Legislative Activity

The Working Americans’ Tax Cut Act aims to provide tax relief to low- and middle-income individuals by establishing an alternative maximum tax rate based on cost-of-living exemptions. To offset these reductions, the bill introduces a progressive tax surcharge on high-income earners. These changes are slated to take effect for tax years beginning after December 31, 2025.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities against Iran. It mandates the cessation of military action unless Congress provides a formal declaration of war or specific authorization for the use of force. The bill preserves the military's authority to defend against direct attacks and support partner nations in defensive operations.

The Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act significantly updates existing law to expand online privacy protections for individuals aged 13 to 16. It broadens the definition of personal information collected online and imposes stricter requirements on operators regarding notice, verifiable consent, and data use for advertising. The bill also mandates studies on application oversight and the privacy risks associated with teens using financial technology products.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless Congress has formally declared war or provided specific authorization. It asserts that the ongoing military action, "Operation Epic Fury," lacks the necessary Congressional approval required by the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution. The bill specifically excludes defensive actions against direct attacks on U.S. personnel or facilities, as well as intelligence sharing and defensive support for allies attacked by Iran.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran. It reinforces Congress's constitutional authority over war powers while maintaining the military's ability to defend U.S. personnel and provide defensive support to allies. The measure does not grant any new authorization for the use of military force.

This joint resolution disapproves a Department of Commerce rule that would have suspended the expansion of export controls targeting affiliates of certain listed entities. By disapproving the rule, Congress ensures that the expanded end-user controls remain in effect.

The **Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act of 2026** aims to increase transparency and accountability in U.S. elections by closing loopholes that allow foreign spending and requiring greater disclosure of political donors. The legislation mandates that organizations report significant political expenditures, forces leaders to take personal responsibility for political advertisements, and streamlines the legal process for campaign finance challenges. Ultimately, these reforms seek to provide voters with clearer information about who is funding political campaigns and judicial nominations.

The EDA Short Form Application Act streamlines the grant process for small rural communities by requiring the Economic Development Administration to create a simplified application form. This legislation mandates stakeholder input to reduce administrative burdens and increases transparency by providing public access to guidance, evaluation criteria, and sample applications.

The FLOWS Act of 2026 establishes an EPA-led grant program to help rural communities modernize their water and wastewater infrastructure through digital technology. The legislation provides funding for the implementation of smart monitoring tools, cybersecurity, and workforce training, with a focus on supporting small and underserved water systems. Additionally, the bill mandates a comprehensive study to evaluate the long-term impact of these digital upgrades on water system efficiency and resilience.

The Highway Formula Fairness Act establishes a new framework for distributing federal highway funds to states beginning in fiscal year 2027. This legislation ensures a more equitable allocation by guaranteeing that each state receives at least 95 percent of its proportional contribution to the Highway Trust Fund.

The Living Donor Protection Act of 2025 prohibits insurance companies from discriminating against living organ donors regarding life, disability, or long-term care coverage. The bill also amends the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to explicitly classify organ donation surgery as a serious health condition, ensuring job-protected leave for donors. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services update public educational materials to reflect these new protections and the realities of organ donation.

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.

The TAP Promotion Act mandates the inclusion of a standardized, one-hour presentation on veterans' benefits within the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) preseparation counseling. This legislation ensures service members receive expert guidance on navigating VA benefits with the support of recognized veterans service organizations. Additionally, it establishes annual reporting requirements to track participation and ensure the program's ongoing effectiveness.

This resolution officially recognizes the annual Army-Navy football game as "America's Game" due to its deep patriotic tradition and role in inspiring military service. It urges that the game maintain its exclusive television time slot on the second Saturday of December to maximize national attention. The resolution calls on networks and associations to avoid scheduling competing games during this time to honor the service members involved.

The Maverick Act authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer decommissioned F-14 Tomcat aircraft to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. This legislation enables the restoration and public display of these aircraft for educational and commemorative purposes. All costs associated with the transfer, maintenance, and operation of the aircraft are the sole responsibility of the Commission.

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 USMMA Athletics Act of 2025 establishes a nonprofit corporation, wholly owned by the U.S. government, to exclusively support the athletic programs of the United States Merchant Marine Academy. This legislation authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to enter into contracts and lease property with this new entity. Furthermore, it allows for the licensing of Academy trademarks, with resulting fees supporting athletic and recruiting activities.

The ePermit Act mandates the creation of a unified, digital system for managing all federal environmental reviews and project permits. This system will require electronic submission, real-time tracking, and public accessibility of all authorization data. The goal is to modernize the permitting process through standardized data and transparent, efficient digital workflows, while ensuring existing environmental laws are upheld.

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.