Hakeem Jeffries

This concurrent resolution, sponsored by Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO), recognizes local law enforcement officers and condemns calls to defund or abolish the police, as well as other anti-police criminal justice reforms. According to the sponsor, the resolution is designed "to show support for our men and women in blue after they have been "mercilessly attacked" following the 2020 George Floyd riots." Support is the Limited Government Position as protecting property rights and ensuring public safety through a well-staffed and protected police force serve as essential components of government.Unfortunately, the defund the police movement and 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.

Expressing Support for Law Enforcement and Opposing Calls to "Defund the Police" and Other Anti-Police Criminal Justice Reforms.

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. Greg Steube (R-FL) amendment #73 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits any funding within the bill from being provided to UNESCO. According to the sponsor, UNESCO is "incredibly corrupt and mismanaged" and has a long history of anti-American and anti-Israel bias. Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be provided to foreign entities that hate America and its allies. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Placing America First by Preventing Funding from Being Provided to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which has an Anti-American Bias.

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 "en bloc No. 1" amendment to the "Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022" consists of 11 separate amendments surrounding studies and funding for a range of different workforce development initiatives. Initiatives included in the study range from increasing the number of electric vehicle automotive mechanics, to creating workforce partnerships with private entities, to marketing and raising awareness of government career centers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the best way to increase hiring and grow the workforce is through a low tax environment - not growing government involvement in workforce development, which results in higher taxation. Additionally, the free market is best equipped to determine which positions are most needed in the workforce, not ineffective government central planning practices.

Advancing Unnecessary Spending through a Package of 11 Amendments Concerning "Workforce Development" that Should be Performed by the Private Sector.

The "Fort San Gerónimo Preservation Act", introduced by Delegate Jenniffer González-Colón (Puerto Rico), establishes Fort San Gerónimo del Boquerón in San Juan, Puerto Rico as an affiliated area of the National Park System.Under the bill, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture is made the management entity of the area, with the National Park Service (NPS) providing technical and financial assistance to the institute to assist with marketing, interpretation, and preservation efforts. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill further grows the size and spending of the National Park Service at a time when our nation has $33 trillion in national debt and has over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities. Lawmakers must shrink, not expand, the operations of the NPS - especially in regions that are not parts of the United States.

Further Growing the Size and Spending of the National Park Service by Making a Fort in Puerto Rico a New Affiliated Area.

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. 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. 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. 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. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) amendment #27 to the "National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024" would remove a section in the bill relating to the B83-1 nuclear gravity bomb and prohibit any funding for B83 sustainment. According to the sponsor, the elimination of funding for the B83 will save $1.5 billion over the next 30 years, with no risk at all to our security. Opponents claim: "the B83 is the last megaton-class nuclear weapon in our arsenal. It exists to destroy deeply buried targets. China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran are putting some of the things they value most underground, covered in steel and concrete. The B83 is currently our only way of getting to those targets." 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 Striking Funding for the B83-1 Nuclear Gravity Bomb Designed to Destroy Deeply Buried Targets in Adversary Nations.

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 "Global Food Security Reauthorization Act of 2022" further grows spending by an additional $100 million for various programs at the Department of State and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) pertaining to global food security, resulting in annual spending of $3.9 billion. This spending program is another of many other initiatives already funded by the U.S. pertaining to food and agricultural development overseas. Oppose 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 grow its foreign aid spending when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government in order to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reauthorizing and Further Hiking Spending to $3.9 Billion Annually for Foreign Aid Surrounding Global Food Insecurity.

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 "Rights for the Transportation Security Administration Workforce Act of 2022" transitions the 60,000 employees within the Transporation Security Administration (TSA) to the personnel system under Title 5 of U.S. code, which includes the General Schedule pay system and full collective bargaining rights. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only will this transition impose billions of dollars of additional costs onto taxpayers, but it makes it more difficult for the government to discipline and terminate poor-performing employees due to collective bargaining.

Hiking Taxpayer Costs and Weakening the Ability to Discipline Poor-Performing Employees by Unionizing 60,000 Employees within the Transporation Security Administration.

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

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

The "Encouraging Public Offerings Act of 2023", sponsored by Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO), makes Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) more attractive for companies by allowing communication with potential investors to determine interest in a securities offering, either before or after the filing of a registration statement. According to the sponsor, the bill "will encourage more companies to go public and expand provisions of the JOBS Act by codifying an existing SEC rule to allow all companies to 'test the waters' and communicate directly with potential investors before filing for an IPO." Support is the Limited Government Position as this bill helps reduce regulatory barriers for businesses to attract potential investors and go public, thus boosting economic growth.

