procedures, and services available to veterans experiencing issues with fertility. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as rather than further growing the failing bureaucracy and unnecessary initiatives of the VA, lawmakers should work to streamline and shrink the department so that those who served our country can receive the highest possible quality of healthcare from the doctors of their choice.

Requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to Conduct a "Fertility Treatment Awareness Campaign" Despite Much Needed Reforms or Privatizing the Broken System.

The "Further Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2023" funds the federal government through December 23, 2022, as opposed to January 2023 when a new congress will be sworn in following the November election. Such an action will result in members of congress who lost their election, but are still sitting in office (a concept commonly known as "lame duck"), to set government funding for the next year, rather than the next congress.  Oppose is the Limited Government Position as allowing lame duck members of congress to set funding levels - especially with a holiday deadline - will likely result in greater irresponsible spending. Budgets should be set by sitting members of congress, the individuals who are held accountable by the voters, not members who are on their way out of office.

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

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

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

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

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

The "Native American Language Resource Center Act of 2022" directs the Department of Education to annually appropriate $3 million to establish a university-based center to "serve as a resource to improve the capacity to teach and learn Native American languages and further Native American language use and acquisition". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is best equipped to determine investment levels and which initiatives would be the most impactful for such a center to engage in rather than university employees who are not financially held accountable for the center's failure or success.

Increasing Government Spending to Establish a New Native American Language Resource Center.

The "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023", which was passed on December 23, 2022 funds government through the rest of fiscal year 2023. The package is over 4,000 pages long and includes numerous earmarks, ultimately amounting to $1.7 trillion in spending. Spending increases included 5.5% in domestic spending and 10% in defense spending. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure was voted upon only days before the new congress, which would likely have significantly cut spending within the bill due to Republicans taking control of the House. The bill also contained nearly $50 billion in additional spending on Ukraine (without safeguards to prevent corruption), bringing the year's total to $113 billion - totaling more than half the size of Ukraine's entire pre-war economy.

Bypassing the New Congress by Ramming Through $1.7 Trillion in Spending in the Final Days of the Lame Duck Session.

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

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

The "Promoting Opportunities for Non-Traditional Capital Formation Act", sponsored by Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), would grow the size and role of the Securities and Exchange Commission's Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation. It calls to provide "educational resources and host events to promote capital-raising options for underrepresented and rural small businesses". Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows the size and role of government beyond its core Constitutional duties. The private sector already provides a wealth of knowledge on capital raising options through the internet and business publications. This measure merely grows government bureaucracy and, unlike "profit and loss" signals within the private sector, provides no way to measure need or success. 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.

Growing the Size and Role of Government to Now Provide Education on "Capital-Raising" for Minority and Rural Businesses.

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) amendment #1 to the "Protect Our Law enforcement with Immigration Control and Enforcement Act of 2023 or the POLICE Act of 2023" requires the Department of Homeland Security to make publicly available on its website an annual report on the number of illegal immigrants deported for assaulting a law enforcement officer. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps strengthen government transparency and accountability. 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.

Boosting Transparency on the Border Crisis by Publishing a Report on the Number of Illegal Immigrants Deported for Assaulting Law Enforcement Officers.

The Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) amendment #12 to the "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023" reduces congressional oversight of regulations by only applying the REINS Act to regulations with an economic impact of $1 billion or more - it was previously $100 million or more. Under the REINS Act, new rules imposed by federal agencies must be approved by Congress if they have an annual effect on the economy of more than $100 million or result in a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, among other conditions. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this amendment weakens the REINS Act, which would provide a critical check on executive branch power. Federal agencies are comprised of countless unaccountable bureaucrats who have tremendous authority to impose regulations that directly impact the lives of Americans and the growth of the U.S. economy.

Weakening the Check on Executive Branch Power by Requiring Congressional Approval for Just Regulations with Impacts of $1 Billion or More (Previously $100 Million) Under the "REINS" Act.

The "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2023" sponsored by Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL) establishes a process whereby new rules imposed by federal agencies must be approved by Congress if they have an annual effect on the economy of more than $100 million or result in a major increase in cost or prices for consumers, among other conditions. According to the sponsor, the bill "would reassert Congress' legislative authority and prevent excessive overreach by the executive branch in the federal rulemaking process." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill places a critical check on executive branch power and unaccountable bureaucrats within federal agencies who have tremendous authority to impose regulations that directly impact the lives of Americans. The REINS Act is a critical tool to fight back against overreaching regulations and boost economic growth.

