Legislative Activity

The Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections Act of 2026 aims to increase transparency and security in U.S. elections. It closes loopholes to ban foreign national spending in elections, mandates disclosure for "dark money" political spending, and requires clear funding disclosures on political ads. The bill also centralizes legal challenges to campaign finance laws in Washington, D.C., for faster resolution.

The Cloud LAB Act of 2026 establishes a national pilot program to create a network of automated, remotely operated biotechnology laboratories. By funding these "cloud laboratories," the initiative aims to accelerate research, generate high-quality biological data for artificial intelligence training, and provide scientists with secure, centralized access to advanced experimental tools.

The Save Medicare Act renames the Medicare Advantage program to the "Alternative Private Health Plan program." It also establishes a significant civil money penalty of \$100,000 for any entity that advertises a Part C plan using the term "Medicare" in its title. The bill mandates an orderly transition to the new program name by October 15, 2023.

This resolution honors the life, leadership, and enduring legacy of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. It recognizes his pivotal role as a civil rights leader, his groundbreaking political campaigns, and his global advocacy for human rights and equality. The measure encourages all Americans to continue his work by moving forward with hope rather than fear and division.

The Direct File Act of 2026 establishes a permanent, free, government-owned online tax filing system within the IRS, ensuring taxpayers have a simplified and accessible way to file their returns. The bill prohibits the Treasury from entering into agreements that restrict the government's ability to provide these services and mandates the integration of state tax filing options. Additionally, it streamlines the tax process by setting new filing deadlines for employer information returns to improve efficiency for all taxpayers.

The Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act aims to significantly restrict the transfer of surplus military equipment from the Department of Defense to local law enforcement agencies. This bill bans the transfer of many military-grade items, such as armored vehicles and certain weapons, while imposing strict new public notification, local approval, and annual accountability requirements for any approved transfers. The legislation seeks to prevent the inappropriate militarization of police forces by increasing oversight and limiting access to combat-ready gear.

This resolution formally recognizes the vital historical significance and contributions of Black history museums and cultural institutions across the United States. It affirms that these essential pillars correct historical omissions by preserving irreplaceable records and telling a full, accurate American story. The bill encourages federal agencies and the public to support these institutions, especially as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

The Ceasefire Compliance Act of 2026 establishes U.S. policy to uphold the October 2025 ceasefire and peace plan in Gaza while prohibiting the transfer of U.S. defense articles to Israel for use in Gaza or the West Bank unless specific humanitarian and diplomatic conditions are met. The bill mandates regular reporting to Congress to certify Israel's compliance with these requirements and establishes an end-use monitoring group to track the deployment of U.S.-provided weapons. While restricting offensive arms transfers, the Act preserves U.S. support for Israeli missile defense systems and ongoing humanitarian aid to Gaza.

The Southeast Asian Deportation Relief Act of 2026 provides significant relief for long-term residents from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam facing deportation. It prohibits the detention and removal of eligible individuals who entered the U.S. before 2008 and grants them permanent work authorization. Furthermore, the Act establishes a streamlined process for those previously ordered removed to reopen and terminate their immigration cases, effectively vacating past removal orders.

The No Immunity for Glyphosate Act prohibits federal funding for a specific Executive Order concerning phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides. This legislation establishes a right for individuals harmed by exposure to these substances to file civil lawsuits against manufacturers and sellers. Crucially, it removes certain legal immunities and defenses that companies might otherwise use to avoid liability for damages caused by these products.

This bill officially recognizes the cultural and historical significance of Lunar New Year, specifically in 2026, the Year of the Horse. It expresses deep respect for Asian American communities and all who celebrate this important occasion. The resolution concludes by offering wishes for a happy and prosperous new year to all observers.

The Healthy Families Act establishes a national standard requiring most employers to provide employees with earned paid sick leave. Employees will accrue a minimum of one hour of paid time for every 30 hours worked, usable for personal or family health needs, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The Act prohibits employer retaliation for using this leave and ensures existing, more generous leave policies are not diminished.

The United States-Cuba Trade Act of 2026 comprehensively repeals major U.S. sanctions laws against Cuba, effectively normalizing trade relations. This legislation removes restrictions on travel, exports, and financial remittances between the two nations. It also establishes a framework for the President to negotiate property claims and human rights protections with the Cuban government. The Act aims to promote democratic change in Cuba through the extension of nondiscriminatory trade treatment.

This resolution calls for the formal annulment of the historical Monroe Doctrine, citing decades of U.S. interventionism in Latin America and the Caribbean. It proposes replacing this doctrine with a "New Good Neighbor" policy focused on fostering genuine partnership and cooperation. Key elements include ending unilateral sanctions, reforming international financial institutions, and respecting regional sovereignty.

The Ernest Peltz Accrued Veterans Benefits Act establishes a clear process for paying a veteran's pension that was awarded by the VA before their death but issued afterward. This legislation prioritizes payment to the veteran's spouse, children, or dependent parents before the estate. The bill also makes a minor extension to the expiration date of certain existing pension payment restrictions.

The Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act establishes minimum standards for health screening, nutrition, sanitation, and shelter for individuals detained by ICE and CBP. This bill mandates specific protocols for medical care, facility conditions, and personnel training to ensure humane treatment. It also requires regular inspections and public reporting on compliance and sexual abuse complaints.

The Justice for Shireen Act mandates that the FBI Director and Secretary of State submit a comprehensive, unclassified report to Congress within 30 days regarding the death of Shireen Abu Akleh. This report must identify responsible parties and any U.S. materials implicated in the incident. The findings will also be made publicly available on the Department of State's website.

This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study on designating the approximately 550-mile Bay Area Ridge Trail as a National Scenic Trail. The study will assess the trail's potential for national recognition, considering its scenic, recreational, and cultural significance to the San Francisco Bay Area. The findings must be submitted to Congress within one year of enactment.

This resolution seeks to disapprove the Department of Veterans Affairs' final rule concerning "Reproductive Health Services" issued in September 2024. If enacted, this disapproval, made under the Congressional Review Act, would prevent the VA rule from taking legal effect.

This bill mandates the President to withdraw all United States Armed Forces from Venezuela. This action is required unless Congress has formally declared war or passed specific legislation authorizing the use of military force in that country.