Legislative Activity

The Transit Bus Affordability Act directs the Comptroller General to investigate the high costs associated with procuring new public transit buses in the United States. This review will compare U.S. costs against international benchmarks, analyze supply chain impacts, and examine current cost-reduction efforts. The goal is to provide recommendations to ensure federal, state, and local funds are used more efficiently for transit agency bus purchases.

The End Tenant Credit Screening Act generally prohibits landlords and property managers from using consumer reports containing credit history or credit standing for tenant screening purposes, even with applicant consent. This restriction applies to decisions about approving an application, setting security deposits, or determining lease terms. The only exception allows credit checks if a housing provider decides to reconsider an initial denial of an application.

The End Junk Fees for Renters Act aims to protect tenants by banning application and screening fees for federally assisted rental units. It also caps late rent fees at 3% and mandates that landlords disclose key rental history and maintenance information before a lease is signed. Furthermore, the bill directs federal agencies to define "junk fees" and prohibits landlords from reporting unpaid junk fees to credit bureaus.

The Stop Unlawful Detention and End Mistreatment Act of 2025 mandates the creation of a public, daily updated online database tracking key metrics for all individuals held in ICE custody, while prohibiting the inclusion of personally identifiable information. This bill also ensures the continued operation of the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman and the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. The legislation aims to increase transparency regarding immigration detention practices and oversight mechanisms.

The "Fair Grocery Pricing Act" aims to prevent anti-competitive practices in the food industry by prohibiting food producers from colluding on pricing and supply through third-party coordinators. It empowers the FTC, Attorney General, and State Attorneys General to enforce the Act, allowing for civil penalties and legal action against violators. The Act also enables individuals harmed by violations to seek damages and invalidate certain pre-dispute agreements. This law supplements existing antitrust laws and does not override stricter state or local regulations.

The "Office of Gun Violence Prevention Act of 2025" establishes an Office of Gun Violence Prevention within the Department of Justice, led by a Director appointed by the Attorney General, to coordinate gun violence prevention efforts, evaluate related laws and programs, and recommend evidence-based policies to Congress and the President. The Director will also convene an advisory council comprising various officials and at least 12 additional individuals representing gun violence survivors, community violence intervention service providers, and other relevant groups. The Office will also assist communities affected by gun violence with crisis response activities, such as providing access to mental health services and suicide prevention resources. Finally, the act authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds to carry out the provisions of the bill.