Placing a Critical Check on the Regulatory Power of Unaccountable Bureaucrats within the Executive Branch through the "REINS" Act.

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

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

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

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

The "Custom Health Option and Individual Care Expense (CHOICE) Arrangements Act", sponsored by Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), allows employees to receive tax exempt funds from their employer to purchase a healthcare plan of their choosing. Through this system, employees could use the funds to purchase health plans that are exempt from many of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) regulations, which results in much cheaper healthcare plan options than what an employer could otherwise provide. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure helps provide greater choice in healthcare at significantly lower cost, which benefits both businesses and their employees. The countless coverage mandates under the Affordable Care Act have caused healthcare premiums to skyrocket, with many individuals paying for coverage they do not need and can't afford.

Reducing Healthcare Costs for Both Businesses and Employees through the "CHOICE Arrangements Act", which Bypasses Costly Mandates Under Obamacare.

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

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

The Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) amendment #38 to the "Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funds from being used to implement the Biden administration's January 2021 executive order #14008 titled ''Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.'' According to the sponsor, "the Biden administration is calling for the government to put its thumb on the scale of free-flowing capital, pick winners and losers, and pursue an agenda to starve energy companies of the financing that they need and redirect capital into speculative green energy technologies that, frankly, are unproven and will not actually fix the climate." 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.

Protecting American Energy Production by Blocking Biden's Executive Order "Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad".

This vote (the third attempt) elects Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) as the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives to replace previous Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Support is the Limited Government Position as the research of the Institute for Legislative Analysis confirms that Rep. Jim Jordan has by far the strongest track record of adherence to the limited government principles of the U.S. Constitution of any of the proposed candidates for Speaker.

Electing Rep. Jim Jordan as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives - The Candidate with the Strongest Track Record of Adherence to Limited Government Principles.

This bill, the "Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023", raises the $31.4 trillion U.S. debt ceiling through January 1, 2025. The bill is estimated to allow for $4 trillion in additional debt while providing roughly $1.5 trillion in discretionary spending reductions over ten years, which may or may not be fully realized. The bill also paves the way for a natural gas pipeline from West Virginia to Virginia and claws back some funding, which was provided to the Internal Revenue Service to hire additional employees. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the budgetary gimmicks within the bill provide little, if any, significant reduction in spending, merely continuing the country's march to a financial collapse. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Advancing a U.S. Financial Collapse by Lifting the Debt Limit without Enacting Any Significant Fiscal Restraints to Stop the Deficit Spending.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK) amendment #24 to the "Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025" strikes the $12 million the bill provided to the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. According to the sponsor, the Wilson Center is a "far-left organization dedicated, much like President Wilson, to far-left values around the world". The sponsor cited events where the Wilson Center "promoted ''safe abortion'' access around the world, claiming that denying abortion is violence" and Wilson Center articles "that suggested Europe should accept unfettered mass immigration, claiming that blocking illegal immigration is ''far right." Support is the Limited Government Position as non-profits such as the Wilson Center should obtain their funding from individuals and granting foundations within the private sector, not government. Taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the political initiatives of non-profits.

Cutting $12 Million in Taxpayer Funding to the Wilson Center - A Political Non-Profit with Extremist Abortion and Immigration Positions.

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 "Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2025" sponsored by Rep. David Valadao (R-CA) allocates roughly $7 billion in discretionary funding (a 5.6 percent increase in spending from the previous level). This includes increases in spending for chamber operations, U.S. Capitol Police, the Congressional Budget Office, the Government Accountability Office and the Library of Congress. The bill decreases funding for the Architect of the Capitol, the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled and joint items including the Joint Economic Committee and Joint Committee on Taxation. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should lead by example and cut spending within their own house, not further balloon the deficit through a 5.6 percent increase in spending. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $35 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the $200 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country. Note: Lawmakers who opposed the bill due to its fiscal implications were recorded as supporting the limited government position, while lawmakers who opposed due to the removal of DEI and climate change provisions were recorded as opposing the limited government position.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Protecting Consumer Choice through the "Refrigerator Freedom Act".

The 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.

Randy Weber

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