Legislative Activity

The "Fred Korematsu Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025" authorizes the posthumous award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Fred Korematsu in recognition of his civil rights contributions, loyalty, patriotism, and dedication to justice and equality. The Act directs the Secretary of the Treasury to create the gold medal, which will be displayed at the Smithsonian Institution after the award presentation. Additionally, the Act allows for the creation and sale of bronze duplicates of the gold medal to cover production costs.

The Global Health, Empowerment and Rights Act seeks to ensure that foreign non-governmental organizations are eligible for assistance under part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, regardless of the health or medical services they provide, as long as those services adhere to specific guidelines. It ensures that these organizations are not subject to more restrictive requirements for using non-U.S. government funds for advocacy and lobbying compared to U.S. non-governmental organizations.

This resolution expresses disapproval of any pardons granted to individuals convicted of assaulting Capitol Police officers. It serves as a formal condemnation of such pardons.

The "FAIR Act of 2025" aims to reform civil asset forfeiture laws by increasing protections for property owners, requiring the government to meet a higher burden of proof, and ensuring that forfeited assets are deposited into the Treasury's General Fund instead of being retained by law enforcement agencies. The bill also addresses structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements, adding stipulations to what constitutes a violation and requiring probable cause hearings for seized property. These changes apply retroactively to ongoing and future civil forfeiture cases.

The Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act of 2025 aims to increase access to quality child care in child care deserts by providing competitive grants to States and Tribal entities. These grants will support the development and expansion of the child care workforce through education and training programs, as well as the construction, expansion, or renovation of child care facilities, including licensed family child care homes. The act authorizes $100,000,000 to be appropriated for fiscal years 2025 through 2031 to carry out these initiatives.

The "Advancing FASD Research, Services and Prevention Act" aims to enhance support for individuals and families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) through increased research, prevention, and service programs. This act amends the Public Health Service Act to expand training, integrate a case definition for FASD, and build state and tribal capacity for identification, treatment, and support. It also establishes Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Centers for Excellence to expand diagnostic capacity, develop public awareness campaigns, and serve as clearinghouses for evidence-based resources. Finally, the act authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2025 through 2029 to carry out these provisions and requires a report on efforts to advance public awareness and identify best practices related to FASD.

The Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2025 establishes a pilot program providing grants to organizations for whole-home repair programs benefiting eligible homeowners and landlords. These programs will fund modifications, repairs, or updates addressing accessibility, safety, and energy efficiency. Landlords receiving assistance must adhere to affordability and tenant protection requirements. The program prioritizes states with comprehensive implementation plans and aims for diverse geographic representation, with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development overseeing the program and reporting to Congress.

The "Wildland Firefighters Congressional Gold Medal Act" authorizes the Speaker of the House and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate to present a Congressional Gold Medal to wildland firefighters collectively, recognizing their service, sacrifice, and bravery. The Secretary of the Treasury will produce the medal, consulting with the National Interagency Fire Center on the design, and bronze duplicates will be made available for sale to the public. After the presentation, the medal will be given to the National Interagency Fire Center for display and research.

The "Saving the Civil Service Act" limits the ability of federal agencies to move positions out of the competitive service, ensuring that civil service positions are filled based on merit and qualifications. It restricts the transfer of positions between different types of service, requires employee consent for certain transfers, and mandates reporting to Congress on any changes made. The goal is to prevent political influence over career civil servants and maintain a nonpartisan, professional civil service.

The "Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act" authorizes the creation of three Congressional Gold Medals to honor the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team and their historic "Miracle on Ice" victory. These medals will be given to the Lake Placid Olympic Center, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame Museum, and the United States Olympic Paralympic Museum for public display. The Act also allows for the creation and sale of bronze duplicates to fund the medal production.

The Health Care Affordability Act of 2025 expands eligibility for health insurance tax credits by removing the income cap, allowing more individuals to qualify for financial assistance. It also adjusts the premium tax credit calculation to provide more support based on income level. These changes aim to make health coverage more affordable for a broader range of Americans, starting in 2026.

The "Supporting All Producers Act" or "SAP Act" amends the Agricultural Act of 2014, requiring the Secretary of Agriculture to consult with maple industry stakeholders to gather input on research and education priorities before issuing grant applications for the Acer Access and Development Program. It also mandates the Secretary to consider the information provided during these consultations when awarding grants and extends the Acer Access and Development Program's authorization through 2030.