Legislative Activity

The Veteran Burial Benefit Correction Act increases the maximum burial and funeral expense payment provided by the VA for veterans who die from a service-connected disability from \$2,000 to \$3,000. This legislation also institutes an automatic annual adjustment to this benefit based on inflation, measured by the Consumer Price Index.

This bill officially renames the United States Postal Service facility located at 200 1st Avenue Southeast in Austin, Minnesota, to the "John Madden Memorial Post Office." This designation honors the late sports legend, John Madden. The change will be reflected across all official federal records and documents.

This act officially establishes the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum and designates its location on the National Mall, requiring the transfer of land jurisdiction to the Smithsonian Institution. The museum is mandated to preserve and present the history and achievements of biological women in the United States. Furthermore, the legislation requires that exhibits and programs reflect diverse political viewpoints and authentic experiences of women, as guided by a broad array of knowledgeable sources.

This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the United States must take immediate action to end child poverty, citing alarming national rates and the proven success of past federal investments. It calls for establishing a national goal to reduce child poverty and supports key policy changes, including making the expanded Child Tax Credit permanent. The bill advocates for increased federal spending on children, universal access to quality early education, and equitable K-12 public schooling for every child.

The Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2025 ensures the continued operation and funding of the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program through fiscal year 2031. This bill specifically increases the authorized annual funding level for the program starting in 2027. Additionally, it extends the federal government's commitment to the national cord blood inventory program until 2031.

This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue commemorative gold and silver coins marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The coins will honor the victims, first responders, and survivors, with designs selected in consultation with the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. All surcharges from the sale of these coins will be paid directly to the Memorial and Museum to support its operations and maintenance.

This Act prohibits the use of federal funds for specific settlement payments, including those related to the *Trump, et al. v. IRS, et al.* case. It places new restrictions on the Judgment Fund, barring payments to high-ranking officials, their relatives, and certain entities for specific types of claims. The bill also establishes strict reporting and notification requirements for large government compromise settlements.

This bill directs the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide opioid antagonists to veterans without requiring a prescription. Furthermore, it eliminates any associated copayment for receiving these life-saving medications. The goal is to ensure veterans have immediate access to overdose reversal medication.

The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025 aims to combat sophisticated, cross-jurisdictional organized retail and supply chain theft. It achieves this by strengthening federal laws regarding money laundering and stolen property offenses, including lowering monetary thresholds for prosecution. Furthermore, the bill establishes a dedicated Center within the Department of Homeland Security to coordinate federal, state, and local enforcement efforts against these criminal organizations.

This resolution officially recognizes the week of May 3-9, 2026, as "National Postpartum Awareness Week for Communities of Color." It highlights the disproportionate maternal health crisis faced by communities of color and the critical need for respectful, culturally competent postpartum care. The bill supports efforts to eliminate racial disparities in maternal health outcomes by improving access to necessary resources and mental health services.

The Investing in the American Dream Act expands eligibility for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and guarantees. It allows small businesses owned by certain lawfully present immigrants, refugees, and even some individuals residing outside the U.S. to qualify for covered loans. This legislation ensures that businesses meeting specific ownership and location criteria are not denied SBA assistance solely based on the immigration status of their eligible owners.

This bill prohibits the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from establishing or operating any new models of immigration detention facilities, such as converting warehouses or using temporary structures. It specifically bans entering into new contracts for these alternative detention setups. Furthermore, any funds already allocated for these new models must be transferred to support services like affordable housing and healthcare.

This bill supports designating a week in April 2026 as "Black Maternal Health Week" to focus national attention on the severe maternal health crisis facing Black women. It highlights the unacceptable and unjust disparities in maternal mortality and morbidity rates among Black women due to structural racism and inequities. The legislation urges Congress to invest in comprehensive maternal care and pass legislation, like the Momnibus Act, grounded in human rights and reproductive justice.

This resolution formally recognizes the persistent gender wage gap in the United States and its significant negative impact on women, families, and the national economy. It highlights the systemic factors contributing to pay disparities across various demographics and occupations. Ultimately, the resolution reaffirms Congress's commitment to achieving equal pay for equal work.

The GUARDRAILS Act repeals the December 11, 2025, Executive Order regarding national AI policy. This legislation prohibits the use of federal funds to implement or enforce the mandates set forth in that order.

The Forever Chemical Regulation and Accountability Act of 2026 establishes a comprehensive framework to phase out nonessential PFAS ("forever chemicals") from consumer products and industrial processes within a decade. The legislation mandates strict reporting and environmental release standards, while enhancing public health protections through new research initiatives and expanded legal avenues for communities to seek accountability.

The Momnibus Act is a comprehensive legislative package designed to end preventable maternal mortality and close racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health outcomes. By addressing social determinants of health, expanding nutritional and mental health support, and investing in a diverse, culturally competent workforce, the bill provides a holistic framework for improving care. Through targeted federal grants, enhanced data collection, and innovative technology, the Act aims to ensure that all pregnant and postpartum individuals receive the equitable, high-quality care they deserve.

The Energy Bills Relief Act is a comprehensive bill designed to lower energy costs for American families, accelerate the deployment of low-cost, clean energy, and modernize the nation's electricity grid. It achieves this by reversing harmful policies against renewables, expanding energy assistance programs, streamlining grid connection processes, and increasing transparency in utility regulation. Ultimately, the legislation aims to create a more reliable, affordable, and cleaner energy system while ensuring communities have a stronger voice in energy development.

The Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act of 2025 strengthens U.S. policy by imposing mandatory sanctions on foreign persons and financial institutions that support Iran’s nuclear, ballistic missile, drone, and terrorist activities. The bill specifically targets Iran’s petroleum and petrochemical sectors to cut off funding for these malign programs. Additionally, it expands the State Department’s "Rewards for Justice" program to incentivize the reporting of individuals who evade these sanctions.

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.