Legislative Activity

The Responsible Firearms Marketing Act directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to study and regulate unfair or deceptive advertising and marketing practices related to firearms. This includes examining materials that may appeal to minors or encourage illegal use, particularly concerning semiautomatic assault weapons. Following the study, the FTC must issue rules to prohibit these deceptive practices, enforced under the existing Federal Trade Commission Act.

The FAA SMS Compliance Review Act of 2026 establishes an independent expert panel to conduct a comprehensive review of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Safety Management System (SMS). This panel will assess the SMS's effectiveness, compliance, and integration across the agency. The FAA Administrator is required to act on the panel's findings and report progress on implementation to Congress.

The SAT Streamlining Act aims to bolster U.S. leadership in the space industry by establishing strict deadlines for the FCC to process satellite and earth station license applications. This legislation introduces a "deemed granted" provision if the FCC misses these new processing timelines for licenses and renewals. Furthermore, it clarifies Congressional intent regarding space policy and preempts state and local regulation of licensee rates.

The Count the Crimes to Cut Act mandates a comprehensive accounting of all federal criminal offenses, both statutory and regulatory. It requires the Attorney General and numerous federal agencies to report detailed information on these crimes, including penalties and prosecution history. Finally, the bill mandates the creation of public, online indexes for all identified criminal offenses.

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 Corporate Crimes Against Health Care Act establishes new federal criminal and civil penalties, including asset clawbacks, for individuals at private equity-owned healthcare companies whose actions lead to patient harm or failure. The bill also prohibits federal healthcare payments to entities involved in certain real estate transactions with REITs and mandates comprehensive annual reporting on ownership and financial structures of specified healthcare entities. Finally, it requires a study on the impact of profit-driven practices on patient care and provider well-being.

The Stop Presidential Embezzlement Act imposes a 100% tax on certain civil lawsuit damages received by current or former high-ranking U.S. officials, including the President, and their relatives. This tax specifically targets damages awarded to these individuals from lawsuits they filed against the United States during their tenure in office. The purpose is to prevent the misuse of public funds or legal actions for personal financial gain by covered officials.

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 Predatory Lending Elimination Act amends federal law to apply the Military Lending Act's 36% interest rate cap (MAPR) to most consumer credit transactions. This new restriction generally excludes residential mortgages and specific auto loans, while preserving stronger state consumer protection laws. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is tasked with issuing implementing rules within one year.

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.

The Safeguarding Consumers from Advertising Misconduct Act (SCAM Act) holds online platforms accountable for displaying fraudulent or deceptive paid advertisements. It mandates that platforms implement strict advertiser verification and robust detection systems to prevent scams. The bill empowers the FTC, state attorneys general, and private citizens to enforce these new standards against platforms that fail to take reasonable steps to stop advertising misconduct.

The Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2026 establishes major federal funding streams, primarily through grants and tax-credit bonds, to modernize and repair public school facilities nationwide. This legislation prioritizes improvements focused on health, safety, and energy efficiency, directing significant resources toward districts serving low-income students. The Act also mandates transparency through public reporting and requires local districts to develop long-term facility master plans.

The Student Loan Bond Expansion Act of 2026 aims to make it easier and more affordable for states to finance student loans. This bill achieves this by exempting qualified student loan bonds from federal volume caps and the Alternative Minimum Tax. These changes will apply to bonds issued after the date the law is enacted.

This resolution supports designating 2026 as the "International Year of the Woman Farmer." It recognizes the vital and critical role women play in agriculture both in the United States and globally. The designation aims to honor their contributions to food systems and encourage future participation in the agricultural workforce.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless Congress has explicitly authorized such military action. It asserts that no such authorization currently exists. The bill permits continued activities like intelligence sharing and assisting allies with necessary defensive measures against Iranian threats.

The Sanctioning Harborers And Dodgers Of Western Sanctions Act of 2026 significantly tightens U.S. sanctions against Russia to cut off war funding by targeting its "shadow fleet" and entities evading oil price caps. The bill imposes penalties on foreign ports and individuals in countries like China and India that facilitate sanctioned Russian energy trade. Furthermore, it enhances U.S. sanctions enforcement capabilities and streamlines military assistance reporting to Ukraine.

This joint resolution seeks to disapprove a recent rule issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs concerning "Reproductive Health Services." If enacted, this resolution would nullify the VA's September 9, 2024, regulation, rendering it without legal effect.

The Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act aims to fundamentally reform immigration detention by prohibiting the use of jails and private criminal facilities for immigrant detention. It establishes stringent new standards for dedicated immigration facilities, mandates regular public reporting and rigorous oversight, and creates a presumption of release for detained individuals, prioritizing community-based alternatives. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the detention of children and the use of solitary confinement for all detained noncitizens.

This resolution honors the life, achievements, and legacy of former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. It recognizes his distinguished service in the Air Force, his Olympic athletic career, and his historic tenure in the U.S. Congress. The resolution specifically highlights his landmark legislative accomplishments, including establishing the National Museum of the American Indian. The Senate expresses its sorrow and will recess as a mark of respect for his memory.

The Inspectors General Independence Act aims to strengthen the independence of Inspectors General by placing new restrictions on presidential nominations for these roles. Specifically, the bill prohibits the President from nominating individuals currently serving as, or who have previously served as, a political appointee under that same administration. This legislation seeks to ensure that Inspectors General maintain impartiality in their oversight functions.