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 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.

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 African American History Act of 2026 authorizes the National Museum of African American History and Culture to develop and expand educational resources, curricula, and digital programming for students and educators nationwide. By providing $10 million in annual funding through 2030, the Act aims to promote a deeper understanding of African American history through a social justice and anti-bias lens. Additionally, the legislation encourages the development of similar educational initiatives across other Smithsonian museums dedicated to diverse American histories.

This resolution officially recognizes Black History Month and adopts "A Century of Black History Commemorations" as the theme for 2026. It honors the contributions of Black Americans by establishing categories for "Unsung Souls" and "Righteous Intercessors." Ultimately, the bill affirms that Black history commemorations are essential for a complete national narrative and inspiring future progress toward liberty and justice for all.

The Railroad Safety Enhancement Act of 2026 strengthens national rail safety by mandating stricter operational standards for hazardous materials, requiring two-person crews, and upgrading defect detection technology. Additionally, the legislation bolsters emergency preparedness by increasing funding for first responder training and establishing a rapid financial assistance program for communities impacted by hazardous material incidents.

The Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act of 2026 establishes a federal process for issuing Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) that temporarily prohibit individuals deemed a danger from possessing firearms. The bill allows family members or law enforcement to petition federal courts for temporary or long-term orders based on evidence of imminent risk of harm. Furthermore, it creates a federal grant program to incentivize and support states and tribes in implementing their own qualifying ERPO laws. Finally, it mandates that individuals subject to these federal orders surrender their firearms and ensures these orders are recognized across state lines.

The Second Chance Mental Health Access Act of 2026 mandates that Medicaid programs cover up to 12 mental health telehealth visits annually for certain individuals recently released from incarceration and placed under home confinement. This provision aims to improve access to crucial mental health services during the critical transition period following release.

The Improving Access to Nutrition Act of 2026 addresses the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by eliminating a specific work requirement exemption and related state funding provisions. Congress finds that existing SNAP work requirements are ineffective at reducing poverty and create significant barriers to food assistance, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. This legislation aims to streamline access to benefits by removing these administrative hurdles.

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 Act mandates the U.S. Secretary of State to ensure and report on sufficient food assistance for all civilians in Gaza. It requires certification within 30 days that policies are in place to guarantee children receive three nutritious meals daily and other civilians receive two. The Secretary must also submit detailed oversight procedures and publicly report on food distribution efforts, including prompt notification to Congress of any aid interference.

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 Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act prohibits the discharge of plastic pellets and other pre-production plastic materials into U.S. waters from industrial facilities. This requires the EPA to swiftly issue a rule banning these discharges from facilities involved in the manufacturing, use, packaging, or transport of these plastics. The prohibition will be enforced through existing permitting and regulatory systems under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

The No Funds for Forced Labor Act aims to prevent U.S. support for international financial institution loans that fund projects involving forced labor, particularly in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. It directs the Treasury Secretary to use U.S. influence to oppose such loans and requires annual reporting on these efforts. Congress asserts that international financial institutions should not fund entities credibly accused of using forced labor.

The Fiscal Harms of Federal Firings Act mandates a comprehensive study by the Comptroller General on how federal workforce reductions (RIFs) impact state and local government budgets. This study will analyze changes in state spending, tax revenues, and regional economic effects resulting from federal job cuts. The resulting report will provide Congress with findings, identify the most affected areas, and suggest policy options for mitigating these fiscal harms.

This bill provides the funding and establishes the operational rules for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for Fiscal Year 2026 across all major components, including intelligence, security operations, emergency management, and research. It allocates billions for agencies like TSA, Coast Guard, FEMA, and CISA while imposing strict new requirements for congressional oversight, spending transparency, and management of federal grants. The legislation also includes specific policy directives, such as mandating security screening for senior officials and restricting certain intelligence and contracting activities.

The Supporting Trauma-Informed Education Practices Act of 2026 establishes a grant program to enhance access to evidence-based trauma support and mental health services for students and school staff. This funding aims to foster stronger connections between schools and community mental health systems through collaboration, professional development, and direct student services. The bill authorizes $50 million annually from FY 2027 through 2031 to support these critical initiatives.

This resolution establishes a comprehensive Transgender Bill of Rights to codify and protect the rights of transgender and nonbinary people across the United States. It mandates federal action to ensure equal access to healthcare, employment, housing, legal recognition, and safety. The bill aims to eliminate discrimination and affirm bodily autonomy by amending existing federal civil rights laws.

The BRAVE Burma Act aims to increase accountability for the military regime in Burma through enhanced sanctions reporting. It requires the President to assess Burmese state-owned enterprises and entities involved in the jet fuel sector for potential sanctions. Furthermore, the Act directs the U.S. to oppose increases to Burma's shareholding in the International Monetary Fund while the State Administration Council is in power.