Federal Legislative Update
Week of July 28, 2025
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Federal Legislative Update
Week of July 28, 2025
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House and Senate Action
House
The House is on recess and is not scheduled to return until September 2.
Senate
The Senate is spending its final week before the August recess focused on confirming President Trump’s nominees and advancing FY 2026 appropriations bills. With Democrats showing little interest in expediting the confirmation process, progress on nominations has been slow. Still, Senate Republicans are working to move as many as possible before the break. The compressed timeline has led President Trump to call for curtailing the August recess to keep the pressure on.
House The House is on recess and is not scheduled to return until September 2. Senate The Senate is spending its final week before the August recess focused on confirming President Trump’s nominees and advancing FY 2026 appropriations bills. With Democrats showing little interest in expediting the confirmation process, progress on nominations has been slow. Still, Senate Republicans are working to move as many as possible before the break. The compressed timeline has led President Trump to call for curtailing the August recess to keep the pressure on. |
T&I Committee Leaders Introduce FEMA Reform Proposal
Last week, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) formally introduced legislation – the Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act of 2025 (H.R. 4669) – that aims to streamline disaster response and recovery, reduce bureaucratic delays, and encourage state and local governments to take a more active role in emergency management.
One of the bill’s cornerstone provisions is the restoration of FEMA’s status as a Cabinet-level agency, making it directly accountable to the president. This move is intended to streamline decision-making, enhance disaster response coordination, and restore FEMA to a more prominent role in federal emergency management. This mirrors a separate proposal (S. 1246) by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) to similarly raise FEMA’s visibility and influence within the executive branch.
To reduce red tape and accelerate recovery efforts, the bill would replace the current reimbursement process with more streamlined, project-based grants, allowing states to set their own recovery priorities. The measure also includes financial incentives for states to invest in disaster resilience and preparedness.
In addition, the legislation seeks to simplify the process for disaster survivors by requiring a single, streamlined application and clearer, more accessible communication from FEMA. This change is intended to reduce the paperwork burden, eliminate confusion, and speed up aid distribution. States would also be given more flexibility to determine the most appropriate emergency housing solutions for each disaster, allowing them to tailor responses to local conditions.
Of particular interest to smaller communities, the bill urges FEMA to give greater weight to events that damage economically distressed or rural areas when deciding whether to recommend a presidential disaster declaration.
To improve transparency and accountability, the bill would establish a Recovery Task Force, which would be charged with closing out long-standing disaster declarations. It also would prohibit political bias in the distribution of disaster funding, mandate comprehensive reviews of FEMA regulations to eliminate outdated and conflicting policies, and direct FEMA to simplify its communications with disaster survivors to reduce confusion and speed recovery.
A section-by-section summary of the FEMA Act can be accessed here.
Last week, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) formally introduced legislation – the Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act of 2025 (H.R. 4669) – that aims to streamline disaster response and recovery, reduce bureaucratic delays, and encourage state and local governments to take a more active role in emergency management. One of the bill’s cornerstone provisions is the restoration of FEMA’s status as a Cabinet-level agency, making it directly accountable to the president. This move is intended to streamline decision-making, enhance disaster response coordination, and restore FEMA to a more prominent role in federal emergency management. This mirrors a separate proposal (S. 1246) by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) to similarly raise FEMA’s visibility and influence within the executive branch. To reduce red tape and accelerate recovery efforts, the bill would replace the current reimbursement process with more streamlined, project-based grants, allowing states to set their own recovery priorities. The measure also includes financial incentives for states to invest in disaster resilience and preparedness. In addition, the legislation seeks to simplify the process for disaster survivors by requiring a single, streamlined application and clearer, more accessible communication from FEMA. This change is intended to reduce the paperwork burden, eliminate confusion, and speed up aid distribution. States would also be given more flexibility to determine the most appropriate emergency housing solutions for each disaster, allowing them to tailor responses to local conditions. Of particular interest to smaller communities, the bill urges FEMA to give greater weight to events that damage economically distressed or rural areas when deciding whether to recommend a presidential disaster declaration. To improve transparency and accountability, the bill would establish a Recovery Task Force, which would be charged with closing out long-standing disaster declarations. It also would prohibit political bias in the distribution of disaster funding, mandate comprehensive reviews of FEMA regulations to eliminate outdated and conflicting policies, and direct FEMA to simplify its communications with disaster survivors to reduce confusion and speed recovery. A section-by-section summary of the FEMA Act can be accessed here. |
FEMA Eyes Cuts to Preparedness Grants, Launches New Detention Facility Program
FEMA has proposed eliminating nearly $1 billion in grant funding for emergency preparedness, cutting support for more than half of its existing homeland security and disaster readiness programs, including key initiatives like the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) and the Next Generation Warning System.
Internal FEMA memos warn that the proposed cuts could significantly weaken local response capabilities by reducing training, delaying equipment upgrades, and undermining preparedness for disasters, cyberattacks, and threats to critical infrastructure such as ports.
While these changes are still under review, FEMA is concurrently launching a new $608 million Detention Support Grant Program to help state and local governments construct temporary immigration detention facilities. The program aims to reduce overcrowding in federal centers and prepare for increased ICE transfers. Applications are due by August 8.
FEMA has proposed eliminating nearly $1 billion in grant funding for emergency preparedness, cutting support for more than half of its existing homeland security and disaster readiness programs, including key initiatives like the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) and the Next Generation Warning System. Internal FEMA memos warn that the proposed cuts could significantly weaken local response capabilities by reducing training, delaying equipment upgrades, and undermining preparedness for disasters, cyberattacks, and threats to critical infrastructure such as ports. While these changes are still under review, FEMA is concurrently launching a new $608 million Detention Support Grant Program to help state and local governments construct temporary immigration detention facilities. The program aims to reduce overcrowding in federal centers and prepare for increased ICE transfers. Applications are due by August 8. |
OSHA Concludes Public Hearing on Proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Rule
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently concluded a three-week long public hearing on its proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention (IIP) rule. A wide range of stakeholders – including trade associations, small businesses, labor organizations, and representatives from the health and medical community – provided testimony.
OSHA’s proposed Heat IIP rule, which was published in the Federal Register on August 30, 2024, would require employers whose workplace temperatures exceed certain heat triggers to develop programs to protect their employees from heat hazards in both outdoor and indoor work environments. The proposed standard would apply broadly to public sector employers, as well as private industry. Key issues raised by stakeholders during the hearing included the treatment of hybrid work environments, the desire for a more flexible, performance-oriented approach to addressing potential heat-related workplace hazards, appropriate heat triggers and mandatory provisions, and the effectiveness of various regulatory approaches.
Looking ahead, OSHA will be accepting post-hearing comments from hearing participants (or those who filed a notice of intent to testify) through September 30, 2025. If OSHA opts to make significant changes to the proposed rule, it is possible that it will issue a new Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in order to give stakeholders an opportunity to comment on issues or changes covered by a new rule. Alternatively, OSHA may choose to close the current rulemaking record and send a final rule to the White House Office of Management and Budget for consideration and review.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently concluded a three-week long public hearing on its proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention (IIP) rule. A wide range of stakeholders – including trade associations, small businesses, labor organizations, and representatives from the health and medical community – provided testimony. OSHA’s proposed Heat IIP rule, which was published in the Federal Register on August 30, 2024, would require employers whose workplace temperatures exceed certain heat triggers to develop programs to protect their employees from heat hazards in both outdoor and indoor work environments. The proposed standard would apply broadly to public sector employers, as well as private industry. Key issues raised by stakeholders during the hearing included the treatment of hybrid work environments, the desire for a more flexible, performance-oriented approach to addressing potential heat-related workplace hazards, appropriate heat triggers and mandatory provisions, and the effectiveness of various regulatory approaches. Looking ahead, OSHA will be accepting post-hearing comments from hearing participants (or those who filed a notice of intent to testify) through September 30, 2025. If OSHA opts to make significant changes to the proposed rule, it is possible that it will issue a new Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in order to give stakeholders an opportunity to comment on issues or changes covered by a new rule. Alternatively, OSHA may choose to close the current rulemaking record and send a final rule to the White House Office of Management and Budget for consideration and review. |
White House Releases National AI Action Plan
The Trump administration recently unveiled a national framework to guide federal policymaking and infrastructure development around artificial intelligence (AI). The AI Action Plan, which is a directive from Executive Order 14179, outlines actions across three pillars: accelerating AI innovation, building American AI infrastructure, and leading in international AI diplomacy and security.
Key provisions include making federal lands available for data center construction, streamlining environmental reviews for such projects, and evaluating federal and state regulatory frameworks that may hinder AI development. In addition, the plan emphasizes workforce development, with federal agencies directed to support AI literacy, job retraining, and education initiatives through existing workforce and economic development programs. Finally, the plan establishes a new AI Information Sharing and Analysis Center (AI-ISAC) to strengthen cybersecurity coordination with local governments.
The Trump administration recently unveiled a national framework to guide federal policymaking and infrastructure development around artificial intelligence (AI). The AI Action Plan, which is a directive from Executive Order 14179, outlines actions across three pillars: accelerating AI innovation, building American AI infrastructure, and leading in international AI diplomacy and security. Key provisions include making federal lands available for data center construction, streamlining environmental reviews for such projects, and evaluating federal and state regulatory frameworks that may hinder AI development. In addition, the plan emphasizes workforce development, with federal agencies directed to support AI literacy, job retraining, and education initiatives through existing workforce and economic development programs. Finally, the plan establishes a new AI Information Sharing and Analysis Center (AI-ISAC) to strengthen cybersecurity coordination with local governments. |
Relevant Hearings & Markups
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
Tuesday, July 29 | 10 a.m. ET | The full committee will meet to consider bipartisan housing proposal – the ROAD to Housing Act of 2025 – that seeks to boost the nation’s housing supply, improve housing affordability, and increase oversight and efficiency of federal regulators and housing programs.
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
Wednesday, July 30 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The Subcommmittee on Securities, Insurance, and Investment will hold a hearing entitled, “Guardrails and Growth: AI’s Role in Capital and Insurance Markets.”
Senate Committee on Homeland Security
Wednesday, July 30 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The panel will meet to consider a slate of bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including a bill – the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act (S. 861) – that would help streamline the federal disaster aid process for survivors. Specifically, the measure would require FEMA to create a universal application for all federal disaster programs, eliminating the need for survivors to submit multiple applications to different agencies. This streamlined process is intended to reduce administrative burdens and accelerate recovery.
In addition, the legislation would authorize FEMA to securely share applicant data with other federal agencies involved in disaster response, helping coordinate services and prevent delays. It should be noted that the bill includes provisions to ensure that all data sharing complies with strict federal privacy and security standards, protecting the personal information of those affected by disasters.
Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry
Wednesday, July 30 | 11:00 a.m. ET | The full committee will meet to review the U.S. Department of Agriculture's reorganization plan, which includes shifting much of its Washington-area staff to five hubs (Raleigh, NC; Indianapolis, IN; Fort Collins, CO; Kansas City, MO; and, Salt Lake City, UT) around the country.
Senate Committee on Appropriations
Thursday, July 31 | 9:30 a.m. ET | The full committee will consider two (of 12) FY26 spending bills this week, including those covering Labor-Health and Human Services and Defense.
Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions
Thursday, July 31 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The full committee will hold a hearing entitled, "Making Health Care Affordable: Solutions to Lower Costs and Empower Patients."
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Tuesday, July 29 | 10 a.m. ET | The full committee will meet to consider bipartisan housing proposal – the ROAD to Housing Act of 2025 – that seeks to boost the nation’s housing supply, improve housing affordability, and increase oversight and efficiency of federal regulators and housing programs. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Wednesday, July 30 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The Subcommmittee on Securities, Insurance, and Investment will hold a hearing entitled, “Guardrails and Growth: AI’s Role in Capital and Insurance Markets.” Senate Committee on Homeland Security Wednesday, July 30 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The panel will meet to consider a slate of bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including a bill – the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act (S. 861) – that would help streamline the federal disaster aid process for survivors. Specifically, the measure would require FEMA to create a universal application for all federal disaster programs, eliminating the need for survivors to submit multiple applications to different agencies. This streamlined process is intended to reduce administrative burdens and accelerate recovery. In addition, the legislation would authorize FEMA to securely share applicant data with other federal agencies involved in disaster response, helping coordinate services and prevent delays. It should be noted that the bill includes provisions to ensure that all data sharing complies with strict federal privacy and security standards, protecting the personal information of those affected by disasters. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Wednesday, July 30 | 11:00 a.m. ET | The full committee will meet to review the U.S. Department of Agriculture's reorganization plan, which includes shifting much of its Washington-area staff to five hubs (Raleigh, NC; Indianapolis, IN; Fort Collins, CO; Kansas City, MO; and, Salt Lake City, UT) around the country. Senate Committee on Appropriations Thursday, July 31 | 9:30 a.m. ET | The full committee will consider two (of 12) FY26 spending bills this week, including those covering Labor-Health and Human Services and Defense. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Thursday, July 31 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The full committee will hold a hearing entitled, "Making Health Care Affordable: Solutions to Lower Costs and Empower Patients." |
Federal Legislative Update
Week of July 21, 2025
House and Senate Action
Both the House and Senate are in session this week. It should be noted that this is the House’s final scheduled week before the traditional August recess. Lawmakers are expected to adjourn on Thursday and won’t return until after Labor Day. The Senate, on the other hand, is slated to remain in session for an additional week, though President Trump is calling on Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) to shorten or delay the recess in order to continue advancing executive nominations.
House
The House is set to take up several high-profile bills before leaving town. One measure – the Stop Illegal Entry Act (H.R. 3486) – would increase criminal penalties for individuals who unlawfully enter or reenter the United States. Supporters say the bill is intended to strengthen immigration enforcement, while opponents have raised concerns about its potential effects on due process and humanitarian protections.
The House will also consider legislation – the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act (H.R. 3898) – that would overhaul permitting procedures under the Clean Water Act. The bill aims to accelerate infrastructure project timelines by streamlining environmental reviews. Proponents argue it would reduce delays and improve project delivery, while others caution that it could limit environmental oversight and public input.
Senate
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate will consider the nomination of Terrance Cole to be DEA administrator. In addition, Majority Leader Thune has scheduled a procedural vote for Tuesday on the first fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill - Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon-VA). While the legislation advanced out of committee with strong bipartisan support, it's unclear whether it will clear the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster on the floor. That uncertainty stems, in part, from lingering Democratic opposition in the wake of the recently approved $9 billion funding rescissions package (detailed below), which has strained bipartisan cooperation on spending matters. Thune may also opt to bundle the MilCon-VA bill with other traditionally noncontroversial appropriations measures to improve its chances of passage.
Congress Approves Partisan Rescissions Package
Last week, Congress approved a White House-supported plan to rescind $9 billion in previously appropriated federal funds. The package targets a range of programs, including public broadcasting and foreign aid. An earlier version proposing $9.4 billion in cuts was revised following bipartisan concerns, which led to the restoration of $400 million for PEPFAR, the U.S. initiative to combat HIV/AIDS.
While the measure drew broad Republican support, lawmakers from both parties raised concerns about the precedent of executive-initiated rescissions. Some warned it could weaken the legislative branch's constitutional authority over federal spending and complicate negotiations on FY26 appropriations, increasing the risk of a shutdown later this year.
Sens. Schiff, Hirono Reintroduces Legislation That Seeks to Stabilize Property Insurance Markets
Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) recently reintroduced legislation – the Incorporating National Support for Unprecedented Risks and Emergencies (INSURE) Act (S. 2349) – that seeks to stabilize the home insurance market by creating a federal catastrophic reinsurance program within the Department of the Treasury to cap the liability of insurance companies in the case of a catastrophic event above a certain threshold. The threshold would be developed by the Treasury Secretary and an advisory committee of experts.
Pursuant to the legislation, participating insurers would be required to cover all natural disasters, including wildfires, severe storms, wind, hurricanes, and floods. It also leaves open the possibility that coverage against earthquakes could eventually be included in an all-perils policy. Finally, the bill seeks to improve market monitoring through the Office of Financial Research and the Federal Insurance Office in collaboration with state insurance regulators.
Representatives Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Doris Matsui (D-CA), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) have sponsored companion legislation (H.R. 4504) in the House.
House Appropriators Advance FY26 Spending Bills
The House Appropriations Committee has been making incremental progress on its fiscal year (FY) 2026 spending bills. Last week, the full committee approved two measures – the Transportation-Housing and Urban Development (T-HUD) and Energy and Water Development appropriations bills – both of which advanced on a party-line vote. Several additional bills have moved forward at the subcommittee level.
In other developments, Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) recently released updated subcommittee allocations for FY26. Under the current House plan, overall discretionary spending would be reduced by $45 billion compared to FY25 levels. Nondefense programs would see a nearly 6 percent reduction, bringing that topline to $705.6 billion, while total discretionary funding – including defense – would reach approximately $1.6 trillion.
By comparison, President Trump's budget proposal calls for a steeper reduction in nondefense discretionary spending – approximately $163 billion, or 23 percent – while maintaining flat funding for defense. Overall, that plan would cut discretionary spending by about 10 percent below the levels enacted for FY25.
Despite the progress last week, lawmakers are still far from completing action on the budget. As such, Congress will likely need a short-term funding patch to keep the government operating beyond the October 1 start of the new fiscal year.
Several key highlights are summarized below:
Transportation-Housing and Urban Development
The House T-HUD spending bill proposes $89.9 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and related agencies in FY26. This would be roughly $4.5 billion below the fiscal year 2025 enacted level.
Department of Transportation
The measure includes $22.1 billion in discretionary funding for DOT, which is $3.1 billion below current levels and $4.7 billion below the President’s budget request. When combined with $83.3 billion in obligation limitations for highway and airport trust fund programs, the bill provides a total of $105 billion in transportation-related budgetary resources.
