Legislation

This Act extends the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) until 2027 and directs the U.S. Trade Representative to develop a strategy for future bilateral trade agreements with beneficiary nations. Additionally, Title II mandates a comprehensive review of the U.S.-South Africa relationship, requiring the President to report on whether South Africa's actions harm U.S. national security interests. This section also calls for a classified report identifying South African officials eligible for sanctions.

The NFIP Extension Act temporarily reauthorizes the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This legislation extends the program's funding and operational authority from its current expiration date until November 21, 2025. The bill ensures continuous coverage by pushing back key deadlines within the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968.

This bill directs the United States Postal Service (USPS) to establish a single, unique ZIP Code for 69 specific communities across the nation. The USPS must complete this designation for the listed locations within 270 days of the bill's enactment. This measure aims to improve mail sorting and clarity for residents in these designated areas.

The SECURE Benefits Act of 2025 focuses on tightening identification requirements for claiming major tax credits and benefits. It mandates the Social Security Administration to issue temporary, work-authorized Social Security Numbers and enhances information sharing between DHS and the IRS. Furthermore, the bill imposes stricter Social Security Number requirements for claiming the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, Savers Credit, and Saver's Match, while also establishing new penalties for fraudulent claims based on invalid work authorization.

This bill authorizes the use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on specific, named roads within the boundaries of Capitol Reef National Park in Utah. For travel on these designated "covered roads," the bill mandates that users must adhere to Utah state vehicle laws rather than standard federal park regulations. This action specifically permits OHV use on routes like the Burr Trail Road and Notom Bullfrog Road within the park.

The FAST Justice Act grants federal employees the right to sue in federal district court if the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) fails to issue a decision on their appeal within 120 days. This allows individuals to challenge the underlying personnel action when the MSPB causes undue delay. The bill outlines specific rules for where these lawsuits can be filed and how the court must review the case. Filing such a lawsuit requires the MSPB to immediately pause its work on the original appeal.

The PHMSA Voluntary Information Sharing Act establishes a confidential, nonpunitive system for pipeline companies to voluntarily share sensitive safety data to improve industry-wide safety practices. This system will be overseen by a balanced Governing Board composed of government, industry, and public safety representatives. Data submitted to this system is protected from public disclosure and use in litigation, though de-identified safety findings may be released publicly.

This resolution condemns attacks against federal law enforcement officers operating in Illinois and criticizes state and local policies perceived as obstructing federal immigration enforcement. It expresses strong disapproval of local governments for failing to control soaring violent crime rates, particularly in Chicago. The measure reaffirms the federal government's exclusive authority over immigration and supports prosecuting those who interfere with federal agents.

This resolution officially designates the week beginning September 7, 2025, as "National Direct Support Professionals Week" to honor the essential work of direct care workers. It highlights the critical role these professionals play in enabling millions of Americans with disabilities to live in their communities. Furthermore, the resolution draws attention to the current workforce crisis, including low pay and a lack of official data tracking for this vital occupation.

This bill amends federal law to explicitly state that state traffic laws apply to the use of motor vehicles on roads managed by the National Park Service within a System unit. Consequently, visitors driving within these areas must adhere to the traffic regulations, such as speed limits, established by the surrounding state. Violations of these state traffic laws within the park boundaries will now be enforceable.

The Fishing Equipment Tax Relief Act of 2025 reduces the federal excise tax rate on portable, electronically-aerated bait containers. This legislation lowers the applicable tax rate for manufacturers, producers, or importers of these specific items to 3 percent. This reduced rate will take effect for sales occurring after December 31, 2025.

The Innovative and Safe Hydrogen Transportation Act mandates a comprehensive study on the safety and viability of using advanced composite materials for hydrogen and hydrogen-blend pipelines. The Secretary of Transportation must complete this review, including public consultation, within 18 months. Following the study and public feedback, the Secretary is required to initiate the rulemaking process for new regulations allowing the use of these composite materials.

This resolution officially designates the week beginning October 19, 2025, as "National Character Counts Week." It emphasizes the critical role of families, schools, and communities in teaching foundational ethical values like trustworthiness and responsibility to young people. The designation encourages nationwide activities and programs focused on strengthening the character of America's youth.

The Plant Safety Authorities Coordination Act of 2025 revises the federal definition of "transporting gas" to clarify regulatory scope. This legislation specifically excludes certain gas gathering activities in rural areas and the movement of gas solely for on-site plant operations. These exclusions ensure that localized, plant-supportive gas movement is not subject to federal transportation regulations.

This joint resolution expresses Congress's disapproval of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's final rule regarding the Barred Owl Management Strategy in Washington, Oregon, and California. By invoking the Congressional Review Act, this action nullifies the submitted management rule, preventing it from taking legal effect. Essentially, Congress is overturning the executive branch's specific plan for managing the Barred Owl population in these states.

This Act prohibits the use of the U.S. Treasury Department's Exchange Stabilization Fund to provide any financial assistance or bailout to Argentina's financial markets. Congress asserts that these funds should instead protect American jobs and stability against foreign currency manipulation. The prohibition on using the fund to aid Argentina remains in effect until December 10, 2027.

The Veterans Prosthetics Advancement and Reform Act mandates the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a comprehensive, evidence-based Formulary for all prosthetic and rehabilitative items and services. This new system requires public input during development and ensures all listed items are available at every VA facility. Furthermore, the Act establishes clear processes for veterans to be informed of their benefits and to appeal denials, while also creating a pathway for clinicians to prescribe medically necessary items not currently on the official list.

This resolution officially designates the week beginning October 12, 2025, as "National Wildlife Refuge Week." It recognizes the critical role of the National Wildlife Refuge System in conserving over 850 million acres of vital habitat for threatened and endangered species. The resolution also highlights the refuges' significant contributions to local economies, public recreation, and community access to nature. Ultimately, it reaffirms Congress's commitment to supporting the conservation mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Transboundary Aquifer Assessment Program Act (TAAP Act) reauthorizes and updates the existing program for assessing shared underground water resources between the U.S. and Mexico. This update officially expands the program's scope to include Arizona alongside Texas and New Mexico. Furthermore, the bill authorizes $1.5 million annually for the program from fiscal years 2026 through 2033.

The Medical Foods and Formulas Access Act of 2025 mandates federal health programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, to cover medically necessary specialized foods and formulas prescribed for managing severe digestive or inherited metabolic disorders. This ensures patients with conditions like urea cycle disorders or short bowel syndrome receive essential, prescribed nutrition when standard food is insufficient. The bill aims to standardize access to these life-sustaining treatments across federal and state health plans.