Legislative Activity

This bill amends the Aquifer Recharge Flexibility Act, allowing existing infrastructure to be used for aquifer recharge and water transport without additional federal approval, provided there is no major expansion or modification. It requires notification to the Bureau of Land Management before use, including details of the intended use and relevant agreements. The bill clarifies that it does not waive compliance with other federal laws or authorize new construction.

The "Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act" requires manufacturers of internet-connected devices with cameras or microphones to clearly disclose these features to consumers before purchase. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is empowered to enforce this requirement and must issue guidance to help manufacturers comply with the Act. The Act excludes devices like phones and laptops, which consumers generally expect to have such features. This law aims to increase transparency and inform consumers about the capabilities of their smart devices.

The "Reducing Barriers for Broadband on Federal Lands Act of 2025" aims to accelerate broadband deployment by exempting projects within existing rights-of-way on federal lands from certain environmental and historical preservation reviews. This exemption applies to projects installing infrastructure for high-quality telecommunications. By streamlining the approval process, the act seeks to reduce barriers and encourage broadband providers to expand services. Specifically, projects will not be subject to a full environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act or review under the National Historic Preservation Act.

The CLEAN Act aims to expedite geothermal energy development by requiring the Department of Interior to hold replacement lease sales if scheduled ones are canceled, offer all eligible nominated parcels for geothermal development, and make timely decisions on geothermal drilling permit applications.

This bill disapproves and nullifies the Federal Communications Commission's rule addressing the homework gap through the E-Rate Program. The rule aimed to expand E-Rate funding to support internet access for students at home. By disapproving the rule, the bill prevents the FCC from implementing this expansion of the E-Rate program.

The "MAILS Act" aims to improve communication between the Postal Service and local communities regarding the relocation or establishment of post offices. It mandates a formal process for local officials to request new post offices and requires the Postal Service to gather community input, provide detailed notifications to local officials, and offer public presentations before any temporary relocation lasting more than two days. Additionally, for extended relocations, the Postal Service must report to Congress on communication compliance and reasons for extending the relocation period.

This bill nullifies the Environmental Protection Agency's "Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles-Phase 3." By disapproving the rule, the bill prevents the EPA from enforcing stricter emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles.

The ATF Transparency Act aims to make the firearm application process more transparent and efficient. It allows applicants to appeal denied firearm transfer applications, potentially recoup attorney fees if successful, and prevents application delays by mandating automatic approval if the Secretary doesn't decide within 90 days. The Act also requires reports and agreements related to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to improve its administration and minimize unresolved inquiries.

The "Keep Every Extra Penny Act of 2025" amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude overtime compensation, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, from an individual's gross income, effectively making overtime pay tax-free. This exclusion aims to provide financial relief to workers who earn overtime pay.