Several DOT subagencies would see funding increases under the bill. For example, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) would receive $64.4 billion, which would be nearly $2 billion more than current levels. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would be in line for $23.3 billion, an increase of $2.3 billion over FY25. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) would also receive a modest funding boost. On the other end of the spectrum, the bill would provide $14.9 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Transit Administration, which amounts to a nearly $1.8 billion cut.
It should be noted that the legislation encourages DOT to streamline its competitive grant application process by developing a “common application” for smaller and rural applicants.
Department of Housing and Urban Development
The bill proposes $67.8 billion in discretionary funding for HUD, representing a $939 million decrease from the FY25 enacted level. Several major programs would see significant reductions or eliminations. The HOME Investment Partnerships Program, a key flexible funding source for affordable housing, would receive no new funding, based on the rationale that billions from the American Rescue Plan Act remain unspent. The Choice Neighborhoods Initiative would be eliminated entirely. The Housing Choice Voucher Program (also known as Section 8) would be flat-funded at just over $32 billion, although administrative fees would be reduced by nearly $800 million.
Some HUD programs would see increases. For example, the Project-Based Rental Assistance program would receive just over $17 billion, an increase of $237 million from FY25. Homeless Assistance Grants would rise by $107 million to a total of almost $4.2 billion. The bill also encourages HUD to prioritize programs that address mental health and substance use disorders, foster accountability, and support pathways to self-sufficiency.
Energy and Water Development
In addition to T-HUD, the House Appropriations Committee is also on track to advance its fiscal year 2026 Energy and Water Development spending bill, which would provide $57.3 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Energy (DOE), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and related agencies. This represents a reduction of approximately $766 million compared to the FY25 enacted level.
Department of Energy (DOE)
The bill proposes $48.8 billion for the Department of Energy (DOE), which is $1.4 billion below the FY25 enacted level but $2 billion above the administration’s FY26 budget request. While overall funding remains relatively stable, the bill reflects a notable shift in DOE priorities. It increases investments in nuclear energy, critical mineral development, and national security-related programs, while significantly scaling back funding for several clean energy and technology demonstration initiatives.
Specifically, the legislation would eliminate funding for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations and reduce the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) by nearly 50 percent. Both offices have played a key role in implementing programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, supporting state and local efforts to modernize the electric grid, improve building energy efficiency, and accelerate energy innovation.
The Office of Grid Deployment would also see its budget reduced by more than half, while the Office of Electricity would receive a nearly 20 percent cut. The Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, which supports research and development for carbon capture and other fossil fuel-related technologies, would receive approximately $688 million, down $178 million from current levels.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The bill includes nearly $9.9 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, an increase of over $1 billion relative to current funding levels. Within that amount, roughly $2 billion is directed to flood and storm damage reduction activities.
Bureau of Reclamation
The Bureau of Reclamation and related Interior Department activities would receive a total of nearly $1.9 billion, slightly above the FY25 enacted level. That total includes nearly $127 million for rural water supply projects and $201 million for water storage initiatives authorized by the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, which supports expanded water storage capacity in drought-prone regions.
House Committee on Appropriations
- Monday, July 21 | 5:30 p.m. ET | The Subcommittee on Financial Services will markup its fiscal year 2026 spending bill.
- Tuesday, July 22 | 10:30 a.m. ET | The full committee will consider the FY26 Interior spending bill.
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The full panel will meet to consider the FY26 State-Foreign Operations funding measure.
- Thursday, July 24 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The full panel will markup the FY26 Commerce-Justice-Science spending bill.
- Mark Up Details
Senate Committee on Appropriations
- Thursday, July 24 | 9:30 a.m. ET | The full committee will consider two (of 12) FY26 spending bills this week, including those covering Interior-Environment and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development.
- Markup Details
House Committee on Transportation Infrastructure
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. | The Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management will hold a hearing to evaluate how FEMA can become more agile and effective in responding to disasters and examine the nation’s current state of disaster readiness, response, and recovery. FEMA Acting Administrator David Richardson will testify.
- Hearing Details
House Committee on Small Business
- Wednesday, July 16 | 10 a.m. | The Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations will hold an oversight hearing to examine the Small Business Administration's disaster assistance programs.
- Hearing Details
House Committee on Natural Resources
- Tuesday, July 22 | 2:15 p.m. | The Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries will meet to consider a handful of bills on the committee docket, including legislation (H.R. 180) proposed by Congressman Tom McClintock (R-CA) that aims to increase transparency in the listing of species as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. | The full committee will meet to consider over a dozen bills, including legislation (H.R. 178) that would require the U.S. Forest Service to immediately suppress all wildfires within 24 hours. Another bill – sponsored by Reps. Josh Harder (D-CA) and Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) – would ensure that local fire departments are fairly and quickly compensated for fighting fires on federal lands. The committee will also consider legislation (H.R. 528) that would require the Department of Interior, in coordination with states, local governments, tribes, and colleges to identify critical lands in need of rehabilitation after natural disasters and support projects through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements.
- Markup Details
House Committee on Natural Resources
- Tuesday, July 22 | 10:15 a.m. | The panel will hold an oversight hearing titled, "Permitting Purgatory: Restoring Common Sense to NEPA Reviews."
- Hearing Details
House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10 a.m. | The full committee will meet to consider legislation - the Weather Act Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3816) - that seeks to improve NOAA's weather research, supports improvements in weather forecasting and prediction, and expands commercial opportunities for the provision of weather data.
- Markup Details
Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. The full committee will hold a hearing on the nominations of Katherine Scarlett to a be a member of the Council on Environmental Quality and Jeffrey Hall to be an Assistant Administrator of EPA.
- Wednesday, July 23 | 3:00 p.m. The Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure will hold a hearing to discuss proposals to improve the nation's transportation infrastructure.
- Hearing Details
Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. The full committee will hold a hearing to identify challenges to meeting increased electrcity demand.
- Hearing Details
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Federal Legislative Update
Week of July 21, 2025
|
House and Senate Action
Both the House and Senate are in session this week. It should be noted that this is the House’s final scheduled week before the traditional August recess. Lawmakers are expected to adjourn on Thursday and won’t return until after Labor Day. The Senate, on the other hand, is slated to remain in session for an additional week, though President Trump is calling on Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) to shorten or delay the recess in order to continue advancing executive nominations.
House
The House is set to take up several high-profile bills before leaving town. One measure – the Stop Illegal Entry Act (H.R. 3486) – would increase criminal penalties for individuals who unlawfully enter or reenter the United States. Supporters say the bill is intended to strengthen immigration enforcement, while opponents have raised concerns about its potential effects on due process and humanitarian protections.
The House will also consider legislation – the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act (H.R. 3898) – that would overhaul permitting procedures under the Clean Water Act. The bill aims to accelerate infrastructure project timelines by streamlining environmental reviews. Proponents argue it would reduce delays and improve project delivery, while others caution that it could limit environmental oversight and public input.
Senate
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate will consider the nomination of Terrance Cole to be DEA administrator. In addition, Majority Leader Thune has scheduled a procedural vote for Tuesday on the first fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill - Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon-VA). While the legislation advanced out of committee with strong bipartisan support, it's unclear whether it will clear the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster on the floor. That uncertainty stems, in part, from lingering Democratic opposition in the wake of the recently approved $9 billion funding rescissions package (detailed below), which has strained bipartisan cooperation on spending matters. Thune may also opt to bundle the MilCon-VA bill with other traditionally noncontroversial appropriations measures to improve its chances of passage.
Congress Approves Partisan Rescissions Package
Last week, Congress approved a White House-supported plan to rescind $9 billion in previously appropriated federal funds. The package targets a range of programs, including public broadcasting and foreign aid. An earlier version proposing $9.4 billion in cuts was revised following bipartisan concerns, which led to the restoration of $400 million for PEPFAR, the U.S. initiative to combat HIV/AIDS.
While the measure drew broad Republican support, lawmakers from both parties raised concerns about the precedent of executive-initiated rescissions. Some warned it could weaken the legislative branch's constitutional authority over federal spending and complicate negotiations on FY26 appropriations, increasing the risk of a shutdown later this year.
Sens. Schiff, Hirono Reintroduces Legislation That Seeks to Stabilize Property Insurance Markets
Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) recently reintroduced legislation – the Incorporating National Support for Unprecedented Risks and Emergencies (INSURE) Act (S. 2349) – that seeks to stabilize the home insurance market by creating a federal catastrophic reinsurance program within the Department of the Treasury to cap the liability of insurance companies in the case of a catastrophic event above a certain threshold. The threshold would be developed by the Treasury Secretary and an advisory committee of experts.
Pursuant to the legislation, participating insurers would be required to cover all natural disasters, including wildfires, severe storms, wind, hurricanes, and floods. It also leaves open the possibility that coverage against earthquakes could eventually be included in an all-perils policy. Finally, the bill seeks to improve market monitoring through the Office of Financial Research and the Federal Insurance Office in collaboration with state insurance regulators.
Representatives Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Doris Matsui (D-CA), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) have sponsored companion legislation (H.R. 4504) in the House.
House Appropriators Advance FY26 Spending Bills
The House Appropriations Committee has been making incremental progress on its fiscal year (FY) 2026 spending bills. Last week, the full committee approved two measures – the Transportation-Housing and Urban Development (T-HUD) and Energy and Water Development appropriations bills – both of which advanced on a party-line vote. Several additional bills have moved forward at the subcommittee level.
In other developments, Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) recently released updated subcommittee allocations for FY26. Under the current House plan, overall discretionary spending would be reduced by $45 billion compared to FY25 levels. Nondefense programs would see a nearly 6 percent reduction, bringing that topline to $705.6 billion, while total discretionary funding – including defense – would reach approximately $1.6 trillion.
By comparison, President Trump's budget proposal calls for a steeper reduction in nondefense discretionary spending – approximately $163 billion, or 23 percent – while maintaining flat funding for defense. Overall, that plan would cut discretionary spending by about 10 percent below the levels enacted for FY25.
Despite the progress last week, lawmakers are still far from completing action on the budget. As such, Congress will likely need a short-term funding patch to keep the government operating beyond the October 1 start of the new fiscal year.
Several key highlights are summarized below:
Transportation-Housing and Urban Development
The House T-HUD spending bill proposes $89.9 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and related agencies in FY26. This would be roughly $4.5 billion below the fiscal year 2025 enacted level.
Department of Transportation
The measure includes $22.1 billion in discretionary funding for DOT, which is $3.1 billion below current levels and $4.7 billion below the President’s budget request. When combined with $83.3 billion in obligation limitations for highway and airport trust fund programs, the bill provides a total of $105 billion in transportation-related budgetary resources.
Several DOT subagencies would see funding increases under the bill. For example, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) would receive $64.4 billion, which would be nearly $2 billion more than current levels. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would be in line for $23.3 billion, an increase of $2.3 billion over FY25. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) would also receive a modest funding boost. On the other end of the spectrum, the bill would provide $14.9 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Transit Administration, which amounts to a nearly $1.8 billion cut.
It should be noted that the legislation encourages DOT to streamline its competitive grant application process by developing a “common application” for smaller and rural applicants.
Department of Housing and Urban Development
The bill proposes $67.8 billion in discretionary funding for HUD, representing a $939 million decrease from the FY25 enacted level. Several major programs would see significant reductions or eliminations. The HOME Investment Partnerships Program, a key flexible funding source for affordable housing, would receive no new funding, based on the rationale that billions from the American Rescue Plan Act remain unspent. The Choice Neighborhoods Initiative would be eliminated entirely. The Housing Choice Voucher Program (also known as Section 8) would be flat-funded at just over $32 billion, although administrative fees would be reduced by nearly $800 million.
Some HUD programs would see increases. For example, the Project-Based Rental Assistance program would receive just over $17 billion, an increase of $237 million from FY25. Homeless Assistance Grants would rise by $107 million to a total of almost $4.2 billion. The bill also encourages HUD to prioritize programs that address mental health and substance use disorders, foster accountability, and support pathways to self-sufficiency.
Energy and Water Development
In addition to T-HUD, the House Appropriations Committee is also on track to advance its fiscal year 2026 Energy and Water Development spending bill, which would provide $57.3 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Energy (DOE), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and related agencies. This represents a reduction of approximately $766 million compared to the FY25 enacted level.
Department of Energy (DOE)
The bill proposes $48.8 billion for the Department of Energy (DOE), which is $1.4 billion below the FY25 enacted level but $2 billion above the administration’s FY26 budget request. While overall funding remains relatively stable, the bill reflects a notable shift in DOE priorities. It increases investments in nuclear energy, critical mineral development, and national security-related programs, while significantly scaling back funding for several clean energy and technology demonstration initiatives.
Specifically, the legislation would eliminate funding for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations and reduce the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) by nearly 50 percent. Both offices have played a key role in implementing programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, supporting state and local efforts to modernize the electric grid, improve building energy efficiency, and accelerate energy innovation.
The Office of Grid Deployment would also see its budget reduced by more than half, while the Office of Electricity would receive a nearly 20 percent cut. The Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, which supports research and development for carbon capture and other fossil fuel-related technologies, would receive approximately $688 million, down $178 million from current levels.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The bill includes nearly $9.9 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, an increase of over $1 billion relative to current funding levels. Within that amount, roughly $2 billion is directed to flood and storm damage reduction activities.
Bureau of Reclamation
The Bureau of Reclamation and related Interior Department activities would receive a total of nearly $1.9 billion, slightly above the FY25 enacted level. That total includes nearly $127 million for rural water supply projects and $201 million for water storage initiatives authorized by the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, which supports expanded water storage capacity in drought-prone regions.
House Committee on Appropriations
- Monday, July 21 | 5:30 p.m. ET | The Subcommittee on Financial Services will markup its fiscal year 2026 spending bill.
- Tuesday, July 22 | 10:30 a.m. ET | The full committee will consider the FY26 Interior spending bill.
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The full panel will meet to consider the FY26 State-Foreign Operations funding measure.
- Thursday, July 24 | 10:00 a.m. ET | The full panel will markup the FY26 Commerce-Justice-Science spending bill.
- Mark Up Details
Senate Committee on Appropriations
- Thursday, July 24 | 9:30 a.m. ET | The full committee will consider two (of 12) FY26 spending bills this week, including those covering Interior-Environment and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development.
- Markup Details
House Committee on Transportation Infrastructure
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. | The Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management will hold a hearing to evaluate how FEMA can become more agile and effective in responding to disasters and examine the nation’s current state of disaster readiness, response, and recovery. FEMA Acting Administrator David Richardson will testify.
- Hearing Details
House Committee on Small Business
- Wednesday, July 16 | 10 a.m. | The Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations will hold an oversight hearing to examine the Small Business Administration's disaster assistance programs.
- Hearing Details
House Committee on Natural Resources
- Tuesday, July 22 | 2:15 p.m. | The Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries will meet to consider a handful of bills on the committee docket, including legislation (H.R. 180) proposed by Congressman Tom McClintock (R-CA) that aims to increase transparency in the listing of species as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. | The full committee will meet to consider over a dozen bills, including legislation (H.R. 178) that would require the U.S. Forest Service to immediately suppress all wildfires within 24 hours. Another bill – sponsored by Reps. Josh Harder (D-CA) and Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) – would ensure that local fire departments are fairly and quickly compensated for fighting fires on federal lands. The committee will also consider legislation (H.R. 528) that would require the Department of Interior, in coordination with states, local governments, tribes, and colleges to identify critical lands in need of rehabilitation after natural disasters and support projects through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements.
- Markup Details
House Committee on Natural Resources
- Tuesday, July 22 | 10:15 a.m. | The panel will hold an oversight hearing titled, "Permitting Purgatory: Restoring Common Sense to NEPA Reviews."
- Hearing Details
House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10 a.m. | The full committee will meet to consider legislation - the Weather Act Reauthorization Act (H.R. 3816) - that seeks to improve NOAA's weather research, supports improvements in weather forecasting and prediction, and expands commercial opportunities for the provision of weather data.
- Markup Details
Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. The full committee will hold a hearing on the nominations of Katherine Scarlett to a be a member of the Council on Environmental Quality and Jeffrey Hall to be an Assistant Administrator of EPA.
- Wednesday, July 23 | 3:00 p.m. The Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure will hold a hearing to discuss proposals to improve the nation's transportation infrastructure.
- Hearing Details
Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
- Wednesday, July 23 | 10:00 a.m. The full committee will hold a hearing to identify challenges to meeting increased electrcity demand.
- Hearing Details
Federal Legislative Update
Week of May 19, 2025
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate convened on Monday afternoon, kicking off a make-or-break week for the GOP’s reconciliation package ahead of next week’s Memorial Day recess. With the House scheduled to adjourn on Thursday, Republicans in the lower chamber have just four legislative days to pass their reconciliation bill if they are to meet House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) ambitious timeline. More on the status of Republicans’ “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is located below.
In addition to plans to advance the reconciliation package, House Republicans will consider a slate of bills on the suspension calendar (which requires a 2/3 majority vote). The majority of these non-controversial measures pertain to improving veterans’ services and supporting the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The chamber is also expected to vote on two Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions aimed at reversing recent Biden administration rules. The first (S.J. Res. 13) targets reforms to the federal bank merger approval process. The second (S.J. Res. 31) would repeal the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Once In, Always In” policy under the Clean Air Act, which requires facilities once classified as major sources of hazardous air pollutants to remain under that designation indefinitely. Opponents of the policy argue it discourages voluntary emissions reductions and stifles investment in pollution control technologies.
For its part, the Senate will continue consideration of President Trump’s nominee for Ambassador to France. Meanwhile, both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees will hold a number of budget-related hearings throughout the week, with testimony expected from several Cabinet officials. Additional details are included below. The Senate’s daily schedule can be accessed here.
House Budget Committee Advances Republicans’ Reconciliation Package
Late Sunday night, the House Budget Committee advanced the GOP’s sweeping reconciliation package – known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” – as four conservative holdouts voted “present,” allowing the bill to move forward while internal negotiations continue over key sticking points. A slightly modified version of the legislation is now slated for an unconventional 1 AM markup in the powerful House Rules Committee on Wednesday morning. If the timeline holds, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) plans to bring the package to the House floor for a vote on Thursday.
