Government spending fight |
Since 1997, Congress has failed to pass all 12 appropriations bills on time—a glaring display of dysfunction. This recurring failure forces last-minute spending battles where government shutdowns and holidays away from family are weaponized for political theater. In these chaotic negotiations, fiscal responsibility takes a back seat, allowing wasteful pork-barrel projects to thrive, further bloating our unsustainable $36-plus trillion national debt. This is not governance; it’s recklessness. I ran for Congress to fight this culture of irresponsibility. I will not cave to these destructive habits.
DOGE and the American people played a critical role in defeating the proposed 1,547-page omnibus bill. The collective outcry led to significant pressure on legislators. The moment showcased the immense power of collective civic engagement in holding Congress accountable and shaping legislative decisions. When citizens stand together and make their voices heard, they remind their representatives who we truly serve—the people.
And while the second version of the so-called “CR” was much shorter – 116 pages – I could not vote for it because it would increase our debt ceiling for two years and add at the very least $4 trillion to our national debt. In addition, it included over $100 billion in unpaid expenditures. While the third version of this spending bill excluded the debt ceiling increase, it still would add hundreds of billions to our debt and continue Nancy Pelosi-level spending. I ran on fiscal responsibility and could not vote for any version of this bill. For far too long, Congress has been saddling current and future generations with immense debt. It’s not only irresponsible but immoral, and we need more members of Congress to stand up to this fiscal insanity. |
My bill, the FIT Procurement Act, passes the House |
The Federal Improvement in Technology (FIT) Procurement Act is a bold step toward transforming federal technology procurement, ensuring efficiency, innovation and taxpayer savings.
By raising the Micro-Purchase Threshold from $10,000 to $25,000 and the Simplified Acquisition Threshold from $250,000 to $500,000, the legislation reduces administrative costs, saving millions annually, while empowering small businesses to compete for government contracts.
The bill emphasizes advanced training for federal procurement officials, equipping them with the skills to navigate cutting-edge technologies.
Backed by bipartisan support and industry leaders, this legislation fosters competition, reduces red tape, and promotes fairness in federal contracting.
The FIT Procurement Act delivers real reform, ensuring taxpayers get the best value for their money while modernizing government operations for a digital future. I was excited to see it passed the House this week. Now, it heads to the Senate for consideration. |
Bill that protects property owners on Table Rock Lake heads to President’s desk |
I’m very excited to announce that the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) has passed both the House and the Senate and now heads to the President’s desk. The final bill includes critical language I championed to safeguard the rights of property owners along Table Rock Lake. |
Introduction of legislation to protect electric grid, Americans’ right to Auto Data Privacy |
This week, I was proud to introduce the Auto Data Privacy and Autonomy Act. With modern vehicles generating vast amounts of data, including driving habits, locations and personal information, ensuring that this information remains secure and under the owner's control is paramount. The bills, introduced in both the House and Senate, requires auto manufacturers to disclose what data is collected and puts Americans back in the driver’s seat when it comes to their personal data.
I’m grateful to Sen. Mike Lee for leading this effort in the Senate. |
I also introduced a second bill, the Reliable Grid Act, that would protect the electric grid from damaging, energy killing regulations implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This bill prohibits the EPA Administrator from enforcing rules and regulations that restrict power plant operation and impact the electric grid unless its security and reliability are guaranteed.
For decades, the EPA has implemented regulations that place unnecessary burdens on the energy sector and strain the United States’ electric grid. It is completely unacceptable that a large portion of the United States’ electric grid is either at an elevated or high risk of power disruptions and outages. My bill protects Americans from the rogue bureaucrats at the EPA who are more concerned with pushing climate alarmism than ensuring Americans have access to abundant, affordable, and reliable electricity.
Honoring our nation’s heroes |
I recently attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the Springfield National Cemetery and paid my respects to the heroes who laid down their lives for our nation and our freedom. While these patriots may no longer be here with us, their lives and sacrifices will never be forgotten. |
Need help with a federal agency? |
If you are having a problem getting a timely answer from a federal agency or feel like you've been treated unfairly, my office may be able to help.
My office helps constituents with issues involving the VA, the IRS, Social Security, the State Department, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and other federal agencies. To learn more and submit a request for help with a federal agency: https://burlison.house.gov/services/help-federal-agency |
And that's it for the Burlison Brief!
Best,
Rep. Eric Burlison
Member of Congress
To contact me: Burlison.House.Gov
Springfield District Office, 3232 E. Ridgeview St., Springfield, MO 65804; Phone: 417-889-1800.
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