Al Lawson Voting Record & Scorecard | National Democrat Platform
US Representative from FL
District: 5 • Democrat
2022 DEM Alignment:
6.17%
Voting Alignment with DEM Platform – by Chapter
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Rep. Al Lawson (D-FL-5) earned a 6% National Democrat Platform score for 2022, showing minimal alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Al Lawson voted on 81 of the 81 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2022. Al Lawson represents Florida's 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Title
Lawmaker Position
RC 100
House 2022
1xRC 100House 20221x
Ensuring Taxpayer Funds within the COMPETES Act Are Not Sent to Foreign Adversaries.
With DEMs
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.
RC 102
House 2022
1xRC 102House 20221x
Increasing Health Insurance Premiums by Imposing Price Controls on Insulin Co-Payments.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 109
House 2022
1xRC 109House 20221x
Establishing Additional Health Insurance Mandates Regarding Dental Birth Defects, which will Drive Up Rates and Make Healthcare Even Less Affordable.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 118
House 2022
1xRC 118House 20221x
Advancing the January 6th Committee''s Political Witch Hunt by Holding Navarro and Scavino in Contempt of Congress for Defying Subpoenas
Against DEMs
None
RC 123
House 2022
1xRC 123House 20221x
Fueling Runaway Spending by Providing the Restaurant Industry an Additional $42 Billion in Funds Two-Years After the Start of the Pandemic.
Against DEMs
The "Relief for Restaurants and other Hard Hit Small Businesses Act of 2022" provides an additional $42 billion to the restaurant revitalization fund. The bill also requires the Small Business Administration to provide applicants with an explanation for a denied application and establish a reconsideration process for any denials. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the start of the pandemic shutdowns was over two years ago and all restaurants throughout the country have been operating at full capacity for months. Faced with a congressional Budget deficit of $1.4 trillion, the country is no longer in the position to continue to fund non-essential programs. Significant cuts must take place across government to reverse our staggering $30 trillion national debt, which, when coupled with the over $185 trillion in unfunded federal liabilities, represents the greatest existential threat facing this country.
RC 145
House 2022
1xRC 145House 20221x
Authorizing an Additional $40 Billion in Spending on Ukraine with Minimal Oversight to Prevent Corruption.
Against DEMs
The "Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2022" provides $40.1 billion in additional funding to Ukraine due to the Russian invasion, which follows the $14 billion Congress sent the country a couple months prior. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, regardless of the significant question of whether or not the United States should be engaged in the conflict, this enormous sum of resources (over a quarter of the size of the entire Ukranian economy) is coupled with few safeguards to ensure accountability and proper use, a serious concern due to the significant track record of corruption within Ukraine.
RC 150
House 2022
1xRC 150House 20221x
Expanding Government Bureaucracy and Grant Issuance for "Digital Privacy Technologies" that are Best Funded through the Private Sector.
Against DEMs
The "Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act" would require hiring three additional government employees at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and increased grant issuance at the National Science Foundation to promote workforce development and research surrounding digital privacy technologies. Oppose is the Limited Government Position <XXX Opposed this bill> as the free market and private sector is best equipped to determine investment in the most impactful initiatives surrounding "digital privacy technology", instead of government employees, who are not financially held accountable to the success or outcomes of the grants they issue.
RC 172
House 2022
1xRC 172House 20221x
Hiking Taxpayer Costs and Weakening the Ability to Discipline Poor-Performing Employees by Unionizing 60,000 Employees within the Transporation Security Administration.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 182
House 2022
1xRC 182House 20221x
Growing Government Dependency by Expanding Eligibility and Spending Under the Community Services Block Grant Program.
Against DEMs
The "Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Modernization Act of 2022" grows spending under the CSBG program by over 27 percent and increases eligibility for benefits provided under the program to individuals earning up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level - such benefits were previously reserved for individuals at or below the federal poverty level. The CSBG is touted by proponents as a tool for the federal government to reduce poverty and is subject to less federal oversight, given funds are largely used at the discretion of state and local governments. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector, through charitable endeavors, is best equipped to fund the most impactful initiatives that reduce poverty, not government programs, such as the CSBG program, which has little oversight and a long history of waste, fraud, and abuse.
RC 184
House 2022
1xRC 184House 20221x
Expanding Bureaucracy and Spending within FEMA to Establish a Largely Politicized "Nonprofit Security Grant Program".