Reducing Regulatory Barriers for Businesses to Evaluate Potential Investors Ahead of an IPO through the "Encouraging Public Offerings Act".

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 "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. 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.

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

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

The "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 "Peace Corps Reauthorization Act of 2022" further increases funding for the Peace Corps while making several adjustments to the program, such as larger allowances and greater health benefits to program participants. Oppose 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 $1.4 trillion. Significant spending cuts must take place across government in order to reverse our $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

Reauthorizing the Peace Corps with a Significant Hike in Spending and New Benefits Provided to Participants.

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 "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. Lance Gooden (R-TX) amendment #54 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prohibits funding for the "Refugee Travel Loan Program", which is administered by the United Nations International Organization for Migration. According to the sponsor, this program is a taxpayer-funded slush fund that channels money to foreign NGOs, which take a 25 percent cut of the cash before providing the recourses to refugees. Support is the Limited Government Position as all taxpayer funds should be protected from waste, fraud, and abuse. Additionally, 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.

Protecting Taxpayers by Cutting Funding to the "Refugee Travel Loan Program", which Serves as a Slush-Fund Enriching Politically Connected Foreign NGOs.

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

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

The 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 Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-IN) amendment #57 to the "Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024" prevents any funds within the appropriation from being provided to the United Nations unless explicitly authorized by Congress. Support is the Limited Government Position as this measure strengthens accountability of taxpayer funds and helps prevent their misuse. Furthermore, other countries in the United Nations have continually failed to contribute their fair share of global support and the United States can no longer continue to provide its enormous levels of foreign aid when congress is running a budget deficit of $1.7 trillion. Lawmakers must rein in the out-of-control spending and $33 trillion in national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.

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

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

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

The "Delivering Optimally Urgent Labor Access for Veterans Affairs (DOULA) Act of 2022" requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to study the feasibility and advisability of furnishing doula services to those enrolled in the VA healthcare system. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, rather than further growing the failing bureaucracy and services 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 within the private sector.

Requiring a Study to Further Grow the Department Of Veterans Affairs to Include "Doula Services" Despite Much Needed Reforms or Privatization of the Broken System.

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

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

The 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. 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. 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 "National Aviation Preparedness Plan Act of 2022" requires the Department of Transportation to develop a national aviation preparedness plan that includes the identification of appropriate personal protective equipment to reduce exposure to a communicable disease and consultations with airline and labor groups. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the primary mission of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is to constantly monitor and adjust strategy to best protect the public from pandemics - it is an organization better equipped to carry out these duties than the Department of Transportation.

Creating Unnecessary Bureaucracy within the Department of Transportation to Establish a Duplicative Aviation Industry Pandemic Plan Already Covered by the CDC.

This resolution introduced by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) utilizes the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to nullify a rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a rule that placed population segments of the lesser prairie chicken on either the "threatened" or "endangered" list of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The classifications have an impact on farming and ranching activities. Support is the Limited Government Position as the rule results in a disproportionate regulatory burden imposed by unaccountable bureaucrats who weaken property rights and drive-up costs for farmers and ranchers.

Protecting Property Rights by Nullifying an Overreaching Biden Administration Rule Concerning the Lesser Prairie Chicken on the Endangered Species Act.

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

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

The Rep. 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. 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 "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 "en bloc No. 4" amendment to a multi-agency appropriations package blocks the enforcement of the Davis-Bacon Act, which is a depression-era policy that forces government contractors to pay their employees above-market wages when working on public works projects. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the prevailing wage established under the Davis-Bacon Act needlessly drives-up taxpayer costs by imposing significant additional costs onto government contractors.

Protecting Taxpayers by Blocking Enforcement of the Davis-Bacon Act (Prevailing Wage) Which Unnecessarily Drives Up the Costs of Public Works Projects.

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

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

The "LGBTQI+ Data Inclusion Act" requires the over 100 federal agencies that conduct surveys collecting demographic data, expand their methods to incorporate information on sexual orientation, gender identity, and other "variations in sex characteristics" into their published reports. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as not only does this measure further increase government bureaucracy and taxpayer costs, but may place some survey respondents in uncomfortable positions due to the sensitive nature of the questions. While all members of the LGBTQ community should be treated equally and protected from any form of discrimination by government, this measure is largely intended to be used to justify new federal programs and further expand the role of government.