While a Thursday vote would adhere to Johnson’s ambitious goal of clearing the legislation before the Memorial Day recess, it gives House Republicans just one day to advance the package. It should be noted that the House Rules Committee is expected to make several substantive changes to the measure during their markup this week. Although fiscal conservatives have already secured a key concession by moving up the implementation of Medicaid work requirements from 2029 to 2027, several contentious issues remain unresolved. This includes disagreements over the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, the timeline for repealing clean energy tax credits enacted under the Inflation Reduction Act, and whether to make additional cuts to federal Medicaid reimbursement rates.
As previously reported, the reconciliation measure would impose upwards of $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and SNAP programs alone. The proposed $300 billion in SNAP savings would largely come from a new cost-share structure that ties state contributions to SNAP payment error rates. States with the highest error rates would be required to cover up to 25 percent of benefit costs (which are currently fully funded by the federal government). In addition, all states would see their share of SNAP administrative costs rise from 50 to 75 percent and be subject to a zero-tolerance threshold for payment errors and associated penalties.
The bulk of the SNAP savings, however, would stem from stricter eligibility rules, particularly new work and reporting requirements for so-called “able-bodied” adults. Specifically, the proposal would raise the age at which a person no longer has to meet these requirements (from 54 to 64). It would also lower the age at which caring for a child exempts an individual from work requirements (from 18 to 7). The additional administrative burden for county human services agencies, which would be tasked with eligibility determinations for this significantly expanded population, is not accounted for in the projected costs of the legislation.
In addition, the bill, as currently written, is projected to generate $715 billion in savings over ten years through a series of major changes to Medicaid and the ACA. These savings would come from imposing new work requirements on able-bodied adults, increasing the frequency of eligibility redeterminations, and repealing federal regulations that had previously streamlined access and enrollment processes.
The legislation also would prohibit states from implementing or modifying provider taxes – a key financing mechanism for the Medicaid program – and penalize states that use state funds to cover undocumented individuals by reducing the federal match for their Medicaid expansion populations from 90 to 80 percent. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the measure would result in 8.6 million people losing health coverage. Democrats warn that the impact could be even greater, noting that the legislation fails to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, which are set to expire in December. Unless they are renewed, the number of uninsured individuals could climb to 13.7 million over the next ten years.
Notably, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced its portion of the reconciliation package without making cuts to key safety net programs such as the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program or the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG). Instead, the bill identifies savings by repealing key subsidies for electric vehicles and phasing out a range of other clean energy tax incentives. Additionally, the measure would preserve the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds. The legislation also would expand the Child Tax Credit from $2,000 to $2,500 per child for four years. However, it would exclude nearly 4.5 million U.S. citizen children living in mixed-status immigrant households. Other measures aimed at boosting the working class – such as a temporary moratorium on taxing tips – are also included but would sunset after 2029.
If House Republicans can unify to advance the package by week’s end, it will head to the Senate. However, with several apparent holdouts in both the far right and moderate factions of the Republican conference, the bill’s ultimate passage is still far from certain. Additionally, once in the upper chamber, the measure is expected to face significant changes, further complicating final passage.
House and Senate Committees Set to Hold Budget Hearings
Throughout the week, both chambers’ Appropriations Committees will hold a spate of hearings on the Trump administration’s fiscal year 2026 budget request.
On Tuesday, the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee will hold a budget hearing for the Interior Department, with testimony from Secretary Doug Burgum.
On Wednesday, the House Energy-Water Appropriations Subcommittee will meet to discuss the budget for the Army Corps of Engineers (Civil Works) and the Bureau of Reclamation.
Across Capitol Hill, a number of subcommittees within the Senate Appropriations Committee will hold budget hearings this week, including:
- The Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee, which will hear testimony from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- The Senate Energy-Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee will discuss the Energy Department’s budget request. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is scheduled to appear before the subcommittee.
- The Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee will examine the Labor Department’s budget request and will feature testimony from Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer.
- The Senate Agriculture-FDA Appropriations Subcommittee will review the FDA’s FY 26 budget request; and,
- The Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee will hear testimony from Energy Secretary Doug Burgum regarding his department’s budget proposal.
Relevant Hearings & Markups
Tuesday, May 20 | 10 a.m. House Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee hearing on the EPA’s fiscal 2026 budget.
|
Federal Legislative Update
Week of May 19, 2025
|
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate convened on Monday afternoon, kicking off a make-or-break week for the GOP’s reconciliation package ahead of next week’s Memorial Day recess. With the House scheduled to adjourn on Thursday, Republicans in the lower chamber have just four legislative days to pass their reconciliation bill if they are to meet House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) ambitious timeline. More on the status of Republicans’ “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is located below.
In addition to plans to advance the reconciliation package, House Republicans will consider a slate of bills on the suspension calendar (which requires a 2/3 majority vote). The majority of these non-controversial measures pertain to improving veterans’ services and supporting the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The chamber is also expected to vote on two Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions aimed at reversing recent Biden administration rules. The first (S.J. Res. 13) targets reforms to the federal bank merger approval process. The second (S.J. Res. 31) would repeal the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Once In, Always In” policy under the Clean Air Act, which requires facilities once classified as major sources of hazardous air pollutants to remain under that designation indefinitely. Opponents of the policy argue it discourages voluntary emissions reductions and stifles investment in pollution control technologies.
For its part, the Senate will continue consideration of President Trump’s nominee for Ambassador to France. Meanwhile, both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees will hold a number of budget-related hearings throughout the week, with testimony expected from several Cabinet officials. Additional details are included below. The Senate’s daily schedule can be accessed here.
House Budget Committee Advances Republicans’ Reconciliation Package
Late Sunday night, the House Budget Committee advanced the GOP’s sweeping reconciliation package – known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” – as four conservative holdouts voted “present,” allowing the bill to move forward while internal negotiations continue over key sticking points. A slightly modified version of the legislation is now slated for an unconventional 1 AM markup in the powerful House Rules Committee on Wednesday morning. If the timeline holds, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) plans to bring the package to the House floor for a vote on Thursday.
While a Thursday vote would adhere to Johnson’s ambitious goal of clearing the legislation before the Memorial Day recess, it gives House Republicans just one day to advance the package. It should be noted that the House Rules Committee is expected to make several substantive changes to the measure during their markup this week. Although fiscal conservatives have already secured a key concession by moving up the implementation of Medicaid work requirements from 2029 to 2027, several contentious issues remain unresolved. This includes disagreements over the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, the timeline for repealing clean energy tax credits enacted under the Inflation Reduction Act, and whether to make additional cuts to federal Medicaid reimbursement rates.
As previously reported, the reconciliation measure would impose upwards of $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and SNAP programs alone. The proposed $300 billion in SNAP savings would largely come from a new cost-share structure that ties state contributions to SNAP payment error rates. States with the highest error rates would be required to cover up to 25 percent of benefit costs (which are currently fully funded by the federal government). In addition, all states would see their share of SNAP administrative costs rise from 50 to 75 percent and be subject to a zero-tolerance threshold for payment errors and associated penalties.
The bulk of the SNAP savings, however, would stem from stricter eligibility rules, particularly new work and reporting requirements for so-called “able-bodied” adults. Specifically, the proposal would raise the age at which a person no longer has to meet these requirements (from 54 to 64). It would also lower the age at which caring for a child exempts an individual from work requirements (from 18 to 7). The additional administrative burden for county human services agencies, which would be tasked with eligibility determinations for this significantly expanded population, is not accounted for in the projected costs of the legislation.
In addition, the bill, as currently written, is projected to generate $715 billion in savings over ten years through a series of major changes to Medicaid and the ACA. These savings would come from imposing new work requirements on able-bodied adults, increasing the frequency of eligibility redeterminations, and repealing federal regulations that had previously streamlined access and enrollment processes.
The legislation also would prohibit states from implementing or modifying provider taxes – a key financing mechanism for the Medicaid program – and penalize states that use state funds to cover undocumented individuals by reducing the federal match for their Medicaid expansion populations from 90 to 80 percent. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the measure would result in 8.6 million people losing health coverage. Democrats warn that the impact could be even greater, noting that the legislation fails to extend the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, which are set to expire in December. Unless they are renewed, the number of uninsured individuals could climb to 13.7 million over the next ten years.
Notably, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced its portion of the reconciliation package without making cuts to key safety net programs such as the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program or the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG). Instead, the bill identifies savings by repealing key subsidies for electric vehicles and phasing out a range of other clean energy tax incentives. Additionally, the measure would preserve the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds. The legislation also would expand the Child Tax Credit from $2,000 to $2,500 per child for four years. However, it would exclude nearly 4.5 million U.S. citizen children living in mixed-status immigrant households. Other measures aimed at boosting the working class – such as a temporary moratorium on taxing tips – are also included but would sunset after 2029.
If House Republicans can unify to advance the package by week’s end, it will head to the Senate. However, with several apparent holdouts in both the far right and moderate factions of the Republican conference, the bill’s ultimate passage is still far from certain. Additionally, once in the upper chamber, the measure is expected to face significant changes, further complicating final passage.
House and Senate Committees Set to Hold Budget Hearings
Throughout the week, both chambers’ Appropriations Committees will hold a spate of hearings on the Trump administration’s fiscal year 2026 budget request.
On Tuesday, the House Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee will hold a budget hearing for the Interior Department, with testimony from Secretary Doug Burgum.
On Wednesday, the House Energy-Water Appropriations Subcommittee will meet to discuss the budget for the Army Corps of Engineers (Civil Works) and the Bureau of Reclamation.
Across Capitol Hill, a number of subcommittees within the Senate Appropriations Committee will hold budget hearings this week, including:
- The Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee, which will hear testimony from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
- The Senate Energy-Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee will discuss the Energy Department’s budget request. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is scheduled to appear before the subcommittee.
- The Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee will examine the Labor Department’s budget request and will feature testimony from Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer.
- The Senate Agriculture-FDA Appropriations Subcommittee will review the FDA’s FY 26 budget request; and,
- The Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee will hear testimony from Energy Secretary Doug Burgum regarding his department’s budget proposal.
Relevant Hearings & Markups
Tuesday, May 20 | 10 a.m. House Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee hearing on the EPA’s fiscal 2026 budget.
Update as of
September 9th, 2024
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are both in session.
House GOP leaders are expected to bring their six-month stopgap funding plan to the floor again this week. The measure was pulled from floor consideration last week due to a number of Republican holdouts. The proposed Continuing Resolution (CR) would fund the federal government at current levels through March 28, 2025. It also includes a series of provisions that address issues outside of the regular appropriations process, including $10 billion to replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund, as well as language that would extend the authorization for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Additionally, the GOP-led measure includes controversial language that would require individuals to provide proof of citizenship in order to vote in federal elections.
The election-related provision – which mirrors a GOP-sponsored bill that passed the House in July – is a nonstarter for Senate Democrats and the Biden administration, who argue that noncitizen voting is already prohibited under federal law. Democratic leaders have also balked at the CR's six-month timeline, preferring a stopgap funding patch that expires in mid-December. It's unclear if Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and his whip team will be able to persuade enough Republicans to support the plan. With government funding set to run out on September 30, congressional leaders have just two weeks to pass a CR. Failure to do so would result in a government shutdown.
Later in the week, and with an eye toward the November elections, House Republicans will look to advance more partisan measures, including bills that target what GOP members have labeled "woke" investing principles. The chamber will vote on two bills (H.R. 4790; H.R. 5339) that address the use of environmental, social, and governance factors in shareholder decisions. House Republicans will also try to advance a pair of resolutions (H.J. Res. 133; H.J. Res. 136) targeting what they call the Biden administration's "electric vehicle mandate." Finally, the House will consider two measures to address illegal immigration. One bill (H.R. 7909) would make undocumented immigrants who are convicted of, or who admit having committed sex offenses or domestic violence, inadmissible and deportable from the United States. A separate measure (H.R. 5717) would bar federal funding from going to any "sanctuary jurisdiction" for the purposes of addressing the ongoing migrant crisis. The full House schedule can be accessed here.
Across the Capitol, senators will continue their focus on confirming President Biden's judicial nominees.
Congress Set to Reauthorize Program Benefitting Rural Fire and EMS Services
This week, the House will vote on bipartisan legislation – the Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) Reauthorization Act (S. 265) – to reauthorize SIREN Act grants for an additional five years. The program, which is also known as the Rural EMS Training and Equipment Assistance (REMSTEA) grant program, provides grants to rural fire and EMS agencies for training and recruiting staff, conducting certification courses, and purchasing equipment, including medication and medical supplies. S. 265 would expand the program to allow for funds to be used on training on mental health and substance use disorders and care and to acquire overdose reversal drugs and devices. Grants are capped at $200,000 and require a 10 percent non-federal match. It should be noted that the Senate has already approved the measure, so a successful House vote would send the bill to the president's desk.
Tax Exempt Status of Municipal Bonds
With key individual tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire at the end of 2025, it's highly likely that Congress will consider a reform package next year (regardless of who is in the White House). In past years, some lawmakers have targeted the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds as a potential offset or payfor. To push back against some of these threats and to help illustrate the benefit of muni bonds, the Public Finance Network is seeking examples of infrastructure projects that were funded with tax-exempt bonds. The entry form for submissions to the Built by Bonds initiative can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs: On Wednesday afternoon, the committee will meet to discuss the macroeconomic impacts of potential tax reform in 2025. Additional details on the hearing can be found here.
House Appropriations: On Wednesday morning, the panel will hold an oversight hearing with the Inspectors General for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Amtrak. A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 10am ET.
House Transportation and Infrastructure: On Wednesday morning, the committee will consider 30 bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including several FEMA reform proposals. One measure – the Making Aid for Local Disasters Equal Now (MALDEN) Act (H.R. 6435) – seeks to improve FEMA's response to natural disasters in rural communities. It would do so by improving coordination between local emergency managers, state officials, and federal government agencies. Specifically, H.R. 6435 would require FEMA to provide guidance to local emergency managers on developing a recovery team. FEMA would also be required to assist in identifying short and long-term recovery resources. Finally, the bill would require FEMA to work with state emergency management agencies to make disaster case workers available for rural communities in the event that a request for Individual Assistance is made and denied.
The panel will also consider a bill (H.R. 9037) that seeks to improve FEMA's employee recruitment and retention efforts, develop strategies to train and deploy their workforce in efficient ways, and utilize data to address and fix staffing gaps. A third measure – the Natural Disaster Recovery Program Act (H.R. 1605) – would strengthen the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) disaster recovery program for states, local governments, and tribes by establishing a permanent and predictable funding process.
More details on the markup, including a full list of bills under consideration, can be accessed here.
Sign up for NSDC Member Communications
Use this form to subscribe to NSDC Member Communications.
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|
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are both in session.
House GOP leaders are expected to bring their six-month stopgap funding plan to the floor again this week. The measure was pulled from floor consideration last week due to a number of Republican holdouts. The proposed Continuing Resolution (CR) would fund the federal government at current levels through March 28, 2025. It also includes a series of provisions that address issues outside of the regular appropriations process, including $10 billion to replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund, as well as language that would extend the authorization for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Additionally, the GOP-led measure includes controversial language that would require individuals to provide proof of citizenship in order to vote in federal elections.
The election-related provision – which mirrors a GOP-sponsored bill that passed the House in July – is a nonstarter for Senate Democrats and the Biden administration, who argue that noncitizen voting is already prohibited under federal law. Democratic leaders have also balked at the CR's six-month timeline, preferring a stopgap funding patch that expires in mid-December. It's unclear if Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and his whip team will be able to persuade enough Republicans to support the plan. With government funding set to run out on September 30, congressional leaders have just two weeks to pass a CR. Failure to do so would result in a government shutdown.
Later in the week, and with an eye toward the November elections, House Republicans will look to advance more partisan measures, including bills that target what GOP members have labeled "woke" investing principles. The chamber will vote on two bills (H.R. 4790; H.R. 5339) that address the use of environmental, social, and governance factors in shareholder decisions. House Republicans will also try to advance a pair of resolutions (H.J. Res. 133; H.J. Res. 136) targeting what they call the Biden administration's "electric vehicle mandate." Finally, the House will consider two measures to address illegal immigration. One bill (H.R. 7909) would make undocumented immigrants who are convicted of, or who admit having committed sex offenses or domestic violence, inadmissible and deportable from the United States. A separate measure (H.R. 5717) would bar federal funding from going to any "sanctuary jurisdiction" for the purposes of addressing the ongoing migrant crisis. The full House schedule can be accessed here.
Across the Capitol, senators will continue their focus on confirming President Biden's judicial nominees.
Congress Set to Reauthorize Program Benefitting Rural Fire and EMS Services
This week, the House will vote on bipartisan legislation – the Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs (SIREN) Reauthorization Act (S. 265) – to reauthorize SIREN Act grants for an additional five years. The program, which is also known as the Rural EMS Training and Equipment Assistance (REMSTEA) grant program, provides grants to rural fire and EMS agencies for training and recruiting staff, conducting certification courses, and purchasing equipment, including medication and medical supplies. S. 265 would expand the program to allow for funds to be used on training on mental health and substance use disorders and care and to acquire overdose reversal drugs and devices. Grants are capped at $200,000 and require a 10 percent non-federal match. It should be noted that the Senate has already approved the measure, so a successful House vote would send the bill to the president's desk.
Tax Exempt Status of Municipal Bonds
With key individual tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire at the end of 2025, it's highly likely that Congress will consider a reform package next year (regardless of who is in the White House). In past years, some lawmakers have targeted the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds as a potential offset or payfor. To push back against some of these threats and to help illustrate the benefit of muni bonds, the Public Finance Network is seeking examples of infrastructure projects that were funded with tax-exempt bonds. The entry form for submissions to the Built by Bonds initiative can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs: On Wednesday afternoon, the committee will meet to discuss the macroeconomic impacts of potential tax reform in 2025. Additional details on the hearing can be found here.
