Legislative Activity

This resolution officially designates the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Police Week." It serves to recognize and honor the service, sacrifice, and valor of law enforcement officers across the United States. The measure encourages the public to observe this week by honoring law enforcement personnel and promoting awareness of their essential mission.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of Dirk Arthur Kempthorne, recognizing his significant contributions as a former U.S. Senator, Governor of Idaho, and Secretary of the Interior. The Senate expresses its profound sorrow over his passing and offers condolences to his family. The resolution directs that this tribute be communicated to the House and his family, and the Senate will adjourn in his memory.

The Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act revises federal law regarding motor vehicle theft by lowering the required mental state for the basic offense to "knowingly." This change broadens the scope of federal jurisdiction over carjacking incidents. The bill also establishes a specific aggravating factor if death results when a vehicle is taken with the intent to cause serious harm.

The White House Safety and Security Act of 2026 authorizes \$400 million for a comprehensive East Wing Modernization Project, including the construction of a secure State Ballroom and visitor screening facility. This funding is specifically allocated for design, construction, and related expenses to enhance White House security infrastructure. Additionally, the bill extends the expiration date for certain customs user fees until March 31, 2032.

The Airpower Acceleration Act of 2026 streamlines the acquisition of critical fighter jets by granting the Secretary of Defense multiyear procurement authority for the F-35 and F-15EX aircraft. This bill also establishes new minimum inventory requirements for the Air Force fighter fleet, aiming for at least 1,800 total fighters by 2026. Furthermore, it authorizes an expansion of the F-15EX fleet to replace aging F-15E aircraft.

The **Protecting American Taxpayers Act** is a comprehensive bill aimed at reducing government waste, preventing fraud, and increasing financial transparency across federal programs. It targets improper payments in areas like child care and Medicare, permanently bars pandemic relief fraudsters from future SBA aid, and cancels unspent COVID-19 relief funds to reduce the deficit. Additionally, the Act strengthens oversight of welfare programs, enhances fraud enforcement timelines, and expands whistleblower protections for federal contractors.

The RETAIN Act of 2026 aims to improve the retention of experienced military aviators. It mandates that officers with over eight years of service receive the maximum aviation incentive pay. Additionally, the bill enhances the Air Force's retention program by offering greater flexibility in duty assignments and increasing potential aviation bonuses up to an average of $100,000 annually.

The Fighter Aircrew Career Flexibility Act aims to retain experienced military pilots and aircrew by offering new service options. It allows those completing active duty to serve part-time in the Reserves while maintaining flight proficiency. Additionally, it establishes a pilot program for active-duty fighter pilots to take a temporary break from service before returning with an extended commitment.

This bill aims to eliminate "sanctuary jurisdictions" by penalizing local governments that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. It provides legal protections for local officers who comply with DHS detainers and makes sanctuary jurisdictions ineligible for a wide range of federal grants. Furthermore, it allows states to sue jurisdictions that release immigrants who subsequently commit crimes in other states.

The Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2025 strengthens the ability of claimants to recover art looted by the Nazis by ensuring cases are decided on their legal merits rather than procedural technicalities. The bill prevents courts from dismissing claims based on the passage of time or other non-merits defenses and clarifies that these actions may proceed regardless of the victim's nationality. These updates aim to remove legal barriers and ensure that justice for victims of Nazi persecution is not frustrated by procedural delays.

The Supporting Blue Envelope Programs Act establishes a federal grant program to help law enforcement agencies and nonprofits improve interactions with individuals who have autism or other developmental and communication disabilities. By funding voluntary "blue envelope" initiatives, the bill provides officers with specialized de-escalation training and offers community members tools to help navigate law enforcement encounters safely. The program also creates a public directory to connect individuals with local resources and prioritizes trauma-informed, community-supported practices.

This resolution honors the service and sacrifice of Missouri law enforcement officers, specifically memorializing those lost in the line of duty. It establishes February 23 as "Law Enforcement Officers Appreciation Day" to recognize their daily heroism and express condolences to the families of the fallen. Furthermore, the bill reaffirms support for police officers nationwide while condemning all acts of violence against them.

The NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2025 authorizes the agency's funding for fiscal year 2025 and solidifies the strategic direction for human spaceflight, emphasizing the "Moon to Mars" program and the transition to commercial Low-Earth Orbit destinations. The bill directs significant investment into science missions, technology development, and aeronautics research, while also restructuring STEM education programs. Finally, it establishes new policy guidelines regarding commercial partnerships, cost oversight, and international collaboration.

The Dalilah Law restricts the issuance of commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and holders of specific work visas. It mandates English proficiency for all applicants and requires states to recertify current CDL holders to maintain federal transportation funding. Failure to comply with these eligibility and testing requirements will result in the withholding of federal funds for non-compliant states.

The ROTOR Act focuses on enhancing aviation safety and transparency, primarily by reforming exceptions that allow aircraft to disable their ADS-B Out tracking systems. It mandates that the FAA require most aircraft to install and use ADS-B In technology for improved situational awareness. Furthermore, the bill establishes new coordination offices and requires comprehensive safety reviews of airspace operations, particularly around major airports, involving both civil and military aviation.

The Railway Safety Act of 2026 enhances national rail safety by mandating stricter operational standards, advanced defect detection technology, and more frequent equipment inspections for freight trains. Additionally, the legislation strengthens emergency preparedness by establishing new funding streams, improved training, and a reimbursement program to support local communities in responding to hazardous material incidents.

The SAT Streamlining Act aims to bolster U.S. leadership in the space industry by establishing strict deadlines for the FCC to process satellite and earth station license applications. This legislation introduces a "deemed granted" provision if the FCC misses these new processing timelines for licenses and renewals. Furthermore, it clarifies Congressional intent regarding space policy and preempts state and local regulation of licensee rates.

This joint resolution expresses the disapproval of Congress regarding the D.C. Income and Franchise Tax Conformity and Revision Temporary Amendment Act of 2025. It specifically targets the act approved by the D.C. Council in December 2025.

This bill, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE America Act), mandates that individuals must provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. It also establishes a federal requirement for voters to present a photo ID containing a citizenship indicator when casting a ballot in federal elections. Furthermore, the legislation requires states to implement ongoing programs to verify and remove non-citizens from voter rolls.

This resolution honors the life, achievements, and legacy of former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. It recognizes his distinguished service in the Air Force, his Olympic athletic career, and his historic tenure in the U.S. Congress. The resolution specifically highlights his landmark legislative accomplishments, including establishing the National Museum of the American Indian. The Senate expresses its sorrow and will recess as a mark of respect for his memory.