Legislative Activity

The Books Save Lives Act mandates that federally funded schools and public libraries maintain diverse book collections and employ trained library staff. It establishes a civil rights enforcement mechanism to address the discriminatory impact of book bans and requires a federal report on the effects of such campaigns on underrepresented communities.

The Maternal Vaccination Act establishes a dedicated awareness and equity campaign to increase vaccination rates among pregnant and postpartum individuals. By providing targeted funding and expanding immunization program grants, the bill ensures that healthcare providers are better equipped to support maternal health, with a specific focus on reaching underserved and minority communities.

This bill prohibits the use of federal funds for military action in or against Cuba through December 31, 2026. Exceptions are only permitted if Congress declares war, provides specific statutory authorization, or if the action aligns with the War Powers Resolution.

The Chip Security Act mandates the installation of security mechanisms on advanced integrated circuit products before they are exported from the United States. These requirements aim to verify chip location, prevent diversion, and protect U.S. technological leadership. The Secretary of Commerce must also study and implement additional security features to enhance export control enforcement and national security.

This resolution formally recognizes the persistent gender wage gap in the United States and its significant negative impact on women, families, and the national economy. It highlights the systemic factors contributing to pay disparities across various demographics and occupations. Ultimately, the resolution reaffirms Congress's commitment to achieving equal pay for equal work.

The Data to Save Moms Act aims to improve maternal health outcomes and eliminate disparities by enhancing data collection, research, and public awareness. The bill provides funding for Maternal Mortality Review Committees, supports community-based organizations addressing social determinants of health, and mandates training for providers on implicit bias and culturally congruent care. Additionally, it authorizes comprehensive studies and grant programs focused on high-risk populations, including racial and ethnic minority groups and American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

The Kira Johnson Act aims to eliminate maternal health disparities by funding community-based organizations that provide evidence-based support to high-risk populations. The legislation also establishes grant programs to implement anti-bias training for maternity care providers and creates compliance programs to address racism and discrimination in clinical settings. Through these initiatives, the bill seeks to ensure respectful, culturally congruent care and improve health outcomes for pregnant and postpartum individuals.

The Perinatal Workforce Act aims to improve maternal health outcomes by expanding and diversifying the perinatal health workforce. The bill establishes grant programs to support training for midwives, nurses, and other perinatal health workers, with a focus on recruiting individuals from underserved and minority communities. Additionally, it mandates national campaigns, federal coordination, and research to promote culturally congruent care and address systemic barriers to maternal health access.

The Extending WIC for New Moms Act increases the duration of WIC eligibility for postpartum mothers from six months to 24 months. It also extends the period for receiving enhanced breastfeeding food packages to 24 months. Additionally, the bill mandates a comprehensive report to Congress evaluating the impact of these extensions on maternal and infant health outcomes.

The Supporting VA Families Act establishes a supplemental parental leave program for Department of Veterans Affairs employees. This legislation provides eligible staff with four additional administrative weeks of unpaid leave following the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child. This benefit is designed to supplement, rather than replace, existing family and medical leave entitlements.

The Forever Chemical Regulation and Accountability Act of 2026 establishes a comprehensive framework to phase out nonessential PFAS ("forever chemicals") from consumer products and industrial processes within a decade. The legislation mandates strict reporting and environmental release standards, while enhancing public health protections through new research initiatives and expanded legal avenues for communities to seek accountability.

The Social Determinants for Moms Act aims to reduce maternal mortality and health disparities by addressing the nonclinical factors that impact pregnancy and postpartum outcomes. The bill establishes federal grant programs to provide essential services—such as housing, nutrition, transportation, and childcare—to pregnant and postpartum individuals. Additionally, it creates a federal task force to coordinate cross-agency strategies to improve maternal health and support community-led initiatives across the country.

This resolution recognizes the observance of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr in 2026. It commends the spiritual significance of Ramadan and extends best wishes to Muslims in the United States and globally. The bill also acknowledges the significant contributions of American Muslims to the nation.

The Momnibus Act is a comprehensive legislative package designed to end preventable maternal mortality and close racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health outcomes. By addressing social determinants of health, expanding nutritional and mental health support, and investing in a diverse, culturally competent workforce, the bill provides a holistic framework for improving care. Through targeted federal grants, enhanced data collection, and innovative technology, the Act aims to ensure that all pregnant and postpartum individuals receive the equitable, high-quality care they deserve.

The Energy Bills Relief Act is a comprehensive bill designed to lower energy costs for American families, accelerate the deployment of low-cost, clean energy, and modernize the nation's electricity grid. It achieves this by reversing harmful policies against renewables, expanding energy assistance programs, streamlining grid connection processes, and increasing transparency in utility regulation. Ultimately, the legislation aims to create a more reliable, affordable, and cleaner energy system while ensuring communities have a stronger voice in energy development.

The Feeding Families Not Fear Act of 2026 establishes a nutrition assistance program for lawfully present noncitizens who are currently ineligible for SNAP benefits due to their immigration status. This initiative provides eligible individuals with monthly food assistance via EBT cards, mirroring the benefits and standards of the regular SNAP program. The bill authorizes $3 billion in annual funding through 2029 to ensure food security for these households.

The H-1Bs for Physicians and the Healthcare Workforce Act exempts healthcare workers from a $100,000 entry fee requirement currently imposed on certain H-1B nonimmigrant visa petitions. This legislation aims to remove financial barriers for medical professionals, ensuring they are not subject to fees exceeding standard immigration costs.

The Banning Event Trading on Sensitive Operations and Federal Functions (BETS OFF) Act prohibits wagering on sensitive events such as acts of terrorism, assassinations, wars, and other government-controlled activities. By amending federal law to classify these bets as illegal gambling, the bill aims to prevent the exploitation of high-stakes geopolitical and public safety events. The legislation empowers the Attorney General to pursue civil enforcement against violators and restricts such trading on financial exchanges.

The Clarence Mitchell, Jr. Statue Act directs the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library to commission and install a statue of the renowned civil rights leader within the United States Capitol. This legislation honors Mitchell’s historic advocacy, including his instrumental role in securing the passage of landmark civil rights and voting rights acts.

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.