Legislative Activity

The Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino Act authorizes the establishment of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino, potentially within the National Mall. It requires the Smithsonian to notify Congress regarding the use of federal land for the museum and ensures that the museum's exhibits and programs reflect the diverse cultures, histories, events, and values of the Latino community by seeking guidance from a broad array of knowledgeable sources with diverse political viewpoints and experiences. The Act also mandates regular reports to Congress on efforts to ensure this diversity in exhibits and programs.

The "RIFLE Act" repeals the existing tax on firearm transfers outlined in Section 5811 of the Internal Revenue Code, and makes corresponding technical corrections. This change removes the tax burden on the transfer of firearms. Additionally, the act clarifies that the Consumer Product Safety Commission does not have authority over firearms regulated by the Internal Revenue Code.

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.

The BOLIVAR Act prohibits U.S. executive agencies from contracting with entities that have significant business operations with the Venezuelan government under Nicolás Maduro, which is not recognized by the U.S. government. Exceptions are provided for humanitarian aid, national security interests, supporting U.S. government activities in Venezuela, entities with valid licenses, and operation of U.S. diplomatic missions. The Secretary of State may waive the prohibition if it is in the U.S. national interest. This prohibition is set to last for three years after the enactment of the Act.

The Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 limits the scope of court-ordered relief, such as injunctions and declaratory judgements, to only the parties directly involved in a case. It modifies the rules for temporary restraining orders and clarifies the scope of judicial review. The act ensures that courts cannot grant relief to non-parties unless those parties are represented.

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 Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act mandates the State Department to create a national registry of Korean Americans separated from family in North Korea since the Korean War, to facilitate reunions. It requires the Secretary of State to include family reunion progress in discussions with North Korea and consult with South Korea. Additionally, the Special Envoy on North Korean Human Rights Issues must report annually on the registry's status, reunion progress, and North Korea's actions regarding family reunions. The bill allocates \$1,000,000 for these activities.

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.

The College Employment Accountability Act aims to ensure that institutions of higher education do not employ unauthorized aliens. It mandates that these institutions participate in the E-Verify Program and makes them ineligible for federal student and institutional aid if they violate employment laws related to unauthorized aliens. The Department of Homeland Security will monitor institutions' compliance and notify the Department of Education of any violations.

The "Stop Taxpayer Funding of Hamas Act" restricts U.S. funds from being used in Gaza if they would benefit members of Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, or any foreign terrorist organization. It also restricts funds from being used through any United Nations entity that promotes anti-Israel or anti-Semitic ideas. These restrictions will be in place unless the President certifies to Congress that these conditions are not met.

The "Restoring Law and Order Act of 2025" establishes the "Make America Safe Again Grant Program," allocating funds to state, local, and tribal entities for law enforcement and crime prevention initiatives. These initiatives include hiring officers, combating vehicle theft and drug-related crimes, prioritizing strict sentences for repeat offenders, and detaining/deporting criminal illegal aliens. The program is funded by reallocating existing funds and rescinding unobligated balances, with the Attorney General overseeing grant distribution and compliance.

This bill mandates the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to disinter the remains of Fernando V. Cota from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in Texas. The disinterment must occur within one year of the bill's enactment, with prior notification to Cota's next of kin. Following disinterment, the remains will be given to the next of kin or, if unclaimed, appropriately disposed of by the Secretary.

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.

The Major Richard Star Act allows veterans with combat-related disabilities to receive both veteran's disability compensation and military retired pay concurrently, without reduction. This act amends Title 10 of the United States Code to ensure that disability retirees with combat-related disabilities are not subject to reductions in retired pay due to receiving veteran's disability compensation. These changes will take effect the first day of the month following the enactment of the Act.

The Advertising Middlemen Endangering Rigorous Internet Competition Accountability Act (or AMERICA Act) amends the Clayton Act to address competition and transparency in digital advertising. It prohibits companies with over $20 billion in digital advertising revenue from owning multiple parts of the advertising ecosystem (e.g., both a buy-side and sell-side brokerage) to prevent conflicts of interest. It also sets requirements for companies with over $5 billion in digital advertising revenue, including acting in the best interest of customers, providing transparency, and ensuring fair access to advertising exchanges. The Act grants the Attorney General and State attorneys general the power to enforce these provisions, including requiring divestitures and creating a private right of action for harmed parties.

The "Fair and Open Competition Act" seeks to ensure open competition on federal and federally funded construction projects by preventing requirements or prohibitions related to agreements with labor organizations. It promotes federal government neutrality in labor relations, aims to reduce construction costs, and expands job opportunities, especially for small and disadvantaged businesses. The Act allows exemptions only in special circumstances, such as threats to public health or national security, but not based on labor disputes.

The "United States African Development Foundation Dissolution Act" abolishes the United States African Development Foundation and repeals the African Development Foundation Act. All functions, assets, and responsibilities of the Foundation will be transferred to the Secretary of State. Official references to the Foundation will now refer to the Secretary of State or the Department of State.

The "Safe and Secure Transportation of American Energy Act" amends title 49 of the United States Code to broaden criminal penalties for damaging or destroying pipeline facilities. It expands the scope of prohibited actions to include vandalizing, tampering, disrupting the operation or construction of, or preventing the operation or construction of pipelines.

The "Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act of 2025" amends the Clean Air Act to limit states' ability to set emission standards that restrict the sale or use of new gas-powered vehicles. It clarifies that state standards limiting gas-powered vehicles are subject to federal regulation and requires the EPA to revoke any conflicting waivers granted after January 1, 2022. This bill aims to preserve consumer choice in vehicle purchases by preventing states from effectively banning gas-powered cars.