Legislative Activity

The Felony Murder for Deadly Fentanyl Distribution Act of 2025 amends federal law to classify the distribution of fentanyl that results in death as first-degree felony murder. This change subjects offenders to the death penalty or life imprisonment if they distribute specific quantities of fentanyl or its analogues, knowing the substance contained them, and that distribution caused a fatality. The bill specifically targets distributors of two grams or more of fentanyl mixtures or half a gram or more of fentanyl analogue mixtures.

The BE GONE Act amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to expand the definition of an "aggravated felony." Specifically, this legislation adds sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence to the list of crimes that qualify as aggravated felonies for immigration purposes. This change will subject individuals convicted of these offenses to stricter immigration consequences.

The Restore M-44 Act officially cancels the Master Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture concerning wildlife management tools. This legislation specifically rescinds the previous prohibition on the Department of Agriculture's use of M44 sodium cyanide ejector devices. Consequently, the Secretary of Agriculture is now authorized to purchase, deploy, and train personnel on the use of these devices.

This resolution formally commends United States Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens upon his retirement after 29 years of dedicated public service. It recognizes his extensive career, highlighting his leadership in establishing key divisions to combat cartel activity and support agents. The bill serves as an official acknowledgment of his faithfulness and commitment to the Border Patrol's mission.

This Act officially authorizes the adjustment of the boundaries for Big Bend National Park. The Secretary of the Interior is permitted to acquire approximately 6,100 acres of land or rights through donation or exchange to expand the park. Crucially, this expansion explicitly prohibits the use of eminent domain to secure the additional property.

The Checkpoint Modernization Act aims to improve U.S. Border Patrol checkpoints by funding renovations that enhance law enforcement safety, detect illegal activities, and reduce traffic congestion. It mandates annual reports to Congress on renovation costs, statuses, and justifications. The Act allocates at least $150 million per year from 2025 to 2028 for these upgrades, repurposing funds previously allocated to the EPA under the Clean Air Act.

The "Security First Act" aims to bolster border security by increasing funding for the Operation Stonegarden grant program, designating funds for technology and equipment procurement, and establishing a trust fund. It mandates a report assessing whether Mexican drug cartels and criminal gangs should be designated as foreign terrorist organizations, and requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to analyze and update technology needs for border security along the Southwest border. Additionally, the Act requires a report on the Department of Homeland Security's hiring practices from 2018 to 2024.