Legislative Activity

This resolution commends the historic accomplishments of both the United States Women's and Men's Ice Hockey Teams for winning gold medals at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. It specifically honors key players for their game-winning contributions and recognizes this as the first time both U.S. teams have achieved gold in the same Games. The resolution affirms that these victories will inspire future generations of athletes.

The Direct File Act of 2026 establishes a permanent, free, and user-friendly online tax filing program operated directly by the IRS. The bill prohibits the Treasury from entering into agreements that restrict government-provided filing services and mandates the development of a seamless, accessible platform for federal and state tax returns. This initiative aims to simplify the filing process for taxpayers while ensuring the government maintains full control over its own tax preparation software.

This resolution officially designates February 2026 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month to celebrate and support CTE programs nationwide. It recognizes CTE's vital role in preparing a skilled workforce for high-demand careers and boosting American economic competitiveness. The resolution encourages promotion of CTE as a respected educational pathway for students.

The Health Care Cybersecurity and Resiliency Act of 2026 aims to strengthen the cybersecurity posture of the healthcare sector by mandating closer coordination between the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The bill establishes new cybersecurity standards for healthcare entities, including requirements for multifactor authentication and encryption, while creating a grant program to assist organizations in adopting these protections. Additionally, it enhances breach reporting transparency, provides specialized cybersecurity guidance for rural health providers, and directs the development of a strategic plan to grow the healthcare cybersecurity workforce.

This resolution celebrates Black History Month by recognizing the profound history and enduring contributions of African Americans to the United States. It acknowledges past injustices while honoring the achievements across all fields that have shaped the nation. The resolution encourages continued reflection and unity as we move forward with liberty and justice for all.

The "We Can't Wait Act of 2026" allows individuals to receive Social Security disability benefits during the mandatory five-month waiting period by opting for a permanent, actuarially calculated reduction in their future monthly payments. This legislation provides applicants with greater financial flexibility while ensuring the long-term fiscal neutrality of the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund.

The Respect for Local Communities Act requires the Department of Homeland Security to obtain formal consent from local government officials and state leadership before acquiring, building, or modifying any immigration processing site or detention center. The bill mandates comprehensive impact assessments, public notice periods, and economic reviews to ensure transparency and local oversight. Ultimately, federal agencies are prohibited from proceeding with such projects without a signed agreement from the affected local jurisdiction.

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act requires individuals to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Additionally, the bill mandates that voters present a valid photo ID to cast a ballot in person or by mail. These measures aim to ensure that only eligible U.S. citizens participate in federal elections.

The After Hours Child Care Act establishes the Child Care and Development Innovation Fund to improve access to child care for parents working nontraditional hours. This pilot grant program will provide funding to expand or create child care options for those working evenings, nights, or weekends. The goal is to support workforce participation and economic stability for these parents.

The Repair Abuses of MSP Payments (RAMP) Act establishes a private right of action allowing individuals to sue group health plans that fail to make primary payments or provide appropriate reimbursement as required by law. This legislation strengthens enforcement by creating a direct legal recourse against non-compliant plans.

This bill, the "Ending Improper Payments to Deceased People Act," aims to reduce fraudulent payments by improving information sharing between the Social Security Administration and the federal Do Not Pay working system. It mandates cooperation to use death data to prevent and recover improper benefit payments. The legislation also establishes standards for recording deaths and requires notification if an individual is incorrectly flagged as deceased.

This resolution officially recognizes January 2026 as National Mentoring Month to raise awareness and encourage the expansion of quality mentoring programs nationwide. It highlights the significant benefits mentoring provides for youth development, academic success, and community strength. The bill also acknowledges the vital role of volunteer mentors and supports efforts to close the gap for the millions of young people currently without one.

This concurrent resolution commemorates the 15th anniversary of the tragic January 8, 2011, Tucson, Arizona, shooting. It honors the six individuals who lost their lives and recognizes the survivors, including former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. The resolution reaffirms the importance of civility in democracy and Congress's dedication to preventing gun violence.

This bill reauthorizes the vital Healthy Start Initiative through fiscal year 2030. It authorizes appropriations of $145 million annually for the program from 2026 to 2030.

This resolution officially designates the week of February 2 through 6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week." It recognizes the vital role school counselors play in supporting students' academic, social-emotional, and career development. The measure aims to increase public awareness of the essential services school counselors provide despite often facing high student-to-counselor ratios.

The Sanctioning Harborers And Dodgers Of Western Sanctions Act of 2026 significantly tightens U.S. sanctions against Russia to cut off war funding by targeting its "shadow fleet" and entities evading oil price caps. The bill imposes penalties on foreign ports and individuals in countries like China and India that facilitate sanctioned Russian energy trade. Furthermore, it enhances U.S. sanctions enforcement capabilities and streamlines military assistance reporting to Ukraine.

This joint resolution seeks to disapprove a recent rule issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs concerning "Reproductive Health Services." If enacted, this resolution would nullify the VA's September 9, 2024, regulation, rendering it without legal effect.

This resolution honors the life, achievements, and legacy of former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. It recognizes his distinguished service in the Air Force, his Olympic athletic career, and his historic tenure in the U.S. Congress. The resolution specifically highlights his landmark legislative accomplishments, including establishing the National Museum of the American Indian. The Senate expresses its sorrow and will recess as a mark of respect for his memory.

The Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act establishes a grant program to help rural hospitals improve their cybersecurity defenses through technology upgrades, training, and professional services. The bill also mandates the creation of a comprehensive cybersecurity workforce development strategy tailored for rural healthcare settings. Furthermore, it requires the development and distribution of free instructional materials to train hospital staff on fundamental cybersecurity practices. Implementation of this Act must utilize existing appropriated funds.

The Federal Correctional Officer Paycheck Protection Act of 2026 establishes a special base pay system for Bureau of Prisons correctional officers, increasing their base pay by 35 percent. This pay increase applies to officers whose duties primarily involve inmate custody and supervision, and also grants a 35 percent wage increase to certain lower-graded hourly employees involved in inmate contact. The new pay authority is set to terminate after five years unless a review by the Department of Justice Inspector General shows measurable progress in reducing the use of non-custodial staff for officer duties and excessive mandatory overtime.