Legislative Activity

This joint resolution disapproves and nullifies the Environmental Protection Agency's rule that allowed California to set its own vehicle and engine pollution control standards. The specific rule being targeted is the "Omnibus Low NOX Regulation, Waiver of Preemption." This action effectively blocks California's ability to implement these stricter pollution standards.

This resolution disapproves and nullifies the EPA's rule that allowed California to set its own vehicle and engine pollution control standards. The rule in question is the "Advanced Clean Cars II" and "Waiver of Preemption." By disapproving this rule, the resolution seeks to prevent California from implementing stricter emission standards than the federal government.

The "Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act of 2025" amends the National Labor Relations Act to specify that Indian Tribes, and businesses they own and operate on their lands, are not considered employers under the Act. It defines key terms like "Indian Tribe," "Indian," and "Indian lands" to clarify the scope of this exemption, ensuring tribal labor sovereignty.

The DETERRENT Act aims to increase transparency and oversight of foreign funding in higher education by amending the Higher Education Act of 1965. It requires institutions to disclose foreign gifts and contracts, particularly those from countries or entities of concern, and establishes penalties for non-compliance. The Act also mandates policies to manage conflicts of interest and potential espionage risks, and enhances interagency coordination for enforcement. Ultimately, the bill seeks to protect U.S. national security and academic integrity by ensuring greater accountability in foreign funding of higher education.

The "Housing Supply Frameworks Act" directs the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to develop guidelines and best practices for state and local zoning frameworks to support increased housing production and affordability. These guidelines will address issues like reducing parking minimums, increasing building heights, eliminating restrictions on accessory dwelling units, and streamlining development approvals. The Act also requires a report to Congress on the adoption and impact of these guidelines and abolishes the Regulatory Barriers Clearinghouse. Finally, the act authorizes $3 million in appropriations to the Secretary to carry out the act for each of the fiscal years 2026 through 2030.

This bill aims to improve rural housing programs by streamlining processes, preserving affordable housing, and increasing homeownership opportunities in Native communities. It includes provisions for rental assistance, loan restructuring, and grants for technical assistance and community development. The bill also focuses on updating technology, improving loan accessibility, and ensuring timely application reviews for rural housing assistance. Additionally, it supports the creation of accessory dwelling units and facilitates the transfer of properties to nonprofit organizations to maintain affordable housing options.

This bill amends the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act to allow the use of existing rights-of-way for aquifer recharge without additional federal authorization, provided the Bureau of Land Management is notified beforehand. It exempts these uses from additional rent, except for for-profit entities, and clarifies that existing environmental regulations are not waived. The bill also makes minor technical corrections to the original act.

This bill amends the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to authorize the use of funds for additional Carey Act projects. It allows the Secretary to use funds to support the rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement of dams developed and operating under Section 4 of the Act of August 18, 1894, after other eligible dams have received necessary funding. This ensures that available funds can be used to improve and maintain critical water infrastructure projects.

This resolution designates March 27, 2025, as "National Women in Agriculture Day" to recognize the vital role of women in agriculture. It acknowledges women's significant contributions as producers, educators, leaders, and mentors within the agricultural sector. The resolution supports celebrating women's impact on food resources and the agricultural workforce, encouraging their continued involvement and leadership in the field.

The "Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025" mandates a wide range of sanctions on Russia, its government, affiliated individuals and entities, and sectors of its economy in response to actions against Ukraine. It requires the President to make regular determinations regarding Russia's behavior and imposes escalating penalties, including financial restrictions, import bans, and increased duties, if Russia refuses to negotiate peace, violates agreements, or takes further aggressive actions against Ukraine. The Act also targets international entities that support Russia's sanctioned activities and sets conditions for the termination and reimposition of sanctions based on Russia's adherence to peace agreements.

This bill amends the Public Lands Corps Act of 1993, modifying the cost-sharing requirements for conservation projects. The federal government's share of the cost increases from 75% to 90%, while the qualified youth or conservation corps' share decreases from 25% to 10%.

This resolution condemns China's actions in Hong Kong that undermine its autonomy, rule of law, and the freedoms of its citizens. It calls for the release of political prisoners, criticizes the erosion of Hong Kong's legal and business environment, and urges governments to hold China accountable through existing legislation and multilateral efforts. The resolution also expresses solidarity with the people of Hong Kong in their struggle for fundamental rights and freedoms.

The "Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act" prevents states and local governments from imposing excise taxes on firearms, ammunition, and related components if the manufacturers or dealers are engaged in interstate or foreign commerce. This limitation does not affect the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act.

This resolution honors the life and distinguished career of former Wyoming Senator Alan K. Simpson, recognizing his public service, military service, and contributions to Wyoming and the nation. It celebrates his work on border security, veterans affairs, entitlement reform, and fiscal responsibility, as well as his dedication to various Wyoming institutions. The resolution expresses sorrow at his passing, directs communication to the House of Representatives and his family, and adjourns the Senate in his memory.

The "SHORT Act" seeks to amend federal laws regarding short-barreled rifles and shotguns by removing them from the purview of the National Firearms Act, thereby eliminating specific taxes, registration requirements, and restrictions on interstate commerce related to these weapons, and requiring the destruction of existing related records. The bill also clarifies that federal compliance with possessing these weapons satisfies any corresponding state or local requirements. It also preempts state and local governments from enforcing certain laws that tax, mark, record, or register these weapons.

The Cellphone Jamming Reform Act of 2025 allows state and federal correctional facilities to use jamming systems that interfere with wireless communications to or from contraband devices within the facility. The jamming system's operation must be limited to the housing facilities, and the state is responsible for funding the entire cost if a state correctional facility operates the system. Before implementing the system, correctional facilities must consult with local law enforcement and public safety officials and notify the Director of the Bureau of Prisons about its operation. This act limits the FCC's authority regarding jamming systems in correctional facilities.

This resolution celebrates the heritage, culture, and contributions of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women in the United States. It recognizes their significant achievements across various sectors, including military service, business, medicine, and the arts. The resolution also emphasizes the need to invest in the future of these women by addressing barriers they face in justice, healthcare, education, and economic advancement.

The "Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act of 2025" prioritizes the use of mass timber and other innovative wood products in federal building projects, emphasizing materials sourced from U.S. facilities and responsibly managed forests. It directs the Administrator of General Services and the Secretary of Defense to prioritize contracts that maximize the use of these wood products, especially those derived from restoration practices and forests at risk of wildfire. The Act also requires documentation verifying wood product sourcing and mandates a lifecycle assessment to evaluate the environmental impact of using innovative wood products in public buildings.

This joint resolution nullifies the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's rule on the Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources. By disapproving the rule, Congress prevents its enforcement or implementation.

The "Stop CARB Act of 2025" prevents California and other states from setting their own emission standards for nonroad vehicles and engines used in sectors like construction, agriculture, and rail. This bill eliminates existing and denies any pending waivers that allow states to exceed federal emission standards. By amending the Clean Air Act, the bill ensures that only the federal government can regulate emissions for these types of vehicles and engines. Additionally, the bill repeals the ability for states to adopt California's stricter emission standards for new motor vehicles.