Legislative Activity

The Nuclear REFUEL Act amends the Atomic Energy Act to clarify regulations surrounding nuclear fuel processing. Specifically, it excludes the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel from the definition of a "production facility" if the process does not separate plutonium from other transuranic elements. This change aims to streamline regulatory oversight for certain fuel recycling activities.

This joint resolution expresses Congressional disapproval of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) rule regarding California's "Advanced Clean Cars II" vehicle pollution standards. By rejecting this rule, Congress is effectively canceling the EPA's decision to grant California a waiver allowing it to set stricter emission standards than federal law typically permits. Consequently, the approved California standards will not take effect.

The Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act mandates a comprehensive study by the Comptroller General on improving wildfire mitigation efforts across different land ownership boundaries. This study will examine current federal programs to identify barriers and opportunities for better collaboration and funding among federal, state, local, and Tribal entities. The final report will include recommendations for streamlining cross-boundary wildfire prevention projects.

The ACERO Act directs NASA to leverage its technology and expertise to enhance aerial wildfire response capabilities through research and development. It aims to improve aircraft technology, data sharing, and coordination among wildfire response teams, establishing a platform for real-time situational awareness. The Act generally prohibits NASA from procuring drones from covered foreign entities, with a national interest waiver option, and requires annual reports to Congress on its progress. Fifteen million dollars is authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2026 to carry out the act.

The Valor Has No Expiration Act removes the time limits for recommending military decorations for service members whose records were classified or restricted. This allows the Secretaries of the military branches to review and award decorations earned by veterans dating back to January 1, 1940. The bill establishes a formal review process and reporting requirements for these delayed award considerations.

This resolution formally condemns the violent riots that occurred in Los Angeles in June 2025, which escalated from protests following immigration enforcement actions. It details the widespread arson, vandalism, and attacks against law enforcement officers during the disorder. Furthermore, the bill praises the actions of law enforcement and urges state and local officials to cooperate with federal authorities to restore peace.

The SKIM Act, or Stopping Klepto-card and Identity Misuse Act, mandates stricter sentencing guidelines for crimes involving counterfeit or stolen credit and debit cards, ensuring a minimum offense level for such offenses. It also requires the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress on federal and local cooperation in combating access device fraud. This legislation aims to increase penalties and improve coordination against identity and payment card misuse.

The Energy Choice Act prevents state and local governments from enacting bans or restrictions on the type or source of energy services consumers can access. This legislation protects consumer choice across various energy sources, including natural gas, hydrogen, propane, and electricity, provided the energy is sold across state lines. Essentially, it limits local interference with energy delivery options.

This resolution officially designates May 2025 as "National Wildfire Preparedness Month" to address the growing threat of intense and frequent wildfires nationwide. The goal is to raise public awareness about the increasing risks and encourage proactive steps for mitigation and readiness. This designation supports efforts across all levels of government and communities to promote home hardening, responsible land management, and effective evacuation planning. Ultimately, it seeks to educate the public on lifesaving actions to protect lives, property, and health from wildfire dangers.

This resolution officially recognizes the significant and growing contributions of independent workers, freelancers, and sole proprietors to the American economy. It highlights the substantial economic impact of this sector, which provides flexibility and opportunity for millions of Americans. Furthermore, the resolution expresses concern over potential legislation that could restrict the freedom and flexibility enjoyed by these independent workers.

This resolution formally recognizes the critical importance of California's three public higher education systems—UC, CSU, and CCC—to the state's economy and workforce development. It highlights the massive scale of these institutions and their vital role in providing access and economic mobility for millions of students. Ultimately, the measure reaffirms the United States' commitment to supporting these essential public educational pillars.

The Countering Russian Innovation and Safeguarding Individual Scientists Act of 2025 (CRISIS Act) establishes a new special immigrant pathway for highly educated Russian nationals holding doctoral degrees in critical STEM fields. This program allows up to 3,000 eligible scientists and their families annually to immigrate to the U.S. to work in their expertise, bypassing standard visa caps. The Act mandates expedited processing and rigorous security vetting for all applicants.

The ANCHOR Act directs the National Science Foundation to develop a comprehensive plan to significantly upgrade the cybersecurity and telecommunications infrastructure for the U.S. Academic Research Fleet. This plan must assess necessary network capabilities, identify security risks, estimate costs, and propose a funding strategy involving multiple stakeholders. The goal is to ensure research vessels have the necessary high-speed connectivity to support advanced science, crew well-being, and remote expertise.

The Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act of 2025 significantly increases the penalty-free withdrawal limit from retirement accounts for first-time homebuyers. This legislation raises the maximum allowable distribution from $\$10,000$ to $\$50,000$. This change is designed to provide greater financial flexibility for individuals purchasing their first home, taking effect for tax years beginning after December 31, 2024.

The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2025 aims to streamline and modernize the prior authorization process within Medicare Advantage plans. This bill mandates the adoption of electronic prior authorization systems and significantly increases transparency regarding approval rates and decision times starting in 2027. Furthermore, it establishes new enrollee protections and grants the Secretary authority to enforce faster decision timeframes for medical services.

The Simplifying Forms for Veterans Claims Act mandates an independent review of all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) forms sent to claimants to ensure they are clear and easy to understand. The VA Secretary must hire an outside entity to assess these forms and implement recommendations for improvement within a set timeline. Additionally, this bill slightly extends the expiration date for certain limits on veterans' pension payments.

The Veterans Claims Education Act of 2025 aims to better inform veterans about their right to free representation from recognized Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) when filing initial VA claims. It mandates that the VA maintain and regularly update an accessible online tool for finding accredited representatives. Furthermore, the bill extends the expiration date for certain limitations on veteran pension payments.

The Chip Security Act mandates the installation of security mechanisms on advanced integrated circuit products before they are exported from the United States. These requirements aim to verify chip location, prevent diversion, and protect U.S. technological leadership. The Secretary of Commerce must also study and implement additional security features to enhance export control enforcement and national security.

This resolution commemorates the 75th anniversary of the National Science Foundation (NSF), recognizing its vital role in advancing U.S. science, engineering, and education since 1950. Congress acknowledges the NSF's foundational support for groundbreaking innovations, including the internet and advancements in medical technology. The bill reaffirms Congress's commitment to ensuring the NSF continues to lead in scientific discovery for decades to come.

This bill officially renames Gravelly Point Park, located along the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Arlington County, Virginia, to the Nancy Reagan Memorial Park. The legislation ensures that all future federal documents, maps, and records will use the new designation.