Legislation

The HONOR Gold Star Families Act increases the military death gratuity payment for survivors of deceased service members from $100,000 to $200,000. Additionally, the bill establishes an annual cost-of-living adjustment to ensure the benefit keeps pace with inflation starting in 2027.

This resolution commemorates the 245th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, a pivotal Revolutionary War engagement that significantly contributed to the American fight for independence. It honors the patriots who fought in the battle and encourages all citizens to visit the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in North Carolina to mark this historic milestone.

The Traditional Cigar Manufacturing and Small Business Jobs Preservation Act of 2026 exempts traditional large and premium cigars from most FDA tobacco regulations. By establishing a clear definition for these products, the bill protects small businesses in the industry from burdensome oversight and associated user fees.

The Government Surveillance Transparency Act of 2026 mandates greater public oversight of criminal surveillance by requiring courts to maintain searchable, online dockets for surveillance orders and limiting the government's ability to keep these records sealed. The bill establishes stricter notice requirements for individuals targeted by surveillance and mandates that courts be notified if data is collected beyond authorized limits. Additionally, it introduces comprehensive reporting requirements for government surveillance activities and provides grant funding to help state and tribal courts implement these transparency measures.

The Julius Rosenwald and Rosenwald Schools National Historical Park Act establishes a new National Park unit to preserve and interpret the legacy of philanthropist Julius Rosenwald and the historic Rosenwald Schools program. The legislation creates a national park across multiple sites—including a headquarters in Chicago—to honor the partnership that built thousands of schools for African American children in the segregated South. Additionally, the Act establishes the Rosenwald Schools National Network to provide research, educational resources, and financial assistance for the preservation of these historic sites nationwide.

The Mathematical and Statistical Modeling Education Act establishes a National Science Foundation grant program to improve K-12 education in data science, mathematical modeling, and related STEM fields. The bill aims to bridge the gap between current classroom instruction and modern workforce demands by funding innovative research, educator training, and community partnerships. Additionally, it mandates a comprehensive study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to identify best practices for integrating these critical skills into the school curriculum.

This resolution designates March as "Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month" to increase public understanding of these serious, often preventable medical conditions. By highlighting the significant health and economic impact of DVT and PE, the bill aims to promote life-saving awareness and support for those at risk.

The Language Access for All Act of 2026 mandates that federal agencies provide meaningful access to programs and services for individuals with limited English proficiency. The bill requires agencies to implement comprehensive language access plans, establish technical standards for translation and interpretation, and appoint dedicated coordinators to ensure compliance. Additionally, it creates a public complaint system and sets strict guidelines for the use of AI in language services to ensure accuracy and accountability.

The Living Donor Protection Act of 2025 prohibits insurance companies from discriminating against living organ donors regarding life, disability, or long-term care coverage. The bill also amends the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to explicitly classify organ donation surgery as a serious health condition, ensuring job-protected leave for donors. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services update public educational materials to reflect these new protections and the realities of organ donation.

This resolution recognizes the Girl Scouts of the United States of America on its 114th birthday and designates March 12, 2026, as "Girl Scouts of the United States of America Day." It celebrates the organization's legacy of empowering girls through leadership, character development, and community service. Additionally, the bill honors the 2025 Gold Award recipients and encourages the continued support of future women leaders.

The "We Can't Wait Act of 2026" allows individuals to receive Social Security disability benefits during the mandatory five-month waiting period by opting for a permanent, actuarially calculated reduction in their future monthly payments. This legislation provides applicants with greater financial flexibility while ensuring the long-term fiscal neutrality of the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund.

The FAFSA Verification Efficiency Act streamlines the federal student aid process by mandating that the Department of Education and the Social Security Administration automatically verify the Social Security numbers and citizenship status of all applicants. This legislation aims to reduce administrative burdens and improve the accuracy of federal financial aid eligibility determinations.

The Healthy Hair Act prohibits the sale of hair straightening and smoothing products that contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing substances. Additionally, the bill mandates that the FDA and NIOSH conduct comprehensive studies on the health impacts of these chemicals, particularly for salon workers, to inform future regulatory actions.

The Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program Enhancement Act strengthens national hurricane preparedness by advancing research into forecasting, storm intensity, and inland flooding. The bill mandates the integration of innovative technologies and social sciences to improve public warnings and reduce the loss of life and property. Additionally, it requires annual reporting to Congress to ensure transparency and accountability in hurricane modeling and operational readiness.

The Science of Reading Act of 2026 mandates that federally funded literacy programs align with evidence-based reading instruction while explicitly prohibiting the use of the three-cueing model. By prioritizing grants for states and local agencies that adopt these science-based practices, the legislation aims to improve literacy outcomes from early childhood through grade 12.

The Student Aid Fraud Oversight and Accountability Act of 2026 mandates that colleges prioritizing federal student aid disbursements to individuals flagged for potential identity fraud undergo increased federal oversight. To avoid this priority review status, institutions must implement rigorous, verified identity confirmation procedures for flagged applicants. This legislation aims to enhance the integrity of federal student aid programs by holding schools accountable for verifying student identities.

This resolution recognizes March 10, 2026, as "Abortion Provider Appreciation Day" to honor the essential care and dedication of abortion providers and clinic staff. It highlights the challenges and violence faced by these professionals while affirming a commitment to protecting their safety and ensuring universal access to abortion care. The resolution further condemns legislative and judicial actions that restrict reproductive rights and worsen health inequities.

The Trucking Security and CCP Disclosure Act of 2026 mandates that all motor carriers transporting Department of Defense freight certify they have no significant business ties to Chinese military companies. Additionally, the bill establishes a new national security registry requiring carriers to undergo enhanced vetting and security screenings to remain eligible for defense contracts. These measures aim to strengthen supply chain security by ensuring that only vetted, compliant companies handle sensitive military cargo.

The No Aid for Ghost Students Act of 2026 mandates the implementation of a new identity fraud detection system for all federal student aid applications. If an application is flagged for potential fraud, colleges are prohibited from disbursing aid until the student completes a rigorous, verified identity confirmation process. This legislation aims to protect federal financial aid programs by ensuring that only legitimate students receive funding.

The Shut Down Sanctuary Policies Act of 2026 mandates state and local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement by overriding "sanctuary" policies and establishing legal protections for cooperating jurisdictions. The bill imposes financial penalties on non-compliant jurisdictions, including the loss of specific federal law enforcement grants. Additionally, it clarifies federal authority regarding immigration detainers and creates a private right of action for victims of crimes committed by individuals released in violation of these federal requirements.