Legislative Activity

The Latonya Reeves Freedom Act of 2026 aims to strengthen the right of individuals eligible for long-term services and supports (LTSS) to live in the most integrated community setting possible. It prohibits discrimination by public entities and insurers against those who qualify for institutional placement but desire community-based services. The Act mandates comprehensive planning, self-evaluation, and enforcement mechanisms to speed up the transition of individuals out of institutions and ensure maximum control over their supports.

This bill, the "No 911 Family Left Behind Act of 2026," amends existing law to provide an additional lump sum "catch-up" payment for certain eligible victims of state-sponsored terrorism who previously missed out on a payment. The legislation directs the Special Master to notify eligible claimants and authorize a specific payment amount based on their original judgment. Payments must be made quickly using necessary funds appropriated from the Treasury.

This bill, the "Find Our Families Act of 2026," mandates the creation of a public, online detainee locator system for individuals in CBP and ICE custody, accessible in multiple languages. It requires timely posting of custody and location information, along with new notification requirements for medical transfers to family members. Additionally, the bill requires the public reporting of detailed information regarding CBP arrests and ongoing enforcement operations.

The FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act aims to speed up the repair process for essential mobility devices covered under Medicare Advantage. This bill prohibits Medicare Advantage plans from requiring prior authorization or extra documentation before covering necessary repairs to complex rehabilitation wheelchairs and related accessories. These new rules take effect for plan years beginning on or after January 1st following the law's enactment.

The Strengthening Social Security Act of 2026 gradually phases out Social Security taxes on earnings above the contribution base starting in 2028. It also adjusts benefit calculations by increasing the first bend point rate and incorporating a portion of previously untaxed surplus earnings into the primary insurance amount formula starting in 2033. Furthermore, the bill mandates the creation of a new Consumer Price Index for Elderly Consumers (CPI-E) to be used for calculating future cost-of-living adjustments. Finally, it improves survivor benefits for widows and widowers in two-income households and protects current SSI recipients from benefit reductions.

The Postsecondary Student Success Act of 2026 aims to boost participation, retention, and completion rates for high-need students in higher education. It authorizes competitive grants for eligible institutions to implement proven, evidence-based student success activities. The Act reserves funding specifically for Tribal Colleges and prioritizes grants for programs using the most rigorously evaluated reforms.

The PRIDE Act of 2026 officially renames the Offices of Minority and Women Inclusion at certain federal financial agencies to the Office of Minority, Women, and LGBTQI Inclusion. This expansion explicitly incorporates LGBTQI individuals and LGBTQI-owned businesses into existing diversity, inclusion, and contracting requirements. The bill adds specific definitions for "LGBTQI" and "LGBTQI-owned business" across relevant statutes.

The Faster Labor Contracts Act aims to speed up the process of securing a first collective bargaining agreement after a union is certified. It establishes a mandatory timeline, including mediation and binding arbitration, if an agreement is not reached within 90 days of bargaining. This process is designed to prevent lengthy delays that currently weaken the union's position. The bill also requires a GAO report on current time-to-contract averages.

The "No Toxic Chemicals in Food Packaging Act of 2026" amends federal law to deem specific toxic chemicals, including certain phthalates, PFAS, and Bisphenols, unsafe for use in food contact materials. This legislation mandates that the FDA consider the impact on vulnerable populations when reviewing alternatives to these banned substances. Furthermore, the Act preserves the authority of states and local governments to enact stricter regulations regarding food additives and contact substances.

The Gun Safety Innovation Opportunity Act of 2026 establishes a grant program to fund research and development of advanced, secure firearm storage technologies, such as biometric locks. This initiative aims to improve safe storage options by awarding funds to universities and manufacturers to create and promote these innovations. The Act also mandates a report to Congress on how new storage technology can enhance safety, aid law enforcement, and prevent self-harm.

The Ukraine Support Act strengthens U.S. diplomatic, military, and economic support for Ukraine while intensifying pressure on Russia through comprehensive sanctions and export controls. The bill establishes long-term reconstruction and security programs, bolsters independent media, and mandates strategies to reduce European reliance on Russian energy. Additionally, it reinforces NATO’s collective defense and imposes strict oversight on the use of U.S. aid to ensure accountability and strategic impact.

This bill expresses support for designating June 5, 2026, as "National Gun Violence Awareness Day" and the entire month of June 2026 as "National Gun Violence Awareness Month." The designations aim to honor the nearly 47,000 people killed by gunfire each year and raise public awareness about the devastating impact of gun violence. The resolution encourages the public to wear orange on that day and focus on community efforts to promote gun safety.

The Closing the Digital Divide for Students Act of 2026 aims to ensure low-income families with children have access to essential internet service. This bill amends public housing rules to include the cost of basic, high-speed internet within utility allowances. Eligibility is restricted to families whose children qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches, and the service must include content filtering for minors.

This act, the Arlington National Cemetery Viewshed Protection Act, prohibits the construction of any new triumphal arches in Lady Bird Johnson Park. It also restricts the building of any triumphal arch over 50 feet tall on other National Park Service land within the capital region unless explicitly authorized by Congress. The legislation aims to protect the visual landscape surrounding Arlington National Cemetery.

This concurrent resolution marks the U.S. 250th anniversary by reaffirming a national commitment to reducing gun violence and strengthening public safety. It recognizes the devastating impact of gun violence and supports evidence-informed measures like community intervention and universal background checks. The resolution calls for prioritizing support for law enforcement, investing in proactive violence prevention, and ensuring robust funding for victim services. Ultimately, it commits the nation to making gun violence prevention a priority for the next 250 years.

This resolution expresses support for designating May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month. It highlights the urgent and worsening national mental health crisis, citing alarming statistics across various demographics, including youth and high-risk groups. The bill aims to remove stigma, declare mental health a national priority, and support expanded funding and access to necessary services.

The Harry Lew and Danny Chen Military Justice Reform Act directs the Secretary of Defense to study the feasibility of creating a separate, specific criminal offense for hazing within the Uniform Code of Military Justice. This analysis must include developing a proposed definition of hazing. The Secretary is required to submit a report detailing these findings and recommendations to Congress within 180 days of the Act's enactment.

This bill reauthorizes the Minority Fellowship Program through 2032, ensuring continued funding for health professions students from minority backgrounds. It authorizes $27 million annually for the program from Fiscal Year 2028 through 2032.

The Ensuring Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act expands Medicare Part B coverage to include services provided by pharmacists starting January 1, 2026. This coverage is specifically for testing or treatment related to COVID-19, the flu, RSV, strep throat, or during a declared public health emergency. The bill outlines payment structures, generally covering 80% of the cost, and prohibits pharmacists from balance billing Medicare patients for these covered services.

This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue commemorative gold and silver coins marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The coins will honor the victims, first responders, and survivors, with designs selected in consultation with the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. All surcharges from the sale of these coins will be paid directly to the Memorial and Museum to support its operations and maintenance.