Legislative Activity

This bill, the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act, extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until December 31, 2026. It retroactively applies these extensions to September 30, 2025, if enacted after that date. The legislation ensures the continued financing and operation of the NFIP.

This bill, the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act, establishes a streamlined process for converting inactive offshore oil and gas platforms and pipelines into artificial reefs. It defines key terms and outlines steps for applicants to seek approval to leave these structures in place, provided they meet environmental and safety criteria. The legislation also facilitates the transfer of long-term liability for these new reefs to participating state agencies. This process temporarily halts government removal orders while applications are under review.

This bill aims to establish and support the commercial-scale offshore aquaculture industry through several key actions. It creates a centralized Office of Aquaculture to coordinate regulatory and scientific efforts and mandates demonstration projects to assess the viability and safety of ocean farming. Furthermore, the legislation invests in workforce development, establishes university Centers of Excellence, and provides grants to preserve vital working waterfronts.

This bill extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage. It specifically moves the program's expiration date from late 2023 to November 21, 2025. This extension provides Congress with additional time to develop long-term reforms for the program.

The Fairness and Accountability of Appeals Act of 2025 ensures that individuals who successfully appeal or win arbitration regarding disaster assistance decisions will have their associated attorney fees reimbursed by the Administrator. This provision aims to reduce the financial burden on successful appellants seeking fair disaster aid rulings.

This resolution commemorates the 20th anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, recognizing the immense devastation and loss suffered across the Gulf Coast. It honors the heroic efforts of first responders and the resilience of the affected communities. Furthermore, the resolution reaffirms the commitment to supporting the ongoing rebuilding, renewal, and restoration of the vital Gulf Coast region.

This bill reauthorizes the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009 through fiscal year 2030, authorizing $56 million annually for FY 2026-2030. It makes administrative updates by replacing "Council" with "Committee" throughout the Act and clarifies the system's scope to include operational oceanography measurements. Furthermore, it mandates that federal agencies develop rules to ensure data sharing between regional offices and federally funded projects with local coastal observing systems.

The Port Crane Tax Credit Act of 2025 establishes new federal tax incentives to bolster the domestic manufacturing of port cranes. It introduces a 25% investment tax credit for building or equipping U.S. facilities dedicated to crane production. Additionally, the bill creates a production credit for manufacturers selling qualifying U.S.-made port cranes, with higher rates for those using significant domestic components. Both credits offer flexible options for businesses, including transferability and elective payment.

The Cormorant Relief Act of 2025 mandates the reissuance of the existing federal permit order governing the taking of double-crested cormorants at aquaculture facilities. This updated order must modernize language, simplify compliance, and expand applicability to include lake and pond managers in specified states. Furthermore, the Secretary of the Interior must renew this depredation order every five years, while still adhering to the National Environmental Policy Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

This bill aims to unleash America's access to critical minerals on the seabed by accelerating domestic exploration and recovery efforts. It mandates federal agencies to establish expedited processes, within 60 days, for issuing licenses and permits for mineral recovery on the Outer Continental Shelf and in international waters. The legislation seeks to secure vital supply chains for national security and energy while establishing U.S. leadership in responsible seabed resource development.

This bill amends federal law to allow owners of U.S.-flagged vessels and marine terminal operators to establish Capital Construction Funds. These funds can now be used for purchasing, replacing, or upgrading eligible cargo handling equipment at U.S. marine terminals. The legislation also updates definitions and establishes rules regarding fund deposits, qualified withdrawals, and prohibits the use of funds for certain automated or China-manufactured equipment.

The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act of 2025 establishes a new federal program to strengthen local business districts, particularly in underserved communities. This program will award grants to larger intermediary organizations, which will then provide technical assistance, training, and capacity building support to smaller, local groups managing neighborhood commercial areas. The goal is to enhance the ability of these local organizations to drive economic growth, job creation, and revitalization in distressed and rural areas.

This Concurrent Resolution formally expresses the appreciation of Congress for the dedication and service of local law enforcement officers across the nation. It recognizes the sacrifices made by officers and their families in keeping communities safe. The resolution also encourages strong partnerships between police departments and the communities they serve.

The Safer Shrimp Imports Act establishes new requirements for foreign facilities that process or pack shrimp destined for the U.S. market. It mandates that foreign governments must agree to U.S. safety standards or demonstrate that their inspection systems are equivalent to the FDA's. Shrimp from countries refusing cooperation or lacking adequate oversight will be blocked from entering the United States.

This resolution expresses strong Congressional support for America's law enforcement professionals, recognizing the increasing dangers and mental health tolls they face daily. It highlights significant challenges, including rising officer assaults and critical staffing shortages across the nation. The bill urges all levels of government to increase support through better funding, training, equipment, and mental health resources. Ultimately, it calls for enhanced penalties for those who harm officers and reaffirms appreciation for their service.

This bill mandates that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) use appropriately licensed professionals for crucial disaster recovery activities under the Stafford Act. Specifically, licensed professionals must conduct cost estimates and oversee the acquisition of necessary materials for projects receiving assistance under sections 406 or 428. The legislation limits FEMA's ability to reject plans or purchases made by these licensed professionals unless fraud is evident. Furthermore, it requires state and local entities to hire these licensed professionals for developing the scope of work.

The BRIDGE Production Act of 2025 mandates an aggressive schedule for offshore oil and gas lease sales in the Gulf of America and Cook Inlet, requiring at least 26 new sales over the next decade. It streamlines environmental reviews and judicial processes to accelerate lease issuance and speed up production approvals. Furthermore, the bill establishes automatic backup leasing schedules if future five-year plans fail to meet minimum sale requirements.

The Secretary of the Coast Guard Act of 2025 establishes the new, Senate-confirmed position of Secretary of the Coast Guard. This new Cabinet-level official will report directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security, overseeing the service. The bill redefines leadership structure within Title 14 of the U.S. Code, placing the Commandant of the Coast Guard under the direction of this new Secretary.

This bill disapproves and nullifies the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's rule concerning the protection of Marine Archaeological Resources. The bill aims to overturn the rule as published in the Federal Register.

The Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025 establishes a commission to improve the management and sustainability of fishery resources in the Mississippi River Basin by fostering collaboration among states, federal agencies, and tribes. The commission will develop and implement fishery management plans, address aquatic invasive species, and administer a grant program to support interjurisdictional fishery projects. This act authorizes appropriations for the commission's establishment, management duties, grant program, and housing within the Department of the Interior. The commission will submit annual reports to Congress detailing its activities and progress.