House Appropriations: On Wednesday morning, the panel will hold an oversight hearing with the Inspectors General for the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Amtrak. A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 10am ET.
House Transportation and Infrastructure: On Wednesday morning, the committee will consider 30 bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including several FEMA reform proposals. One measure – the Making Aid for Local Disasters Equal Now (MALDEN) Act (H.R. 6435) – seeks to improve FEMA's response to natural disasters in rural communities. It would do so by improving coordination between local emergency managers, state officials, and federal government agencies. Specifically, H.R. 6435 would require FEMA to provide guidance to local emergency managers on developing a recovery team. FEMA would also be required to assist in identifying short and long-term recovery resources. Finally, the bill would require FEMA to work with state emergency management agencies to make disaster case workers available for rural communities in the event that a request for Individual Assistance is made and denied.
The panel will also consider a bill (H.R. 9037) that seeks to improve FEMA's employee recruitment and retention efforts, develop strategies to train and deploy their workforce in efficient ways, and utilize data to address and fix staffing gaps. A third measure – the Natural Disaster Recovery Program Act (H.R. 1605) – would strengthen the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) disaster recovery program for states, local governments, and tribes by establishing a permanent and predictable funding process.
More details on the markup, including a full list of bills under consideration, can be accessed here.
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Update as of
September 9th, 2024
House and Senate Action
Congress returns from its summer break today, though both chambers are only scheduled to be in session for three weeks. Starting on September 27th (or perhaps sooner), lawmakers will recess once again for the final stretch of campaign season. The most pressing business for congressional leaders is to pass a bill to fund the federal government beyond September 30. The House and Senate are still far apart on their fiscal year 2025 spending measures and will wait until after Election Day to resume negotiations on a formal budget deal. In the near-term, they'll have to pass a short-term spending patch to avoid a government shutdown.
This week, the House will consider a Republican-led measure that would pair a six-month Continuing Resolution (CR) with a bill (the SAVE Act) that would require proof of citizenship before an individual can be registered to vote in federal elections. For their part, House and Senate Democrats have balked at the offer, preferring a stopgap funding patch that expires in December. In fact, at this point, it's not yet clear whether Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) will have enough votes within his own conference to advance the measure.
In addition to the CR, the House this week will vote on a number of measures to crack down on China, including legislation (H.R. 9456) that would ban foreign adversaries from purchasing agricultural lands in the U.S.
Across the Capitol, senators are set to vote on confirming more of Biden's judicial nominees.
Attached is a report prepared by Paragon Government Relations outlining a number of key issues that could see action this Fall.
Download PARAGON - Legislative Report & Outlook for Fall Session - NSDC.pdf
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Transportation and Infrastructure: On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment will meet to examine the Biden Administration's implementation of its revised rule defining "waters of the United States" (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act and its impacts on states and stakeholders. More information on the hearing can be found here.
House Natural Resources: On September 6, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held a field hearing titled in the Central Valley to examine the state's water supply operations. Additional information on the hearing, including an archived webcast and a memo prepared by committee staff, can be accessed here. On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources will hold a legislative hearing on a discussion draft that proposes reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). More details on the hearing are available here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources: On Wednesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Water and Power will receive testimony on a slate of bills within the panel's jurisdiction. Additional details on the markup can be accessed here.
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House and Senate Action
Congress returns from its summer break today, though both chambers are only scheduled to be in session for three weeks. Starting on September 27th (or perhaps sooner), lawmakers will recess once again for the final stretch of campaign season. The most pressing business for congressional leaders is to pass a bill to fund the federal government beyond September 30. The House and Senate are still far apart on their fiscal year 2025 spending measures and will wait until after Election Day to resume negotiations on a formal budget deal. In the near-term, they'll have to pass a short-term spending patch to avoid a government shutdown.
This week, the House will consider a Republican-led measure that would pair a six-month Continuing Resolution (CR) with a bill (the SAVE Act) that would require proof of citizenship before an individual can be registered to vote in federal elections. For their part, House and Senate Democrats have balked at the offer, preferring a stopgap funding patch that expires in December. In fact, at this point, it's not yet clear whether Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) will have enough votes within his own conference to advance the measure.
In addition to the CR, the House this week will vote on a number of measures to crack down on China, including legislation (H.R. 9456) that would ban foreign adversaries from purchasing agricultural lands in the U.S.
Across the Capitol, senators are set to vote on confirming more of Biden's judicial nominees.
Attached is a report prepared by Paragon Government Relations outlining a number of key issues that could see action this Fall.
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Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Transportation and Infrastructure: On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment will meet to examine the Biden Administration's implementation of its revised rule defining "waters of the United States" (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act and its impacts on states and stakeholders. More information on the hearing can be found here.
House Natural Resources: On September 6, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held a field hearing titled in the Central Valley to examine the state's water supply operations. Additional information on the hearing, including an archived webcast and a memo prepared by committee staff, can be accessed here. On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources will hold a legislative hearing on a discussion draft that proposes reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). More details on the hearing are available here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources: On Wednesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Water and Power will receive testimony on a slate of bills within the panel's jurisdiction. Additional details on the markup can be accessed here.
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Update as of
July 30, 2024
House and Senate Action
The House is on recess and will not return to action until September 9th. The Senate is in session this week but will adjourn for the summer at the conclusion of legislative business this week.
In the coming days, the Senate will consider a legislative package – the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act – aimed at safeguarding children online. Pursuant to the measure, social media platforms would be required to take steps to shield underage users from potentially harmful content. The bill would also bar those companies from passing along minors' personal data that would have otherwise been used for targeted advertising. The Senate calendar can be accessed here.
Special District Grant Accessibility Act Set for Senate Committee Consideration
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee will resume its Business Meeting on Wednesday morning. Among the bills slated for consideration is the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (SDGAA). As outlined in last week's federal update, the legislation (H.R. 7525; S. 4673) would codify a first-ever, formal definition of "special district" and would require the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations.
One of the leading factors driving the need for the SDGAA is the fact that special districts were omitted in COVID-19-era legislation that provided direct federal financial assistance to local governments for coronavirus relief and response activities (namely CARES Act funding and ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund dollars). Unlike other forms of local government, special districts were excluded from receiving direct federal aid despite the fact that many special districts provided essential public services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including ambulance/EMS, hospital, and open space services. Moreover, while special districts are eligible for the vast majority of current federal funding opportunities, they are ineligible for – or face barriers to accessing – certain grant programs. The SDGAA seeks to level the playing field by ensuring that special districts have access to all appropriate and relevant federal funding streams.
Additional information on the committee markup can be accessed here.
Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Update
Last week, the House narrowly approved its fiscal year 2025 Interior and Environment spending measure (H.R. 8998). That brings the total number of bills passed in the House to five (of 12). While House GOP leaders had initially sought to advance several other funding measures last week – including those covering Energy-Water Development (H.R. 8997); Financial Services (H.R. 8773); and, Agriculture-Rural Development (H.R. 9027) – the bills were pulled from consideration when it became evident they did not have the necessary support to pass.
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate Appropriations Committee last week approved four fiscal year 2025 spending bills, with plans to consider an additional four measures this week. If the panel stays on schedule, committee leaders will have cleared 11 bills for floor consideration, with the contentious Homeland Security funding measure as the lone outstanding bill. However, it should be noted that the full chamber has yet to take up any of the bills. Despite the recent progress in both chambers, the House and Senate have yet to come to an agreement on topline spending levels. Looking ahead, and with so few legislative days remaining before the October 1 start of the new federal fiscal year, it's a foregone conclusion that Congress will need to consider a Continuing Resolution later this year. While the length of a stopgap funding bill is unclear at this point, it's likely that such a measure will extend government funding beyond the November elections.
Senate Panel to Consider Bipartisan Permitting Reform
This week, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee will consider bipartisan permitting reform legislation that aims to streamline the development of both renewable and fossil fuel projects. The measure, which the panel's Chair and Ranking Member introduced last week, has elements that would appeal to both Democrats and Republicans. For starters, it would expand interstate transmission lines that are needed to connect new wind and solar farms to major power demand centers – a key priority for Democrats. Meanwhile, Republicans are supportive of provisions that would boost energy production on federal lands, as well as language that would limit and expedite review of legal challenges. In a nod to both parties, the legislation would require the federal government to conduct at least one offshore oil and gas sale and wind sale per year. While the bill is likely to advance through committee this week, it's unclear whether it'll be taken up by the full Senate before the end of the year. A brief summary of the legislation is available here, and a section-by-section outline can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Finance Committee: On Tuesday morning, the panel will hold an oversight hearing entitled, "Tax Tools for Local Economic Development." A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 10am ET.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade and Export Promotion will hold a hearing to examine the current landscape for rural export businesses, including the challenges facing rural businesses as they work to access international markets and the resources available to support rural business owners as they start or expand their export business. Witnesses will highlight the importance of rural businesses to local economies and the need to ensure they have the tools to compete globally. More information on the hearing can be found here. On Wednesday morning, the full committee will meet to consider several dozen bills within the panel's jurisdiction. The full list of bills on the docket can be viewed here.
Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: On Wednesday morning, the panel will hold a hearing entitled, "Long-Term Economic Benefits and Impacts from Federal Infrastructure and Public Transportation Investment." Additional information on the hearing, including a full witness list, can be accessed here.
Senate Budget: On Wednesday morning, lawmakers on the panel will meet to discuss the future of electric vehicles. More information on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources: On Wednesday morning, the committee will consider bipartisan permitting reform legislation. More details on the markup can be found here.
Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: On Wednesday morning, the committee will meet to consider three bills, including legislation (S. 4776) that would reauthorize the Older Americans Act. Additional details on the markup can be accessed here.
Senate Appropriations: On Thursday morning, the committee will meet to consider the last five (of 12) spending bills for fiscal year 2025, including those covering Energy and Water; Defense; Labor-Health and Human Services; Homeland Security; and, Financial Services. More details on the markup can be found here.
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House and Senate Action
The House is on recess and will not return to action until September 9th. The Senate is in session this week but will adjourn for the summer at the conclusion of legislative business this week.
In the coming days, the Senate will consider a legislative package – the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act – aimed at safeguarding children online. Pursuant to the measure, social media platforms would be required to take steps to shield underage users from potentially harmful content. The bill would also bar those companies from passing along minors' personal data that would have otherwise been used for targeted advertising. The Senate calendar can be accessed here.
Special District Grant Accessibility Act Set for Senate Committee Consideration
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee will resume its Business Meeting on Wednesday morning. Among the bills slated for consideration is the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (SDGAA). As outlined in last week's federal update, the legislation (H.R. 7525; S. 4673) would codify a first-ever, formal definition of "special district" and would require the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations.
One of the leading factors driving the need for the SDGAA is the fact that special districts were omitted in COVID-19-era legislation that provided direct federal financial assistance to local governments for coronavirus relief and response activities (namely CARES Act funding and ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund dollars). Unlike other forms of local government, special districts were excluded from receiving direct federal aid despite the fact that many special districts provided essential public services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including ambulance/EMS, hospital, and open space services. Moreover, while special districts are eligible for the vast majority of current federal funding opportunities, they are ineligible for – or face barriers to accessing – certain grant programs. The SDGAA seeks to level the playing field by ensuring that special districts have access to all appropriate and relevant federal funding streams.
Additional information on the committee markup can be accessed here.
Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Update
Last week, the House narrowly approved its fiscal year 2025 Interior and Environment spending measure (H.R. 8998). That brings the total number of bills passed in the House to five (of 12). While House GOP leaders had initially sought to advance several other funding measures last week – including those covering Energy-Water Development (H.R. 8997); Financial Services (H.R. 8773); and, Agriculture-Rural Development (H.R. 9027) – the bills were pulled from consideration when it became evident they did not have the necessary support to pass.
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate Appropriations Committee last week approved four fiscal year 2025 spending bills, with plans to consider an additional four measures this week. If the panel stays on schedule, committee leaders will have cleared 11 bills for floor consideration, with the contentious Homeland Security funding measure as the lone outstanding bill. However, it should be noted that the full chamber has yet to take up any of the bills. Despite the recent progress in both chambers, the House and Senate have yet to come to an agreement on topline spending levels. Looking ahead, and with so few legislative days remaining before the October 1 start of the new federal fiscal year, it's a foregone conclusion that Congress will need to consider a Continuing Resolution later this year. While the length of a stopgap funding bill is unclear at this point, it's likely that such a measure will extend government funding beyond the November elections.
Senate Panel to Consider Bipartisan Permitting Reform
This week, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee will consider bipartisan permitting reform legislation that aims to streamline the development of both renewable and fossil fuel projects. The measure, which the panel's Chair and Ranking Member introduced last week, has elements that would appeal to both Democrats and Republicans. For starters, it would expand interstate transmission lines that are needed to connect new wind and solar farms to major power demand centers – a key priority for Democrats. Meanwhile, Republicans are supportive of provisions that would boost energy production on federal lands, as well as language that would limit and expedite review of legal challenges. In a nod to both parties, the legislation would require the federal government to conduct at least one offshore oil and gas sale and wind sale per year. While the bill is likely to advance through committee this week, it's unclear whether it'll be taken up by the full Senate before the end of the year. A brief summary of the legislation is available here, and a section-by-section outline can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Finance Committee: On Tuesday morning, the panel will hold an oversight hearing entitled, "Tax Tools for Local Economic Development." A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 10am ET.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade and Export Promotion will hold a hearing to examine the current landscape for rural export businesses, including the challenges facing rural businesses as they work to access international markets and the resources available to support rural business owners as they start or expand their export business. Witnesses will highlight the importance of rural businesses to local economies and the need to ensure they have the tools to compete globally. More information on the hearing can be found here. On Wednesday morning, the full committee will meet to consider several dozen bills within the panel's jurisdiction. The full list of bills on the docket can be viewed here.
Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: On Wednesday morning, the panel will hold a hearing entitled, "Long-Term Economic Benefits and Impacts from Federal Infrastructure and Public Transportation Investment." Additional information on the hearing, including a full witness list, can be accessed here.
Senate Budget: On Wednesday morning, lawmakers on the panel will meet to discuss the future of electric vehicles. More information on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources: On Wednesday morning, the committee will consider bipartisan permitting reform legislation. More details on the markup can be found here.
Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: On Wednesday morning, the committee will meet to consider three bills, including legislation (S. 4776) that would reauthorize the Older Americans Act. Additional details on the markup can be accessed here.
Senate Appropriations: On Thursday morning, the committee will meet to consider the last five (of 12) spending bills for fiscal year 2025, including those covering Energy and Water; Defense; Labor-Health and Human Services; Homeland Security; and, Financial Services. More details on the markup can be found here.
Update as of
July 23, 2024
House and Senate Action
Both chambers return to action this week. The House gaveled in earlier today and will consider a slate of noncontroversial bills on the suspension calendar, including legislation (H.R. 8812) that would reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The legislation, which authorizes programs and projects under the purview of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program, is typically renewed by Congress on a biennial basis. This year's House bill includes 159 new feasibility studies for locally proposed projects, as well as 12 projects that have been reviewed by the Corps and have culminated in a final report to Congress. Starting Tuesday, the lower chamber will consider two (of 12) spending bills for fiscal year 2025, including Energy-Water Development (H.R. 8997) and Interior-Environment (H.R. 8998). Two other funding bills were initially scheduled for action this week, namely those covering Financial Services (H.R. 8773) and Agriculture-Rural Development (H.R. 9027), but have since been pulled from consideration over concerns about spending levels and controversial policy riders. The full legislative calendar can be accessed here.
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate will continue its focus on nominations. The Senate schedule is available here.
Special District Grant Accessibility Act Set for Senate Committee Consideration
On Wednesday, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee is slated to formally consider the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (SDGAA). The legislation (H.R. 7525; S. 4673) would codify a first-ever, formal definition of "special district" and would require the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations.
One of the leading factors driving the need for the SDGAA is the fact that special districts were omitted in COVID-19-era legislation that provided direct federal financial assistance to local governments for coronavirus relief and response activities (namely CARES Act funding and ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund dollars). Unlike other forms of local government, special districts were excluded from receiving direct federal aid despite the fact that many special districts provided essential public services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including ambulance/EMS, hospital, and open space services. Moreover, while special districts are eligible for the vast majority of current federal funding opportunities, they are ineligible for – or face barriers to accessing – certain grant programs. The SDGAA seeks to level the playing field by ensuring that special districts have access to all appropriate and relevant federal funding streams.
Additional information on the committee markup can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Ways and Means Committee: On Wednesday morning, the full committee will mark up two bipartisan bills, the Strengthening State and Tribal Child Support Act (H.R. 7906) and the Protecting America's Children by Strengthening Families Act (H.R. 9076).
House Natural Resources Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources will hold a legislative hearing on four bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including legislation (H.R. 8954) that would create a revenue sharing mechanism for wind and solar energy development on public lands (25% to the State hosting the production; 25% to the county hosting the production; 25% to the Renewable Energy Resource Conservation Fund; and 25% to aid agencies in the processing of renewable energy permits on federal lands). Pursuant to the bill, a newly established Renewable Energy Resource Conservation Fund would help restore and protect landscapes in regions where renewable energy development occurs. The panel will also receive testimony on a bill (H.R. 8665) that establishes a supercritical geothermal research program and the Department of Energy and provides grant opportunities for supercritical geothermal technologies. More information on the hearing, including a full list of bills under review, can be accessed here.
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee: On Tuesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials will meet to examine the state of rail safety. Federal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose is among those slated to testify. On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit will hear from invited witnesses on the Transportation Department's regulatory and administrative agenda. More details on the two hearings is available here.
House Agriculture Committee: On Tuesday morning, the panel will meet for a hearing entitled, "Financial Conditions in Farm Country." A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 10am ET.
