Legislative Activity

The Federal Carjacking Enforcement Act amends federal law regarding the use of motor vehicles in certain crimes. This bill lowers the required mental state for conviction from proving "intent to cause death or serious bodily harm" to simply proving the act was done "knowingly." It also clarifies that enhanced penalties for death apply when the vehicle was taken with the intent to cause serious harm, and death subsequently occurs.

This Senate resolution declares the People's Republic of China (PRC) the foremost strategic competitor of the United States, citing threats across military, economic, and technological domains. It calls for countering these threats by making them a top foreign policy priority. The resolution urges strengthening deterrence, protecting U.S. economic interests against predatory practices, and reaffirming commitments to Indo-Pacific allies.

This resolution supports the goals of National Nurses Week, observed annually from May 6th to May 12th. It recognizes the vital contributions of nurses across patient care, public health, and research. The bill encourages the nation to observe this week with appropriate recognition for the importance of nurses in everyday lives.

This bill combines two major components: the **Foreign Intelligence Accountability Act**, which reforms and extends key surveillance authorities like Section 702 of FISA with new privacy protections and criminal penalties for misuse, and the **Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act**, which explicitly prohibits the Federal Reserve from creating or issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to the public. In essence, the legislation tightens oversight on foreign intelligence gathering while blocking the creation of a government-controlled digital currency.

This resolution expresses support for designating the week of May 3, 2026, through May 9, 2026, as "National Small Business Week." It aims to celebrate the vital contributions and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses across the United States. The bill recognizes the essential role these businesses play in the national economy and applauds their resilience.

The PHS ACCESS Act amends the Public Health Service Act to allow the assignment of Public Health Service Commissioned Corps officers to support Urban Indian organizations. The bill also grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services flexibility in granting constructive credit for length of service during appointments, establishing transparent criteria that prioritize service in underserved and high-need areas.

This bill officially reauthorizes the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program (TRIP) for an additional seven years, extending its operation until 2034. It also updates the mandatory recoupment timelines for when the government recovers insurance payments following a covered terrorist act.

This bill prohibits federal family planning funds under Title X from being provided to any entity that performs, promotes, or refers for abortion. Entities receiving funds must certify they will not perform abortions or give funds to organizations that do, with limited exceptions for rape, incest, or life-threatening conditions. The Secretary of Health and Human Services must also submit annual reports to Congress detailing grant recipients and any abortions performed under the exceptions.

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 FARM Stability Act introduces a two-tier wage system for H-2A agricultural workers based on skill level to better reflect experience and training. Additionally, the bill establishes a housing credit, allowing employers to offset a portion of required cash wages based on the fair market value of provided housing.

This bill, the BLOCK PUTIN Act, aims to hold the Hungarian government accountable for undermining transatlantic interests by continuing to rely on Russian energy and obstructing aid to Ukraine. It mandates the President to impose sanctions, including asset freezes and travel bans, on senior Hungarian officials who block Ukraine support or facilitate Russian energy imports. Sanctions can be lifted only if Hungary commits to ending its dependence on Russian fossil fuels and ceases obstructing assistance to Ukraine.

The Enhancing Long-Term, Efficient, and Viable Alternatives to Empower Flood-Prone Communities Act of 2026 establishes a new U.S. Army Corps of Engineers program to prioritize nonstructural flood risk management, such as building elevations, floodproofing, and property buyouts. The bill mandates that these alternatives receive equal consideration to traditional structural projects and provides increased federal cost-sharing for economically disadvantaged communities and repetitive loss properties. Additionally, it streamlines project implementation, improves technical support, and ensures that relocation and elevation assistance programs are more accessible and comprehensive for property owners.

The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act formally defines xylazine and immediately places it into Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. This legislation establishes specific rules for the legitimate veterinary use and possession of xylazine while mandating enhanced tracking and requiring the Sentencing Commission to review penalties for related offenses. Furthermore, the bill directs the Attorney General to report to Congress on the prevalence and impact of illicit xylazine use.

This resolution commemorates the 205th anniversary of Greek independence and celebrates the enduring democratic values shared by Greece and the United States. It reaffirms the strong strategic, security, and energy partnership between the two nations while honoring the significant contributions of the Greek-American community.

The Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act authorizes the placement of a new National Medal of Honor Monument within the Reserve in Washington, D.C. This legislation ensures the monument’s site selection complies with specific federal location requirements while remaining subject to the broader planning and construction standards of the Commemorative Works Act.

The HBCU Research Capacity Act establishes a federal clearinghouse within the Department of Education to help Historically Black Colleges and Universities identify and secure federal research grant opportunities. By providing centralized resources, best practices, and increased transparency, the bill aims to dismantle systemic funding barriers and strengthen the research capacity of HBCUs. Additionally, the legislation mandates that major federal agencies review their grant programs and report annually to Congress to ensure equitable access to research funding.

The Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act of 2025 establishes a dedicated grant program and emergency response fund to support the rescue and rehabilitation of stranded sea turtles. This legislation provides critical federal funding through 2030 to enhance conservation efforts and ensure authorized facilities have the resources necessary to care for these protected species.

This resolution designates March 21, 2026, as "National Women in Agriculture Day" to honor the vital contributions of women across the agricultural industry. It celebrates the essential roles women play as producers, educators, and leaders, while encouraging the nation to support and empower the next generation of female agricultural professionals.

The Pro Codes Act of 2026 protects the copyright of technical standards incorporated into law, ensuring that standards development organizations can continue to fund their work. In exchange for this protection, the Act requires these organizations to provide the public with free, searchable online access to the specific standards referenced in government regulations.

The Purple Heart Veterans Education Act of 2025 allows veterans awarded the Purple Heart after September 11, 2001, to transfer their unused Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits to eligible family members. It defines eligible dependents, sets conditions for benefit use, and allows veterans to modify or revoke transfers. The bill also addresses scenarios involving the death of the veteran and sets age limits for child transferees, ensuring dependents receive the same educational assistance as the veteran.