Legislative Activity

This bill mandates new federal safety standards for electric and hybrid vehicles to address battery fire risks, requiring technology for timely extinguishment and safe passenger escape. It also requires standardized first responder access to batteries and the installation of mechanical door releases for electrical system failures. Additionally, the legislation directs a study on the health impacts of these battery fires on first responders.

The Bridges not Bumpers Act of 2025 aims to reduce commercial truck bridge strikes by establishing a DOT working group to improve data sharing on bridge heights and truck routes, especially for GPS systems. The bill also mandates a national education campaign, creates a central clearinghouse for strike data, and establishes a grant program for research on infrastructure improvements. Furthermore, it addresses liability protections for GPS providers and sets new requirements for rental vehicle companies regarding height disclosure.

The Transparency and Predictability in Small Business Opportunities Act aims to provide small businesses with greater clarity when the government cancels a federal contract solicitation they bid on. The bill mandates that federal agencies must publicly disclose the reasons for cancellation and any plans to reissue the opportunity. Furthermore, it establishes a process where small businesses whose bids are cancelled without reissue will be referred to an agency director to help them find alternative contracting opportunities.