Legislative Activity

This bill reauthorizes the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009, updating its governing structure and expanding the scope of its oceanographic research and data-sharing capabilities. It also mandates improved collaboration between regional and federal observing systems to enhance data integration. Additionally, the legislation authorizes $47.5 million in annual funding for these initiatives from fiscal years 2026 through 2030.

The Fair Wages for Home Care Workers Act amends the Fair Labor Standards Act to ensure essential wage and overtime protections for caregivers. By updating definitions and removing outdated exemptions, the bill guarantees that home care workers receive the fair compensation and labor standards they deserve.

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 Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act establishes a competitive grant pilot program to help postsecondary institutions integrate cybersecurity training into career and technical education. By fostering partnerships between educators and industry employers, the bill aims to strengthen the cybersecurity expertise of the critical infrastructure workforce.

This resolution directs the President, under the authority of the War Powers Resolution, to immediately remove U.S. Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran. It asserts that military action must cease unless Congress has formally declared war or passed a specific authorization for the use of force. The bill explicitly states that it does not authorize new military action nor does it impede necessary self-defense against an immediate attack.

The Fair Housing for Survivors Act of 2026 amends the Fair Housing Act to establish survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or severe forms of trafficking as a protected class. This makes it illegal to discriminate against these individuals in housing transactions, including rentals, sales, and financing. The bill aims to ensure survivors can secure and maintain safe housing free from further victimization.

The PrEP Access and Coverage Act of 2026 mandates comprehensive, cost-free insurance coverage for HIV prevention services (PrEP and PEP) across private health plans, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and veteran health programs. The bill prohibits insurers from denying coverage or increasing premiums based on the use of HIV prevention medication and establishes robust patient confidentiality protections. Additionally, it authorizes national public health education campaigns and provides grant funding to expand access to prevention services for uninsured and underinsured populations.

This resolution formally honors the life and enduring legacy of civil rights leader Reverend Jesse Louis Burns Jackson, Sr. It recognizes his significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, including his work with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his founding of Operation PUSH. The bill specifically urges the President to order that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff in his memory.

The Direct File Act of 2026 establishes a permanent, free, government-owned online tax filing system within the IRS, ensuring taxpayers have a simplified and accessible way to file their returns. The bill prohibits the Treasury from entering into agreements that restrict the government's ability to provide these services and mandates the integration of state tax filing options. Additionally, it streamlines the tax process by setting new filing deadlines for employer information returns to improve efficiency for all taxpayers.

The Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections Act of 2026 aims to increase transparency and security in U.S. elections. It closes loopholes to ban foreign national spending in elections, mandates disclosure for "dark money" political spending, and requires clear funding disclosures on political ads. The bill also centralizes legal challenges to campaign finance laws in Washington, D.C., for faster resolution.

The HEALTHY BRAINS Act of 2026 establishes a comprehensive federal research program to investigate how environmental factors contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The bill creates a network of Collaborative Centers for Neurodegenerative Disease Environmental Research to advance scientific understanding, improve prevention strategies, and develop new treatments. This initiative is supported by $50 million in annual funding through 2031 to foster interdisciplinary research and public health education.

The African American History Act of 2026 authorizes the National Museum of African American History and Culture to develop and expand educational resources, curricula, and digital programming for students and educators nationwide. By providing $10 million in annual funding through 2030, the Act aims to promote a deeper understanding of African American history through a social justice and anti-bias lens. Additionally, the legislation encourages the development of similar educational initiatives across other Smithsonian museums dedicated to diverse American histories.

This resolution formally recognizes the vital historical significance and contributions of Black history museums and cultural institutions across the United States. It affirms that these essential pillars correct historical omissions by preserving irreplaceable records and telling a full, accurate American story. The bill encourages federal agencies and the public to support these institutions, especially as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

The RELIEF Act establishes a mandatory refund process for certain tariffs collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection starting January 1, 2025, specifically those imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This legislation requires the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection to automatically issue refunds to importers within 90 days of enactment. Importers will receive these refunds without needing to file an application or protest.

This resolution officially recognizes Black History Month and adopts "A Century of Black History Commemorations" as the theme for 2026. It honors the contributions of Black Americans by establishing categories for "Unsung Souls" and "Righteous Intercessors." Ultimately, the bill affirms that Black history commemorations are essential for a complete national narrative and inspiring future progress toward liberty and justice for all.

The ASCEND Act establishes a permanent NASA program to purchase and distribute commercial Earth observation data for scientific, operational, and educational needs. This initiative aims to supplement existing government data by acquiring cost-effective commercial imagery, prioritizing U.S. vendors. The bill ensures purchased data can be widely published for scientific purposes and requires regular reporting on program agreements and data usage.

This resolution expresses support for the National FFA Organization and designates February 21–28, 2026, as National FFA Week. It recognizes the FFA's vital role in developing future leaders through agricultural education. The bill also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the chartering of the Alaska State FFA Association.

The Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2026 establishes a federal process for issuing Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) that temporarily prohibit individuals deemed a danger from possessing firearms. The bill allows family members or law enforcement to petition federal courts for temporary or long-term orders based on evidence of imminent risk of harm. Furthermore, it creates a federal grant program to incentivize and support states and tribes in implementing their own qualifying ERPO laws. Finally, it mandates that individuals subject to these federal orders surrender their firearms and ensures these orders are recognized across state lines.

The Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act prohibits the discharge of plastic pellets and other pre-production plastic materials into U.S. waters from industrial facilities. This requires the EPA to swiftly issue a rule banning these discharges from facilities involved in the manufacturing, use, packaging, or transport of these plastics. The prohibition will be enforced through existing permitting and regulatory systems under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

This resolution officially recognizes the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps, established on February 2, 1901. It expresses profound gratitude for the unwavering service, skill, and sacrifice of all past and present Army nurses. The bill honors their vital contributions to the health and well-being of the United States Armed Forces.