Rep. Ashley Hinson (IA-02) has voiced her opinions on the recent government funding package, expressing a mix of criticism and support for the contents of the bill. Hinson emphasized the importance of timely budgeting, stating, "Congress should not be finalizing last year's appropriations bills six months into this fiscal year." She also acknowledged the frustration felt by Iowans regarding the shutdown politics.
Hinson highlighted key aspects of the funding package, stating, "This funding package slashes Biden's army of IRS agents and deals a blow to Biden's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion agenda while also funding a well-deserved pay raise for our troops and supporting our Border Patrol Agents." She emphasized the need for further cuts and the defunding of the Biden Administration's liberal agenda, indicating a plan to do so when Republican control is regained in the White House and Senate.
The government funding package includes significant cuts to various areas of spending, such as State and foreign operations, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, and climate change initiatives. Specifically, funding for the Biden Administration's IRS agents has been reduced, with a focus on protecting hardworking Americans from unnecessary scrutiny.
Rep. Hinson's priorities were also addressed in the bill, with provisions supporting Border Patrol Agents, FEMA emergency communication systems, flood hazard mapping programs, and initiatives to track and replace Chinese telecommunications equipment in federal buildings. Additionally, the bill maintains the Hyde Amendment to prevent federal funds from being used for abortions and includes the Dickey Amendment to restrict funds from advocating for gun control.
Furthermore, Hinson's final Community Project Funding request was included in the package, allocating $8,000,000 for Dubuque Flood Mitigation Gates and Pumps in Dubuque County. This project aims to enhance disaster mitigation efforts in the region, particularly along the Mississippi River, to safeguard communities from flood damage.
The funding package reflects a mix of conservative wins and critical cuts, aligning with Rep. Ashley Hinson's stance on fiscal responsibility and targeted spending priorities.