SJRES 104 is a joint resolution seeking congressional disapproval of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rule that established new fuel efficiency standards for passenger cars (for model years 2027 and beyond) and heavy-duty trucks (for model years 2030 and beyond). The rule, published in the Federal Register on June 24, 2024, would have required automakers to meet stricter emissions targets. If passed, the resolution would block the rule from taking effect, preserving current fuel economy standards. Introduced by multiple senators on July 30, 2024, it follows the congressional review process under Title 5, U.S. Code.
HRES 1394 is a non-binding resolution celebrating the U.S.-India partnership based on shared democratic values, religious pluralism, and human rights, while highlighting the contributions of the Indian diaspora in the United States. It specifically recognizes the 50th anniversary of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha's community work, including its spiritual centers (mandirs) and volunteer efforts across the country. The resolution does not create legal obligations but formally acknowledges these ties and achievements.
This bill defines "sex," "male," and "female" in federal law based on biological characteristics present at birth, specifically referencing reproductive anatomy (e.g., sperm production for males, egg production for females). It mandates that all federal agencies, courts, and laws interpret these terms strictly according to this biological definition, excluding self-identification or gender identity. The bill directly affects how federal programs, regulations, and legal decisions interpret terms like "sex," "gender," and "gender identity" in all federal contexts. Key provisions clarify that "gender" refers only to biological sex differences and explicitly states that gender identity does not override these definitions.
HR 9166, the RISE Act, requires the Small Business Administration, Appalachian Regional Commission, and Delta Regional Authority to create a coordination agreement within 120 days of enactment. This agreement aims to expand support for rural entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Appalachian and Delta regions by improving how these agencies work together. The bill mandates a joint report to Congress within two years detailing coordination efforts, the number of businesses assisted, and future collaboration plans. It does not create new funding but focuses on better coordination between existing federal agencies serving these specific rural areas.
HCONRES 122 is a non-binding resolution expressing Congress's view that Operation Legend - a 2020 federal-local initiative - successfully reduced violent crime in major cities like Chicago, Kansas City, and Memphis. It recommends that future presidential administrations consider deploying federal law enforcement agents to partner with local agencies in high-crime areas, similar to Operation Legend’s 2020 approach. The resolution also proposes providing grant funding to states and cities to hire more officers (including bonuses), impose stricter sentences for repeat offenders, and use bail/pretrial detention to keep dangerous individuals from reentering communities. It does not create new law but urges future administrations to prioritize these strategies to address ongoing violent crime surges.
The NFIP Extension Act of 2024 extends the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through September 30, 2025, preventing its expiration. It updates funding deadlines and program expiration dates in the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 from 2023 to 2025. This directly affects homeowners, businesses, and communities in flood-prone areas who rely on NFIP policies for coverage. The bill maintains the existing program structure without changing eligibility or benefits. If enacted after September 30, 2024, the extension applies retroactively to that date.
S 4770 prohibits federal agencies from entering contracts with companies that boycott Israel after January 1, 2024. It requires companies bidding on contracts over $100,000 for services or information technology to certify they are not boycotting Israel, and mandates that contracts include a prohibition on boycotts during their term. If a company violates this, agencies must notify them within 30 days and terminate the contract 30 days later unless the boycott ends. This directly affects businesses with federal contracts exceeding $100,000 for services or IT, with no impact on individual contractors or smaller contracts.
The SAFER at the Border Act prohibits the temporary admission of non-citizens identified as known terrorists, suspected terrorists, or special interest aliens (individuals with a potential terrorism link). It adds specific definitions for these categories to clarify who is affected and requires the Department of Homeland Security to deny temporary admission to such individuals. The bill also allows states to sue the government for financial harm exceeding $100 if they suffer losses due to the temporary admission of a prohibited person. This law directly changes border enforcement by restricting entry for high-risk individuals linked to terrorism.
This bill imposes sanctions on individuals and entities within the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) that administer or support a system paying terrorists and their families. It targets PA/PLO officials, specific entities like the Commission of Prisoners, and financial institutions processing these payments, requiring property blocking, visa bans, and restrictions on U.S. financial transactions. The sanctions apply if the PA/PLO continues payments described in the Taylor Force Act (2018), which previously mandated ending such payments. The bill terminates if the Secretary of State certifies the PA/PLO has ceased these payments.
HR 9158 requires U.S. colleges and universities to immediately report to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) if a student holding an F-1 or J-1 visa supports a designated foreign terrorist organization. This applies to students on temporary visas for academic or exchange programs who endorse or participate in activities linked to such groups. If verified, the State Department would revoke the student's visa, and Homeland Security would begin removal proceedings. The bill targets specific visa holders directly affected by terrorism-related activity, with no broader policy changes beyond this reporting and enforcement mechanism.
H.J. Res. 193 proposes a constitutional amendment to eliminate legal immunity for federal officials, including the President, from criminal prosecution for actions taken while performing official duties. It also prohibits the President from granting a pardon to themselves. The amendment would apply to all federal officers (such as the President, Vice President, and members of Congress) except for Congress members acting in their legislative role as defined in the Constitution. If ratified by 38 states, this change would become part of the U.S. Constitution, requiring no further congressional action.
HRES 1381 is a symbolic resolution that commemorates the United States Olympic and Paralympic Teams' historical achievements, including over 5,300 total medals across past Games. It expresses congressional support for U.S. athletes competing in the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, France, and commends the Government of France for hosting the events. The resolution also commits to ensuring a safe environment for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games. As a non-binding expression of support, it does not create new laws or allocate funds.
