Legislative Activity

Hammers' Law amends title 46 of the United States Code to redefine limitations in certain maritime and aviation accident cases. It defines "cruise ship" and "nonpecuniary damages" within the context of maritime law. The law expands the scope of existing limitations to include cruise ship voyages, affecting damage claims. It updates the relevant section heading in the U.S. Code to reflect these changes.

This resolution designates the week of April 19 through April 27, 2025, as "National Park Week" to recognize the importance of national parks for recreation, education, and economic contributions. It encourages people to visit and support these parks while acknowledging the role of the National Park Service in protecting these resources for future generations.

This resolution honors the life and distinguished career of former Louisiana Senator John Bennett Johnston, Jr., recognizing his contributions to energy policy, natural resource conservation, and Louisiana's cultural heritage. It directs the Secretary of the Senate to notify the House of Representatives and send a copy of the resolution to Senator Johnston's family. Upon adoption, the Senate will adjourn in his honor.

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 joint resolution disapproves and nullifies the Environmental Protection Agency's rule that relaxed certain pollution control standards for motor vehicles and engines in California. The rule covered heavy-duty vehicle emissions, advanced clean trucks, zero-emission airport shuttles, and related certifications. By disapproving the rule, Congress prevents its implementation.

The "BOP SCAN Mail Act" aims to combat the smuggling of synthetic drugs, especially fentanyl, into Federal correctional facilities through postal mail. It requires the Bureau of Prisons Director to develop and implement a strategy to equip facilities with technology to scan mail, protect staff and inmates, and ensure timely delivery of non-contraband mail. The strategy must include assessments, budgetary proposals, and address operational considerations, with a goal of 100% mail scanning capacity and annual progress reports to Congress. This act seeks to enhance safety and security within correctional facilities by intercepting dangerous substances and modernizing mail processing procedures.

The 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act directs the Secretary of the Treasury to produce gold and silver coins to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the National September 11 Memorial and Museum’s establishment. The coin designs will represent the courage, sacrifice, and strength of those affected by the attacks. Surcharges from the sale of these coins will be donated to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum at the World Trade Center to support its operations and maintenance. The Act ensures that the coin minting will result in no net cost to the federal government.

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 "Prescription Pricing for the People Act of 2025" directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate and report to Congress on the practices of pharmacy benefit managers and other intermediaries in the pharmaceutical supply chain, including their impact on drug prices and competition. The FTC is required to identify any legal or regulatory barriers hindering antitrust enforcement in the pharmaceutical industry and suggest improvements for transparency and competition. Additionally, the FTC must report on complaints of anticompetitive behavior by sole-source drug manufacturers and recommend policies to enhance enforcement.

The CONNECT for Health Act of 2025 expands access to telehealth services under Medicare by removing geographic restrictions, expanding eligible practitioners and originating sites, and making waivers for Federally Qualified Health Centers and Native American health facilities permanent. It also enhances program integrity by clarifying fraud and abuse laws, authorizing additional funding for oversight, and addressing unusual billing patterns. Additionally, the act supports beneficiaries and providers by requiring the development of resources and training, reviewing quality measures, and mandating the publication of data on telehealth services. These changes aim to make telehealth a more accessible, high-quality, and permanent option for patients, particularly those in underserved areas.

The "Alleviating Barriers for Caregivers Act" or the "ABC Act" requires a comprehensive review of Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Social Security programs to simplify processes and improve communication for family caregivers. This includes reducing red tape, improving website accessibility, and providing timely and accessible information. The act mandates regular reports to Congress on the progress and impact of these improvements. Additionally, the act encourages states to conduct similar reviews to reduce administrative burdens on caregivers at the state level.

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 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.

This resolution focuses on protecting Iranian political refugees, particularly female former political prisoners, residing in Ashraf-3, Albania, from the Iranian regime's threats and actions. It condemns Iran's destabilizing activities and support for terrorism, while emphasizing the need for the refugees' rights to freedom of expression and assembly. The resolution calls for the U.S. government to support Albania in safeguarding these refugees in accordance with international law and opposes Iran's misuse of INTERPOL to target dissidents. It also highlights support for Mrs. Maryam Rajavi's Ten-Point Plan for the Future of Iran, which advocates for universal rights and equality.

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 "Increasing Access to Dental Insurance Act" aims to broaden access to dental coverage by enabling individuals to enroll in standalone dental plans through the Health Insurance Exchange, irrespective of their enrollment status in a qualified health plan. This expands dental insurance options for individuals, promoting better oral health.

The "Coast Guard Improvement Act of 2025" establishes a Secretary of the Coast Guard, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, who reports directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security. This Secretary will oversee all affairs of the Coast Guard, ensuring alignment with national security objectives and coordinating with other agencies. The Act also requires a reorganization plan to be submitted to Congress, detailing the transfer of personnel and resources to the Office of the Secretary of the Coast Guard.

The "Healthy Food Access for All Americans Act" aims to improve food access in underserved communities by establishing a tax credit and grant program for special access food providers who establish or renovate grocery stores and food banks in food deserts. This act also requires the USDA to update the Food Access Research Atlas annually. The tax credit covers a percentage of the costs for new or renovated grocery stores, while the grant program supports the construction and operation of food banks and temporary access merchants. The bill includes provisions for certification, allocation, recapture of funds, and definitions of key terms like "food desert" and "grocery store".

This resolution celebrates the 113th anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America and its founder, Juliette Gordon Low, for their legacy of empowering girls. It recognizes the organization's focus on developing courage, confidence, and character in young women through STEM, outdoor activities, and entrepreneurship. The resolution also acknowledges the release of the Juliette Gordon Low Commemorative Quarter.

The "Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act" mandates and expands the use of E-Verify for all employers in the United States, phasing in requirements for federal agencies, contractors, and critical infrastructure employers first. It increases penalties for employers who fail to comply with E-Verify or who hire unauthorized workers, and it protects employers from liability if they act in good faith based on E-Verify information. The act also includes provisions for information sharing between agencies, improvements to the E-Verify system, measures to combat identity theft, and the establishment of an Employer Compliance Inspection Center. Additionally, the bill requires reverification of employees' work authorization and simplifies the Form I-9 process.