Against DEMs
The "Nonprofit Security Grant Program Improvement Act of 2022" authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to annually administer over $360 million in grants to non-profit entities to be used for improving their physical security. Such purposes include paying security guards, improving physical barriers, and remodeling their facilities. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is the role of state and local law enforcement to protect their communities and fight crime and not the role of a federal entity such as FEMA to manage such a program. Furthermore, if lawmakers are truly concerned about improving public safety, they should focus on combatting efforts to "defund the police" and address crime head-on rather than advance largely politized measures.
RC 188
House 2022
1xRC 188House 20221x
Advancing Unnecessary Spending through a Package of 11 Amendments Concerning "Workforce Development" that Should be Performed by the Private Sector.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 21
House 2022
1xRC 21House 20221x
Placing Unnecessary Requirements Surrounding "Environmental Justice" in U.S. Sanctions and Foreign Policy Operations.
Against DEMs
The Jayapal Amd. No. 5 to the "United States Innovation and Competition Act" requires the State Department coordinate with the Department of Energy to report on the impact of US sanctions related to innovation, emissions reduction, climate cooperation, and economic justice. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as foreign policy - especially the imposition of sanctions - are highly sensitive actions that have enormous impacts on global economic stability and United States national security. Such actions should not be further complicated through unnecessary, poorly defined, and politized requirements.
RC 211
House 2022
1xRC 211House 20221x
Reducing the Effectiveness of Taxpayer Resources Through a Greater Emphasis on Poverty Levels as Opposed to Cost/Benefit and Other Factors when Allocating Federal Funds.
Against DEMs
The "Targeting Resources to Communities in Need Act of 2022" is designed to place an even higher emphasis on "impoverished areas" when federal agencies calculate and determine how they allocate their funding as opposed to other key factors such as need, return on investment, and cost and benefit. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as all taxpayer resources should be utilized and distributed in the manner that provides the greatest returns on taxpayer investments, as opposed to politicized means such as "persistent poverty" which oftentimes is a consequence of fundamental underlying problems such as failed local management, crime, and corruption, and typically results in the waste and abuse of the federal funds.
RC 221
House 2022
1xRC 221House 20221x
Weakening Civil Liberties by Providing the Department of Justice Overreaching New Powers Through the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act.
Against DEMs
The "Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2022" provides the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) a series of new powers and duties, including assessing the domestic terrorism threat posed by "white supremacist and neo-Nazi infiltration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and the uniformed services." Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill provides employees within the DOJ, DHS, and FBI overreaching new surveillance and investigative powers and does not contain critical safeguards to protect civil liberties under the Fourth Amendment. Additionally, there have been numerous cases of recent politicized actions taking place within the FBI, including their support of a letter from the National School Boards Association that characterized parental engagement on school curriculums as "heinous actions" that "could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism."
RC 232
House 2022
1xRC 232House 20221x
Creating Fuel Shortages and Worsening the Energy Crises by Placing Price Controls on Consumer Fuel Prices.
Against DEMs
The "Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act" authorizes the President to declare an "energy emergency," thus prohibiting anyone who sells gasoline or other consumer fuels from charging a price that (1) is unconscionably excessive, and (2) indicates that the seller is exploiting the emergency to increase prices unreasonably. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the nation learned first-hand the devastation caused by price controls which were implemented by the Nixon Administration during the 1970''s energy crisis. Instead, lawmakers should work to bring down high energy prices by empowering the free market to solve the problem, including removing any regulatory barriers to energy production and distribution.
RC 245
House 2022
1xRC 245House 20221x
Weakening Second Amendment Rights Through Multiple Overreaching Bans and Mandates Concerning Ammunition Magazines, Firearm Storage, and Home-crafted Firearms.
Against DEMs
The "Protecting Our Kids Act" is composed of eight separate gun control measures packaged together. Among other things, the bill bans "high capacity" ammunition magazines, places several mandates on how firearms may be stored, and makes it illegal for individuals to build their own firearms or "ghost guns" without serial numbers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as these "one-size-fits-all" mandates - especially those surrounding firearm storage - harm the ability of law-abiding individuals to defend themselves and weaken their Second Amendment rights while ultimately doing little, if anything, to deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.
RC 25
House 2022
1xRC 25House 20221x
Jeopardizing National Security by Advocating the Removal of Sanctions on the Afghan Central Bank which will Provide the Taliban with $9.5 Billion.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 255
House 2022
1xRC 255House 20221x
Authorizing Seizures of Firearms Without Due Process Through the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 256
House 2022
1xRC 256House 20221x
Expanding Government Power to Set Prices and Interfere in Private Contracting Agreements Between Companies Through the Ocean Shipping Reform Act.
