The Quantum-GUARD Act of 2026 requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to evaluate cybersecurity risks posed by quantum computers and the potential use of post-quantum cryptography when reviewing reliability standards for the bulk-power system. The bill directs the Department of Energy to establish a "PQC sandbox" within one year, bringing together grid operators, technology vendors, and government agencies to test and develop post-quantum security solutions for both information and operational technology systems. Additionally, the Secretary of Energy must conduct a study on the specific vulnerabilities of critical grid infrastructure to quantum threats and submit a report with recommendations to Congress within one year of enactment.
This bill establishes a comprehensive sanctions framework targeting the Russian government and its affiliated entities in response to ongoing military actions. It authorizes the President to block assets, revoke visas, and prohibit financial transactions for Russian officials, military leaders, and foreign persons supporting Russia's defense industry or undermining Ukraine. The legislation also bans U.S. investments in Russian energy sectors, prohibits the purchase of Russian sovereign debt, and imposes high tariffs on Russian imports while restricting crude oil purchases by specific foreign nations. Additionally, the bill prevents Russian companies from listing on U.S. stock exchanges and includes mechanisms for terminating sanctions only if Russia signs a peace agreement accepted by Ukraine and ceases hostilities.
The Web of Biological Data Act of 2026 directs the Department of Energy to create a centralized online platform called the Web of Biological Data to help researchers access and analyze biological information using advanced tools like artificial intelligence. This system will serve as a single entry point for various biological datasets, particularly those funded by the federal government, while implementing tiered security measures to protect sensitive data and restrict access to certain foreign nations. The bill establishes a phased rollout plan that includes an initial testing phase within two years and a full expansion within five years, supported by an advisory board comprising representatives from industry, academia, and other federal agencies. Funding is authorized to support the development, maintenance, and expansion of the platform, with requirements for regular reports on progress and cybersecurity assessments.
The Supporting Energy and Economic Development (SEED) Act extends tax credits for biodiesel and renewable diesel production through 2029. It prevents taxpayers from receiving both the production credit and the fuel use credit for the same fuel, ensuring only one benefit is claimed. These changes apply to fuel sold or used after the bill becomes law.
This Senate resolution formally designates May 2026 as Renewable Fuels Month to honor the contributions of biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel. The bill highlights how these fuels support rural economies, create jobs, and reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil. It also notes the environmental benefits, such as lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality, without imposing any new laws or regulations.
This resolution formally recognizes 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, acknowledging the ecological and economic importance of these lands to the United States. The bill highlights that rangelands cover a significant portion of U.S. territory and support domestic production of food, fiber, and energy while providing critical ecosystem services like carbon storage and wildfire risk reduction. It encourages federal agencies, universities, and organizations to engage in education, research, and outreach activities related to sustainable rangeland management during the designated year. The measure does not create new laws or funding but serves to raise awareness and promote collaboration among stakeholders involved in rangeland stewardship.
H.J.Res. 24, enacted May 9, 2025, disapproves a Department of Energy (DOE) rule establishing energy efficiency standards for walk-in coolers and freezers. This resolution, passed under the Congressional Review Act, blocks the rule (published December 23, 2024) from taking effect, meaning the DOE’s proposed standards will have no legal force. The action directly affects commercial food equipment manufacturers and businesses using such cooling systems by preventing the implementation of new energy conservation requirements.
Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 This bill amends the Clean Air Act to address the limitations on Reid Vapor Pressure (a measure of gasoline's volatility) that are placed on gasoline during the summer ozone season. Specifically, the bill applies the waiver for Reid Vapor Pressure requirements that is applicable to gasoline blended with 10% ethanol (E10) to gasoline blended with up to 15% ethanol (E15). This change allows gasoline that is blended with 10% to 15% ethanol to be sold year-round. Currently, states may be excluded from the waiver for Reid Vapor Pressure requirements by submitting documentation supporting that the waiver would increase air pollution. The bill nullifies existing state exclusions, but states may submit documentation after enactment of the bill to be excluded going forward. The bill also modifies the Renewable Fuel Standard Program, which requires transportation fuel sold or introduced into commerce in the United States to contain minimum volumes of renewable fuel. Under the existing program, obligated parties, such as small refineries, must satisfy the volume obligations by either blending renewable fuels into their gasoline or diesel fuel products or by acquiring credits that represent the required renewable fuel volume. The bill directs the Environmental Protection Agency to return compliance credits to small refineries under certain circumstances.
This bill imposes a $550 tax on each heavy battery module (over 1,000 pounds) and a $1,000 tax on each electric vehicle sold by manufacturers or importers. It excludes hybrid vehicles from the tax definition, as they use both internal combustion engines and rechargeable batteries. The collected revenue would be transferred to the Highway Trust Fund, which finances road and highway maintenance. The tax applies to sales after December 31, 2025.
The Farm to Fly Act of 2025 amends agricultural programs to include sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a qualifying biofuel, directly affecting U.S. farmers, agricultural producers, and the aviation industry by creating new market opportunities. It defines SAF with specific requirements - meeting ASTM standards, not derived from palm oil or petroleum, and achieving at least a 50% lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reduction compared to jet fuel. The bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to lead a new collaboration initiative focusing on advancing SAF development through partnerships with farmers, rural economic support, and public-private partnerships. Additionally, it expands existing manufacturing assistance programs to include SAF production, aiming to strengthen domestic energy security and grow markets for agricultural feedstocks.
