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.

The Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act amends existing USDA conservation programs to explicitly include Indian tribes and tribal lands when identifying priority resource concerns. This legislation ensures tribal governments are consulted and their lands are recognized within key conservation initiatives like EQIP and CSP. The Act strengthens tribal involvement in federal conservation planning and resource management.

The PAID OFF Act of 2025 restricts foreign agents representing entities from specific adversarial nations—including China, Russia, and Iran—from utilizing certain registration exemptions under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). The bill also establishes a formal congressional process for the Secretary of State to update the list of "countries of concern" and includes a five-year sunset provision for these new requirements.

This bill authorizes Congress to award a single Congressional Gold Medal to the First Rhode Island Regiment collectively. This recognition honors the regiment's crucial and heroic service during the Revolutionary War, notably as one of the first integrated military units in American history. The original medal will be displayed at the Rhode Island State Library, and bronze duplicates may be sold to cover production costs.

The Community College Agriculture Advancement Act of 2026 establishes a grant program to strengthen agriculture and natural resources programs at community colleges. These competitive grants will help institutions expand workforce training, education, and research, prioritizing coordination with local industry for experiential learning. The Act also authorizes funding to designate regional or national Centers of Agriculture Advancement.

This bill, the FENCE Act, amends the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978 to allow farmers to use modern or emerging fencing technologies when repairing or replacing fences under the emergency conservation program. This update is permitted as long as the inclusion of new technology does not increase the overall cost of the repair or replacement.

This bill amends federal law to extend existing prohibitions on noncompliant motor vehicles to also cover noncompliant motor vehicle equipment. This ensures that equipment not meeting safety standards is subject to the same restrictions on manufacturing, selling, and importing. The legislation also allows for the introduction of certain noncompliant equipment in interstate commerce specifically for testing purposes.

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.

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.

The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026 establishes automatic, 14-day continuing appropriations to prevent federal operations from halting when regular funding lapses. This mechanism funds programs at the previous rate until Congress enacts a full budget or continuing resolution. The bill also imposes strict limitations on official travel and congressional business during these funding gaps. Finally, it classifies the costs of this Act as discretionary spending subject to existing budget enforcement rules.

This resolution supports designating May 2026 as "Renewable Fuels Month." It recognizes the significant role that renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel play in lowering consumer fuel prices and reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, the bill highlights how these fuels bolster rural economies and decrease reliance on foreign energy sources.

This bill reauthorizes and extends the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program through fiscal year 2030. The program allows eligible small, rural hospitals to receive Medicare payments based on reasonable costs for inpatient services to promote financial stability. It maintains participation limits and requires a report evaluating the program's impact on rural access to care and costs.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of the late former United States Senator John Seymour of California. It recognizes his extensive public service, highlighting his career in business, local government, and his tenure in the U.S. Senate. The Senate expresses its deep sorrow and directs that official copies of this resolution be delivered to his family.

This resolution officially designates the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Police Week." It serves to recognize and honor the service, sacrifice, and valor of law enforcement officers across the United States. The measure encourages the public to observe this week by honoring law enforcement personnel and promoting awareness of their essential mission.

This resolution expresses support for designating May 2026 as "National Beef Month." It recognizes the significant economic contributions and nutritional value of the United States cattle and beef industry. The designation aims to honor the industry's role in the nation's agriculture and food supply.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of Dirk Arthur Kempthorne, recognizing his significant contributions as a former U.S. Senator, Governor of Idaho, and Secretary of the Interior. The Senate expresses its profound sorrow over his passing and offers condolences to his family. The resolution directs that this tribute be communicated to the House and his family, and the Senate will adjourn in his memory.

This bill aims to improve the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by requiring telecommunications providers to transmit precise, **dispatchable location information** for all calls made to the service. It mandates the FCC to initiate an inquiry into the technical and privacy challenges of this requirement. Additionally, the GAO must report to Congress on the feasibility and implications of using geolocation technology for 988 callers.

The FAIR Labels Act of 2026 establishes clear labeling requirements and regulatory oversight for both cell-cultivated protein products and plant-based alternative protein products. It mandates that cell-cultivated products must prominently feature the term "cell-cultivated" on their labels, while plant-based alternatives must be clearly identified as "plant-based alternative protein product." Furthermore, the bill updates the agreement between the USDA and HHS to clarify their respective roles in regulating the safety and production of cell-cultivated protein.

This resolution expresses support for designating the week of May 3, 2026, through May 9, 2026, as "National Small Business Week." It aims to celebrate the vital contributions and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses across the United States. The bill recognizes the essential role these businesses play in the national economy and applauds their resilience.

The Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act strengthens safety protocols by mandating strict, short timelines for manufacturers to report potential ingredient contamination and confirmed positive test results for finished infant formula. It also requires the FDA to issue regular reports on supply chain resiliency and review manufacturer investigations following contamination incidents. This legislation aims to ensure quicker responses to safety threats and improve the overall stability of the infant formula market.