Against DEMs
The "Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022" provides the Federal Maritime Commission new power to investigate and order refunds of "unreasonable" demurrage charges (late fees when cargo is not unloaded in contracted time frames at ports), as well as a series of other new regulatory powers. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as it is not the role of government to interfere in the private contract negotiations of companies, absent fraud or criminal activity. Instead, lawmakers should empower the free market to reduce shipping costs by repealing the underlying government regulations that have led to the shipping cost crisis, such as the Jones Act and other government barriers to port construction.
RC 261
House 2022
1xRC 261House 20221x
Protecting the Legitimacy of the Supreme Court by Ensuring Police Protection for the Immediate Families of the Nine Justices.
With DEMs
The "Supreme Court Police Parity Act of 2022" provides the Supreme Court Police Marshall the authority to protect any immediate family member of one of the nine justices on the Supreme Court. Support is the Limited Government Position as one of the essential roles of government is ensuring an environment of law and order. Just like the Executive and Legislative branches of government, the legitimacy of the Judiciary must be protected by ensuring judicial rulings are not swayed due to fears of threats or violence against Justices or their families.
RC 262
House 2022
1xRC 262House 20221x
Advancing Government Racial Discrimination in Contracting and Unnecessary Conservation Initiatives Through Amendments to the Wildlife Bill.
Against DEMs
The "en bloc No. 1" amendment to the "Recovering America''s Wildlife Act of 2022" contains a set of four amendments that pertain to various conservation initiatives and includes a mandate requiring the Secretary of the Interior to produce a report detailing the number of contracts, subcontracts, and grants that have been issued to minority-owned businesses. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as government has a duty to treat all individuals equally - especially regarding characteristics such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity - in the application of law and in contracting and granting opportunities. Furthermore, any actions that government takes that reduce competition in contracting (such as minority quotas) unnecessarily drives-up taxpayer costs.
RC 27
House 2022
1xRC 27House 20221x
Increasing Regulatory Certainty and Economic Growth by Removing the U.S. from the United Nations Climate Framework Convention.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 271
House 2022
1xRC 271House 20221x
Removing Costly Data Collection Mandates Imposed on Small Business Lenders Under the Dodd-Frank Act.
Against DEMs
The "en bloc No. 2" amendment to the "Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act" strikes section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Act, which requires the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to issue a rule requiring banks and credit unions to collect and report demographic data on small business loan applications. Support is the Limited Government Position as this mandate unnecessarily drives up loan costs for lenders and small businesses, and largely serves as a political measure to help justify additional regulations and further growth of government involvement in the financial sector.
RC 273
House 2022
1xRC 273House 20221x
Preventing Private Businesses from Setting their Own Payment Method Policies by Mandating All Retail Establishments Accept Cash.
Against DEMs
The Payne amendment #227 to the "Financial Services Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Economic Justice Act" mandates that all retail establishments accept cash for transactions under $2,000. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this measure infringes private contracting rights while also placing a significant regulatory barrier on "automated marketplaces" and businesses in high-crime areas. While there are legitimate concerns for government attempting to eliminate cash and create its own digital and trackable currency, such issues should be addressed in targeted legislation as opposed to this overreaching mandate that harms businesses.
RC 277
House 2022
1xRC 277House 20221x
Advancing Unnecessary Spending and Regulatory Overreach in the Agricultural Industry Through Subsidies for Ethanol Fuel Expansion and a New "Special Investigator" for Competition.
Against DEMs
The "Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act" includes $700 million in subsidies for agricultural producers and initiatives, including $200 million to upgrade infrastructure to blend both biodiesel and ethanol fuel at higher levels (ex. E15). Additionally, the bill establishes a new special investigator of competition within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to regulate and bring civil action concerning competition and trade practices across the agricultural industry. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the amenities of the agricultural industry (or any industry) and the promotion of higher ethanol-blended fuel, which causes significant damage to older cars and trucks. Furthermore, the best mechanism to expand competition is through the free market, not through further the further expansion of government and regulations - which most often has the opposite intended result.
RC 288
House 2022
1xRC 288House 20221x
Directing $1.7 Billion in Additional Spending at the Department of Health and Human Services for the Creation of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Health Act.
Against DEMs
The "Advanced Research Projects Agency-Health (ARPA-H) Act" would result in $1.7 billion in additional spending at the Department of Health and Human Services to create a new agency tasked with increasing biomedical innovation and improving disease treatment. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is far better equipped to effectively advance medical innovation, not government officials who are attempting to centrally plan research efforts without a plan to track financial accountability or measure if taxpayer funded resource are used effectively. Instead, lawmakers should work to eliminate all unnecessary regulatory barriers at the FDA so a drug isn''t stuck in regulatory limbo for decades at a cost of billions of dollars.
