Legislative Activity

The HAVEN Act aims to expand housing access and affordability by adjusting rental payment calculations, extending funding for key housing programs, and adding "lawful source of income" as a protected category under the Fair Housing Act. It establishes a housing navigation grant program to assist families in finding suitable housing and mandates the use of small area fair market rents for the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The act also expands the Housing Choice Voucher Program by allocating additional vouchers and ensuring eligible families are entitled to assistance. Finally, it directs HUD to factor in approval speed for families and landlords under the Section 8 Management Assessment Program.

The YOUNG Act of 2025 establishes a grant program, managed by the Secretary of Commerce, to fund youth biodiversity monitoring projects that educate students about advanced technologies. Grants will be awarded to nonprofits, schools, higher education institutions, and state, local, or tribal governments, with priority given to projects focused on underserved communities. The grant program is authorized to receive appropriations of $1,000,000 per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2032. Within two years, the Secretary must report to Congress on the grant program.

The Heating and Cooling Relief Act aims to expand and update the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to better protect vulnerable households from high energy costs and utility shutoffs. It increases funding, broadens eligibility, and includes assistance for cooling during extreme heat events, alongside heating assistance. The act also prioritizes energy efficiency upgrades, weatherization, and a transition to renewable energy sources, while preventing utility companies from charging late fees or shutting off service to those receiving assistance. Furthermore, it seeks to improve data collection on energy arrears and encourages states to develop plans for retrofitting low-income housing to adapt to rising temperatures.

The "Electronic Permitting Modernization Act" directs the Department of the Interior to modernize its permitting processes by creating user-friendly electronic systems for all regulated activities. This includes accepting and processing permit applications electronically and establishing a centralized online repository with links to all Department electronic permitting systems. The Act ensures alignment with the National Environmental Policy Act and requires consultation with stakeholders during system development, while also protecting sensitive information and preventing system duplication.

This bill recognizes the contributions of Iranian Americans to the United States across various sectors, celebrating their cultural heritage and resilience. It supports the designation of Iranian American Heritage Month and encourages observances with programs, activities, and celebrations like Nowruz. The bill also expresses solidarity with Iranian Americans and the Iranian people's pursuit of a free and democratic Iran.

This bill recognizes the significant contributions of immigrants to the United States and condemns discriminatory immigration policies. It urges the protection of immigrants' rights, the implementation of humane immigration policies, and supports comprehensive immigration reform. The bill aims to honor the legacy of immigrants and promote a welcoming immigration system that benefits the nation.