The Subpoena Abuse Prevention Act restricts how federal government agencies can use administrative subpoenas to obtain phone and app records from service providers. It requires agencies to identify a specific individual by name or account details before requesting data and explicitly bans using these subpoenas to investigate or retaliate against constitutionally protected activities like free speech or religious exercise. The law also mandates that agencies certify the subpoena's legitimate purpose and allows service providers to notify customers about the request unless a court orders otherwise. Finally, the bill requires federal agencies to publicly report annually on the number of subpoenas issued and the total accounts affected.
The Ensuring Access to General Surgery Act of 2026 directs the Health Resources and Services Administration to conduct a comprehensive study on how to better identify areas underserved by general surgeons. This study will evaluate current shortage designations and test a new methodology that maps hospital services against patient populations to determine if there are enough surgeons to meet local needs. Following the study, the agency may create a formal system to designate specific general surgery shortage areas, which would be updated annually based on data regarding wait times, health outcomes, and geographic access. The bill requires the government to consult with medical professionals and patient groups throughout this process and to publish regular data reports on the availability of surgical care across urban, suburban, and rural regions.
The Build Nuclear with Local Materials Act of 2026 directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to allow the use of standard commercial steel and concrete for non-safety parts of nuclear power plants. This change aims to reduce costs and simplify construction by permitting materials that are widely available in the market rather than requiring specialized nuclear-grade versions. The rulemaking must begin within 90 days of the bill's enactment, but the Commission retains the authority to reject these materials if they pose specific safety risks or threaten public security. Ultimately, the legislation seeks to make nuclear facility construction more efficient while maintaining existing safety oversight.
HR 6802, the CLEAR Act of 2025, blocks the Forest Service from enforcing a specific rule (89 Fed. Reg. 92808, November 25, 2024) related to law enforcement and criminal prohibitions. The bill directly prevents the Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service from implementing or administering this regulation. It does not create new policy but halts enforcement of an existing rule, affecting how the Forest Service operates under that specific provision. The bill is procedural, focusing solely on stopping the rule’s application without altering broader law enforcement authority.
This resolution honors the life and legacy of John Seymour, a late U.S. Senator from California, by formally acknowledging his public service and contributions. The document details his career highlights, including his roles as Mayor of Anaheim, his work in securing the relocation of the Los Angeles Rams, and his legislative achievements such as passing a major transportation bill. It also lists his committee assignments and advocacy for issues like special education, women's rights, and environmental protection. Finally, the resolution requests that the Senate Secretary communicate this tribute to the House of Representatives and send a copy to Seymour's family.
This bill, titled the Nursing is a Professional Degree Act, updates federal definitions to classify nursing degrees at the master's or doctoral level as professional degrees. By amending the Higher Education Act, it explicitly lists nursing programs such as the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) alongside other established professions like medicine and law. This change requires nursing degrees to meet specific criteria, including completion of academic requirements for professional practice and demonstration of skills beyond a standard bachelor's degree. The primary effect is to formally recognize nursing as a professional field within federal higher education regulations, which may influence how nursing programs are funded or categorized.
This Senate resolution designates May 2026 as National Foster Care Month to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the approximately 331,747 children currently in the U.S. foster care system. The bill highlights key issues such as high rates of placement instability, educational disruptions, and the specific needs of youth aging out of care without permanent family connections. While the measure does not create new laws or funding, it formally encourages Congress to implement policies that support family reunification, prevent unnecessary entries into the system, and improve outcomes for foster youth. Additionally, the resolution establishes May 31, 2026, as National Foster Parent Appreciation Day to honor the caregivers and social workers who support these children.
This Senate resolution formally supports the goals of National Hospital Week, which is observed annually from May 10 to May 16, 2026. The measure recognizes the vital contributions of hospitals and healthcare workers, including physicians, nurses, and support staff, who provide essential services to millions of Americans. It highlights the diverse roles of various hospital types, such as critical access facilities in rural areas, teaching hospitals, psychiatric centers, and VA medical centers. The resolution encourages the public to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies and activities to demonstrate appreciation for the healthcare system.
This Senate resolution designates the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Police Week" to honor law enforcement officers across the United States. The measure formally recognizes the service and sacrifices of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers, including those who have died in the line of duty during 2025 and early 2026. By invoking existing federal authority, the bill encourages the public and government agencies to observe this week by acknowledging the essential mission of police work and supporting officer safety. The resolution also expresses condolences to the families of officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and reaffirms support for communities served by law enforcement.
This bill proposes to completely end the Military Selective Service Act, which currently governs the draft and registration of men for military service. Upon passage, the Selective Service System would cease operations, and its assets and records would be transferred to the General Services Administration while helping its staff find new government positions. The legislation also ensures that individuals who previously failed to register for the draft cannot face penalties, lose federal benefits, or be denied employment based on that failure. Additionally, the bill explicitly states that the rights of conscientious objectors will remain protected by existing laws.
The In God We Trust Act requires the Administrator of General Services to display the national motto "In God We Trust" on every public building within the United States. This mandate applies to all federal buildings and must be completed no later than one year after the law is enacted. The bill specifies that the motto must be inscribed or displayed in a prominent location on each structure.
HR 3766 prohibits the District of Columbia from requiring courts or administrative bodies to automatically accept the Mayor's interpretation of laws or regulations when reviewing the Mayor's decisions or rules. It specifically blocks DC from making tribunals defer to the Mayor's or agencies' interpretations of statutes during legal challenges. The bill also repeals a temporary 2024 law (D.C. Law 25-290) that had allowed such deference. This change directly affects how DC courts and administrative proceedings handle appeals of Mayor-led agency actions. The policy shift ensures independent review of interpretations rather than automatic acceptance of the executive branch's stance.