RC 289
House 2022
1xRC 289House 20221x
Establishing a Politicized "Active Shooter Alert System" Under the Department of Justice with No Oversight to Ensure Proper Application.
Against DEMs
The "Active Shooter Alert Act of 2022" establishes a communication network, which proponents tout is similar to an amber alert, that will notify individuals of an active shooter. This new network will be overseen by a new division within the Department of Justice. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as such an initiative, if carried out, should be developed and strictly overseen by local officials accountable to the people. In recent years, the Department of Justice has been significantly criticized for carrying out its work in a politicized fashion and this system could be heavily abused to promote any potential shooting event or incident involving a firearm, thus serving as an activist tool for gun control.
RC 290
House 2022
1xRC 290House 20221x
Extending "Temporary" Spending Hikes and Eligibility Waivers to the Federal School Lunch Program Implemented Under COVID-19 to 2024.
Against DEMs
The "Keep Kids Fed Act" of 2022 extends certain eligibility waivers and the elevated reimbursement rates provided to schools and afterschool program providers for breakfasts, lunches and snacks under the Department of Agriculture''s Child and Adult Care Food Program through 2024. These waivers and higher reimbursement rates were "temporary" measures implemented at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the country is no longer experiencing the same restrictions and challenges faced during the pandemic and the extension of this additional funding was done without other desperately needed reforms, such as restricting the free meals provided under such programs to only children from low-income families instead of to all students.
RC 296
House 2022
1xRC 296House 20221x
Expanding Government Bureaucracy and Hiking Costs by Requiring Surveys Conducted by Federal Agencies Include Questions on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 299
House 2022
1xRC 299House 20221x
Authorizing Billions in New Spending on an Ineffective Gun Safety Package that Includes the Seizure of Firearms without Due Process.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 309
House 2022
1xRC 309House 20221x
Establishing Unreasonable Presumptions Pertaining to Health of Veterans Which May Advance Fraudulent Disability Claims and Further Overload the VA.
Against DEMs
The "Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022,", commonly referred to as the "burn pit bill", establishes a presumption that nearly any American service member stationed in a combat zone over the last 32 years could have been exposed to a toxic substance, resulting in additional health and disability benefits for an estimated 3.5 million veterans. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the cost of this bill could exceed $700 billion. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as, while all veterans who sustained injuries due to their service should receive the highest levels of treatment and care, this bill creates countless avenues for devious plaintiffs\'' attorneys to advance fraudulent health and disability claims and will likely further overload the VA, thus preventing veterans with service-sustained injuries from receiving the prompt care they deserve.
RC 31
House 2022
1xRC 31House 20221x
Advancing the "COMPETES ACT" with $318 Billion in Wasteful Spending and Protectionist Trade Policies that Unnecessarily Hike Consumer Costs.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 311
House 2022
1xRC 311House 20221x
Driving Up Taxpayer Procurement Costs by Preventing the Department of Defense from Contracting with any Private Company that has Engaged in "Anti-Union Activity".
Against DEMs
The Jones amendment #247 to the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" prohibits the Department of Defense (DOD) from contracting with any company that has engaged in anti-union activity within the last three years as broadly defined by the National Labor Relations Board. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as this bill ultimately restricts competition within the contracting and procurement process, which unnecessarily drives up taxpayer costs. Additionally, the amendment establishes a blanket prohibition restricting the DOD from considering the severity or the circumstances around the situation, thus prohibiting contracting for mere paperwork violations.
RC 321
House 2022
1xRC 321House 20221x
Weakening National Security by Pausing the Continued Development and Upgrade of the U.S. Nuclear ICBM Program.
With DEMs
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.
RC 322
House 2022
1xRC 322House 20221x
Weakening National Security by Reducing the Number of Nuclear ICB Missiles Held by the United States.
With DEMs
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.
RC 324
House 2022
1xRC 324House 20221x
Advancing Government Censorship by Requiring the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs to Report on "Misinformation" that is "Harmful to Good Order and Discipline".
Against DEMs
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.
RC 336
House 2022
1xRC 336House 20221x
Growing Bureaucracy and Taxpayer Costs by Requiring the State Department to Post a "Climate Change Officer" at Embassies, Consulates, and on Diplomatic Missions.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 346
House 2022
1xRC 346House 20221x
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.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 348
House 2022
1xRC 348House 20221x
Fueling Unnecessary Spending by Eliminating the $25,000 Cap Placed on the Artwork Purchases of U.S. Embassies Unless they Receive Congressional Approval.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 349
House 2022
1xRC 349House 20221x
Requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to Conduct a "Fertility Treatment Awareness Campaign" Despite Much Needed Reforms or Privatizing the Broken System.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 360
House 2022
1xRC 360House 20221x
Expanding Abortion Services and Drugs Through the Women''s Health Protection Act
Against DEMs
None
RC 362
House 2022
1xRC 362House 20221x
Advancing Out-of-State Abortions through the Ensuring Women\''s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act.
