Legislative Activity

The "Post-Disaster Assistance Online Accountability Act" aims to increase transparency in disaster relief efforts by requiring federal agencies to report detailed data on disaster assistance projects on a dedicated government website. This includes information on the total amount of assistance provided, project specifics, and recipient details, making it easier for the public to track how disaster relief funds are used. The Office of Management and Budget is responsible for creating this subpage, with the option to partner with a private entity. This act defines key terms such as "covered federal agency," "disaster assistance," and "eligible recipient" to ensure clarity and consistency in reporting.

The Federal Disaster Assistance Coordination Act aims to streamline federal disaster assistance by reducing the burden of information collection on applicants and improving the efficiency of preliminary damage assessments. It directs FEMA to conduct a study and create a plan to consolidate information collection, develop a public website for disaster assistance information, and explore the use of new technologies to speed up damage assessments. The Act also mandates the creation of a working group to identify overlaps or gaps in damage assessments and requires a comprehensive report to Congress with findings and recommendations, to be made publicly available on FEMA's website.

The Affordable Shipping for All Act prohibits shipping services from charging higher rates or refusing delivery to Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories compared to the contiguous United States. This legislation ensures equitable shipping access for noncontiguous areas, excluding high-value items exceeding $10,000.

Goldie’s Act strengthens the Animal Welfare Act by mandating more rigorous USDA inspections and requiring the prompt confiscation of animals suffering from neglect. The bill increases financial penalties for violators, ensures the immediate sharing of violation records with local law enforcement, and establishes stricter oversight to prevent future animal abuse.

This bill honors the life, achievements, and legacy of Jimmy Carter, recognizing his service as a naval officer, farmer, state senator, Governor, and President. It also acknowledges his post-presidency work promoting peace, democracy, and human rights through the Carter Center, as well as his dedication to Habitat for Humanity. The bill expresses condolences to his family upon his passing and celebrates his lasting impact as a leader and statesman.

The "Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act of 2025" expands the use of tax-advantaged health accounts, including HSAs, FSAs, HRAs and Archer MSAs, to cover medical expenses of parents. This allows individuals to use these funds for their parents' or their spouse's parents' medical care. These changes aim to provide financial relief to caregivers by allowing pre-tax dollars to be used for elder care. The provisions apply to expenses and contributions made after December 31, 2024.

The Washington, D.C. Admission Act proposes admitting the State of Washington, Douglass Commonwealth into the Union, while maintaining a reduced federal district to serve as the nation’s capital. The bill establishes a comprehensive framework for the transition, including the election of congressional representatives, the transfer of local government authority, and the gradual shift of federal responsibilities to the new state. This legislation aims to grant D.C. residents full voting representation in Congress while ensuring the continued security and operation of the federal seat of government.

The "Manatee Protection Act of 2025" designates the West Indian manatee as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, requiring its inclusion on the endangered species list. This action provides increased protections and conservation efforts for the manatee population.