Legislative Activity

The Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Reauthorization Act of 2026 extends vital funding and support for ALS research and treatment access through 2031. This legislation strengthens grant application requirements, enhances FDA reporting on rare neurodegenerative disease action plans, and mandates new assessments to improve the effectiveness of ongoing programs. These updates ensure continued momentum in the development of life-saving therapies for patients living with ALS.

The National Plan for Epilepsy Act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a comprehensive review of federal epilepsy programs, research, and care strategies. By collaborating with stakeholders and identifying knowledge gaps, the Act aims to improve health outcomes, enhance treatment, and better support individuals living with epilepsy. The resulting report will provide Congress with actionable recommendations to strengthen federal efforts and coordination in epilepsy prevention and care.

The Bankruptcy Threshold Adjustment Act of 2026 increases the debt eligibility limits for small businesses filing under subchapter V of Chapter 11 to $7.5 million and for individuals filing under Chapter 13 to $2.75 million. These adjustments aim to provide more businesses and individuals with access to streamlined bankruptcy reorganization processes. The new limits take effect for all bankruptcy cases filed on or after the date the Act is signed into law.

The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act creates an expedited process for key U.S. allies to purchase specific munitions for transfer to Ukraine. By bypassing standard congressional review requirements for these select defense articles, the bill aims to accelerate the delivery of critical military support to Ukraine. This initiative reinforces the U.S. commitment to facilitating international contributions to Ukraine's defense against the ongoing Russian invasion.

This resolution designates August 1, 2026, as "Gold Star Children’s Day" to honor the sacrifices and unique hardships faced by children who have lost a parent in military service. It serves as a formal expression of national gratitude, encouraging Americans to recognize and support these children.

This resolution designates July 2026 as "National Anti-Counterfeiting and Consumer Education and Awareness Month" to highlight the critical role trademarks play in protecting consumer safety and the economy. It emphasizes the growing dangers posed by counterfeit goods—ranging from unsafe electronics to illicit pharmaceuticals—and underscores the need for robust public education to combat these threats. The bill affirms a national commitment to supporting federal, state, and private sector efforts to reduce the demand for and supply of illegal counterfeit products.

The Right to IVF Act of 2026 establishes a federal right to access assisted reproductive technology (ART) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) by overriding restrictive state laws. The bill further expands family-building support by mandating comprehensive fertility coverage for military service members, veterans, federal employees, and those enrolled in private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. These measures aim to ensure equitable, affordable access to fertility treatments nationwide.

This resolution reaffirms the fundamental right of individuals with disabilities to live independently in their communities, as established by the Americans with Disabilities Act and the *Olmstead* decision. It condemns recent efforts to weaken integration mandates and calls on federal agencies to prioritize accessible housing, employment, and community-based services. Furthermore, the bill advocates for the protection of Medicaid funding and the removal of barriers to ensure full equality and self-sufficiency for all people with disabilities.

The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026 expands federal grant eligibility to allow accredited nonprofits and state entities to provide free, specialized training to small and rural law enforcement agencies. By streamlining access and allowing localities to pool resources, the bill ensures departments with limited staff can easily obtain critical training in areas like de-escalation, officer wellness, and incident response.

The FIRST Act establishes a Department of State program to promote the international deployment of U.S. civil nuclear energy technology, specifically focusing on small modular reactors. The program provides diplomatic support, regulatory consultation, and project development assistance to partner nations to ensure high safety and nonproliferation standards. By fostering these partnerships, the Act aims to strengthen U.S. national security and economic interests in the global nuclear energy market.

The Rural Obstetrics Readiness Act aims to improve maternal health outcomes in rural areas by providing grants for emergency obstetric training, essential medical equipment, and staffing at facilities without dedicated obstetric units. The legislation also establishes a telehealth pilot program to connect rural providers with maternal health specialists for urgent consultations. Additionally, it mandates a comprehensive study on rural maternity ward closures to better inform future regional care strategies.

The Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act of 2026 strengthens the nursing profession by expanding grant eligibility for advanced education and modernizing training resources, including simulation and telehealth technologies. The bill addresses critical workforce shortages by increasing funding for nursing faculty and student programs while broadening support for specialized care, such as services for sexual assault survivors. These updates ensure that nursing education remains robust and responsive to the evolving needs of the healthcare system through 2030.

The Improving Needed Safeguards for Users of Lifesaving Insulin Now Act of 2026 aims to lower insulin costs by capping out-of-pocket expenses for insured patients and mandating transparency in pharmacy benefit manager rebates. The legislation also seeks to increase market competition by accelerating the approval of generic and biosimilar drugs. Additionally, it establishes a pilot program and national resource center to improve insulin affordability and access for uninsured individuals.

The **Patients Deserve Price Tags Act** aims to increase healthcare affordability by mandating comprehensive price transparency across hospitals, laboratories, imaging centers, and ambulatory surgical centers. The bill requires these providers and health insurance plans to publicly disclose negotiated rates, cash prices, and standard charges in standardized, machine-readable formats. Additionally, it empowers patients with real-time cost-estimation tools and requires providers to issue detailed, itemized bills before initiating any collection actions.

This resolution directs the Senate Legal Counsel to initiate a civil lawsuit against President Donald J. Trump to enforce the Foreign Emoluments Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The action seeks to prohibit the President from accepting unauthorized presents, titles, or financial emoluments from foreign states. The measure cites numerous alleged instances of corruption and conflicts of interest involving the President, his family, and foreign entities that undermine the integrity of his office.

This resolution recognizes July 21, 2026, as Black Women’s Equal Pay Day to highlight the persistent and significant wage gap between Black women and white, non-Hispanic men. It details the economic impact of this disparity and reaffirms Congress's commitment to achieving pay equity through systemic change.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 imposes sweeping economic sanctions and trade restrictions to isolate Russia and penalize those supporting its military efforts. The bill targets Russian financial institutions, energy sectors, and leadership while penalizing foreign entities that facilitate sanctions evasion. It aims to cripple Russia’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine through severe tariffs, asset freezes, and restricted access to U.S. markets.

The PROMISE Act of 2026 establishes a formal, expedited legislative process designed to ensure the long-term solvency of Social Security. The bill mandates that the Social Security Advisory Board develop recommendations to guarantee 100 percent of scheduled benefits for the next 50 years. It further creates a "fast-track" framework for Congress to introduce, debate, and vote on these solvency measures within a strict 2026 timeline and provides a mechanism for decennial reviews to maintain future financial stability.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of the late Senator Lindsey Olin Graham, recognizing his decades of dedicated military service and his impactful career in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. It pays tribute to his commitment to national security, the rule of law, and the people of South Carolina. The Senate expresses its profound sorrow for his passing and extends its deepest condolences to his family.

Lulu's Law mandates that the FCC classify shark attacks as an event eligible for Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). This ensures that alerts regarding shark attacks can be broadcast to the public via emergency messaging systems.