Legislative Activity

The United States-Cuba Trade Act of 2025 seeks to normalize trade relations with Cuba by removing restrictions on trade, travel, and telecommunications, while also directing the President to negotiate with Cuba on property claims and human rights. The act repeals several existing laws and provisions that limit engagement with Cuba, allowing for increased economic and social interaction between the two countries. It also prohibits limitations on remittances to Cuba and requires a report to Congress on trade relations. The Act aims to foster democratic change and economic reform in Cuba through normalized trade relations.

The "Filing Relief for Natural Disasters Act" allows the Secretary to postpone federal tax deadlines, similar to federal disaster declarations, upon a written request from a state governor for a qualified state-declared disaster. It defines a "qualified state-declared disaster" as a natural catastrophe, fire, flood, or explosion, as determined by the Governor, that causes significant damage. This act also extends mandatory tax deadline extensions from 60 days to 120 days.

The Lumbee Fairness Act grants federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, making them eligible for federal services and benefits. It designates specific counties in North Carolina as the Tribe's service area and requires a needs assessment report to Congress. The Act also authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to take land into trust for the Tribe and addresses jurisdictional matters, while clarifying the application of the Indian Child Welfare Act.

The VA Home Loan Awareness Act of 2025 requires that the Uniform Residential Loan Application include a disclaimer informing applicants that they may qualify for a VA Home Loan if they have served in the military. It also requires the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study on whether lenders are including the disclaimer.

The "Extend the TikTok Deadline Act" extends the deadline for the President to take action regarding TikTok from 270 days to 540 days, as initially set by the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. This extension allows more time for potential negotiations, investigations, or other actions related to the app's ownership and data security concerns.

The "Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act" establishes a commission to examine the legacy of slavery and discrimination against African Americans from 1565 to the present. The commission will identify the harms caused by these injustices and recommend appropriate remedies, including how the nation can best educate itself on the commission's findings. It will also explore methods of reparations, such as a formal apology, eliminating discriminatory laws, and providing compensation to descendants of enslaved individuals. The commission will then submit its findings and recommendations to Congress.

The Health Care Affordability Act of 2025 expands eligibility for health insurance tax credits by removing the income cap, allowing more individuals to qualify for financial assistance. It also adjusts the premium tax credit calculation to provide more support based on income level. These changes aim to make health coverage more affordable for a broader range of Americans, starting in 2026.