In a striking start to the new Congressional session, Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ-5) laid an ambitious slate of bills on the House floor, targeting key issues ranging from immigration reform to constitutional amendments. Representing Arizona's Fifth Congressional District, Rep. Biggs has long been a vocal advocate for conservative principles, and his recent legislative efforts reflect his commitment to these ideals.
Addressing Immigration Concerns
A cornerstone of Rep. Biggs' legislative agenda focuses on immigration. Among the bills introduced:
Amending the Immigration and Nationality Act to Penalize Unlawful Voting: This bill proposes making it an aggravated felony for any unlawfully present alien to vote in a Federal election. Biggs emphasized that safeguarding the integrity of elections is critical to preserving democracy.
Closing Loopholes in Immigration Laws: Aimed at deterring unlawful entry, this legislation seeks to eliminate incentives that encourage illegal immigration.
Reforming Asylum Policies: Another amendment to the Immigration and Nationality Act, this bill addresses the parole or release of asylum applicants, aiming to tighten procedures and reduce the potential for abuse.
Providing Congressional Access to Indian Lands for Border Security Assessments: This measure would grant Members of Congress lawful access to certain tribal lands to evaluate security conditions along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Constitutional and Electoral Proposals
Rep. Biggs has also proposed legislation aimed at reshaping constitutional and electoral norms, including:
A Constitutional Amendment Mandating Nine Supreme Court Justices: In response to debates about potential court-packing, this amendment would enshrine the number of Supreme Court justices at nine, ensuring stability in the nation’s highest court.
Repealing the National Voter Registration Act of 1993: This bill seeks to roll back federal voter registration mandates, returning oversight of voter registration to state and local governments.
Public Health and Regulatory Reforms
In the realm of public health, Biggs introduced:
Prohibiting Vaccine Passports: This legislation aims to prevent federal agencies from implementing vaccine passport systems, citing concerns over personal freedom and privacy.
Repealing FDA Prescription Authority: Perhaps the most controversial of his proposals, this bill would strip the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of its authority to mandate that certain drugs be dispensed only with a prescription, advocating for increased personal choice in healthcare.
Biggs’ Vision for America
“My legislative agenda reflects the priorities of my constituents and the need to restore constitutional governance,” said Rep. Biggs in a statement. “From securing our borders to protecting individual freedoms, I am committed to advancing policies that uphold the principles our nation was founded upon.”
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the feasibility and implications of some of these proposals. Immigration advocates argue that several of Biggs’ bills could exacerbate challenges within the asylum system, while healthcare professionals caution against diminishing the FDA’s oversight role.
As these bills move through the legislative process, they are expected to generate significant debate, reflecting the deep divisions in Congress over issues of immigration, public health, and governance. Regardless of the outcome, Rep. Biggs has made it clear that he intends to be a leading voice for conservative reform in the 118th Congress.