Legislative Activity

This resolution expresses the official support of Congress for designating the week of October 19 through 25, 2025, as "National Chemistry Week." It recognizes the vital role chemistry plays in daily life, innovation, and economic growth. The bill specifically encourages public education about chemistry and promotes STEM career paths for students, particularly those from underrepresented groups.

The SAFE Drivers Act mandates that all applicants for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or learner's permit must pass a standardized English proficiency test approved by the FMCSA. This requirement applies immediately upon the bill's enactment for all new and renewing applicants. States are responsible for administering the test, and failure to comply with these new federal oversight rules may result in the withholding of federal highway funding.

This bill authorizes the striking and presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal to Donald J. Trump in recognition of his alleged extraordinary peacemaking efforts globally. Congress specifically cites several purported international peace deals and ceasefires secured by the former President as justification for this high honor. The Act also outlines the process for creating and selling bronze duplicates of the medal to cover production costs.

The Retirement Investment Choice Act aims to permanently establish the rules set forth in Executive Order 14330 into federal law. This action codifies the executive order, which focuses on democratizing access to alternative assets within 401(k) retirement plans. By enacting this into statute, the bill ensures these investment options remain available to plan participants regardless of future executive actions.

This resolution urges the Director of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to immediately reevaluate the safety of all chemical abortion drugs based on recent independent studies. It highlights concerns that expanded access, including mail distribution, may increase risks of abuse and serious complications. The measure specifically calls for the FDA to publicly release a comprehensive safety review incorporating real-world complication data.

The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 aims to significantly improve the reliability and utility of U.S. fisheries data. It mandates reforms to the recreational data collection program (MRIP) by establishing an independent review process when data accuracy falls below set standards. The bill also empowers states to develop and implement their own data collection programs, shifting the federal reliance away from the MRIP baseline. Finally, it requires the establishment of a regular schedule for updating crucial fish stock assessments and promotes the use of independent, external scientific surveys in federal management decisions.

The Non-Domiciled CDL Integrity Act establishes new federal standards for states issuing Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) to individuals who do not reside in that state. This bill sets specific, strict requirements for foreign nationals seeking a CDL, including proof of lawful status and job-related visas, while also outlining distinct procedures for applicants residing in U.S. territories. The legislation mandates enhanced record-keeping and reporting by states to the Secretary of Transportation regarding these non-domiciled licenses.

This resolution designates September 30, 2025, as "Impact Aid Recognition Day" to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Impact Aid program. The program provides essential financial assistance to local school districts that educate students living on tax-exempt federal property. This recognition underscores Congress's continued commitment to ensuring quality education for federally connected students.

The Catastrophic Specialty Hospital Act of 2025 establishes a new, separate Medicare payment system for hospitals specializing in complex, long-term care for catastrophic injuries like spinal cord or acquired brain injuries. To qualify, hospitals must meet strict criteria regarding patient focus, continuum of care, volume, out-of-state patient draw, and research commitment over a three-year period. This designation grants these specialized facilities an exemption from standard Medicare payment rules for three-year renewable terms.

This act authorizes the creation and issuance of a new circulating and numismatic $2.50 coin to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The bill mandates specific historical designs for the initial release, continuing a tradition from the 150th anniversary celebration. The Treasury Secretary is given authority over the production, alloy, and future designs, with a goal for the coins to be available by July 4, 2026.

This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue up to 400,000 special one-dollar silver commemorative coins honoring the late activist Charles "Charlie" Kirk. The coins must feature his likeness on the obverse and the inscription "well done, good and faithful servant" on the reverse. All costs associated with the production and sale of these coins must be covered by the revenue generated, ensuring no net cost to the U.S. Treasury.

The NFIP Extension Act of 2026 officially extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This legislation ensures the NFIP continues to operate by pushing its expiration date from September 30, 2023, to September 30, 2026. The bill also includes a provision to ensure this extension takes effect even if enacted after September 30, 2025.

The Eliminate Shutdowns Act establishes an automatic, 14-day continuing appropriation mechanism to keep federal programs operational if Congress fails to pass a new budget by the start of the fiscal year. This funding continues to renew every 14 days until a full appropriation is enacted, ensuring essential services remain active. The Act also includes specific budgetary rules for counting this funding and sets an effective date of September 30, 2025.

The Baltic Security Assessment Act of 2025 affirms the critical importance of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to U.S. national security amidst Russian aggression. This bill mandates that the Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense deliver a comprehensive report to Congress detailing emerging military, cyber, and political threats to the Baltic states. The report must also recommend specific actions to enhance U.S. and NATO defense cooperation and bolster Baltic resilience.

The Efficient Nuclear Licensing Hearings Act streamlines the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC) process for issuing certain nuclear facility permits and licenses. This legislation allows the NRC to issue permits without automatically holding a full hearing if no affected party requests one. It also updates procedures to favor informal hearings when they are held and modifies timing requirements for license issuance.

This resolution formally honors the life and legacy of Charles "Charlie" James Kirk, who was tragically assassinated at Utah Valley University. It condemns political violence and calls upon all Americans to reject extremism in favor of civil debate. The bill expresses deep sympathy to his family and urges a renewal of commitment to the values of faith, family, and freedom he championed.

The SHINE for Autumn Act of 2025 aims to significantly improve federal support for state-level stillbirth research and data collection. It authorizes grants for states to enhance surveillance, track risk factors, and build local capacity for analyzing stillbirth data, provided the information remains de-identified. Furthermore, the bill mandates the development of standardized guidelines and educational materials regarding stillbirth awareness and risk factors, developed in consultation with experts and bereaved families.

This resolution officially recognizes the 250th birthday of the United States Navy, celebrating its long history since the Continental Navy was established in 1775. Congress expresses deep gratitude for the bravery and dedication of all past and present Sailors who have defended the nation. The bill reaffirms the Navy's vital role in global security, humanitarian efforts, and maintaining American strength worldwide.

The Chloe Cole Act prohibits healthcare professionals from engaging in chemical or surgical mutilation of minors, defined as specific medical interventions intended to alter appearance or biological function related to sex. This prohibition is enforced through federal jurisdiction when interstate commerce is involved in the procedure. The bill also establishes a private right of action, allowing individuals subjected to these procedures as minors to sue participating providers, and sets strict liability standards for future violations.

The Digital Coast Reauthorization Act of 2025 extends the authorization of the Digital Coast Act through 2030. This legislation mandates that all data provided under the Act must be fully and freely available once accessible. Furthermore, it explicitly expands the required data to include information on underground infrastructure and subsurface utilities.