House Education and the Workforce Committee: On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections will hold a hearing on "Safeguarding Workers and Employers from OSHA Overreach and Skewed Priorities." More detail on the hearing can be found here.
House Financial Services Committee: On Tuesday morning, the full committee will meet to consider the benefits, risks, and consequences of artificial intelligence on the financial services and housing markets. The hearing coincides with the release of a staff report from the Bipartisan Working Group on Artificial Intelligence. Additional information on the hearing can be here.
Senate Appropriations Committee: On Thursday morning, the committee will consider four (of 12) fiscal year 2025 spending bills, including those covering Commerce-Justice-Science; Interior and Environment; State and Foreign Relations; and, Transportation-Housing and Urban Development. Additional details on the markup can be found here.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight and Ports will convene a subcommittee field hearing in Lansing, Michigan, to examine the impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law on transportation infrastructure. More information on the hearing can be found here.
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House and Senate Action
Both chambers return to action this week. The House gaveled in earlier today and will consider a slate of noncontroversial bills on the suspension calendar, including legislation (H.R. 8812) that would reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The legislation, which authorizes programs and projects under the purview of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program, is typically renewed by Congress on a biennial basis. This year's House bill includes 159 new feasibility studies for locally proposed projects, as well as 12 projects that have been reviewed by the Corps and have culminated in a final report to Congress. Starting Tuesday, the lower chamber will consider two (of 12) spending bills for fiscal year 2025, including Energy-Water Development (H.R. 8997) and Interior-Environment (H.R. 8998). Two other funding bills were initially scheduled for action this week, namely those covering Financial Services (H.R. 8773) and Agriculture-Rural Development (H.R. 9027), but have since been pulled from consideration over concerns about spending levels and controversial policy riders. The full legislative calendar can be accessed here.
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate will continue its focus on nominations. The Senate schedule is available here.
Special District Grant Accessibility Act Set for Senate Committee Consideration
On Wednesday, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee is slated to formally consider the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (SDGAA). The legislation (H.R. 7525; S. 4673) would codify a first-ever, formal definition of "special district" and would require the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations.
One of the leading factors driving the need for the SDGAA is the fact that special districts were omitted in COVID-19-era legislation that provided direct federal financial assistance to local governments for coronavirus relief and response activities (namely CARES Act funding and ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund dollars). Unlike other forms of local government, special districts were excluded from receiving direct federal aid despite the fact that many special districts provided essential public services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including ambulance/EMS, hospital, and open space services. Moreover, while special districts are eligible for the vast majority of current federal funding opportunities, they are ineligible for – or face barriers to accessing – certain grant programs. The SDGAA seeks to level the playing field by ensuring that special districts have access to all appropriate and relevant federal funding streams.
Additional information on the committee markup can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Ways and Means Committee: On Wednesday morning, the full committee will mark up two bipartisan bills, the Strengthening State and Tribal Child Support Act (H.R. 7906) and the Protecting America's Children by Strengthening Families Act (H.R. 9076).
House Natural Resources Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources will hold a legislative hearing on four bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including legislation (H.R. 8954) that would create a revenue sharing mechanism for wind and solar energy development on public lands (25% to the State hosting the production; 25% to the county hosting the production; 25% to the Renewable Energy Resource Conservation Fund; and 25% to aid agencies in the processing of renewable energy permits on federal lands). Pursuant to the bill, a newly established Renewable Energy Resource Conservation Fund would help restore and protect landscapes in regions where renewable energy development occurs. The panel will also receive testimony on a bill (H.R. 8665) that establishes a supercritical geothermal research program and the Department of Energy and provides grant opportunities for supercritical geothermal technologies. More information on the hearing, including a full list of bills under review, can be accessed here.
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee: On Tuesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials will meet to examine the state of rail safety. Federal Railroad Administration Administrator Amit Bose is among those slated to testify. On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit will hear from invited witnesses on the Transportation Department's regulatory and administrative agenda. More details on the two hearings is available here.
House Agriculture Committee: On Tuesday morning, the panel will meet for a hearing entitled, "Financial Conditions in Farm Country." A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 10am ET.
House Education and the Workforce Committee: On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections will hold a hearing on "Safeguarding Workers and Employers from OSHA Overreach and Skewed Priorities." More detail on the hearing can be found here.
House Financial Services Committee: On Tuesday morning, the full committee will meet to consider the benefits, risks, and consequences of artificial intelligence on the financial services and housing markets. The hearing coincides with the release of a staff report from the Bipartisan Working Group on Artificial Intelligence. Additional information on the hearing can be here.
Senate Appropriations Committee: On Thursday morning, the committee will consider four (of 12) fiscal year 2025 spending bills, including those covering Commerce-Justice-Science; Interior and Environment; State and Foreign Relations; and, Transportation-Housing and Urban Development. Additional details on the markup can be found here.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight and Ports will convene a subcommittee field hearing in Lansing, Michigan, to examine the impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law on transportation infrastructure. More information on the hearing can be found here.
Update as of
July 9, 2024
House and Senate Action
Both chambers returned to action today following the Independence Day holiday. This week, the House will consider legislation (H.J. Res. 165) that would overturn the Biden administration's Title IX rule, which expands discrimination protections for pregnant, transgender, and non-binary students. The chamber will also take up a bill (H.R. 7637; H.R. 7700) that would prohibit the Department of Energy (DOE) from prescribing or enforcing energy efficiency standards for refrigerators and dishwashers that are not cost effective or technologically feasible. In addition, lawmakers will vote on a measure (H.R. 8281) that would require individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections. Finally, lawmakers will consider the fiscal year 2025 spending bill covering the Legislative Branch. The full legislative calendar can be accessed here.
The Senate is expected to focus on nominations. The Senate schedule is available here
The House and Senate will recess again next week to allow GOP lawmakers to attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Special District Grant Accessibility Act – Senate Introduction Expected This Week
Later this week, Senators Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) are expected to introduce the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (SDGAA). The bill, which was approved by the full House back on May 5th, would establish a first-ever, formal definition of "special district" in federal law. In addition to codifying such a definition, the legislation would require the White House Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations.
One of the leading factors driving the need for the SDGAA is the fact that special districts were omitted in COVID-19-era legislation that provided direct federal financial assistance to local governments for coronavirus relief and response activities (namely CARES Act funding and ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund dollars). Unlike other forms of local government, special districts were excluded from receiving direct federal aid despite the fact that many special districts provided essential public services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including ambulance/EMS, hospital, and open space services. Moreover, while special districts are eligible for the vast majority of current federal funding opportunities, they are ineligible for - or face barriers to accessing - certain grant programs. The SDGAA seeks to level the playing field by ensuring that special districts have access to all appropriate and relevant federal funding streams.
Looking ahead, the bill will need to be considered by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. If favorably approved by the committee, the legislation would advance to the floor of the Senate.
Biden Administration Lays Out Regulatory Blueprint for the Remainder of the Year
On July 5, the Biden administration released its regulatory blueprint for the remainder of the year and beyond. The spring Unified Agenda, as it is known, outlines the federal regulatory priorities and plans for the coming months. Among other things, the White House intends to propose initiatives to modernize infrastructure, improve transportation safety, and promote sustainable development. This includes regulations related to public transit, aviation, and the development of smart cities. There will also be an emphasis on regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting clean energy, and protecting natural resources. This includes stricter emissions standards for vehicles and industrial sources, as well as initiatives to address pollution and improve air and water quality. On the healthcare front, the administration will continue efforts to improve the affordability of prescription drugs and enhance public health preparedness. This includes regulations related to the Affordable Care Act, mental health parity, and responses to the opioid crisis. The full list of anticipated proposals can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Appropriations Committee: This week, the full committee will consider six (of 12) fiscal year 2025 spending bills. The measures scheduled to be considered include: Commerce-Justice-Science; Interior-Environment; Energy and Water; Labor-Health and Human Services; Transportation-Housing and Urban Development; and, Agriculture-Rural Development. More details on the committee activity can be accessed here.
House Natural Resources Committee: On Tuesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold a legislative hearing on four measures, including a bill (H.R. 7544) that would forbid the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture from mandating water users transfer water rights to the federal government as a condition of any permit, lease, or other use agreement. It also would prevent any unlawful seizures of groundwater. More information on the hearing can be accessed here.
House Oversight and Accountability Committee: On Wednesday morning, the full committee will meet to conduct oversight of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). More details on the hearing will become available here.
House Agriculture Committee: On Wednesday afternoon, the panel will meet for a hearing entitled, "Examining the Consequences of EPA's Actions on American Agriculture." A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 2pm ET.
Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee: On Wednesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Rural Development and Energy will hold a hearing on the state of rural infrastructure in the United States, with a particular focus on emergency response, recovery, and resilience. Blue Earth (MN) County Commissioner Kevin Paap is among those slated to testify. Additional information on the hearing, including a full witness list, is available here.
Senate Appropriations Committee: On Thursday morning, the committee will consider the first three (of 12) fiscal year 2025 spending bills, including those covering the Legislative Branch; Agriculture, and Military Construction-Veterans Affairs. The panel will also vote on the funding allocations for each of the 12 subcommittees. More details on the markup can be found here.
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House and Senate Action
Both chambers returned to action today following the Independence Day holiday. This week, the House will consider legislation (H.J. Res. 165) that would overturn the Biden administration's Title IX rule, which expands discrimination protections for pregnant, transgender, and non-binary students. The chamber will also take up a bill (H.R. 7637; H.R. 7700) that would prohibit the Department of Energy (DOE) from prescribing or enforcing energy efficiency standards for refrigerators and dishwashers that are not cost effective or technologically feasible. In addition, lawmakers will vote on a measure (H.R. 8281) that would require individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections. Finally, lawmakers will consider the fiscal year 2025 spending bill covering the Legislative Branch. The full legislative calendar can be accessed here.
The Senate is expected to focus on nominations. The Senate schedule is available here
The House and Senate will recess again next week to allow GOP lawmakers to attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Special District Grant Accessibility Act – Senate Introduction Expected This Week
Later this week, Senators Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) are expected to introduce the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (SDGAA). The bill, which was approved by the full House back on May 5th, would establish a first-ever, formal definition of "special district" in federal law. In addition to codifying such a definition, the legislation would require the White House Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance to federal agencies requiring special districts to be recognized as local governments for the purpose of federal financial assistance determinations.
One of the leading factors driving the need for the SDGAA is the fact that special districts were omitted in COVID-19-era legislation that provided direct federal financial assistance to local governments for coronavirus relief and response activities (namely CARES Act funding and ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund dollars). Unlike other forms of local government, special districts were excluded from receiving direct federal aid despite the fact that many special districts provided essential public services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including ambulance/EMS, hospital, and open space services. Moreover, while special districts are eligible for the vast majority of current federal funding opportunities, they are ineligible for - or face barriers to accessing - certain grant programs. The SDGAA seeks to level the playing field by ensuring that special districts have access to all appropriate and relevant federal funding streams.
Looking ahead, the bill will need to be considered by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. If favorably approved by the committee, the legislation would advance to the floor of the Senate.
Biden Administration Lays Out Regulatory Blueprint for the Remainder of the Year
On July 5, the Biden administration released its regulatory blueprint for the remainder of the year and beyond. The spring Unified Agenda, as it is known, outlines the federal regulatory priorities and plans for the coming months. Among other things, the White House intends to propose initiatives to modernize infrastructure, improve transportation safety, and promote sustainable development. This includes regulations related to public transit, aviation, and the development of smart cities. There will also be an emphasis on regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting clean energy, and protecting natural resources. This includes stricter emissions standards for vehicles and industrial sources, as well as initiatives to address pollution and improve air and water quality. On the healthcare front, the administration will continue efforts to improve the affordability of prescription drugs and enhance public health preparedness. This includes regulations related to the Affordable Care Act, mental health parity, and responses to the opioid crisis. The full list of anticipated proposals can be accessed here.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Appropriations Committee: This week, the full committee will consider six (of 12) fiscal year 2025 spending bills. The measures scheduled to be considered include: Commerce-Justice-Science; Interior-Environment; Energy and Water; Labor-Health and Human Services; Transportation-Housing and Urban Development; and, Agriculture-Rural Development. More details on the committee activity can be accessed here.
House Natural Resources Committee: On Tuesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold a legislative hearing on four measures, including a bill (H.R. 7544) that would forbid the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture from mandating water users transfer water rights to the federal government as a condition of any permit, lease, or other use agreement. It also would prevent any unlawful seizures of groundwater. More information on the hearing can be accessed here.
House Oversight and Accountability Committee: On Wednesday morning, the full committee will meet to conduct oversight of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). More details on the hearing will become available here.
House Agriculture Committee: On Wednesday afternoon, the panel will meet for a hearing entitled, "Examining the Consequences of EPA's Actions on American Agriculture." A livestream of the hearing will be available here, beginning at 2pm ET.
Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee: On Wednesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Rural Development and Energy will hold a hearing on the state of rural infrastructure in the United States, with a particular focus on emergency response, recovery, and resilience. Blue Earth (MN) County Commissioner Kevin Paap is among those slated to testify. Additional information on the hearing, including a full witness list, is available here.
Senate Appropriations Committee: On Thursday morning, the committee will consider the first three (of 12) fiscal year 2025 spending bills, including those covering the Legislative Branch; Agriculture, and Military Construction-Veterans Affairs. The panel will also vote on the funding allocations for each of the 12 subcommittees. More details on the markup can be found here.
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Update as of
June 18, 2024
House and Senate Action
The Senate is the only chamber in session this week. They will recess briefly on Wednesday for Juneteenth before reconvening on Thursday morning. The top priority for Senate Democrats is to reverse a recent Supreme Court decision that removed the Trump-era ban on bump stocks, a device that can convert semiautomatic weapons to ones capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
House Panel Advances FY25 Homeland Security Spending Bill
Last week, the House Appropriations Committee voted along party lines to advance the fiscal year 2025 spending bill for the Department of Homeland Security. In all, the measure would provide $94.4 billion in discretionary funding for the department, an increase of nearly $4 billion. When excluding offsetting collections and major disaster funding, the total provided in the bill is $64.8 billion, which is nearly $800 million above current levels. Among other things, the bill recommends over $28 billion (an increase of $2.8 billion) for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including $22.7 billion for disaster relief. With regard to federal assistance, the measure would provide $360 million each for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, an increase of $36 million for both programs. A full summary of the bill is available here. A summary prepared by Democrats on the panel can be accessed here.
House Lawmakers Set to Introduce Wildfire Permitting Legislation
House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AK) and Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA) will soon introduce legislation – the Fix Our Forest Act – that would ease permitting reviews for forest management projects meant to reduce the growing risk of destructive wildfires. The measure seeks to expedite reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and curtail litigation that frequently delays projects. Specifically, and among other things, it would enable agencies to adopt categorical exclusions – or specific exemptions from full NEPA review – for some forest management projects. The bill would also limit lawsuits by preventing courts from stopping a project unless the court can prove that it would cause substantial environmental harm. It also would require litigants to sue within 120 days and to have participated in the public comment process. Finally, it would promote collaboration at all levels of government by creating a new Fireshed Center made up of representatives from different agencies. Chairman Westerman is expected to schedule committee action on the bill in the coming weeks.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Appropriations Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Transportation-Housing and Urban Development will hold a hearing entitled, "Unlocking Department of Transportation Financing for More Transit-Oriented Housing Development." Additional details on the hearing, including a livestream of the event, will be available here.
Senate Judiciary – On Thursday morning, the committee will meet to consider legislation (S. 1306) that would reauthorize the COPS program through fiscal year 2029. More information on the markup is available here.
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House and Senate Action
The Senate is the only chamber in session this week. They will recess briefly on Wednesday for Juneteenth before reconvening on Thursday morning. The top priority for Senate Democrats is to reverse a recent Supreme Court decision that removed the Trump-era ban on bump stocks, a device that can convert semiautomatic weapons to ones capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
House Panel Advances FY25 Homeland Security Spending Bill
Last week, the House Appropriations Committee voted along party lines to advance the fiscal year 2025 spending bill for the Department of Homeland Security. In all, the measure would provide $94.4 billion in discretionary funding for the department, an increase of nearly $4 billion. When excluding offsetting collections and major disaster funding, the total provided in the bill is $64.8 billion, which is nearly $800 million above current levels. Among other things, the bill recommends over $28 billion (an increase of $2.8 billion) for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including $22.7 billion for disaster relief. With regard to federal assistance, the measure would provide $360 million each for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, an increase of $36 million for both programs. A full summary of the bill is available here. A summary prepared by Democrats on the panel can be accessed here.
House Lawmakers Set to Introduce Wildfire Permitting Legislation
House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AK) and Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA) will soon introduce legislation – the Fix Our Forest Act – that would ease permitting reviews for forest management projects meant to reduce the growing risk of destructive wildfires. The measure seeks to expedite reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and curtail litigation that frequently delays projects. Specifically, and among other things, it would enable agencies to adopt categorical exclusions – or specific exemptions from full NEPA review – for some forest management projects. The bill would also limit lawsuits by preventing courts from stopping a project unless the court can prove that it would cause substantial environmental harm. It also would require litigants to sue within 120 days and to have participated in the public comment process. Finally, it would promote collaboration at all levels of government by creating a new Fireshed Center made up of representatives from different agencies. Chairman Westerman is expected to schedule committee action on the bill in the coming weeks.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Appropriations Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Transportation-Housing and Urban Development will hold a hearing entitled, "Unlocking Department of Transportation Financing for More Transit-Oriented Housing Development." Additional details on the hearing, including a livestream of the event, will be available here.
Senate Judiciary – On Thursday morning, the committee will meet to consider legislation (S. 1306) that would reauthorize the COPS program through fiscal year 2029. More information on the markup is available here.
Update as of
June 11, 2024
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are both in session this week.
House
Starting Tuesday afternoon, the lower chamber will consider nearly a dozen bills on the suspension calendar (requires 2/3 majority for passage), including legislation – the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act (H.R. 2964) – that would require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue regulations requiring entities responsible for the labeling or retail packaging of certain pre-moistened, nonwoven wipes (e.g., baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or personal care wipes) to label such products clearly and conspicuously with the phrase "Do Not Flush". It should be noted that H.R. 2964 was previously scheduled for floor consideration in May. Another bill on the docket (H.R. 6543) seeks to improve cost transparency for stays in short-term lodging, such as hotels, motels, and inns. Later in the week, lawmakers will consider the annual defense authorization bill. The full House floor schedule is available here.
Senate
Across Capitol Hill, Senate Democratic leaders will keep the focus on women's reproductive rights this week with a vote scheduled on legislation that would protect and expand access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technology (ART) services nationwide. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
Legislation Introduced to Implement Recommendations of Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission
Representatives Josh Harder (D-CA) and Scott Franklin (R-FL) recently introduced legislation (H.R. 8656) that would address the growing wildfire threat by implementing a number of the recommendations outlined in a 2023 report by the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission. The 50-person commission, with representatives from state and federal agencies, the private sector, nonprofits, and firefighters, made 148 recommendations. H.R. 8656 incorporates 16 of those recommendations, with a focus on workforce development, support for wildland firefighters, wildfire smoke and public health impacts, and fire mitigation and technology. A section-by-section summary of the bill is attached.
Senate Panel Discusses Underlying Reasons for Rising Insurance Costs
Last week, the Senate Budget Committee held a hearing entitled, "Riskier Business: How Climate is Already Challenging Insurance Markets." The hearing was an opportunity for lawmakers to discuss the underlying causes of the current property and commercial insurance crisis. For their part, Democrats on the panel identified climate change as a major driver of high-damage claims and rising premium costs. Republicans, on the other hand, pointed to rising federal spending levels and inflation – including increased costs of labor and materials to rebuild or repair homes – as the main cause of insurance price hikes. Some Republicans also identified increased development into disaster-prone areas as another key factor that contributes to high insurance premiums. While there was some significant disagreement on the underlying cause(s) of the current insurance crisis, there was bipartisan agreement on the need to reduce risk and support mitigation measures that improve resilience to future disasters.
Notably, Democrats on the Budget Committee have several open investigations into the threat that climate change poses to insurance markets. As part of one investigation, the committee has requested information from dozens of private sector insurers on how they plan to address increased underwriting losses from climate disasters. The subject of another inquiry is how the insurance industry at large evaluates climate-related risks, decides to invest in or underwrite fossil fuel expansion projects that drive such risks, and policies that insure such projects. The third investigation focuses specifically on Florida's state-run insurance provider.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Transportation and Infrastructure: The panel's Subcommittee on Highways and Transit will hold a hearing entitled, "Revenue, Ridership, and Post-Pandemic Lessons in Public Transit." More details on the hearing, including a full witness list, can be accessed here.
House Appropriations: This week, the full committee will consider five FY 2025 spending bills, including those covering Defense, Financial Services and General Government, the Legislative Branch, State and Foreign Operations, and Homeland Security. The Subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development will mark up its bill on Tuesday evening. The full list of committee events can be found here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: On Wednesday afternoon, the Public Lands, Forests, and Mining Subcommittee will hold a legislative hearing on 20 bills that touch on everything from public lands management to minerals. On Thursday afternoon, the full committee will meet to conduct oversight of the Bureau of Land Management, which is expected to focus primarily on public lands management policies, renewable energy, and oil and gas development. More details on the two hearings is available here.
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House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are both in session this week.
House
Starting Tuesday afternoon, the lower chamber will consider nearly a dozen bills on the suspension calendar (requires 2/3 majority for passage), including legislation – the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act (H.R. 2964) – that would require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue regulations requiring entities responsible for the labeling or retail packaging of certain pre-moistened, nonwoven wipes (e.g., baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or personal care wipes) to label such products clearly and conspicuously with the phrase "Do Not Flush". It should be noted that H.R. 2964 was previously scheduled for floor consideration in May. Another bill on the docket (H.R. 6543) seeks to improve cost transparency for stays in short-term lodging, such as hotels, motels, and inns. Later in the week, lawmakers will consider the annual defense authorization bill. The full House floor schedule is available here.
Senate
Across Capitol Hill, Senate Democratic leaders will keep the focus on women's reproductive rights this week with a vote scheduled on legislation that would protect and expand access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technology (ART) services nationwide. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
Legislation Introduced to Implement Recommendations of Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission
Representatives Josh Harder (D-CA) and Scott Franklin (R-FL) recently introduced legislation (H.R. 8656) that would address the growing wildfire threat by implementing a number of the recommendations outlined in a 2023 report by the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission. The 50-person commission, with representatives from state and federal agencies, the private sector, nonprofits, and firefighters, made 148 recommendations. H.R. 8656 incorporates 16 of those recommendations, with a focus on workforce development, support for wildland firefighters, wildfire smoke and public health impacts, and fire mitigation and technology. A section-by-section summary of the bill is attached.
Senate Panel Discusses Underlying Reasons for Rising Insurance Costs
Last week, the Senate Budget Committee held a hearing entitled, "Riskier Business: How Climate is Already Challenging Insurance Markets." The hearing was an opportunity for lawmakers to discuss the underlying causes of the current property and commercial insurance crisis. For their part, Democrats on the panel identified climate change as a major driver of high-damage claims and rising premium costs. Republicans, on the other hand, pointed to rising federal spending levels and inflation – including increased costs of labor and materials to rebuild or repair homes – as the main cause of insurance price hikes. Some Republicans also identified increased development into disaster-prone areas as another key factor that contributes to high insurance premiums. While there was some significant disagreement on the underlying cause(s) of the current insurance crisis, there was bipartisan agreement on the need to reduce risk and support mitigation measures that improve resilience to future disasters.
Notably, Democrats on the Budget Committee have several open investigations into the threat that climate change poses to insurance markets. As part of one investigation, the committee has requested information from dozens of private sector insurers on how they plan to address increased underwriting losses from climate disasters. The subject of another inquiry is how the insurance industry at large evaluates climate-related risks, decides to invest in or underwrite fossil fuel expansion projects that drive such risks, and policies that insure such projects. The third investigation focuses specifically on Florida's state-run insurance provider.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Transportation and Infrastructure: The panel's Subcommittee on Highways and Transit will hold a hearing entitled, "Revenue, Ridership, and Post-Pandemic Lessons in Public Transit." More details on the hearing, including a full witness list, can be accessed here.
House Appropriations: This week, the full committee will consider five FY 2025 spending bills, including those covering Defense, Financial Services and General Government, the Legislative Branch, State and Foreign Operations, and Homeland Security. The Subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development will mark up its bill on Tuesday evening. The full list of committee events can be found here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: On Wednesday afternoon, the Public Lands, Forests, and Mining Subcommittee will hold a legislative hearing on 20 bills that touch on everything from public lands management to minerals. On Thursday afternoon, the full committee will meet to conduct oversight of the Bureau of Land Management, which is expected to focus primarily on public lands management policies, renewable energy, and oil and gas development. More details on the two hearings is available here.
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Update as of
June 3, 2024
House and Senate Action
Following a one week recess for the Memorial Day holiday, the House and Senate will reconvene this afternoon. It will be a short work week, as a number of Members will travel to France midweek to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.
House
In the lower chamber, lawmakers will consider the fiscal year 2025 spending bill (H.R. 8580) that covers discretionary appropriations for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. Notably, this is the first funding measure to be considered this year. The House will also take up legislation (H.R. 8282) sanctioning the International Criminal Court if it moves ahead with arrest warrants for Israeli officials. The full House floor schedule is available here.
Senate
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate will consider legislation – the Right to Contraception Act (S. 4381) – that would guarantee the legal right to purchase and use contraception and for health care providers to provide contraception, information, referrals and services related to contraception. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
EPA Proposes Water System Restructuring Assessment Rule
On May 30, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed rule that would allow states to mandate assessments for how Public Water Systems (PWS) that chronically violate federal drinking water standards could be restructured.
EPA's proposal stems from recent amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) that granted the Agency and states new regulatory authorities. Pursuant to the rule, a PWS would be subject to a mandatory assessment if a state finds that: (1) the PWS has repeatedly violated one or more National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWRs) and such violations are likely to adversely affect human health; (2) the PWS is unable or unwilling to implement restructuring activities or already has attempted to implement such activities, but has not achieved compliance; (3) restructuring of the PWS, including a form of consolidation or a transfer of ownership, is feasible; and, (4) restructuring of the PWS could result in greater compliance with drinking water standards. Although EPA's new mandatory assessment requirements would not apply to water systems that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, such PWSs could develop and submit restructuring plans eligible for restructuring incentives.
Looking ahead, EPA will be hosting a webinar on the proposed rule on June 5. The webinar will identify the primary elements of the rulemaking, key principles of restructuring, and identified topics for public comment on the proposal. A registration link for the webinar can be found here, and a copy of the proposed rule can be accessed here. Stakeholders have until July 29 to submit comments to the EPA.
Biden Expected to Announce Border Plan
On Tuesday, President Biden is expected to issue an executive order that would temporarily close the U.S.-Mexico border to migrants when crossings surge. The full details of the plan have yet to be released, but the order would allow border officials to prevent migrants from claiming asylum when border crossings surpass a certain threshold. While the threshold is still under discussion, it is expected to mirror legislation that failed to advance in the Senate. Under that proposal, the border would be closed to illegal crossings if the daily average of encounters surpasses 5,000 migrants, or if a one-day total surpasses 8,500. The legislation would have also given the Homeland Security Secretary the authority to shut down the border at 4,000 encounters per day. It should be noted that unaccompanied children are expected to be exempt from the order.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Natural Resources Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Federal Lands will hold an oversight hearing entitled "Examining the President's FY 2025 Budget Request for the U.S. Forest Service." Additional details on the hearing, including a livestream of the event, will be available here.
Senate Budget Committee: On Wednesday morning, the Senate Budget Committee will hold a hearing on how climate change continues to impact and challenge the insurance market. Additional information on the hearing will be available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee: On Wednesday morning, the Senate EPW Committee will hold a hearing entitled "Oversight and Budget of the Federal Highway Administration." Additional details on the hearing will be available here.
House Oversight and Accountability Committee: On Wednesday, the House Oversight and Accountability Committee will hold an oversight hearing to examine programs under the purview of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A livestream of the event will be accessible here.
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House and Senate Action
Following a one week recess for the Memorial Day holiday, the House and Senate will reconvene this afternoon. It will be a short work week, as a number of Members will travel to France midweek to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.
House
In the lower chamber, lawmakers will consider the fiscal year 2025 spending bill (H.R. 8580) that covers discretionary appropriations for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. Notably, this is the first funding measure to be considered this year. The House will also take up legislation (H.R. 8282) sanctioning the International Criminal Court if it moves ahead with arrest warrants for Israeli officials. The full House floor schedule is available here.
Senate
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate will consider legislation – the Right to Contraception Act (S. 4381) – that would guarantee the legal right to purchase and use contraception and for health care providers to provide contraception, information, referrals and services related to contraception. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
EPA Proposes Water System Restructuring Assessment Rule
On May 30, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed rule that would allow states to mandate assessments for how Public Water Systems (PWS) that chronically violate federal drinking water standards could be restructured.
EPA's proposal stems from recent amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) that granted the Agency and states new regulatory authorities. Pursuant to the rule, a PWS would be subject to a mandatory assessment if a state finds that: (1) the PWS has repeatedly violated one or more National Primary Drinking Water Regulations (NPDWRs) and such violations are likely to adversely affect human health; (2) the PWS is unable or unwilling to implement restructuring activities or already has attempted to implement such activities, but has not achieved compliance; (3) restructuring of the PWS, including a form of consolidation or a transfer of ownership, is feasible; and, (4) restructuring of the PWS could result in greater compliance with drinking water standards. Although EPA's new mandatory assessment requirements would not apply to water systems that do not meet the aforementioned criteria, such PWSs could develop and submit restructuring plans eligible for restructuring incentives.
Looking ahead, EPA will be hosting a webinar on the proposed rule on June 5. The webinar will identify the primary elements of the rulemaking, key principles of restructuring, and identified topics for public comment on the proposal. A registration link for the webinar can be found here, and a copy of the proposed rule can be accessed here. Stakeholders have until July 29 to submit comments to the EPA.
Biden Expected to Announce Border Plan
On Tuesday, President Biden is expected to issue an executive order that would temporarily close the U.S.-Mexico border to migrants when crossings surge. The full details of the plan have yet to be released, but the order would allow border officials to prevent migrants from claiming asylum when border crossings surpass a certain threshold. While the threshold is still under discussion, it is expected to mirror legislation that failed to advance in the Senate. Under that proposal, the border would be closed to illegal crossings if the daily average of encounters surpasses 5,000 migrants, or if a one-day total surpasses 8,500. The legislation would have also given the Homeland Security Secretary the authority to shut down the border at 4,000 encounters per day. It should be noted that unaccompanied children are expected to be exempt from the order.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Natural Resources Committee: On Tuesday morning, the Subcommittee on Federal Lands will hold an oversight hearing entitled "Examining the President's FY 2025 Budget Request for the U.S. Forest Service." Additional details on the hearing, including a livestream of the event, will be available here.
Senate Budget Committee: On Wednesday morning, the Senate Budget Committee will hold a hearing on how climate change continues to impact and challenge the insurance market. Additional information on the hearing will be available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee: On Wednesday morning, the Senate EPW Committee will hold a hearing entitled "Oversight and Budget of the Federal Highway Administration." Additional details on the hearing will be available here.
House Oversight and Accountability Committee: On Wednesday, the House Oversight and Accountability Committee will hold an oversight hearing to examine programs under the purview of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A livestream of the event will be accessible here.
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Update as of
May 21, 2024
House and Senate Action
Both chambers are in session, though they will adjourn for the Memorial Day recess on Thursday.
The House will gavel in this afternoon. The chamber has a full slate of bills on the suspension calendar (requires 2/3 majority for passage), including legislation (H.R. 5863) that would provide tax relief to victims of a qualified wildfire or hurricane, as well as losses resulting from the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment. It should be noted that the measure was originally included as part of a larger tax package that has been stalled since January. Later in the week, the lower chamber will consider a bill (H.R. 192) that would prohibit individuals who are not U.S. citizens from voting in D.C. elections. The full House agenda is available here.
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate is expected to vote on a border security and immigration package this week. The measure, which is not expected to advance, mirrors the bipartisan compromise that collapsed earlier this year. Pursuant to the legislation, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be required to close the border to illegal crossings if the daily average of encounters surpasses 5,000 migrants, or if a one-day total surpasses 8,500. However, DHS would have the authority to shut down the border at 4,000 encounters per day. Once the mandatory shutdown is enforced, it would require two weeks of significantly lower illegal crossings in order to reopen the border to crossings, other than asylum appointments, at ports of entry. Notably, the package does not include provisions that would provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and other undocumented individuals. It should be noted that a handful of Democrats view the policy changes as too extreme and will therefore oppose consideration of the bill. Many Republicans, on the other hand, do not believe the reforms go far enough and view this effort as a political exercise meant to provide a boost to vulnerable Democrats. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
House Ag Committee to Consider GOP Farm Bill Reauthorization Package
On Thursday, the House Agriculture Committee will mark up a $1.5 trillion Farm Bill reauthorization package. The legislation, which totals 942 pages and is still in draft form, would fund programs across 12 separate titles for a period of five years. The Republican-authored bill faces stiff opposition from Senate Democrats and the Biden administration due to proposed cuts in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the removal of climate change mitigation requirements for conservation investments. With regard to SNAP, the draft bill would limit future updates to the Thrifty Food Plan, which provides the basis for calculating nutrition benefits. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the policy change would reduce SNAP by roughly $30 billion over the next decade. While the legislation is expected to be approved by the House Agriculture Committee, it remains unclear if GOP leaders will have sufficient votes to pass the measure on the floor.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Agriculture – On Thursday morning, lawmakers will meet to consider a Farm Bill reauthorization package. Additional details on the markup, including a livestream of the event, will become available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, the panel will consider six bills, including the biennial Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Following the markup, the committee will hold a hearing on efforts to improve reuse and recycling. More info on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources – On Tuesday morning, the committee will hold a hearing to examine the opportunities, risks, and challenges associated with growth in demand for electric power in the United States. More info on the hearing, including a full witness list, is available here.
Senate Budget Committee – On Wednesday morning, the panel will hold a hearing entitled, "Droughts, Dollars and Decisions: Water Scarcity in a Changing Climate." Additional information on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation – This afternoon, the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight and Ports, will meet to examine the causes of the roadway safety crisis, including unique risks to pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists, and how Congress can support a holistic approach to roadway safety. A livestream of the event will be available here, beginning at 2:30pm ET.
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House and Senate Action
Both chambers are in session, though they will adjourn for the Memorial Day recess on Thursday.
The House will gavel in this afternoon. The chamber has a full slate of bills on the suspension calendar (requires 2/3 majority for passage), including legislation (H.R. 5863) that would provide tax relief to victims of a qualified wildfire or hurricane, as well as losses resulting from the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment. It should be noted that the measure was originally included as part of a larger tax package that has been stalled since January. Later in the week, the lower chamber will consider a bill (H.R. 192) that would prohibit individuals who are not U.S. citizens from voting in D.C. elections. The full House agenda is available here.
