Legislative Activity

The Privacy Act Modernization Act of 2025 significantly updates the 1974 Privacy Act by modernizing definitions for records, PII, and processing to reflect current technology. It strengthens individual protections by requiring agencies to cite specific legal authority for data use and imposing stricter rules on data matching. Furthermore, the bill increases consequences for violations, allowing individuals to sue for damages (guaranteed minimum of $1,000) and upgrading criminal penalties for unauthorized access to a felony.

The FIGHTING for America Act of 2025 aims to enhance trade enforcement by increasing transparency and scrutiny over low-value shipments entering the U.S. under the *de minimis* exemption. The bill designates fentanyl smuggling via these shipments as a priority trade issue and imposes new documentation requirements, limitations on duty exemptions, and civil penalties for non-compliance. Furthermore, it establishes a \$2 customs user fee for shipments processed under this expedited entry system.

The Insurance Fraud Accountability Act aims to significantly reduce fraudulent enrollment in health plans under the Affordable Care Act. This bill establishes much stiffer financial and criminal penalties for agents and brokers who knowingly provide false enrollment information. Furthermore, it mandates a new verification process on federal Exchanges to ensure consumer consent and proper data accuracy before commissions are paid. The legislation also tightens oversight on the entire enrollment chain involving agents, brokers, and marketing organizations.

The Oregon Recreation Enhancement Act designates the Rogue Canyon and Molalla Recreation Areas to protect their scenic and ecological values, requiring specific wildfire mitigation planning for these new sites. The Act also expands the Wild Rogue Wilderness Area, adding significant acreage under strict wilderness management. Finally, it withdraws certain federal lands in Curry and Josephine Counties from mineral entry and disposal to ensure their long-term protection.

The Bipartisan Health Care Act aims to improve various aspects of the healthcare system, including Medicaid, Medicare, human services, and public health programs. It focuses on streamlining processes, increasing transparency, extending funding for critical services, and modernizing healthcare delivery. The act addresses issues such as prescription drug costs, telehealth access, maternal health, and pandemic preparedness. By reauthorizing and modifying key programs, this legislation seeks to enhance access to care, improve health outcomes, and ensure efficient use of healthcare resources.

The Defending American Jobs and Affordable Energy Act of 2025 immediately repeals four specific Executive Orders issued on January 20, 2025, concerning energy policy and international agreements. This action prevents federal funds from being used to enforce those canceled directives. The bill also includes a savings provision to ensure it does not limit any existing authority of the President.

The Presidential Audit and Tax Transparency Act mandates the IRS to audit and publicly disclose the income tax returns of the President, their spouse, and any entities they control, including corporations, partnerships, estates, and trusts. It also requires Presidents and major-party Presidential nominees to disclose their tax returns for the three most recent taxable years, making them publicly available through the Office of Government Ethics or the Federal Election Commission. This ensures transparency and accountability regarding the financial affairs of the nation's highest officeholders and candidates.

The BEACH Act of 2025 amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to improve coastal recreation water quality monitoring by including nearby upstream waters and requiring states to provide data on contamination sources. It authorizes grants for identifying contamination sources and reauthorizes $30,000,000 annually through 2029 for coastal water quality monitoring and notification programs. The bill also directs the EPA to update guidance to state and local governments on the latest water contamination testing technologies.

The Build Housing with Care Act of 2025 establishes a competitive grant program through the Department of Housing and Urban Development to integrate child care services into affordable housing developments. By funding the construction, renovation, and operation of co-location facilities, the Act aims to increase access to child care, particularly in underserved "child care deserts." Additionally, the bill mandates a comprehensive study to evaluate the intersection of housing and child care affordability for public housing residents.

The United States-Cuba Trade Act of 2025 seeks to normalize relations between the two nations by repealing the long-standing trade embargo and associated economic sanctions. The bill lifts restrictions on trade, travel, and remittances, while authorizing expanded telecommunications cooperation. Additionally, it encourages diplomatic negotiations to address outstanding property claims and human rights concerns.