Waukesha Times

Wisconsin State Representative Scott Fitzgerald said that the Rescissions Act of 2025 enacts the Department of Government Efficiency’s "findings into law" and halts tax dollars from funding "radical pet projects" abroad and "politically biased media" domestically.

"Passing this legislation is a long-overdue course correction," said U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wi). "Wisconsin families are sick and tired of seeing their hard-earned tax dollars funneled into radical pet projects overseas and politically biased media here at home. With the passage of the Rescissions Act of 2025, we aren't just cutting spending—we are codifying the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) findings into law."

According to Congress.gov, H.R. 4, known as the Rescissions Act of 2025, rescinds $9.4 billion in unobligated funds previously allocated to the Department of State, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), several independent agencies, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. These rescissions were proposed by the President under the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 and require Congressional approval to become law.

"This bill locks in $9.4 billion in real savings and marks a monumental step toward restoring fiscal sanity, putting America First, and delivering on President Trump’s promise to root out waste, fraud, and abuse," said Fitzgerald in a press release. He added that House Republicans are committed to ending what he described as an era of bloated government. "I’m optimistic this is the first of many rescissions packages to come this Congress, and I look forward to continuing to support this consequential effort."

The bill targets funds designated for various international programs and activities. According to Congress.gov, these include contributions to international organizations, peacekeeping efforts, global health initiatives, migration and refugee assistance programs, and economic support funds. It also rescinds money for USAID operating expenses, the Inter-American Foundation, the U.S. African Development Foundation, the U.S. Institute of Peace, and public broadcasting.

Fitzgerald represents Wisconsin’s Fifth Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He previously served in the Wisconsin State Senate from 1995 to 2021 in roles such as Majority Leader and Minority Leader. He graduated from Hustisford High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Additionally, Fitzgerald served in the U.S. Army Reserve for 27 years before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel.