Legislative Activity

The Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act establishes a new, nonbinding commission to coordinate fishery management across the vast Mississippi River Basin. This body will bring together states, federal agencies, and tribes to develop shared goals, focusing heavily on conserving fish populations and controlling aquatic invasive species. The Commission is authorized to create a grant program to fund cooperative projects aligned with the existing Joint Strategic Plan for Management of Mississippi River Fisheries.

This Act officially modifies the boundaries of the Vicksburg National Military Park by transferring two specific parcels of federal land to the State of Mississippi. The state intends to use these areas for public facilities, such as a welcome or interpretive center. Upon conveyance, the official park boundaries will be immediately adjusted to reflect the change in ownership.

The "PLAN for Broadband Act" directs the Assistant Secretary of Commerce to develop a National Strategy to Synchronize Federal Broadband Programs, aiming to improve coordination, reduce barriers, and ensure efficient use of funds for high-speed internet access across the U.S. This strategy requires covered agencies to coordinate and streamline the approval process for broadband infrastructure projects on federal properties. The Act also mandates an implementation plan, regular briefings to Congress, and a Government Accountability Office study to assess and improve the strategy's effectiveness. Finally, the Act requires agencies to track application processing times and sets a minimum project cost for NEPA review.

The Finn Sawyer Access to Cancer Testing Act mandates expanded coverage for advanced cancer diagnostic and laboratory tests under Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP. This legislation ensures federal health programs cover high-tech sequencing and interpretation services, while also waiving the Part B deductible for Medicare patients receiving these tests. Additionally, the bill establishes a national education program to raise awareness among both patients and providers regarding the importance of genomic testing in cancer care.

This resolution congratulates the Jackson State University Tigers for their victory in the 2024 Celebration Bowl, recognizing their outstanding season and the honor they brought to the university and the State of Mississippi. It acknowledges individual player awards and the Coach of the Year award for T. C. Taylor. The resolution also directs the Secretary of the Senate to send copies to the university's President, Athletic Director, and Head Football Coach.

The "Healthy Poultry Assistance and Indemnification Act of 2025" amends the Animal Health Protection Act to provide compensation to poultry growers and layers in areas under federal control due to animal health concerns. It mandates payments based on lost income, ensuring producers are compensated for flocks they were unable to raise during the control period. The compensation is capped to avoid duplication of benefits from other sources and must be paid within 60 days of request. This act aims to support poultry farmers affected by disease control measures.

This resolution authorizes the Senate Armed Services Committee to spend funds from March 1, 2025, through February 28, 2027, for expenses like staff, consultants, and training, setting specific limits for different periods. It also outlines procedures for covering committee expenses and agency contributions related to employee compensation.

The "Amateur Radio Emergency Preparedness Act" ensures that amateur radio operators can install and use effective outdoor antennas on their property by preempting private land use restrictions that unreasonably hinder amateur service communications. It sets reasonable limitations and exceptions for antenna regulations, streamlines the approval process, and protects amateur operators from undue restrictions, while still allowing for community associations to ensure safety and aesthetic standards. The bill also allows individuals harmed by violations of this act to bring action in U.S. district court. The FCC is required to issue implementing regulations within 180 days.

The TORNADO Act aims to significantly improve the nation's ability to forecast, communicate, and respond to hazardous weather events. It establishes new offices and strategic plans to enhance the clarity and speed of public warnings, mandates a review of the tornado rating system, and refocuses key tornado research programs. Ultimately, the bill seeks to leverage better science and communication strategies to save lives and protect property from severe storms and other natural hazards.

The "No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2025" seeks to prohibit the use of federal funds for abortions and for health benefits coverage that includes abortion coverage, with exceptions for rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. It clarifies that premium credits and cost-sharing reductions under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) cannot be used for health plans that include abortion coverage, allowing for separate purchase of abortion coverage without federal tax credits. The Act also requires health plans to transparently disclose the extent of abortion coverage and any related premium surcharges to enrollees.