Legislative Activity

The Title IX Clarification Act of 2026 amends the Education Amendments of 1972 to establish clear, biological definitions for the terms "sex," "female," and "male." These definitions are intended to provide legal clarity for educational institutions receiving federal financial assistance. The act takes effect immediately upon being signed into law.

The Fast Tracking European Investment in Ukraine’s Defense Act creates an expedited process for key U.S. allies to purchase specific munitions for transfer to Ukraine. By bypassing standard congressional review requirements for these select defense articles, the bill aims to accelerate the delivery of critical military support to Ukraine. This initiative reinforces the U.S. commitment to facilitating international contributions to Ukraine's defense against the ongoing Russian invasion.

This resolution designates July 25, 2026, as "National Day of the American Cowboy" to honor the historical and cultural significance of cowboys and cowgirls. It recognizes their vital role in shaping the American West and celebrates the enduring values, economic contributions, and community spirit they continue to embody today.

The Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 prohibits the sale or importation of connected vehicles, their parts, and related software originating from or controlled by covered adversarial countries (North Korea, China, Russia, or Iran). Enforced by the Secretary of Commerce, this law aims to mitigate national security risks associated with foreign adversary access to sensitive vehicle data and control systems. The Act establishes phased bans starting in 2027 for vehicles and software, and 2030 for hardware, while setting up processes for compliance, authorization, and enforcement.

The Restoring Affordability in Automobile Manufacturing (RAAM) Act repeals federal Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for automobiles beginning with the 2029 model year. Additionally, the bill establishes federal authority over fuel economy regulation, preempting state and local governments from enforcing their own conflicting fuel economy standards.

The CLEAR LABELS Act enhances pharmaceutical transparency by requiring drug labels to clearly identify the original manufacturers of both active ingredients and finished products. It mandates that this supply chain information be accessible through digital tools like QR codes or barcodes, while ensuring paper copies remain available upon request. Additionally, the bill streamlines regulatory compliance by exempting these products from redundant customs country-of-origin marking requirements.

The FIRST Act establishes a Department of State program to promote the international deployment of U.S. civil nuclear energy technology, specifically focusing on small modular reactors. The program provides diplomatic support, regulatory consultation, and project development assistance to partner nations to ensure high safety and nonproliferation standards. By fostering these partnerships, the Act aims to strengthen U.S. national security and economic interests in the global nuclear energy market.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 imposes sweeping economic sanctions and trade restrictions to isolate Russia and penalize those supporting its military efforts. The bill targets Russian financial institutions, energy sectors, and leadership while penalizing foreign entities that facilitate sanctions evasion. It aims to cripple Russia’s ability to finance its war in Ukraine through severe tariffs, asset freezes, and restricted access to U.S. markets.

The Farmers and Ranchers Relief Act of 2026 aims to reduce regulatory burdens by expanding permit exemptions for routine agricultural activities under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. The bill directs that these exemptions be interpreted broadly and removes restrictive provisions that previously required permits for certain farming and ranching operations.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of the late Senator Lindsey Olin Graham, recognizing his decades of dedicated military service and his impactful career in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. It pays tribute to his commitment to national security, the rule of law, and the people of South Carolina. The Senate expresses its profound sorrow for his passing and extends its deepest condolences to his family.

The **Protecting American Taxpayers Act** is a comprehensive legislative package designed to combat fraud, reduce government waste, and ensure the integrity of federal spending programs. The bill implements stricter oversight for child care and health care payments, permanently bars those convicted of pandemic-related fraud from future Small Business Administration assistance, and rescinds unspent COVID-19 relief funds to reduce the national deficit. Additionally, it enhances whistleblower protections for government contractors, strengthens data-sharing to intercept improper payments, and establishes new safeguards against foreign influence and deep fake scams.

Lulu's Law mandates that the FCC classify shark attacks as an event eligible for Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). This ensures that alerts regarding shark attacks can be broadcast to the public via emergency messaging systems.

This resolution commemorates the anniversary of the Supreme Court's *Dobbs* decision, celebrating the overturning of *Roe v. Wade* and the return of abortion regulation to elected representatives. It affirms the right to life for the unborn and commits to supporting families and expectant mothers. The resolution also recognizes the role of pregnancy centers and advocates for laws protecting unborn life.

The Artemis II Congressional Gold Medal Act honors the crew of the historic Artemis II mission for their groundbreaking contributions to human space exploration. The bill authorizes the presentation of Congressional Gold Medals to the four crew members in recognition of their achievements in deep-space travel. Additionally, it provides for the production and sale of bronze duplicates to commemorate this milestone mission.

This Act restricts U.S. nonmilitary foreign assistance from supporting organizations that promote abortion, gender ideology, or discriminatory equity ideology. It places specific requirements on foreign and domestic organizations receiving these funds to ensure separation from prohibited activities. The bill also includes narrow exceptions for life-saving medical situations and allows the Secretary of State to waive provisions for national security interests.

The Energy Security Pacts Act establishes a framework for the U.S. Department of State to enter into multiyear agreements with partner countries to strengthen energy and economic security. By creating a dedicated Office of Energy Security Pacts and an interagency Council, the bill aims to diversify critical mineral and energy supply chains while fostering private-sector investment. These pacts are designed to enhance global energy reliability and competitiveness through transparent, strategic, and collaborative international partnerships.

The CHIP IN for Veterans Act of 2026 permanently extends the VA's authority to accept donated facilities and related improvements, updating the criteria for acceptance to align with identified departmental needs. Additionally, the bill authorizes the VA Secretary to accept donations for minor construction projects, maintenance, or construction services. All accepted donations must meet specific criteria and be governed by a formal agreement to ensure project quality and benefit to veterans.

The Expanded Consular Fellows Act of 2026 aims to increase staffing capacity at U.S. embassies and consulates to meet rising demand for visa processing and security vetting. The bill amends the Foreign Service Act to extend the maximum duration of limited consular appointments to eight years and introduces a new two-year short-term appointment category. These measures are designed to ensure efficient consular operations during upcoming major international sporting events and support the continued growth of the U.S. travel and tourism industry.

The U.S. Tech PATH Act establishes a Department of State program to help foreign government partners procure trusted, secure cyber and digital technologies from the United States. By streamlining access to reliable hardware and software, the initiative aims to reduce partner dependence on strategic competitors and strengthen global supply chain security. The bill also authorizes funding and support to ensure U.S. technology remains a competitive, viable alternative in the international market.

The Foreign-Trade Zone Export Enhancement Act of 2026 aims to boost U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and job preservation by updating foreign-trade zone operations. This legislation specifically allows certain goods manufactured or processed within these zones to enter the U.S. duty-free. It directs Customs and Border Protection to implement these new tariff rules promptly.