Against DEMs
None
RC 376
House 2022
1xRC 376House 20221x
Advancing Unsustainable Federal Land Management Through a Study to Add Florida''s Kissimmee River to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 38
House 2022
1xRC 38House 20221x
Eliminating a Key Fiscal Safeguard within the U.S. Postal Service Resulting in $60 Billion in Unfunded Liabilities being Placed on Taxpayers.
Against DEMs
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.
RC 385
House 2022
1xRC 385House 20221x
Advancing Frivolous Litigation and Mandates on Employers by Establishing a "Right to Contraception."
Against DEMs
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.
RC 39
House 2022
1xRC 39House 20221x
Avoiding Fiscal Responsibility through the Continual Passage of Short-Term Government Funding Bills
Against DEMs
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.
RC 396
House 2022
1xRC 396House 20221x
Forcing Taxpayers to Bailout the Pension Plans of Delphi Retirees (Parts Manufacturer of General Motors During 2009 Bankruptcy).
Against DEMs
The Susan Muffley Act of 2022 requires taxpayers to cover the costs of providing full pension benefits to the roughly 21,000 former employees of Delphi Corporation. These employees have been receiving only partial pension benefits following the bankruptcy of the company, which served as the parts manufacturer of General Motors, a company that also went bankrupt in 2009. The bill also requires that all the former employees receive 13 years of benefit backpay and interest at a rate of six percent. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as despite the terrible precedent that was established during the government bailout of the banks and auto manufacturers in 2009, it is not the role of government to bailout privately owned companies and place the costs on the backs of taxpayers. Additionally, this measure is especially unfair to the countless other workers and employees who have suffered similar financial setbacks over the years due to employer bankruptcies, albeit their circumstances did not receive the media attention garnered by Delphi.
RC 398
House 2022
1xRC 398House 20221x
Expanding Bureaucracy within the Department of Health and Human Services for a South Asian Heart Health Awareness Campaign.
Against DEMs
The "South Asian Heart Health Awareness and Research Act of 2022" requires the Department of Health and Human Services to create a new program supporting research and awareness surrounding heart diseases within the South Asian population and other communities that may be impacted. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as the private sector is far better equipped to effectively advance medical innovation, not government officials who are attempting to centrally plan research efforts without a plan to track financial accountability or measure if taxpayer funded resources are used effectively.
RC 404
House 2022
1xRC 404House 20221x
Expanding Cronyism and Corporate Welfare for Semiconductor Manufacturers Through Billions in Subsidies and Tax Credits Under the CHIPS and Science Act.
Against DEMs
The "Chips and Science Act" provides $52.7 billion in subsidies to manufacturers of semiconductors plus an additional $24 billion in tax credits. The bill also provides over $200 billion in additional funding to the National Science Foundation and the Departments of Energy and Commerce for initiatives surrounding STEM, R&D, and workforce and economic development programs. Oppose is the Limited Government Position as taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize government-favored private business entities. The free market is far better equipped to engage in research and development, not government officials who are attempting to centrally plan research efforts without a plan to track financial accountability or measure if taxpayer funded resource are used effectively.
RC 410
House 2022
1xRC 410House 20221x
Weakening Second Amendment Rights Through a Ban on the Sale and Possession of Semi-Automatic Firearms.
Against DEMs
The "Assault Weapons Ban of 2022" makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer or possess a semi-automatic firearm or large capacity ammunition feeding device. Oppose 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. Additionally, as congressionally mandated studies on the previous federal assault weapon ban concluded, the ban had no impact in curbing violent crime, as these bans do not deter criminals from continuing to engage in unlawful behavior.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rep. Al Lawson's voting record?
Rep. Al Lawson (D-FL-5) earned a 6% National Democrat Platform score for 2022, showing minimal alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles. Al Lawson voted on 81 of the 81 substantive bills scored by Dem Platform in 2022. Al Lawson represents Florida's 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
How aligned is Al Lawson with Democratic Party Platform principles?
Al Lawson earned a 6% National Democrat Platform score in 2022, showing minimal alignment with Democratic Party Platform principles.
What is Al Lawson's Dem Platform score?
Al Lawson has a 6% Dem Platform score for 2022.
Where does Al Lawson serve?
Rep. Al Lawson (D-FL-5) represents Florida's 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat.