Legislative Activity

This joint resolution expresses Congress's disapproval of a specific Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule concerning California's "Advanced Clean Cars II" pollution control standards. By invoking the Congressional Review Act, Congress is effectively vetoing this EPA regulation. This action prevents the EPA's rule regarding California's vehicle emission standards from taking effect.

The Preserve Access to Affordable Generics and Biosimilars Act aims to increase competition in the pharmaceutical market by banning anticompetitive "pay-for-delay" settlements between brand-name drug manufacturers and generic or biosimilar makers. This legislation empowers the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to penalize companies that make deals to illegally delay cheaper drug entry. Furthermore, the bill enhances reporting requirements and clarifies the FTC's authority to enforce these new competition rules.

The DETERRENT Act significantly tightens reporting requirements for colleges and universities regarding foreign gifts and contracts, mandating public disclosure databases and imposing strict new prohibitions on agreements with "foreign countries or entities of concern." It establishes severe financial penalties and potential ineligibility for federal aid for institutions that knowingly violate these transparency and compliance rules. The bill also requires institutions to implement internal policies and designate compliance officers to manage risks associated with foreign influence.

The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 mandates sweeping economic penalties against the Russian Federation and its affiliates for actions against Ukraine. This legislation requires the President and Treasury Secretary to impose escalating sanctions on Russian officials, financial institutions, and energy sector entities. Furthermore, the Act prohibits U.S. persons from investing in Russian debt, bans the trading of Russian securities on U.S. exchanges, and imposes a massive 500% import duty on Russian goods. Sanctions can only be terminated if Russia agrees to a verifiable peace deal with Ukraine.

The Judicial Relief Clarification Act of 2025 generally restricts federal courts from issuing orders that affect non-parties to a lawsuit or granting emergency relief in certain state/federal disputes under diversity jurisdiction. The bill also clarifies language regarding who can seek declaratory judgments and limits the scope of judicial review over agency actions. Overall, this legislation aims to narrow the scope of judicial authority in issuing certain types of relief and clarifying participation in specific legal challenges.

The SHORT Act aims to revise federal firearms tax definitions and eliminate disparate federal treatment of short-barreled rifles and shotguns used for lawful purposes. It also preempts state and local governments from imposing special taxes or registration requirements on these specific weapons if they are involved in interstate commerce. Finally, the bill mandates the destruction of existing federal records related to the registration and transfer of these firearms.

This resolution formally honors the life and distinguished public service career of the Honorable Alan K. Simpson, former U.S. Senator for Wyoming. It celebrates his extensive tenure in both state and federal government, highlighting his focus on fiscal responsibility and support for veterans. The Senate expresses its deep sorrow at his passing and directs that the day's adjournment serve as a final tribute to his memory.

The Assisting Small Businesses Not Fraudsters Act prohibits the Small Business Administration (SBA) from providing financial assistance to individuals or businesses associated with someone finally convicted of fraud related to specific federal loans or grants. This measure aims to prevent those who have committed financial misconduct from receiving further government aid. The restrictions apply to the convicted individual and any small business concern where that person is an owner, officer, or key employee.

This joint resolution expresses Congress's disapproval of the Department of Energy's (DOE) proposed energy conservation standards for commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers. By invoking the Congressional Review Act, Congress is officially rejecting and nullifying the specific DOE rule published in the Federal Register. Consequently, the DOE's proposed energy efficiency requirements for these commercial cooling units will not take effect.

The Accountability Through Electronic Verification Act permanently reauthorizes and mandates the use of the E-Verify system for nearly all U.S. employers, phasing in requirements over one year. The bill significantly increases penalties for non-compliance and establishes new procedures for reverification and information sharing between federal agencies. Furthermore, it offers liability protection to employers who use the system in good faith and directs the creation of a demonstration program for small businesses in rural areas.

The WATCH Act establishes new federal oversight for foreign laboratories receiving U.S. funding for animal research, primarily from the NIH. These labs must now undergo mandatory quarterly inspections to ensure compliance with established animal welfare standards. Failure to pass these inspections and correct deficiencies can result in the suspension or revocation of federal funding.

This Act mandates an annual review of the Code of Federal Regulations using artificial intelligence systems developed in partnership with NIST to identify redundant or outdated rules. If an agency confirms an AI-flagged regulation is unnecessary, it must be removed or updated within 30 days using an expedited process. This legislation aims to rapidly streamline federal regulations by leveraging technology to eliminate obsolete requirements.

The Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2025 repeals the EPA's recent multi-pollutant emissions standards for light-duty and medium-duty vehicles. Furthermore, this Act prohibits the EPA from issuing future tailpipe emission regulations that mandate specific technologies or limit the availability of new motor vehicles based on engine type. The EPA must update existing rules within 24 months to comply with these new restrictions.

The Freedom to Haul Act of 2025 prohibits the EPA from implementing or enforcing the Phase 3 heavy-duty vehicle emission rules. Furthermore, the bill prevents the EPA from issuing tailpipe emission regulations that mandate specific technologies or limit the availability of new motor vehicles based on engine type. This ensures manufacturers retain flexibility in meeting pollution standards.

The Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act amends the Clean Air Act to exclude fuel used by ocean-going vessels from the definition of fossil fuel for renewable fuel standard calculations. This change effectively treats marine vessel fuel similarly to home heating oil under existing renewable fuel programs. The EPA is tasked with implementing the necessary rulemaking within one year of the bill's enactment.

The Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act establishes a five-year pilot program to ensure the Army's government-owned arsenals receive consistent work. This is achieved by giving significant contractual preference to private partners who agree to utilize these critical defense manufacturing facilities. Specifically, bids from companies that do not partner with an arsenal will have 20 percent added to their price during evaluation. The Secretary of Defense must report annually to Congress on the program's effectiveness and the future needs of the arsenals.

The Child Care Availability and Affordability Act aims to lower childcare costs for families and incentivize employers to offer benefits. It significantly expands the employer tax credit for providing childcare and increases the tax-free exclusion amount for employee Dependent Care Assistance Programs (DCAPs). Furthermore, the bill introduces a new, refundable tax credit for working families based on their household and dependent care expenses.

The Fighting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Act of 2025 addresses the high rates of PTSD among public safety officers and telecommunicators due to job-related trauma. This bill directs the Attorney General to report on and propose federal programs offering specialized, confidential mental health treatment and preventative care for these essential workers. The goal is to establish effective, accessible support systems across all levels of government to combat behavioral health conditions and reduce suicide among first responders.

The Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force Act establishes a new presidential task force to address the national security risks posed by U.S. dependence on foreign adversaries, particularly China, for critical minerals. This body is charged with coordinating federal, state, and tribal efforts to secure domestic supply chains through increased mining, processing, and recycling. The Task Force must deliver comprehensive recommendations to Congress on reducing foreign reliance and strengthening domestic capacity within two years.

This resolution supports the Local Radio Freedom Act, opposing any new performance fees on local radio stations for playing music. It emphasizes the mutually beneficial relationship between the radio and recording industries, where radio provides free publicity and essential local services. The resolution warns that new fees would harm local radio stations, small businesses, and the communities they serve. Ultimately, it asserts that Congress should not impose any new charges on local radio for broadcasting sound recordings.