Expanding Government Bureaucracy and Hiking Costs by Requiring Surveys Conducted by Federal Agencies Include Questions on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.

The Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) amendment #65 to the "Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act" prohibits any funds within the bill from being used to hire any diversity, equity, and inclusion officials or conduct training on diversity, equity, and inclusion. According to the sponsor "Secretary Buttigieg and President Biden's DEI initiatives which hire and promote people based on their physical characteristics over their merits and qualifications violate Title VII and the Constitution." Support is the Limited Government Position as taxpayer funds should not be utilized to promote DEI or CRT, which are ideologies that sow division amongst Americans and are intended to further grow the role of government. These programs also fuel cronyism by enriching the providers of these services, who are typically politically connected.

Protecting Taxpayer Funds within the Aviation Appropriation Bill from Being Utilized to Fund Politicized Initiatives Surrounding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

This bill expands the expedited environmental review and permitting process under Title 41 of the Fixing America\'s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act to speed up the government approval process for constructing new semiconductor facilities and other computer hardware and software facilities. It is estimated that this bill will reduce the time frame of the regulatory approval process, which currently can take up to five years, to about 18 months. Support is the Limited Government Position as lawmakers should advances measures to remove government barriers that prevent the free market from solving the semiconductor shortage, instead of doling out subsidies and corporate welfare.

Expediting U.S. Semiconductor Production by Reducing Unnecessary Government Environmental and Permitting Barriers for New Facility Construction.

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 "Right to Contraception Act" establishes within federal law a new right to use and obtain contraceptives. The bill is also expected to nullify conscience protections for healthcare providers and employers who object on moral grounds to providing contraception or sterilization services. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as using and purchasing contraceptives should be a choice of the individual, not something a religious employer should be forced to fund and provide, as this is a clear violation of the freedom of religion protection under the First Amendment.

Advancing Frivolous Litigation and Mandates on Employers by Establishing a "Right to Contraception."

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 "Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2022" establishes a national "red flag" program whereby any individual may seek to have a firearm immediately taken away from another person through an "ex-parte" (one-sided) petition to a court if the individual alleges the person is a danger to themselves or others. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the one-sided petition violates due process under the law (an individual can't provide their defense) and this program lacks provisions that prevent nefarious individuals from abusing the system to harass or harm law-abiding individuals, thus unduly infringing their Second Amendment protections and leaving them defenseless.

Authorizing Seizures of Firearms Without Due Process Through the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act.

The "Lower Energy Costs Act", introduced by Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA), implements several regulatory reforms designed to boost American energy production. For example, the bill streamlines the permitting process to bring new energy projects online quicker, repeals tax and fee increases imposed by the Biden administration on energy production, and opens up a greater amount of federal lands and water for resource development. Support is the Limited Government position as American energy dominance is critical to not only making our nation and industry competitive abroad, but to lowering consumer costs. The Biden administration's war on American energy has unnecessarily driven up gasoline prices and costs across the U.S. economy.

Promoting Economic Growth through the "Lower Energy Costs Act", which Streamlines Regulations to Boost American Energy Production.

The "Kissimmee River Wild and Scenic River Act" directs a study to add Florida's Kissimmee river to the Bureau of Land Management's Wild and Scenic River program, which currently manages over 2,700 miles of rivers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure will shift costs from state taxpayers onto the residents of other states not benefited by the river while also 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.

Advancing Unsustainable Federal Land Management Through a Study to Add Florida's Kissimmee River to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

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".

The "Bipartisan Safer Communities Act" is touted by its supporters as the largest gun safety package since the 1994 assault weapons band. The bill establishes enhanced background checks for individuals under 21 years of age, closes the "boyfriend loophole", and channels billions of dollars into community programs and mental health services. Furthermore, the bill provides $750 million to states for "red flag" programs whereby any individual may seek to have a firearm immediately taken away from another person through an "ex-parte" (one-sided) petition to a court if the individual alleges the person is a danger to themselves or others. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the one-sided petition violates due process under the law (an individual can't provide their defense) and this program lacks provisions that prevent nefarious individuals from abusing the system to harass or harm law-abiding individuals, thus unduly infringing their Second Amendment protections and leaving them defenseless.

Year	Edu	Energy & Env	Speech	Health	Liberty	Law & Gov	Security	Reg	Tax & Fiscal	Work & Labor
2023	0	0	0	0	20	5.26	26.67	25	0	0
2022	0	0	0	0	0	6.67	0	0	0	0

ILA

Hakeem Jeffries