Across Capitol Hill, the Senate is expected to vote on a border security and immigration package this week. The measure, which is not expected to advance, mirrors the bipartisan compromise that collapsed earlier this year. Pursuant to the legislation, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be required to close the border to illegal crossings if the daily average of encounters surpasses 5,000 migrants, or if a one-day total surpasses 8,500. However, DHS would have the authority to shut down the border at 4,000 encounters per day. Once the mandatory shutdown is enforced, it would require two weeks of significantly lower illegal crossings in order to reopen the border to crossings, other than asylum appointments, at ports of entry. Notably, the package does not include provisions that would provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and other undocumented individuals. It should be noted that a handful of Democrats view the policy changes as too extreme and will therefore oppose consideration of the bill. Many Republicans, on the other hand, do not believe the reforms go far enough and view this effort as a political exercise meant to provide a boost to vulnerable Democrats. The daily Senate schedule can be accessed here.
House Ag Committee to Consider GOP Farm Bill Reauthorization Package
On Thursday, the House Agriculture Committee will mark up a $1.5 trillion Farm Bill reauthorization package. The legislation, which totals 942 pages and is still in draft form, would fund programs across 12 separate titles for a period of five years. The Republican-authored bill faces stiff opposition from Senate Democrats and the Biden administration due to proposed cuts in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the removal of climate change mitigation requirements for conservation investments. With regard to SNAP, the draft bill would limit future updates to the Thrifty Food Plan, which provides the basis for calculating nutrition benefits. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the policy change would reduce SNAP by roughly $30 billion over the next decade. While the legislation is expected to be approved by the House Agriculture Committee, it remains unclear if GOP leaders will have sufficient votes to pass the measure on the floor.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Agriculture – On Thursday morning, lawmakers will meet to consider a Farm Bill reauthorization package. Additional details on the markup, including a livestream of the event, will become available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, the panel will consider six bills, including the biennial Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Following the markup, the committee will hold a hearing on efforts to improve reuse and recycling. More info on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources – On Tuesday morning, the committee will hold a hearing to examine the opportunities, risks, and challenges associated with growth in demand for electric power in the United States. More info on the hearing, including a full witness list, is available here.
Senate Budget Committee – On Wednesday morning, the panel will hold a hearing entitled, "Droughts, Dollars and Decisions: Water Scarcity in a Changing Climate." Additional information on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation – This afternoon, the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight and Ports, will meet to examine the causes of the roadway safety crisis, including unique risks to pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists, and how Congress can support a holistic approach to roadway safety. A livestream of the event will be available here, beginning at 2:30pm ET.
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Update as of
May 15, 2024
House and Senate Action
Neither chamber is in session today but both will return to action on Tuesday.
The House will consider a number of measures on the suspension calendar (requires 2/3 majority for passage), including giving final approval to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) renewal (H.R. 3935). It should be noted that the Senate cleared the legislation Thursday evening and also passed a one-week extension, which gives the House until Friday to get this done. A section-by-section summary of the FAA agreement can be found here.
Another bill on the suspension calendar and endorsed by NSDC – the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act (H.R. 2964) – would require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue regulations requiring entities responsible for the labeling or retail packaging of certain pre-moistened, nonwoven wipes (e.g., baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or personal care wipes) to label such products clearly and conspicuously with the phrase "Do Not Flush". The
In addition, and in honor of National Police Week in DC, House GOP leaders have placed a number of crime-related bills on the floor. This includes legislation (S. 546) that would expand the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program to support hiring activities by law enforcement agencies experiencing declines in officer recruitment applications. It also would establish a new program to encourage voluntary partnerships between schools and police departments to foster a stronger local pipeline for law enforcement careers.
The full House agenda is available here.
Senate Commerce Committee to Vote on Bill Extending Affordable Connectivity Program
On Thursday, May 16, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee is scheduled to vote on comprehensive legislation that would modernize the nation's spectrum policy. Among other things, the bill (S. 4207) would provide $7 billion in new funding to extend the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). To pay for the ACP extension, the bill would reinstate the FCC's lapsed authority to auction off spectrum bands to commercial users. It should be noted that April was the last month that ACP subscribers received the full $30 benefit. In May, program participants are receiving a $14 discount off their home internet subscriptions, with the FCC expected to exhaust all ACP funding by next month.
House, Senate Ag Leaders Release Competing Farm Bill Proposals
On May 10, House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson (R-PA) released a more detailed section-by-section summary of his Farm Bill reauthorization package. More information on the proposal, including draft text, is expected to be available in the coming days, with plans to consider the bill in committee next week. Across Capitol Hill, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) has also posted an extensive outline of her proposal.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Natural Resources – On Monday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Federal Lands held an oversight field hearing in Hayward, Wisconsin, to examine barriers that sportsmen and women face accessing federal lands and legislative solutions that would promote greater hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities. On Wednesday morning, the subcommittee will hear from the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service on the president's fiscal year 2025 budget request. On Thursday morning, the full committee will receive testimony from Brenda Mallory, Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), on CEQ's fiscal year 2025 budget request. More information on these hearings can be found here.
House Education and the Workforce – On Wednesday morning, lawmakers will meet to examine the policies and priorities of the Department of Health and Human Services. Additional details on the hearing can be found here.
House Appropriations – On Thursday morning, the Subcommittee on Financial Services will review the fiscal year 2025 budget request of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). FCC Commissioners Jessica Rosenworcel and Brendan Carr are slated to testify. More information can be accessed here.
Senate Appropriations – On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Energy and Water will review the fiscal year 2025 budget requests for the Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation. On Wednesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science will hear from Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on the department's fiscal year 2025 budget request. A full list of committee hearings can be found here.
Senate Budget – On Wednesday morning, the committee will hold a hearing entitled, "Budgeting for the Storm: Climate Change and the Costs to National Security." More details on the hearing can be accessed here.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation – On Thursday morning, the committee will consider more than a dozen bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including legislation (S. 275) that would require a more thorough vetting and verification process for internet service providers seeking to participate in the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) high-cost programs. The panel will also consider a measure (S 3788) that would reauthorize a law that helps communities prepare for and respond to landslides. Additional information on the markup is available here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources – This week, the committee will meet to examine the President's budget request for the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service. The committee's full schedule can be found here.
Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs – On Wednesday morning, the committee will consider a slate of bills, including legislation (H.R. 6249) that would ensure that individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities and their families have access to resources to safely recover after a major disaster strikes. More information on the markup can be accessed here.
Senate Judiciary – On Thursday morning, the committee will take up bipartisan legislation (S. 930) that would expand access to federal support for the families of firefighters and first responders who pass away from cancer caused by carcinogenic exposure during their service. The bill would also extend disability benefits in cases where they become permanently and totally disabled due to cancer. A separate measure (S. 4235) on the agenda would reauthorize a grant program that provides funding for law enforcement family-support services. Finally, senators will consider a bill (S. 1306) to reauthorize the COPS program. The full committee agenda can be viewed here.
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House and Senate Action
Neither chamber is in session today but both will return to action on Tuesday.
The House will consider a number of measures on the suspension calendar (requires 2/3 majority for passage), including giving final approval to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) renewal (H.R. 3935). It should be noted that the Senate cleared the legislation Thursday evening and also passed a one-week extension, which gives the House until Friday to get this done. A section-by-section summary of the FAA agreement can be found here.
Another bill on the suspension calendar and endorsed by NSDC – the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act (H.R. 2964) – would require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue regulations requiring entities responsible for the labeling or retail packaging of certain pre-moistened, nonwoven wipes (e.g., baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or personal care wipes) to label such products clearly and conspicuously with the phrase "Do Not Flush". The
In addition, and in honor of National Police Week in DC, House GOP leaders have placed a number of crime-related bills on the floor. This includes legislation (S. 546) that would expand the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant program to support hiring activities by law enforcement agencies experiencing declines in officer recruitment applications. It also would establish a new program to encourage voluntary partnerships between schools and police departments to foster a stronger local pipeline for law enforcement careers.
The full House agenda is available here.
Senate Commerce Committee to Vote on Bill Extending Affordable Connectivity Program
On Thursday, May 16, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee is scheduled to vote on comprehensive legislation that would modernize the nation's spectrum policy. Among other things, the bill (S. 4207) would provide $7 billion in new funding to extend the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). To pay for the ACP extension, the bill would reinstate the FCC's lapsed authority to auction off spectrum bands to commercial users. It should be noted that April was the last month that ACP subscribers received the full $30 benefit. In May, program participants are receiving a $14 discount off their home internet subscriptions, with the FCC expected to exhaust all ACP funding by next month.
House, Senate Ag Leaders Release Competing Farm Bill Proposals
On May 10, House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson (R-PA) released a more detailed section-by-section summary of his Farm Bill reauthorization package. More information on the proposal, including draft text, is expected to be available in the coming days, with plans to consider the bill in committee next week. Across Capitol Hill, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) has also posted an extensive outline of her proposal.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Natural Resources – On Monday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Federal Lands held an oversight field hearing in Hayward, Wisconsin, to examine barriers that sportsmen and women face accessing federal lands and legislative solutions that would promote greater hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation opportunities. On Wednesday morning, the subcommittee will hear from the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service on the president's fiscal year 2025 budget request. On Thursday morning, the full committee will receive testimony from Brenda Mallory, Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), on CEQ's fiscal year 2025 budget request. More information on these hearings can be found here.
House Education and the Workforce – On Wednesday morning, lawmakers will meet to examine the policies and priorities of the Department of Health and Human Services. Additional details on the hearing can be found here.
House Appropriations – On Thursday morning, the Subcommittee on Financial Services will review the fiscal year 2025 budget request of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). FCC Commissioners Jessica Rosenworcel and Brendan Carr are slated to testify. More information can be accessed here.
Senate Appropriations – On Wednesday morning, the Subcommittee on Energy and Water will review the fiscal year 2025 budget requests for the Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation. On Wednesday afternoon, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and Science will hear from Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on the department's fiscal year 2025 budget request. A full list of committee hearings can be found here.
Senate Budget – On Wednesday morning, the committee will hold a hearing entitled, "Budgeting for the Storm: Climate Change and the Costs to National Security." More details on the hearing can be accessed here.
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation – On Thursday morning, the committee will consider more than a dozen bills within the panel's jurisdiction, including legislation (S. 275) that would require a more thorough vetting and verification process for internet service providers seeking to participate in the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) high-cost programs. The panel will also consider a measure (S 3788) that would reauthorize a law that helps communities prepare for and respond to landslides. Additional information on the markup is available here.
Senate Energy and Natural Resources – This week, the committee will meet to examine the President's budget request for the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service. The committee's full schedule can be found here.
Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs – On Wednesday morning, the committee will consider a slate of bills, including legislation (H.R. 6249) that would ensure that individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities and their families have access to resources to safely recover after a major disaster strikes. More information on the markup can be accessed here.
Senate Judiciary – On Thursday morning, the committee will take up bipartisan legislation (S. 930) that would expand access to federal support for the families of firefighters and first responders who pass away from cancer caused by carcinogenic exposure during their service. The bill would also extend disability benefits in cases where they become permanently and totally disabled due to cancer. A separate measure (S. 4235) on the agenda would reauthorize a grant program that provides funding for law enforcement family-support services. Finally, senators will consider a bill (S. 1306) to reauthorize the COPS program. The full committee agenda can be viewed here.
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For the week of
May 8, 2024
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are both in session this week.
In a major victory for special districts and the National Special Districts Coalition (NSDC), the House approved this evening the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (H.R. 752). The legislation, which was cleared on an overwhelming 352 to 27 vote, would codify a first-ever formal definition of special district. Additionally, the bill would direct the White House Office of Management and Budget to require federal agencies to ensure that special districts are eligible for all appropriate forms of federal assistance. Action now turns to the Senate, where NSDC is working with key Members in an effort to advance a companion measure.
Later this week, the House will also consider legislation (S. 870) that would reauthorize the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), as well as two programs that benefit local fire departments, namely the Assistance for Firefighters Grants (AFG) program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program.
House, Senate Ag Leaders Release Competing Farm Bill Proposals
Last week, House and Senate committee leaders released competing proposals to reauthorize the Farm Bill. For his part, House Agriculture Committee Chair GT Thompson (R-PA) unveiled a 5-page summary document with a broad overview of key policy objectives. Draft text of the bill is expected to be available by the end of next week, as Thompson is planning to consider the bill in committee ahead of the Memorial Day recess. Across Capitol Hill, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) posted a much more extensive outline of her proposal. While the release of the two blueprints represents the most significant action on Farm Bill reauthorization this Congress, both proposals include provisions that are framed as non-starters for the opposing party.
In terms of the policy, Democrats and Republicans both emphasize the need to bolster conservation programs, but they differ in how to achieve that goal. Republicans are aiming to use Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funds for an expanded range of conservation practices. However, Democrats are opposed to any reprogramming of IRA funds, unless it directly addresses climate change. In addition, Democrats will push back against any reforms that would reduce benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). While Chairman Thompson has insisted he doesn't intend to cut SNAP, he does want to reverse Biden-era reforms that have increased food aid. The Senate package would leave nutrition funding untouched. Democrats and Republicans also agree on the need to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. For example, both parties want to increase the size and scope of the Good Neighbor Authority, which lets federal managers contract with local governments to thin publicly owned forests.
The latest extension of the Farm Bill expires on September 30.
DEA Agrees to Reclassify Cannabis; Comprehensive Legalization Legislation Introduced
On May 1, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agreed to move cannabis from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) – which includes drugs with high abuse potential and no medical value – to the less restrictive Schedule III. It should be noted that a Schedule III designation is applied to drugs with moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence and has been shown to have some medical value. While cannabis would remain federally prohibited, the new designation would remove significant barriers to research and allow state-licensed businesses to make federal tax deductions. Looking ahead, the reclassification must now go through a formal rulemaking process, which could take months to complete.
Following DEA's announcement, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and a coalition of other Democratic senators reintroduced legislation (S. 4226) to legalize and regulate cannabis at the federal level. The comprehensive proposal, entitled the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA), would require the Attorney General to completely remove cannabis from federal drug schedules under the CSA within 180 days of the bill's enactment. Beyond ending the prohibition on cannabis, the CAOA would expunge nonviolent federal cannabis-related criminal records and create a pathway for resentencing.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Ways and Means – On Friday morning, the panel will conduct a field hearing in Scottsdale, Arizona, to discuss empowering Native American and rural communities. Additional information on the hearing can be found here.
House Appropriations – There are a number of budget hearings before the various subcommittees this week. Lawmakers are expected to hear from Administration officials representing the Department of Commerce, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A full list of hearings is available here.
Senate Appropriations – Like their House counterparts, there will be a number of budget hearings before the various subcommittees this week. Lawmakers will hear from Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, and FDA Secretary Robert Califf, among others. A full list of hearings is available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, Senators will hear from Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan on the president's fiscal year 2025 budget proposal for the agency. More details on the hearing can be accessed here.
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House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are both in session this week.
In a major victory for special districts and the National Special Districts Coalition (NSDC), the House approved this evening the Special District Grant Accessibility Act (H.R. 752). The legislation, which was cleared on an overwhelming 352 to 27 vote, would codify a first-ever formal definition of special district. Additionally, the bill would direct the White House Office of Management and Budget to require federal agencies to ensure that special districts are eligible for all appropriate forms of federal assistance. Action now turns to the Senate, where NSDC is working with key Members in an effort to advance a companion measure.
Later this week, the House will also consider legislation (S. 870) that would reauthorize the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), as well as two programs that benefit local fire departments, namely the Assistance for Firefighters Grants (AFG) program and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program.
House, Senate Ag Leaders Release Competing Farm Bill Proposals
Last week, House and Senate committee leaders released competing proposals to reauthorize the Farm Bill. For his part, House Agriculture Committee Chair GT Thompson (R-PA) unveiled a 5-page summary document with a broad overview of key policy objectives. Draft text of the bill is expected to be available by the end of next week, as Thompson is planning to consider the bill in committee ahead of the Memorial Day recess. Across Capitol Hill, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) posted a much more extensive outline of her proposal. While the release of the two blueprints represents the most significant action on Farm Bill reauthorization this Congress, both proposals include provisions that are framed as non-starters for the opposing party.
In terms of the policy, Democrats and Republicans both emphasize the need to bolster conservation programs, but they differ in how to achieve that goal. Republicans are aiming to use Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funds for an expanded range of conservation practices. However, Democrats are opposed to any reprogramming of IRA funds, unless it directly addresses climate change. In addition, Democrats will push back against any reforms that would reduce benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). While Chairman Thompson has insisted he doesn't intend to cut SNAP, he does want to reverse Biden-era reforms that have increased food aid. The Senate package would leave nutrition funding untouched. Democrats and Republicans also agree on the need to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. For example, both parties want to increase the size and scope of the Good Neighbor Authority, which lets federal managers contract with local governments to thin publicly owned forests.
The latest extension of the Farm Bill expires on September 30.
DEA Agrees to Reclassify Cannabis; Comprehensive Legalization Legislation Introduced
On May 1, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agreed to move cannabis from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) – which includes drugs with high abuse potential and no medical value – to the less restrictive Schedule III. It should be noted that a Schedule III designation is applied to drugs with moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence and has been shown to have some medical value. While cannabis would remain federally prohibited, the new designation would remove significant barriers to research and allow state-licensed businesses to make federal tax deductions. Looking ahead, the reclassification must now go through a formal rulemaking process, which could take months to complete.
Following DEA's announcement, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and a coalition of other Democratic senators reintroduced legislation (S. 4226) to legalize and regulate cannabis at the federal level. The comprehensive proposal, entitled the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA), would require the Attorney General to completely remove cannabis from federal drug schedules under the CSA within 180 days of the bill's enactment. Beyond ending the prohibition on cannabis, the CAOA would expunge nonviolent federal cannabis-related criminal records and create a pathway for resentencing.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Ways and Means – On Friday morning, the panel will conduct a field hearing in Scottsdale, Arizona, to discuss empowering Native American and rural communities. Additional information on the hearing can be found here.
House Appropriations – There are a number of budget hearings before the various subcommittees this week. Lawmakers are expected to hear from Administration officials representing the Department of Commerce, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A full list of hearings is available here.
