The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“RELIGIOUS CONTRACTORS FINAL RULE” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Labor was published in the in the House of Representatives section section on page H6724 on Dec. 1.
The Department provides billions in unemployment insurance, which peaked around 2011 though spending had declined before the pandemic. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, claimed the Department funds "ineffective and duplicative services" and overregulates the workplace.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
RELIGIOUS CONTRACTORS FINAL RULE
(Ms. FOXX asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)
Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I stand in strong opposition to the Department of Labor's attack on religious freedom. The Department of Labor's proposal to rescind protections for religious Federal contractors demonstrates how hostile the Biden administration is to the free exercise of religion when it bucks up against progressive priorities.
Prior to President Trump's rule clarifying the rights and obligations of religious Federal contractors, religious organizations were reluctant to seek Federal contracts. If the rule is rescinded, religious organizations will, once again, be dissuaded from competing for these contracts. This will lead to less competition for Federal contracts, meaning the American people will pay a higher price for Federal projects.
Religious organizations should be able to compete for contracts on a level playing field without having to compromise their faith. The Biden administration apparently disagrees. It is of the utmost importance to protect our very first right--the religious freedom of all Americans--
including Federal contractors.
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