Legislative Activity

The Red Star Service Banner Act establishes an official commemorative symbol to honor service members, veterans, and first responders who have died by suicide. This banner serves as a way for families, organizations, and public institutions to acknowledge their sacrifice and raise awareness. The legislation provides guidelines for the banner's display without creating new federal benefits or requiring additional government appropriations.

The Save Medicare Act renames the Medicare Advantage program to the "Alternative Private Health Plan program." It also establishes a significant civil money penalty of \$100,000 for any entity that advertises a Part C plan using the term "Medicare" in its title. The bill mandates an orderly transition to the new program name by October 15, 2023.

The School Social Workers Improving Student Success Act establishes a grant program to help high-need school districts hire and retain more social workers, aiming for a recommended ratio of one social worker for every 250 students. Additionally, the bill creates a National Technical Assistance Center to provide training, resources, and workforce development strategies to support school-based mental health services nationwide.

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.

The Trade Adjustment Assistance Modernization Act strengthens and expands federal support for American workers, businesses, communities, and farmers negatively impacted by international trade. This legislation increases financial benefits, improves access to retraining and healthcare subsidies, and provides new economic development grants for distressed regions. By extending these programs through 2033, the bill ensures a more robust, long-term safety net for those navigating the challenges of a changing global economy.

This resolution honors the life, leadership, and enduring legacy of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. It recognizes his pivotal role as a civil rights leader, his groundbreaking political campaigns, and his global advocacy for human rights and equality. The measure encourages all Americans to continue his work by moving forward with hope rather than fear and division.

The Lowering Student Loans Act aims to reduce the financial burden of higher education by capping interest rates on most federal student loans at a fixed 2%. Starting July 1, 2026, this rate will apply to both new federal loans and existing eligible loans, providing significant interest relief to millions of borrowers.

This bill officially designates March 3, 2026, as National Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Day. The purpose is to raise awareness about the devastating impact of these cancers and emphasize the need for strong action to eradicate them.

The "Make Billionaires Pay Their Fair Share Act" is a comprehensive bill focused on economic fairness and social support. It introduces a new wealth tax targeting individuals with assets over $1 billion, while also providing direct financial relief through 2026 Affordability Rebates. Furthermore, the bill expands Medicare benefits to include dental, hearing, and vision coverage, significantly invests in affordable housing, and establishes federal support for universal child care and a national minimum teacher salary of $60,000.

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 Parks to People Active Transportation Act establishes a competitive grant program to fund the construction and improvement of regionally and nationally significant greenway paths for walking and biking. By connecting communities and transit hubs, this initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve public safety, and enhance accessibility in underserved areas. The program authorizes $300 million annually to support these multi-jurisdictional projects through 2031.

This resolution formally recognizes the historical significance of the *Clotilda*, the last known slave ship to arrive in the U.S. in 1860. It condemns the role of the United States in the Atlantic slave trade and acknowledges the lasting, intergenerational impact of this crime on African Americans, particularly the descendants who founded Africatown. The resolution encourages the establishment of a memorial on Capitol Grounds to honor the victims.

The Ensuring OBGYN Care in Prisons Act mandates that the Bureau of Prisons employ full-time obstetrician-gynecologists at all facilities housing female prisoners. This bill ensures comprehensive gynecological, prenatal, and postpartum care, including required initial visits within 14 days of incarceration. Furthermore, it establishes patient protections like informed consent and the right to refuse non-emergency care. The Bureau of Prisons must also submit annual reports detailing staffing, services provided, and pregnancy outcomes.

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 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.

This bill recognizes community water fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure proven to prevent tooth decay. It highlights the significant oral and overall health benefits, as well as the substantial cost savings associated with this intervention. The resolution encourages states and localities to adopt or continue fluoridating community water systems at optimal levels.

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.

The Full-Body Restraint Prohibition Act bans the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from purchasing or using any four-point or five-point restraints that completely immobilize a person. The legislation mandates strict reporting requirements to Congress detailing compliance and any prohibited restraint usage. Violations by DHS personnel can result in termination.

The "No Rewards for January 6 Rioters Act" prohibits the use of any federal funds to compensate individuals prosecuted for involvement in the January 6th Capitol attack. It also forbids the creation of any compensation fund for these individuals. Furthermore, the bill bars the U.S. Treasury from refunding court-ordered restitution, fines, or special assessments paid by those convicted for their role in the attack.