Legislative Activity

The Protecting Moms and Babies Against Climate Change Act directs the Department of Health and Human Services to address how climate change risks, like extreme heat and pollution, harm maternal and infant health. The bill establishes grant programs to support local efforts and education, and mandates research and strategies to identify high-risk zones for pregnant individuals and young children. Its goal is to reduce adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal mortality linked to climate change.

The Securing the Rights our Veterans Earned Act (SERVE Act) extends eligibility for key Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits to former service members who were discharged based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This includes access to hospital care, mental health services, national cemetery burial, Post-9/11 GI Bill education assistance, and housing loans. The bill also mandates the VA Secretary to conduct outreach regarding these newly available benefits.

The YouthBuild for the Future Act reauthorizes and updates the YouthBuild program through 2030, providing education, job training, and leadership development for low-income young people, with a focus on green building skills. The bill increases funding authorization and expands allowable services, such as food assistance and help applying for benefits. It also establishes a new grant program to create employer partnerships that connect participants directly to local job opportunities.

The Millionaires Surtax Act imposes a 10% surcharge on high-income individuals starting in 2027. This surcharge applies to modified adjusted gross income exceeding $1 million for most filers, or $2 million for married couples filing jointly. The tax is calculated based on adjusted gross income, with specific adjustments for investment interest and nonresident aliens.

This bill officially renames the United States Postal Service facility located at 14855 South Van Dyke Road in Plainfield, Illinois. The facility will now be known as the Staff Sergeant Jose Dueñez Jr. Post Office Building. This designation will apply to all official federal references to the building.

This bill officially renames the United States Postal Service facility located at 1300 East Northwest Highway in Palatine, Illinois. The facility will now be known as the "Bernie Bluestein Post Office Building." This designation will be used in all official records and documents pertaining to this location.

This resolution designates April 2026 as "Second Chance Month" to raise awareness about the systemic barriers faced by individuals reentering society after incarceration. It encourages communities, employers, and policymakers to support rehabilitation efforts and remove unnecessary obstacles to employment, housing, and education. By fostering these opportunities, the initiative aims to reduce recidivism and help individuals with criminal records successfully reintegrate into their families and communities.

The Educational Equity Challenge Grant Act of 2026 establishes a grant program to help eligible entities address students' academic, social-emotional, and health needs, particularly those exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds will be awarded for evidence-based strategies and innovative, educator-initiated proposals focused on high-need students. The bill prioritizes funding for rural and low-income areas while requiring robust reporting on outcomes and impact.

This resolution supports designating the week of April 20 through April 24, 2026, as "National Home Visiting Week." It recognizes the vital role of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program in supporting families and promoting healthy development for children. The bill affirms the importance of home visiting services in providing crucial support to parents nationwide.

This resolution seeks to exercise congressional disapproval of the Department of Education’s recent rule regarding the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. If passed, the resolution would nullify the rule, rendering it without force or effect.

The Parental Bereavement Act of 2026 (also known as the Sarah Grace-Farley-Kluger-Barklage Act) amends the Family and Medical Leave Act to provide employees with job-protected, unpaid leave following the death of a son or daughter. This legislation allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of leave within a year of the loss, with the option to substitute accrued paid leave. These protections extend to both private-sector and federal civil service employees.

This resolution recognizes the essential contributions of the nation’s 728,000 social workers in promoting health, social justice, and well-being across American communities. It formally supports the goals and ideals of Social Work Month and World Social Work Day on March 17, 2026, while highlighting the urgent need for continued investment in the profession.

This resolution formally recognizes International Transgender Day of Visibility to celebrate the achievements and bravery of the transgender community. It highlights the ongoing challenges of discrimination and legislative threats faced by transgender individuals while honoring their significant historical and contemporary contributions to society. The bill encourages all Americans to observe the day and reaffirms a commitment to the fight for equal dignity and respect.

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 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 Ultra-Millionaire Tax Act of 2026 proposes a new annual federal wealth tax on individuals with a net worth exceeding $50 million, with rates ranging from 2% to 3% based on total assets. The legislation includes robust enforcement measures, such as increased IRS funding and mandatory audit requirements, to ensure compliance among the ultra-wealthy. Additionally, it strengthens foreign asset disclosure requirements to prevent tax avoidance.

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 Fair Wages for Incarcerated Workers Act of 2026 amends the Fair Labor Standards Act to extend minimum wage and overtime protections to incarcerated workers. This legislation ensures that individuals employed in correctional facilities, whether by public or private entities, receive fair compensation. The bill also prohibits employers from deducting the cost of board, lodging, or court-imposed fees from these workers' wages.

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.

This resolution designates the third week of March as "National CACFP Week" to celebrate the Child and Adult Care Food Program’s vital role in providing nutritious meals to millions of children and adults. It highlights the program's positive impact on health and development while urging legislative improvements to strengthen its reach and reduce administrative burdens. Ultimately, the bill recognizes CACFP as an essential support system for working families, childcare providers, and the broader care economy.