Senate Appropriations – Like their House counterparts, there will be a number of budget hearings before the various subcommittees this week. Lawmakers will hear from Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, and FDA Secretary Robert Califf, among others. A full list of hearings is available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, Senators will hear from Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan on the president's fiscal year 2025 budget proposal for the agency. More details on the hearing can be accessed here.
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For the week of
March 18, 2024
House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are in session, but both chambers will take a two-week break at the conclusion of this week's legislative action.
FY 2024 Spending Talks
The main priority for congressional leaders is to avoid a partial government shutdown at week's end. While Congress recently approved and President Biden signed into law a six-bill, $460 billion spending package that includes funding for six (of 12) spending bills, funding for the remaining six bills (State-Foreign Operations, Defense, Homeland Security, Labor-HHS, Legislative Branch and Financial Services-General Government) is set to expire Friday at midnight. It should be noted that these bills cover roughly 70 percent of all federal discretionary spending. As of this writing, negotiators are reportedly close to finalizing five of the measures, but they have yet to reach agreement on the Homeland Security funding bill. Saying that, congressional leaders are optimistic they will can reach a deal within the next day.
House GOP Energy Week
Aside from fiscal year 2024 budget talks, the House is set to consider a series of Republican-led energy proposals. This includes legislation (H.R. 7023) aimed at streamlining reviews and providing greater regulatory certainty under the Clean Water Act (CWA) permitting process. H.R. 7023 would also shore up the use of the Nationwide Permit program for oil and gas pipeline projects and block the Environmental Protection Agency from issuing Clean Water Act vetoes in certain circumstances. A separate measure (H.R. 6009) would block a proposal by the Biden administration to raise the royalty rates that fossil fuel companies pay for drilling on public lands. A third bill (H.R. 1121) on the docket would prohibit the President from issuing a moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing. For its part, the Biden administration has expressed its opposition to all three measures.
Foreign Assistance Funding Package
The aforementioned minibus spending measure will not include the long-stalled supplemental security package, which totals $95 billion to assist Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, and others. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has indicated that he intends to put a military spending bill on the floor after the House completes action on the fiscal year 2024 appropriations process. The strategy and timeline for advancing the measure remains uncertain.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Appropriations – This week, the panel will hear from a number of administration officials – including Health and Human Services Secretary (HHS) Xavier Becerra, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack – on the President's fiscal year 2025 budget proposal. A full list of hearings can be found here.https://appropriations.house.gov/events/hearings
House Budget – On Thursday morning, the committee will meet to discuss the administration's fiscal year 2025 budget plan. More information on the hearing can be accessed here.
House Ways and Means – On Wednesday afternoon, HHS Secretary Becerra will testify on the president's fiscal year 2025 budget. Additional information on the hearing is available here.
Senate Budget – On Wednesday morning, the committee will hold a hearing entitled, "Recreation at Risk: The Nature of Climate Costs." Additional details on the hearing, including a full witness list, is available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, the panel will meet for a hearing on "Examining PFAS as Hazardous Substances." More info on the hearing can be found here.
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House and Senate Action
The House and Senate are in session, but both chambers will take a two-week break at the conclusion of this week's legislative action.
FY 2024 Spending Talks
The main priority for congressional leaders is to avoid a partial government shutdown at week's end. While Congress recently approved and President Biden signed into law a six-bill, $460 billion spending package that includes funding for six (of 12) spending bills, funding for the remaining six bills (State-Foreign Operations, Defense, Homeland Security, Labor-HHS, Legislative Branch and Financial Services-General Government) is set to expire Friday at midnight. It should be noted that these bills cover roughly 70 percent of all federal discretionary spending. As of this writing, negotiators are reportedly close to finalizing five of the measures, but they have yet to reach agreement on the Homeland Security funding bill. Saying that, congressional leaders are optimistic they will can reach a deal within the next day.
House GOP Energy Week
Aside from fiscal year 2024 budget talks, the House is set to consider a series of Republican-led energy proposals. This includes legislation (H.R. 7023) aimed at streamlining reviews and providing greater regulatory certainty under the Clean Water Act (CWA) permitting process. H.R. 7023 would also shore up the use of the Nationwide Permit program for oil and gas pipeline projects and block the Environmental Protection Agency from issuing Clean Water Act vetoes in certain circumstances. A separate measure (H.R. 6009) would block a proposal by the Biden administration to raise the royalty rates that fossil fuel companies pay for drilling on public lands. A third bill (H.R. 1121) on the docket would prohibit the President from issuing a moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing. For its part, the Biden administration has expressed its opposition to all three measures.
Foreign Assistance Funding Package
The aforementioned minibus spending measure will not include the long-stalled supplemental security package, which totals $95 billion to assist Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, and others. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has indicated that he intends to put a military spending bill on the floor after the House completes action on the fiscal year 2024 appropriations process. The strategy and timeline for advancing the measure remains uncertain.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
House Appropriations – This week, the panel will hear from a number of administration officials – including Health and Human Services Secretary (HHS) Xavier Becerra, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack – on the President's fiscal year 2025 budget proposal. A full list of hearings can be found here.https://appropriations.house.gov/events/hearings
House Budget – On Thursday morning, the committee will meet to discuss the administration's fiscal year 2025 budget plan. More information on the hearing can be accessed here.
House Ways and Means – On Wednesday afternoon, HHS Secretary Becerra will testify on the president's fiscal year 2025 budget. Additional information on the hearing is available here.
Senate Budget – On Wednesday morning, the committee will hold a hearing entitled, "Recreation at Risk: The Nature of Climate Costs." Additional details on the hearing, including a full witness list, is available here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, the panel will meet for a hearing on "Examining PFAS as Hazardous Substances." More info on the hearing can be found here.
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For the week of
February 27th, 2024
House and Senate Action
Following the Presidents Day recess, both chambers return to action this week. The Senate gaveled in earlier today, and the House will begin its work on Wednesday. The most pressing issue facing Congress is the potential for a partial government shutdown, which could begin this weekend. Despite being nearly five months into the current fiscal year, Congress has yet to approve any of the 12 annual spending bills that make up the federal budget. Since the October 1, 2023, start of the fiscal year, agencies have been operating under a series of short-term Continuing Resolutions (CR). Pursuant to the latest CR, four spending bills – those covering Agriculture, Energy and Water, Military Construction-Veterans Affairs, and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development – will expire on March 1st, while funding for the remaining federal agencies runs through March 8th. It should be noted that President Biden is scheduled to make his State of the Union address on March 7th.
There was some hope that House and Senate negotiators would release text of the first four spending bills this past weekend, but that did not ultimately come to fruition. Aside from some of the familiar funding disputes, there are a number of policy disagreements holding up a potential deal. At this point, there is enough uncertainty that a partial shutdown is possible. For his part, President Biden will meet with House and Senate leaders on Tuesday morning, but it's unclear if this discussion will be enough to break the impasse.
In addition to the budget, the House will consider a short-term extension of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The extension would keep the FAA authorized until May 10.
Legislation Introduced to Protect Water Resources After Wildfires
Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) recently introduced legislation – the Watershed Protection and Forest Recovery Act (H.R. 7294) – that would help communities and water users protect their water supply after natural disasters on U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands. Among other things, the legislation would create a new Emergency Forest Watershed Program (EFWP) within the Department of Agriculture (USDA) that would help streamline recovery efforts and protect water resources downstream of national forests. It also would allow local governments and water providers to enter into agreements with the Forest Service to implement watershed recovery protection measures.
Western Lawmakers Push for Improvements to Housing Conditions for Federal Wildland Firefighters
A bipartisan group of Western lawmakers recently sent a letter to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the National Park Service (NPS) requesting immediate action to address reports of substandard housing conditions and exorbitant rent increases plaguing federal wildland firefighters. The lawmakers called for insight on the current quality of federal housing and the scope of the reported rent increases. A copy of the letter can be accessed here.
Bipartisan Legislation Proposes to Create Flexible Grant Program for Rural Communities
On February 23, Representatives David Valadao (R-CA) and Andrea Salinas (D-OR) introduced bipartisan legislation – the Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act (H.R. 7444) – that would create a flexible grant program to help rural communities. Specifically, it would help rural areas address urgent needs, including but not limited to, affordable child care, housing, and job training. It also would provide technical assistance grants to help rural communities navigate existing federal funding opportunities and ensure they get their fair share of private and federal investments.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Agriculture – On Wednesday, the panel will conduct an oversight hearing on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) with USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. Additional information on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, the committee will hold an oversight hearing on water infrastructure projects, programs, and priorities within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). More details on the hearing are available here.
Upcoming Events
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House and Senate Action
Following the Presidents Day recess, both chambers return to action this week. The Senate gaveled in earlier today, and the House will begin its work on Wednesday. The most pressing issue facing Congress is the potential for a partial government shutdown, which could begin this weekend. Despite being nearly five months into the current fiscal year, Congress has yet to approve any of the 12 annual spending bills that make up the federal budget. Since the October 1, 2023, start of the fiscal year, agencies have been operating under a series of short-term Continuing Resolutions (CR). Pursuant to the latest CR, four spending bills – those covering Agriculture, Energy and Water, Military Construction-Veterans Affairs, and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development – will expire on March 1st, while funding for the remaining federal agencies runs through March 8th. It should be noted that President Biden is scheduled to make his State of the Union address on March 7th.
There was some hope that House and Senate negotiators would release text of the first four spending bills this past weekend, but that did not ultimately come to fruition. Aside from some of the familiar funding disputes, there are a number of policy disagreements holding up a potential deal. At this point, there is enough uncertainty that a partial shutdown is possible. For his part, President Biden will meet with House and Senate leaders on Tuesday morning, but it's unclear if this discussion will be enough to break the impasse.
In addition to the budget, the House will consider a short-term extension of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The extension would keep the FAA authorized until May 10.
Legislation Introduced to Protect Water Resources After Wildfires
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Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CO) recently introduced legislation – the Watershed Protection and Forest Recovery Act (H.R. 7294) – that would help communities and water users protect their water supply after natural disasters on U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands. Among other things, the legislation would create a new Emergency Forest Watershed Program (EFWP) within the Department of Agriculture (USDA) that would help streamline recovery efforts and protect water resources downstream of national forests. It also would allow local governments and water providers to enter into agreements with the Forest Service to implement watershed recovery protection measures.
Western Lawmakers Push for Improvements to Housing Conditions for Federal Wildland Firefighters
A bipartisan group of Western lawmakers recently sent a letter to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the National Park Service (NPS) requesting immediate action to address reports of substandard housing conditions and exorbitant rent increases plaguing federal wildland firefighters. The lawmakers called for insight on the current quality of federal housing and the scope of the reported rent increases. A copy of the letter can be accessed here.
Bipartisan Legislation Proposes to Create Flexible Grant Program for Rural Communities
On February 23, Representatives David Valadao (R-CA) and Andrea Salinas (D-OR) introduced bipartisan legislation – the Rural Partnership and Prosperity Act (H.R. 7444) – that would create a flexible grant program to help rural communities. Specifically, it would help rural areas address urgent needs, including but not limited to, affordable child care, housing, and job training. It also would provide technical assistance grants to help rural communities navigate existing federal funding opportunities and ensure they get their fair share of private and federal investments.
Relevant Hearings and Markups
Senate Agriculture – On Wednesday, the panel will conduct an oversight hearing on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) with USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. Additional information on the hearing can be found here.
Senate Environment and Public Works – On Wednesday morning, the committee will hold an oversight hearing on water infrastructure projects, programs, and priorities within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). More details on the hearing are available here.
Upcoming Events
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Federal Legislative Update
Week of December 4, 2023
Congressional
Outlook
Congress is in session this week, with the Senate and the House returning today. While Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) earlier this month to keep the federal government open through January 19 and February 2, 2024, lawmakers still have considerable work to do to close out the year.
The House will consider ten bills and one resolution under suspension of the rules, including the DOE and USDA Interagency Research Act (H.R. 1713), which directs the Energy and Agriculture departments to collaborate on research and development in a wide range of areas, including artificial intelligence, advanced crop science, grid modernization, and wildfire prevention. For the remainder of the week, the House will vote on the One Seat Ride Act (H.R. 1547), which requires the Department of Transportation to submit a study to Congress on the costs and benefits of commuter rail passenger transportation that doesn’t involve transfers; the Housing our Military Veterans Effectively (HOME) Act of 2023 (H.R. 3848), which increases maximum rates the Veterans Affairs Department pays entities that provide housing and services to veterans experiencing homelessness; and the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act (H.R. 3848), which directs the Veterans Affairs Department to expand options for long-term home and community services for eligible veterans. The House may also consider the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2023 (H.R. 4468), which prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing a proposed rule with respect to emissions from vehicles.
Congress is currently negotiating the longstanding bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Still a vote for potential passage will need to take a back seat to lawmakers focus on a supplemental aid package to Ukraine, Israel, the Indo-Pacific region, and southern border policy. The Federal Aviation Authorization will most likely result in another stopgap extension. The current bill is extended through March 8, allowing for conference negotiations between the House and Senate. Some lawmakers argue that even if the Senate passes its version of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023 (S.1939) before the year's end, there will still not be enough time for Congress to conference the bill before the deadline. The Senate this week will vote on several judicial and executive nominations, including: Irma Ramirez to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit; Loren AliKhan to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia; and Elizabeth Richard to be Coordinator for Counterterrorism, with the rank and status of Ambassador at Large.
For the remainder of the week, the House and Senate will hold several hearings, including a Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing on “IIJA Investments in Habitat and Ecosystem Restoration, Pollinators, and Wildlife Crossings”; a House Oversight and Accountability Cybersecurity Information Technology and Government Innovation Subcommittee hearing on “White House Policy on AI”; and a House Energy and Commerce Communications and Technology Subcommittee hearing on“Oversight of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.”
Bills and Regulations of Interest to You
Bill
Title
Sponsors
Background
Reforming Energy-Efficient Buildings and Appliances Tax Exemptions (REBATE) Act
Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL-9)
Amends the Inflation Reduction Act and allow local governments to receive federal grants to carry out high-efficiency electric home rebate programs.
Kid PROOF Act
Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM)
Amends the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act to authorize the use of certain grants to prevent suicide or overdose by children, adolescents, and young adults
Workforce DATA Act
Rep. Donald Davis (D-NC-1)
Requires the Secretary of Labor to take initiatives to measure the impact of automation on the workforce in order to inform workforce development strategies.
A bill to provide more flexibility for workforce training programs
Rep. John Duarte (R-CA-13)
Amends the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to provide local areas more flexibility in the use of funds for incumbent workforce training programs.
Fairness in Airspace Includes Residents (F-AIR) Act
Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-CA-16)
Amends title 49, United States Code, to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to adjust certain requirements with respect to sovereignty and use of airspace.
Bill regarding fish held in captivity or a controlled environment
Rep. Cliff Bentz (R-OR-2)
Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to allow certain activities to be carried out with regard to certain fish held in captivity or a controlled environment.
Kid PROOF Act
Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM)
Amends the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act to authorize the use of certain grants to prevent suicide or overdose by children, adolescents, and young adults
The Farmers Freedom Act of 2023
Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD)
Requires the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers to use a certain definition for the term "prior converted cropland."
The Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Expansion Act and the Accelerating Small Business Growth Act
Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA)
Raises the annual funding cap of the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Program, replicate the program at the Federal Transit Agency (FTA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and create a grant program to help transportation agencies work with underserved businesses looking to improve growth and competitiveness for contracts.
Rural Energy Equity Act
Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT)
To improve and authorize strong funding levels for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). The bill would make REAP more accessible for smaller rural businesses and farms and make the program more climate-friendly..
Agency
Title
Proposed Regulation
Comment Deadline
OMB
OMB is proposing to revise sections of its Guidance for Grants and Agreements, including both policy changes and clarifications to existing guidance.
December 4, 2023
OSTP
Development of a Federal Environmental Justice Science, Data, and Research Plan
OSTP seeks information to assist in developing a coordinated Federal strategy to identify and address gaps in science, data, and research related to environmental justice. Information received through this RFI will inform the biennial Environmental Justice Science, Data, and Research Plan.
December 12, 2023
HUD
Expansion and Proposed Restructuring of the Digital Opportunity Demonstration Program
HUD solicits comment on the expansion and restructuring of its demonstration program (ConnectHomeUSA) that is designed to further the collaborative efforts by government, industry, and nonprofit organizations to accelerate broadband internet adoption and use in HUD-assisted homes.
December 18, 2023
DOI
The Orphaned Wells Program Office (OWPO) invites public comment to help inform its efforts in determining how to best structure the Regulatory Improvement Grant (RIG) program, pursuant to section 40601 of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
December 19, 2023
Treasury
The Department of Treasury is issuing an interim final rule to amend the definition of “obligation” set forth in the Department's regulations with respect to the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund and the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund established under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
December 20, 2023
EPA
The EPA is issuing for public comment a draft guidance on applying the recent decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund, in the Clean Water Act Section 402 NPDES permit program for point source discharges that travel through groundwater before reaching a water of the United States.
December 27, 2023
FTA
The FTA is considering proposing minimum safety standards to provide protections for transit workers to obtain adequate rest thereby reducing the risk of fatigue-related safety incidents.
December 29, 2023
DOT
DOT is considering whether to amend the accessibility requirements for transportation facilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) currently contained in Appendix A to DOT's regulations governing transportation services for individuals with disabilities.
January 5, 2024
HHS
The Administration for Children and Families invites public comments on the possibilities for design and implementation of the new pilot program and work outcomes measures of the FRA, in the TANF program.
January 11, 2024
DOC
Comment Assessing Information Collection and Reporting Burdens
The Department of Commerce is seeking comment on proposed, and continuing information collections, which helps us assess the impact of our information collection requirements and minimize the public's reporting burden, in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
January 22, 2024
NSF
National Science and Technology Council Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology (SOST), requests input from all interested parties to inform the development of a National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy (Strategy), covering the genetic lineages, species, habitats, and ecosystems of United States (U.S.) ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes waters.
February 28, 2024
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