Legislative Activity

The Infant Formula Safety Modernization Act of 2026 strengthens federal oversight by mandating rigorous pathogen testing, stricter manufacturing facility standards, and rapid reporting of contamination. The bill requires manufacturers to promptly notify the FDA of positive test results and ensures that Congress is kept informed of critical safety and inspection issues. These measures aim to enhance the safety and quality of infant formula products for all consumers.

This resolution formally honors the life and enduring legacy of civil rights leader Reverend Jesse Louis Burns Jackson, Sr. It recognizes his significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, including his work with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his founding of Operation PUSH. The bill specifically urges the President to order that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff in his memory.

The Real Courts, Rule of Law Act of 2026 establishes a new, independent Article I system for United States Immigration Courts, separating them from the executive branch. This new structure features an Appellate Division and a Trial Division, with specially appointed judges serving fixed terms. The Act also transfers all existing immigration court functions, personnel, and pending cases to this new system while ensuring independent budgeting authority.

The Welcoming International Success Act invalidates the September 19, 2025, presidential proclamation that restricted H-1B visa eligibility and wage levels. This legislation ensures the proclamation has no legal force or effect and prohibits the use of federal funds for its implementation.

The PrEP Access and Coverage Act of 2026 mandates comprehensive, cost-free insurance coverage for HIV prevention services (PrEP and PEP) across private health plans, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and veteran health programs. The bill prohibits insurers from denying coverage or increasing premiums based on the use of HIV prevention medication and establishes robust patient confidentiality protections. Additionally, it authorizes national public health education campaigns and provides grant funding to expand access to prevention services for uninsured and underinsured populations.

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.

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 Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act aims to significantly restrict the transfer of surplus military equipment from the Department of Defense to local law enforcement agencies. This bill bans the transfer of many military-grade items, such as armored vehicles and certain weapons, while imposing strict new public notification, local approval, and annual accountability requirements for any approved transfers. The legislation seeks to prevent the inappropriate militarization of police forces by increasing oversight and limiting access to combat-ready gear.

The RELIEF Act establishes a mandatory refund process for certain tariffs collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection starting January 1, 2025, specifically those imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. This legislation requires the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection to automatically issue refunds to importers within 90 days of enactment. Importers will receive these refunds without needing to file an application or protest.

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 Justice for Allie Act establishes a new federal crime to protect vulnerable adults from sexual exploitation. This legislation criminalizes the coercion of individuals with specific developmental or cognitive disabilities into sending intimate visual depictions when the intent is to cause physical, psychological, financial, or reputational harm.

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 Southeast Asian Deportation Relief Act of 2026 provides significant relief for long-term residents from Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam facing deportation. It prohibits the detention and removal of eligible individuals who entered the U.S. before 2008 and grants them permanent work authorization. Furthermore, the Act establishes a streamlined process for those previously ordered removed to reopen and terminate their immigration cases, effectively vacating past removal orders.

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.

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 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 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.

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.