Legislative Activity

The PFAS Alternatives Act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish grant programs for researching and developing next-generation firefighter turnout gear that is free of harmful PFAS chemicals. These grants will support the creation of safer protective clothing and the development of training programs for first responders on its proper use and decontamination. The ultimate goal is to prevent occupational illness and injury among firefighters by advancing safer alternatives.

This bill, the FIRE SMART Act of 2026, requires the EPA to immediately expand the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) program. The expansion specifically directs funding toward water infrastructure projects that aid in wildfire suppression for rural communities at high risk from fire. The EPA must prioritize projects that benefit both drinking water quality and fire safety in these vulnerable areas.

The Energy Security Pacts Act establishes a framework for the U.S. Department of State to enter into multiyear agreements with partner countries to strengthen energy and economic security. By creating a dedicated Office of Energy Security Pacts and an interagency Council, the bill aims to diversify critical mineral and energy supply chains while fostering private-sector investment. These pacts are designed to enhance global energy reliability and competitiveness through transparent, strategic, and collaborative international partnerships.

The South China Sea Strategy Act of 2026 establishes a comprehensive U.S. policy to protect freedom of navigation and counter unilateral territorial claims in the region. The Act mandates that the Secretary of State develop and implement a strategic diplomatic engagement plan to strengthen cooperation with regional allies and partners. Additionally, it requires the identification of necessary resources and regular reporting to Congress to ensure a coordinated, long-term approach to regional stability.

The Blue Skies for Taiwan Act of 2026 aims to strengthen Taiwan’s asymmetric defense capabilities by integrating its drone industry into the U.S. "Blue UAS" supply chain. The bill establishes a working group to identify opportunities for co-developing secure, PRC-independent unmanned aircraft systems and creates a fast-track certification process for Taiwanese manufacturers. By fostering these partnerships, the legislation seeks to reduce reliance on Chinese-sourced components and enhance regional security through a collaborative, allied drone supply chain.

The Pacific POWER Act aims to strengthen U.S. national security and economic interests by promoting geothermal energy development with key international allies, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The bill directs the State Department to establish an international program that fosters public-private partnerships, provides technical and financial assistance, and reduces reliance on energy exports from geopolitical adversaries. By leveraging U.S. expertise and technology, the Act seeks to expand global geothermal capacity while creating new market opportunities for American companies.

The Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026 establishes a comprehensive U.S. strategy to support the Iranian people by expanding access to uncensored information and countering regime-imposed internet blackouts. The bill mandates the development of new communication technologies, increases funding for digital freedom programs, and requires the identification and sanctioning of individuals complicit in human rights abuses. Additionally, it strengthens support for independent media and provides cybersecurity training to Iranian journalists and civil society activists.

The Strengthening the Rule of Law in the Brazilian Amazon Act aims to combat transnational criminal networks driving deforestation and environmental degradation in the region. The legislation directs U.S. agencies to provide technical assistance and law enforcement support to Brazil, while promoting sustainable economic development and protecting the rights of Indigenous communities. Additionally, the bill mandates increased oversight of supply chains and requires the U.S. to leverage its influence in international financial institutions to prioritize environmental sustainability.

This bill authorizes government representatives and military personnel from Taiwan to display the flag and official insignia of the Republic of China while conducting official business. This permission applies to the wearing of uniforms, participation in government-hosted ceremonies, and official social media engagements.

The American Decade of Sports Act mandates that the State Department develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to leverage major international sporting events hosted in the U.S. between 2024 and 2034 for diplomatic and economic gain. The bill establishes an Office of Sports Diplomacy to coordinate these efforts, foster international partnerships, and streamline visa processes for event participants. Additionally, it requires regular reporting to Congress to ensure accountability and progress throughout this "mega-decade" of global competition.

The Stopping Harmful and Outrageous Torts Act significantly amends existing law to provide broad immunity to the firearms industry from civil lawsuits related to the criminal or unlawful use of their products. This legislation mandates the immediate dismissal of pending lawsuits against the industry and establishes strict definitions and procedural hurdles for any claims attempting to use statutory exceptions. Furthermore, it preempts state and local laws that attempt to impose liability on manufacturers or sellers for harms resulting from criminal misuse of firearms.

This bill reauthorizes and modernizes the Snow Water Supply Forecasting Program through 2031 with increased annual funding. It shifts the program's focus toward integrating advanced technologies, such as machine learning and integrated modeling, for more accurate snowpack and water supply predictions. The legislation also refines reporting requirements to detail the application and outcomes of these new measurement technologies across various river basins.

This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study on installing a selective water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam. The system aims to improve hydropower generation by managing cold water releases and preventing the spread of invasive species. If feasible and agreed upon by power contractors, the Secretary may proceed with construction.

This act reauthorizes and extends the competitive grant program for large-scale water recycling and reuse projects. It increases the program's authorization period from five years to ten years.

This bill authorizes Congress to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the volunteers and communities that supported the North Platte Canteen during World War II. The Canteen was a massive, entirely volunteer-run operation that fed approximately six million service members traveling across the country. The original gold medal will be permanently displayed at the Lincoln County Historical Museum in North Platte, Nebraska. The bill also allows the U.S. Mint to produce and sell bronze duplicates of the medal.

This bill, the Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act of 2026, significantly increases the penalties for stealing firearms from federally licensed dealers, importers, and manufacturers. It establishes mandatory minimum prison sentences for theft committed during a burglary or robbery of these businesses. Furthermore, the act clarifies that attempts to steal firearms from licensed collectors face the same enhanced penalties as successful theft.

The Safer Choice Program Authorization Act of 2026 formally establishes and strengthens the EPA's voluntary Safer Choice and Design for the Environment programs. This legislation mandates the EPA to continue operating these programs, which use rigorous, science-based standards to identify products made with safer chemical ingredients. The Act authorizes funding through 2034 and ensures ongoing transparency through annual reporting and a public database of certified products.

This resolution honors the life and extensive public service of the late Honorable Donald W. Riegle, Jr., former Senator for Michigan. It recognizes his decades in Congress, highlighting key legislative achievements such as co-sponsoring the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and leading significant banking reforms. The Senate expresses its profound sorrow and adjourns in his memory.

This resolution officially recognizes National Public Works Week to honor the essential contributions of public works professionals. It highlights their vital role in maintaining the infrastructure—like roads, water, and waste management—that protects public health and supports community life. The resolution also encourages greater public awareness of the importance of these services.

The Strategy for Crisis Management Act of 2026 mandates the Secretary of Defense to develop a comprehensive crisis management strategy for the South China Sea. This strategy must include detailed crisis playbooks for likely flashpoints, outlining sequenced response options and interagency coordination plans. The goal is to deter Chinese provocation, ensure safety, protect U.S. interests, and manage potential escalation while maintaining strategic stability.