Legislative Activity

The Nursing is a Professional Degree Act formally defines "professional degree" within federal law to explicitly include nursing degrees. This change ensures nursing education meets the statutory standard for professional degrees, recognizing the advanced academic and skill requirements necessary to practice.

This resolution honors the life and legacy of the late former United States Senator John Seymour of California. It recognizes his extensive public service, highlighting his career in business, local government, and his tenure in the U.S. Senate. The Senate expresses its deep sorrow and directs that official copies of this resolution be delivered to his family.

This resolution supports the goals and ideals of National Hospital Week, observed May 10–16, 2026. It honors the critical role of hospitals and their dedicated workers in providing essential care across the nation. The bill recognizes the diverse services offered by U.S. hospitals, from critical access to specialized mental health care. It encourages the public to observe the week to demonstrate appreciation for these vital community institutions.

The Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Program Act of 2026 aims to dramatically increase the number of U.S. undergraduates studying abroad, focusing on greater diversity in both student participation and program destinations. The bill renames and expands the existing IDEAS Program, authorizing competitive grants to institutions to support this expansion. Key goals include achieving one million annual participants within ten years, ensuring demographics reflect the general undergraduate population, and increasing study in nontraditional and developing nations.

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 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.

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 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 CREATE AI Act establishes the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) to advance U.S. AI research and workforce skills. This resource will connect eligible American researchers and educators to essential computational, data, and software resources. The National Science Foundation is tasked with establishing and overseeing the NAIRR, ensuring compliance with research security standards.

This resolution designates April 2026 as "Financial Literacy Month." The designation aims to raise public awareness about the critical importance of personal financial education. It calls upon various sectors of society to observe the month with appropriate programs and activities promoting financial well-being.

The No Oil Profits for Enemies Act of 2026 (NOPE Act) significantly expands Congressional oversight of sanctions against the Russian Federation, particularly concerning energy-related actions. It mandates a review period for sanctions on Russian oil and gas that only ends once Russia ends its war in Ukraine and commits to reparations. The bill allows for temporary exceptions to this review for urgent safety or environmental needs related to energy transport.

The Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to officially include hot rotisserie chicken as an eligible food item for purchase using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This bill expands the range of food options available to SNAP recipients.

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 National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act of 2026 aims to significantly expand and strengthen the U.S. national commitment to quantum information science, engineering, and technology. This bill reauthorizes and updates the existing initiative by bolstering workforce development, enhancing interagency coordination, and securing the quantum supply chain against foreign threats. It also establishes new programs for quantum testbeds, NIST research centers, and requires a review of regulatory barriers to accelerate domestic quantum innovation.

This resolution designates April 2026 as "National Native Plant Month" to celebrate the vital role native plants play in sustaining healthy ecosystems and preserving our natural heritage. It highlights the environmental and economic benefits of these indigenous species while raising awareness about the importance of their conservation.

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.

The Sport Fish Restoration, Recreational Boating Safety, and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2026 extends the authorization for critical sport fish conservation and restoration programs through 2031. This legislation maintains essential funding for state-level projects while updating the allocation formulas for multistate conservation grants and the North American Wetlands Conservation Fund.

The Save Struggling Hospitals Act permanently codifies a policy to increase Medicare payments for hospitals with low wage indices. By adjusting the area wage index for these facilities, the bill aims to provide financial support to struggling hospitals while maintaining budget neutrality. These adjustments include specific protections to ensure that other hospitals do not face significant payment reductions.