Legislative Activity

The "Love Lives On Act of 2025" modifies eligibility rules for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments for surviving spouses who remarry. It allows remarried surviving spouses to receive certain educational benefits and DIC, and it continues annuity payments to surviving spouses who remarry, particularly those whose spouses died on active duty. Additionally, the Act expands the definition of "dependent" under the TRICARE program to include remarried widows or widowers whose subsequent marriage has ended.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran. It asserts Congress's constitutional authority to declare war while ensuring the military remains permitted to conduct defensive operations, intelligence gathering, and the evacuation of U.S. citizens.

This joint resolution directs the President to immediately remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless Congress has formally declared war or passed a specific authorization for military force. It asserts Congress's constitutional authority over declaring war and addresses recent military actions taken without legislative approval. The directive allows for continued defense against direct attacks and support for allies defending against Iranian aggression.

The Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act aims to increase competition in the meat industry by breaking up large, multi-category, and foreign-controlled meatpacking conglomerates. The legislation directs the Federal Trade Commission to enforce divestitures, limit market concentration, and prevent unfair pricing practices. Additionally, it establishes support programs to help farmers' cooperatives and small businesses acquire meatpacking assets, ultimately seeking to lower consumer prices and empower independent producers.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran. It asserts that Congress has not authorized these military actions, which are currently underway and have resulted in casualties. The bill mandates withdrawal unless Congress explicitly authorizes the use of force through a declaration of war or specific authorization. Permitted exceptions include defending U.S. personnel and facilities, intelligence sharing, and assisting allies with defensive measures.

The **Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act of 2026** aims to increase transparency and accountability in U.S. elections by closing loopholes that allow foreign spending and requiring greater disclosure of political donors. The legislation mandates that organizations report significant political expenditures, forces leaders to take personal responsibility for political advertisements, and streamlines the legal process for campaign finance challenges. Ultimately, these reforms seek to provide voters with clearer information about who is funding political campaigns and judicial nominations.

The Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act provides a framework for Puerto Rico to transition from its current block grant system to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This legislation ensures equitable access to nutrition assistance by adjusting food plan costs to reflect local economic conditions and establishing a structured, multi-year transition process.

The Living Donor Protection Act of 2025 prohibits insurance companies from discriminating against living organ donors regarding life, disability, or long-term care coverage. The bill also amends the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to explicitly classify organ donation surgery as a serious health condition, ensuring job-protected leave for donors. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services update public educational materials to reflect these new protections and the realities of organ donation.

The Direct File Act of 2026 establishes a permanent, free, and user-friendly online tax filing program operated directly by the IRS. The bill prohibits the Treasury from entering into agreements that restrict government-provided filing services and mandates the development of a seamless, accessible platform for federal and state tax returns. This initiative aims to simplify the filing process for taxpayers while ensuring the government maintains full control over its own tax preparation software.

The African American History Act of 2026 establishes a grant program managed by the National Museum of African American History and Culture to support the development and distribution of educational resources regarding African American life, history, and culture. By providing funding for curricula, professional development, and digital programming, the Act aims to enhance historical education in schools through a social justice and anti-bias lens. Additionally, the legislation mandates annual reporting to Congress to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of these educational funds.

This resolution celebrates Black History Month by recognizing the profound history and enduring contributions of African Americans to the United States. It acknowledges past injustices while honoring the achievements across all fields that have shaped the nation. The resolution encourages continued reflection and unity as we move forward with liberty and justice for all.

This resolution officially recognizes the annual Army-Navy football game as "America's Game" due to its deep patriotic tradition and role in inspiring military service. It urges that the game maintain its exclusive television time slot on the second Saturday of December to maximize national attention. The resolution calls on networks and associations to avoid scheduling competing games during this time to honor the service members involved.

The American Homeownership Act aims to increase housing affordability by restricting tax incentives for large-scale corporate investors and prohibiting federal agencies from financing their real estate acquisitions. The bill redirects savings from these tax changes to fund affordable housing construction and provide down payment assistance to first-generation homebuyers. Additionally, it strengthens antitrust oversight to prevent excessive market concentration in the residential real estate sector.

This resolution marks the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, reaffirming unwavering U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. It condemns Russia's ongoing aggression, including attacks on civilians and the forced abduction of children. Furthermore, the resolution emphasizes the critical need for robust, sustained U.S. and transatlantic security guarantees to ensure Ukraine's long-term defense and stability.

The Nurses Belong in Nursing Homes Act establishes mandatory minimum nurse staffing levels for nursing homes, including 24-hour registered nurse coverage. It also permanently funds the inspection and certification program for healthcare facilities. Finally, the bill directs states to use a portion of collected civil money penalties to fund nursing home workforce recruitment, education, and retention programs.

The Responsible Firearms Marketing Act directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to study and regulate unfair or deceptive advertising and marketing practices related to firearms. This includes examining materials that may appeal to minors or encourage illegal use, particularly concerning semiautomatic assault weapons. Following the study, the FTC must issue rules to prohibit these deceptive practices, enforced under the existing Federal Trade Commission Act.

The Healthy Families Act establishes a national standard requiring most employers to provide employees with earned paid sick time, accruing at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked. This protected leave can be used for the employee's or a family member's illness, medical care, or for reasons related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The Act strictly prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for using or requesting this time and mandates clear notice requirements regarding these new rights.

Jaime's Law aims to strengthen the ammunition background check system to prevent prohibited individuals from purchasing ammunition. The bill requires licensed dealers to conduct background checks for most private ammunition transfers, with specific exceptions for family, law enforcement, and certain temporary situations. This legislation does not authorize a national firearms or ammunition registry and preserves state authority to enact stricter laws.

This concurrent resolution commemorates the 15th anniversary of the tragic January 8, 2011, Tucson, Arizona, shooting. It honors the six individuals who lost their lives and recognizes the survivors, including former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. The resolution reaffirms the importance of civility in democracy and Congress's dedication to preventing gun violence.

This resolution officially recognizes January 2026 as National Mentoring Month to raise awareness and encourage the expansion of quality mentoring programs nationwide. It highlights the significant benefits mentoring provides for youth development, academic success, and community strength. The bill also acknowledges the vital role of volunteer mentors and supports efforts to close the gap for the millions of young people currently without one.