Legislative Activity

The Puerto Rico Nutrition Assistance Fairness Act provides a framework for Puerto Rico to transition from its current block grant system to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This legislation ensures equitable access to nutrition assistance by adjusting food plan costs to reflect local economic conditions and establishing a structured, multi-year transition process.

This resolution officially designates February 2026 as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month to celebrate and support CTE programs nationwide. It recognizes CTE's vital role in preparing a skilled workforce for high-demand careers and boosting American economic competitiveness. The resolution encourages promotion of CTE as a respected educational pathway for students.

The Direct File Act of 2026 establishes a permanent, free, and user-friendly online tax filing program operated directly by the IRS. The bill prohibits the Treasury from entering into agreements that restrict government-provided filing services and mandates the development of a seamless, accessible platform for federal and state tax returns. This initiative aims to simplify the filing process for taxpayers while ensuring the government maintains full control over its own tax preparation software.

The Air Traffic Situational Awareness Enhancement Act mandates the installation of advanced situational awareness equipment at all contract air traffic control towers currently lacking these tools. The bill requires the FAA to provide comprehensive controller training and establishes a reimbursement program for airport sponsors who independently invested in certified systems prior to this legislation.

This resolution expresses support for designating February 21-28, 2026, as "National FFA Week." It recognizes the National FFA Organization's role in developing future leaders. The resolution also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the chartering of the Alaska State FFA Association.

The Living Donor Protection Act of 2025 prohibits insurance companies from discriminating against living organ donors regarding life, disability, or long-term care coverage. The bill also amends the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to explicitly classify organ donation surgery as a serious health condition, ensuring job-protected leave for donors. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services update public educational materials to reflect these new protections and the realities of organ donation.

The TAS Act is a comprehensive legislative package designed to modernize the IRS, enhance taxpayer protections, and streamline tax administration. The bill focuses on improving customer service through digitization, strengthening the independence of the Taxpayer Advocate and Appeals offices, and reducing compliance burdens for taxpayers, including those living abroad and small business owners. Additionally, it increases oversight of tax return preparers, expands the authority of the U.S. Tax Court, and provides targeted financial relief for victims of wrongful detention.

The Access to Fair Financing for Opportunity and Resilient Development Act strengthens Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) by improving the bond guarantee program and establishing new liquidity and capitalization initiatives. The bill also creates a dedicated relending program to expand homeownership opportunities within Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. Additionally, it mandates increased congressional oversight and reporting regarding the effectiveness of these federal financial programs.

This resolution celebrates Black History Month by recognizing the profound history and enduring contributions of African Americans to the United States. It acknowledges past injustices while honoring the achievements across all fields that have shaped the nation. The resolution encourages continued reflection and unity as we move forward with liberty and justice for all.

This bill establishes the National Council on African American History and Culture within the National Endowment for the Humanities. The Council will consist of 12 Presidentially appointed members tasked with advising on national policy related to African American history and culture. Its duties include preparing annual reports, monitoring related organizations, and recommending policies to foster understanding and preservation of this history. The Council is set to terminate 10 years after the Act's enactment.

The **BE HEARD in the Workplace Act** comprehensively strengthens federal workplace protections by requiring new anti-discrimination policies, expanding legal rights for employees, and phasing out the tipped minimum wage. It aims to prevent harassment through mandated training, broadens protections to nearly all workers, and restricts employers' use of secrecy agreements. The Act also establishes grants to increase access to legal aid and worker advocacy nationwide.

This joint resolution seeks to exercise congressional disapproval of an IRS rule regarding "beginning of construction" requirements for wind and solar energy tax credits. If enacted, the resolution would nullify the rule, rendering it without force or effect.

The Healthy Families Act establishes a national standard requiring most employers to provide employees with earned paid sick time, accruing at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked. This protected leave can be used for the employee's or a family member's illness, medical care, or for reasons related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The Act strictly prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for using or requesting this time and mandates clear notice requirements regarding these new rights.

This resolution calls for the Federal Government to establish a comprehensive Transgender Bill of Rights to protect and codify the rights of transgender and nonbinary people. It mandates federal action to ensure equal access to medical care, safety, employment, housing, and legal recognition. The bill aims to eliminate discrimination across various sectors and strengthen protections against violence and abuse.

The FAIR Act establishes pay increases for federal employees in calendar year 2027. This legislation mandates a 3.1 percent increase to the basic pay rates for General Schedule and similar employees. Additionally, it provides a 1 percent adjustment to federal locality pay rates for the same year.

This resolution supports the observation of National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month from January 1 to February 1, 2026. It highlights the severe scope of human trafficking globally and within the U.S., emphasizing the imperative to eliminate these modern-day forms of slavery. The measure calls for increased public awareness and continued collaborative efforts to protect victims and prosecute traffickers.

The Soil CARE Act of 2026 establishes a dedicated training program for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) focused on soil health management. This initiative aims to equip NRCS personnel and third-party providers with the necessary science and technical support to assist agricultural producers in implementing improved soil health practices. The program mandates comprehensive curriculum development, including online and in-person training, to advance conservation and regeneration efforts across the agricultural sector.

The WORK to Save Lives Act aims to combat workplace opioid overdoses by providing non-mandatory guidance to private employers on stocking and training for overdose reversal medication. Additionally, the bill mandates that all federal agencies must acquire and maintain this medication and provide annual employee training on its use. This legislation seeks to ensure preparedness for opioid emergencies across various workplaces.

This bill establishes the Mental Health Career Promotion Grant Program to address workforce shortages in mental and behavioral health. The program awards grants to partnerships between schools, community colleges, and mental health providers to create or expand initiatives that promote these careers to students. Activities funded will include educational presentations, internships, and mentorship opportunities for students in grades 9 through college.

This concurrent resolution commemorates the 15th anniversary of the tragic January 8, 2011, Tucson, Arizona, shooting. It honors the six individuals who lost their lives and recognizes the survivors, including former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. The resolution reaffirms the importance of civility in democracy and Congress's dedication to preventing gun violence.