Legislative Activity

The Biotech Investment National Security Act (BINSA) of 2026 aims to protect U.S. national security by restricting outbound investments and technology licensing in the Chinese biotechnology sector. The bill mandates stricter oversight of capital flows to prevent the transfer of critical pharmaceutical and clinical development capabilities to entities controlled by the People's Republic of China. Additionally, it directs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish formal regulations for these transactions and requires a comprehensive assessment of how such investments impact U.S. military readiness and strategic independence.

The PREPARE Act establishes a pilot program to strategically preposition aerial wildfire suppression resources across Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, South Dakota, and Wyoming. By coordinating federal and state efforts, this initiative aims to improve response times for early-season wildfires in fine fuels. The program will be implemented using existing wildland fire management funding without requiring additional appropriations.

This joint resolution seeks to nullify an EPA rule that granted California a waiver to establish its own motor vehicle pollution standards. By disapproving this action, the resolution aims to invalidate the legal authority behind California’s Advanced Clean Car Program and related Zero Emission Vehicle amendments.

The Karly Rain Wood Act establishes a comprehensive national registration and community notification system for repeat violent felons to enhance public safety. The legislation mandates that jurisdictions maintain public registries and websites, requiring repeat violent felons to register their residence, employment, and student status for life. Additionally, the Act creates a federal management assistance program to support implementation and ensures coordination between federal, state, and tribal authorities.

This bill, the "Bank-Fintech Partnership Enhancement Act," requires federal banking regulators to study how partnerships between banks and financial technology (fintech) companies can support new bank formation and community bank health. The study will also examine the impact of these collaborations on competition, innovation, and consumer protection. Additionally, the National Credit Union Administration is directed to conduct a similar study regarding credit union-fintech partnerships.

The SNAP Staffing Flexibility Act of 2026 allows state agencies to hire contractors to help process SNAP eligibility and perform other program functions during periods of high application volume or processing delays. This temporary authority can be triggered by emergencies, seasonal cycles, or staffing shortages, provided certain safeguards against improper incentives are met. States must notify the USDA when using contractors, and the USDA will publicly report on the use of this authority annually.

The UNLOCK AUKUS Act streamlines defense cooperation by amending the Arms Export Control Act to remove specific regulatory barriers. This legislation facilitates the seamless transfer of defense articles and services among AUKUS partners, strengthening collaborative security efforts.

This bill, the FENCE Act, amends the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978 to allow farmers to use modern or emerging fencing technologies when repairing or replacing fences under the emergency conservation program. This update is permitted as long as the inclusion of new technology does not increase the overall cost of the repair or replacement.

This resolution celebrates the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of their Mutual Defense Treaty. It strongly condemns China's escalating aggression and rejection of the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling. The resolution reaffirms the U.S. commitment to the alliance, supports deepening security and economic cooperation, and affirms that an attack on Philippine forces in the South China Sea falls under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

This resolution supports designating May 2026 as "Renewable Fuels Month." It recognizes the significant role that renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel play in lowering consumer fuel prices and reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, the bill highlights how these fuels bolster rural economies and decrease reliance on foreign energy sources.

The MARKET Act of 2026 mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to annually assess and report on U.S. agricultural export risks associated with foreign adversaries. This report must identify vulnerabilities in key export markets and recommend strategies to diversify trade toward nonadversarial countries. The goal is to reduce U.S. dependence on markets controlled by nations posing a national security risk.

This bill mandates that federal banking agencies and the National Credit Union Administration conduct separate studies on the state of depository institutions and credit unions in rural areas. The studies must examine challenges, regulatory impacts, and ways to improve the growth and profitability of these vital rural financial services. Both agencies are required to submit their findings and recommendations to Congress within one year.

This resolution expresses support for designating May 2026 as "National Beef Month." It recognizes the significant economic contributions and nutritional value of the United States cattle and beef industry. The designation aims to honor the industry's role in the nation's agriculture and food supply.

The FAIR Labels Act of 2026 establishes clear labeling requirements and regulatory oversight for both cell-cultivated protein products and plant-based alternative protein products. It mandates that cell-cultivated products must prominently feature the term "cell-cultivated" on their labels, while plant-based alternatives must be clearly identified as "plant-based alternative protein product." Furthermore, the bill updates the agreement between the USDA and HHS to clarify their respective roles in regulating the safety and production of cell-cultivated protein.

The Sound Science Act of 2026 updates the Toxic Substances Control Act to mandate more rigorous and transparent chemical testing and risk evaluation processes at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It revises how the EPA assesses chemical risks, requiring consideration of existing standards and promoting greater consistency across federal agencies. Furthermore, the bill strengthens accountability by requiring public disclosure of relied-upon scientific assessments and mandating in-person peer review for chemical risk evaluations.

The MATCH Act mandates the U.S. government to work with allies to align export controls on critical semiconductor manufacturing equipment to prevent adversaries from accessing foundational technology. It requires identifying key equipment and facilities, prioritizing diplomatic engagement with allies to adopt similar controls, and imposing U.S. unilateral controls if diplomatic efforts fail. Ultimately, the bill aims to secure the U.S. advantage in advanced computing by closing gaps in the current export control system.

The PLOT Act of 2026 enhances oversight of foreign-owned agricultural land by requiring the submission of precise geospatial data for property transparency. The bill mandates stricter reporting thresholds for transactions involving foreign adversaries and prioritizes national security investigations for land holdings near sensitive infrastructure. These measures aim to strengthen national security by ensuring federal agencies can better monitor and analyze foreign investments in U.S. agricultural property.

This resolution establishes the first Saturday after the Spring Equinox as "National Day of Play" to promote community engagement and social connection. By encouraging people to step away from electronics, the initiative highlights the vital role that play serves in supporting mental, physical, and social well-being.

The "Stop Insider Trading Act" prohibits Members of Congress and their immediate families from purchasing individual stocks and requires advanced public notice for any sale of existing holdings. The bill establishes strict financial penalties for violations, which must be paid personally by the Member of Congress. These measures aim to increase transparency and prevent conflicts of interest by restricting personal investment activities among federal lawmakers.

The CARING for Our Veterans Health Act of 2025 mandates that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) establish clear guidance and measurable goals for community care providers regarding timely and accurate submission of veteran medical records. This legislation requires the VA to set performance targets for medical centers to ensure proper follow-up on paperwork after veterans receive care outside the VA system. The VA must regularly report its progress on implementing these new coordination and training requirements to Congress.