Legislative Activity

The Access to Consumer Energy Information Act (E-Access Act) establishes federal guidelines to ensure consumers have secure, standardized, and real-time access to their electricity and natural gas usage data. By promoting digital energy management tools and data-sharing standards, the bill empowers consumers to better understand their energy costs and participate in efficiency programs. Additionally, the Act provides financial support for states to implement these data-access policies and mandates a federal study on integrating consumer meter data into wholesale energy markets.

The Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) Reauthorization Act of 2026 reauthorizes and expands the RISE grant program to support economic development in rural communities. This legislation directs the Secretary of Agriculture to prioritize smaller communities, ensuring at least 10% of funds benefit areas under 10,000 residents. The bill authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2031 and updates program language for broader application.

This bill aims to modernize the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) aircraft type certification process to better support new technologies. It mandates increased transparency, establishes standard timelines for key certification steps, and updates criteria for technical issue papers. Furthermore, the legislation requires updated guidance on the FAA's delegation of certification authority to industry stakeholders.

The LCBP Enhancements Act of 2026 updates the Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program by establishing a new, jointly selected fiscal agent to manage program funds and administration. It also authorizes the Great Lakes Fishery Commission to undertake specific restoration and management work within the Lake Champlain basin. Finally, the bill extends the program's authorization for appropriations through 2032.

This act ensures that Medicare will reimburse qualified providers for essential on-scene emergency medical services, even when patient transportation is not required. This change takes effect starting in 2027. The reimbursement rate for these non-transport services will be comparable to what is paid for transport services.

The Opportunities in Organic Act renames and significantly expands the existing national organic certification cost-share program. It establishes new grant funding for nonprofits to provide technical assistance, capacity building, and direct support for farmers transitioning to or maintaining organic certification. The bill also increases resources for technical assistance and mandates comprehensive reporting on the program's impact and participant demographics.

The COLAs Don’t Count Act of 2026 amends the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to exclude specific supplementary payments made under Section 1616(a) of the Social Security Act from being counted as income for SNAP eligibility and benefit calculations. This change aims to ensure these payments do not negatively impact a household's federal nutrition assistance. The Act is set to take effect on October 1, 2027.

The Global Climate Resilience Act of 2025 establishes programs to help vulnerable nations adapt to climate change impacts. It authorizes the reduction of U.S. debt owed by eligible, climate-vulnerable countries, provided the savings are reinvested in resilience activities. Furthermore, the Act directs the U.S. to advocate within international financial institutions for debt restructuring and the creation of an automatic climate insurance program through the World Bank.

The Nuclear Plant Decommissioning Act of 2025 overhauls the process for closing nuclear power facilities by mandating increased public and state consultation for decommissioning plans and license transfers. It establishes new grant programs to fund local community advisory boards and provides direct financial assistance to communities dealing with stranded waste and economic disruption. Furthermore, the bill creates dedicated economic recovery accounts funded by plant operators to support long-term development in host communities.

This resolution congratulates the Vermont Green Football Club on winning the 2025 United Soccer League Two National Championship. It recognizes their undefeated season, the historic achievement of securing a second consecutive national title for a Vermont soccer team, and their commitment to community values. The resolution officially commends the players, coaches, and staff for their success.

This bill mandates the use of ranked choice voting for all federal elections, including those for the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, starting in 2030. It establishes specific rules for ballot design, vote tabulation, and prohibits separate runoff elections. The legislation also provides federal funding to states to assist with the implementation costs.

This resolution honors the extraordinary life, leadership, and enduring legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall. It recognizes her groundbreaking scientific contributions to primatology and her tireless global advocacy for wildlife conservation and environmental education. The resolution pays tribute to her dedication to protecting chimpanzees and inspiring humanity to live in greater harmony with the natural world.

This resolution strongly condemns the pardon of former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, detailing his extensive involvement in a major drug-trafficking conspiracy. It outlines how Hernández used his presidential power to facilitate the smuggling of hundreds of tons of cocaine into the U.S. while protecting criminal associates. The resolution asserts that the pardon undermines the rule of law and damages U.S. credibility in combating international drug trafficking.

This resolution condemns the anti-Palestinian hatred demonstrated by the November 25, 2023, shooting in Burlington, Vermont, which targeted students for wearing a Palestinian scarf and speaking Arabic. It expresses concern over the rising threats and violence against Palestinian communities linked to anti-Palestinian and anti-Muslim hatred during the Gaza conflict. The resolution affirms that no one in the U.S. should face violence due to their identity and condemns hateful language targeting Palestinians.

The Social Security Survivor Benefits Equity Act aims to update and index the Social Security lump sum death payment. This bill sets the fixed payment amount at \$2,900, effective January 1, 2026.

This bill establishes a $2,000 tax credit for individuals providing substantial care to qualifying older relatives in their home. It also creates a HUD grant program to fund the construction or renovation of housing specifically designed to support multigenerational living arrangements. The grants aim to facilitate the creation of accessory dwelling units and accessible renovations.

The Farm to School Act of 2025 significantly revises and expands the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program to strengthen connections between local food producers and eligible institutions. This legislation updates definitions, increases funding authorization, and prioritizes grants for projects that incorporate experiential learning and serve high-need populations. It also aims to improve local food procurement by funding innovative distribution and processing solutions while addressing regulatory barriers.

The Fair Credit for Farmers Act of 2025 aims to provide financial relief and reform loan processes for farmers and ranchers. It mandates a two-year deferment of principal and interest payments on direct farm loans for eligible borrowers, while also waiving guarantee fees for covered producers on certain loans. Furthermore, the bill introduces significant reforms to farm loan administration, including stricter requirements for adverse decision letters and limitations on using a principal residence as loan collateral. Finally, it shifts the burden of proof in certain appeals to the agency for low-income appellants.

This bill extends the temporary enhanced premium tax credits under the Internal Revenue Code for two additional years, through 2027. It also adjusts related provisions for taxpayers exceeding 400% of the poverty line. Additionally, the bill extends the open enrollment period for the 2026 plan year until January 15, 2026.

This resolution congratulates the people of North Macedonia on their 34th anniversary of independence and celebrates 30 years of diplomatic relations with the United States. It recognizes North Macedonia as a key ally committed to Euro-Atlantic integration and commends its role as a security partner, particularly in supporting Ukraine. The resolution honors the strong bond of friendship and shared democratic values between the two nations.