Legislative Activity

The HELP PETS Act prohibits federal funding to colleges and universities that conduct or fund painful research on dogs or cats. Exceptions include clinical veterinary research that benefits the animal, physical exams, training programs, and studies involving service or military animals. "Painful research" is defined as research classified in pain categories D or E by the Department of Agriculture. This law aims to ensure taxpayer dollars are not used for painful experiments on dogs and cats in higher education institutions.

This bill condemns Turkey's ongoing occupation of Cyprus, citing violations of international law, human rights, and UN resolutions. It calls for the withdrawal of Turkish troops, adherence to democratic principles, and a resolution based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation. The bill urges Turkey to cease interference in Cyprus' Exclusive Economic Zone, assist in locating missing American citizens, and remove illegal settlers from occupied territories. Finally, it encourages the President to prioritize resolving the Cyprus issue.

The "HOV Lanes for Heroes Act" allows disabled veterans to use High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, even when driving alone, without being charged tolls. Eligibility is determined by the veteran's service-connected disability rating, as defined by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Vehicles must have appropriate identification, such as a special license plate or transponder, as required by the public authority. This act amends Title 23 of the U.S. Code to include disabled veterans among those permitted to use HOV facilities.

This bill expresses the House of Representatives' view that the Parthenon Marbles, removed from Greece in the early 19th century, should be returned. It highlights the Parthenon's significance to Greek culture and argues the return of the marbles would demonstrate respect for Greece and classical art. The bill encourages the United Kingdom to negotiate with Greece for the repatriation of these sculptures.

The USPS Subpoena Authority Act enables the Postmaster General to issue subpoenas for investigations into specific offenses, including those related to mail use and controlled substances. These subpoenas can demand relevant records and testimony to ensure the authenticity of the records. The authority to approve these subpoenas is limited to the Postal Service's General Counsel, a Deputy General Counsel, or the Chief Postal Inspector.

The "High Rise Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act of 2025" incentivizes the installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems in high-rise residential buildings by classifying these retrofits as 15-year property for depreciation purposes under the Internal Revenue Code. This classification allows for an accelerated depreciation method, providing a tax benefit for property owners who invest in these life-saving systems. The bill defines specific criteria for qualifying sprinkler systems, ensuring they meet established safety standards and are installed in buildings that pose unique challenges for fire safety. These buildings must have been in service before the installation date and have an occupiable floor more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

The "Make Transportation Authorities Accountable and Transparent Act" mandates an audit by the Department of Transportation's Inspector General on coronavirus relief funds allocated to the five largest transit agencies. This audit will cover the five fiscal years prior to the Act's enactment, detailing the amount of funds received and how they were spent. A report summarizing the audit findings must be submitted to Congress within 180 days.

The "Defund Heroin Injection Centers Act of 2025" prohibits federal funding from being allocated to any entity that operates or controls an injection center that violates the Controlled Substances Act. This includes state, local, tribal, and private entities. The goal of the bill is to ensure that federal resources are not used to support facilities where illegal drug use occurs.