Legislative Activity

The National Plan for Epilepsy Act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to conduct a comprehensive review of federal epilepsy programs, research, and care strategies. By collaborating with stakeholders and identifying knowledge gaps, the Act aims to improve health outcomes, enhance treatment, and better support individuals living with epilepsy. The resulting report will provide Congress with actionable recommendations to strengthen federal efforts and coordination in epilepsy prevention and care.

The New Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act mandates that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs realign Otero and Eddy Counties into Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 17. This adjustment aims to improve administrative coordination and health care access for veterans residing in these rural New Mexico communities.

This resolution designates August 2 through August 8, 2026, as "National Farmers Market Week." It recognizes the vital role these markets play in supporting local economies, promoting sustainable agriculture, and improving community access to fresh, healthy food.

The Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act expands and standardizes paid family and medical leave across the federal government. This legislation increases leave flexibility for birth, adoption, and caregiving, while extending comprehensive coverage to congressional, postal, and District of Columbia court employees. By aligning these benefits, the bill ensures that a broader range of federal workers have access to consistent, paid leave for serious health and family needs.

The Seeds and Breeds for the Future Act strengthens the U.S. food system by dedicating at least $75 million annually to the development of publicly bred plant varieties and animal breeds. The bill establishes a dedicated coordinator within the USDA to oversee research, prioritizes the creation of regionally adapted and climate-resilient crops and livestock, and mandates the implementation of national strategic plans for germplasm conservation. By supporting public breeding programs, this legislation aims to enhance agricultural diversity, nutritional outcomes, and long-term food security.

This resolution reaffirms the fundamental right of individuals with disabilities to live independently in their communities, as established by the Americans with Disabilities Act and the *Olmstead* decision. It condemns recent efforts to weaken integration mandates and calls on federal agencies to prioritize accessible housing, employment, and community-based services. Furthermore, the bill advocates for the protection of Medicaid funding and the removal of barriers to ensure full equality and self-sufficiency for all people with disabilities.

The Supreme Court Ethics Act mandates that the Supreme Court and the Judicial Conference establish formal codes of conduct for all federal judges and justices. The bill creates an independent Ethics Investigations Counsel to oversee compliance, investigate potential violations, and issue annual public reports. Additionally, it requires Supreme Court justices to publicly disclose their reasoning when recusing themselves from a case or denying a motion for recusal.

The Right to IVF Act of 2026 establishes a federal right to access assisted reproductive technology (ART) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) by overriding restrictive state laws. The bill further expands family-building support by mandating comprehensive fertility coverage for military service members, veterans, federal employees, and those enrolled in private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. These measures aim to ensure equitable, affordable access to fertility treatments nationwide.

The FIRST Act establishes a Department of State program to promote the international deployment of U.S. civil nuclear energy technology, specifically focusing on small modular reactors. The program provides diplomatic support, regulatory consultation, and project development assistance to partner nations to ensure high safety and nonproliferation standards. By fostering these partnerships, the Act aims to strengthen U.S. national security and economic interests in the global nuclear energy market.

The Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 prohibits the sale or importation of connected vehicles, their parts, and related software originating from or controlled by covered adversarial countries (North Korea, China, Russia, or Iran). Enforced by the Secretary of Commerce, this law aims to mitigate national security risks associated with foreign adversary access to sensitive vehicle data and control systems. The Act establishes phased bans starting in 2027 for vehicles and software, and 2030 for hardware, while setting up processes for compliance, authorization, and enforcement.

The Children's Safe Welcome Act of 2026 overhauls the treatment of noncitizen children and families in federal custody by prioritizing family unity, humane living standards, and swift reunification. The legislation mandates legal representation for unaccompanied children, establishes independent oversight to ensure accountability, and strictly limits the use of detention facilities. By creating clear, enforceable protections and privacy safeguards, the bill aims to minimize trauma and ensure that the welfare of the child remains the central focus of the immigration process.

The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act aims to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the FAA's aircraft certification process. It mandates the FAA to publish plans, establish standard expected timelines for certification milestones, and set clear criteria for issue papers. Furthermore, the bill updates guidance on delegating certification work and affirms Congress's support for U.S. leadership in aviation innovation.

The SAFE Drugs Act of 2026 strengthens federal oversight of compounded drug products to enhance patient safety. The bill limits the compounding of copies of commercially available drugs, mandates new reporting for interstate compounding, and increases inspection and registration requirements for large-scale outsourcing facilities. Additionally, it authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to adjust establishment fees to ensure adequate funding for safety oversight.

This resolution recognizes July 21, 2026, as Black Women’s Equal Pay Day to highlight the persistent and significant wage gap between Black women and white, non-Hispanic men. It details the economic impact of this disparity and reaffirms Congress's commitment to achieving pay equity through systemic change.

The CDC Tribal Public Health Security and Preparedness Act amends the Public Health Service Act to formally include Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations as eligible entities for federal public health emergency preparedness funding. The bill authorizes $750 million annually for this program, with a dedicated 5% set-aside for Tribal entities and exemptions from traditional matching-fund requirements. Additionally, it mandates federal consultation with Tribal leaders to ensure program flexibility and requires a comprehensive report to Congress on the effectiveness of Tribal implementation.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 imposes sweeping economic sanctions and trade restrictions to isolate Russia and penalize those supporting its military efforts. The bill targets Russian financial institutions, energy sectors, and leadership while penalizing foreign entities that facilitate sanctions evasion. It aims to cripple Russia’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine through severe tariffs, asset freezes, and restricted access to U.S. markets.

The Homestake AI Act of 2026 establishes a federal initiative to collect, sequence, and store genomic data from extremophile organisms found in unique environments, such as deep underground mines. This project aims to drive scientific discovery and support the development of new medical treatments for conditions like cancer, diabetes, and dementia. The bill mandates the creation of a secure, resilient database and long-term storage facility while implementing strict cybersecurity measures to protect this data from foreign adversaries.

The Mamas First Act aims to address the maternal mortality crisis in the United States by mandating that state Medicaid programs cover services provided by doulas, midwives, and lactation support providers. Beginning in 2027, this legislation ensures these essential maternal health services are accessible to all Medicaid beneficiaries without any copays or cost-sharing. By expanding access to these specialized care providers, the bill seeks to improve birth outcomes and reduce health disparities across the country.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of the late Senator Lindsey Olin Graham, recognizing his decades of dedicated military service and his impactful career in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. It pays tribute to his commitment to national security, the rule of law, and the people of South Carolina. The Senate expresses its profound sorrow for his passing and extends its deepest condolences to his family.

This resolution expresses support for designating **July 10, 2026, as Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day**. It honors the critical and often dangerous work these individuals perform to maintain the nation's electric grid, especially during emergencies. The day also commemorates the anniversary of the first IBEW president's line-of-duty death while restoring power.