Senate Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. Senate bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Sen. Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Repeal Sanctions on Syria
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-NH, has introduced a bill aimed at repealing existing sanctions on Syria, seeking to shift U.S. policy towards a more diplomatic approach to the ongoing crisis in the region. The proposed legislation marks a significant departure from the harsh measures established under previous laws that have been in effect for years.
The bill, which targets the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003 and the Syria Human Rights Accountability Act of 2012, reflects growing concern among policymakers about the humanitarian impact of sanctions.
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-NH, has introduced a bill aimed at repealing existing sanctions on Syria, seeking to shift U.S. policy towards a more diplomatic approach to the ongoing crisis in the region. The proposed legislation marks a significant departure from the harsh measures established under previous laws that have been in effect for years.
The bill, which targets the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003 and the Syria Human Rights Accountability Act of 2012, reflects growing concern among policymakers about the humanitarian impact of sanctions.Supporters of the bill argue that these sanctions have unintentionally exacerbated the suffering of the Syrian population, offering little in terms of political change while contributing to widespread poverty and instability.
Repealing these sanctions is motivated by a desire to foster dialogue and facilitate aid delivery amidst the ongoing civil conflict in Syria. By removing these restrictions, the legislation hopes to encourage international efforts to promote peace and stability, offering a fresh framework for U.S. involvement in the region. Proponents assert that diplomatic engagement is essential for resolving the complex issues at hand and for addressing the alarming humanitarian crisis that has persisted for over a decade.
The introduction of this bill comes at a time of shifting perspectives regarding U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly in relation to Syria's reconstruction and the future of its governance. As the situation evolves, Sen. Shaheen's proposed repeal could pave the way for a new chapter in U.S.-Syria relations, ultimately affecting not only diplomatic ties but also the lives of millions who have borne the brunt of conflict and sanctions. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations for further consideration.
The bill (S. 3172) introduced on 11/10/2025 has 2 co-sponsors: Sens. Markwayne Mullin, R-OK; Joni Ernst, R-IA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3172/text
Sen. Markey Introduces Veteran Entrepreneurship Empowerment Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-MA, has introduced the Veteran Entrepreneurship Empowerment Act, a bill aimed at waiving guarantee fees for business loans made to veterans and their spouses. The legislation seeks to alleviate financial barriers and promote entrepreneurship among this distinguished group.
The act identifies key challenges faced by veteran entrepreneurs, including a lack of access to capital. Recent studies show that only 48% of veteran-owned firms report sufficient financing, significantly lower than their non-veteran counterparts. The act aims to enhance support
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-MA, has introduced the Veteran Entrepreneurship Empowerment Act, a bill aimed at waiving guarantee fees for business loans made to veterans and their spouses. The legislation seeks to alleviate financial barriers and promote entrepreneurship among this distinguished group.
The act identifies key challenges faced by veteran entrepreneurs, including a lack of access to capital. Recent studies show that only 48% of veteran-owned firms report sufficient financing, significantly lower than their non-veteran counterparts. The act aims to enhance supportfor these businesses by eliminating guarantee fees on loans up to $1 million, thus encouraging investment and growth.
Historically, veterans have exhibited a strong propensity for business ownership, yet they encounter unique obstacles post-service, such as transitioning to civilian life and establishing creditworthiness. The bill is designed to ease these hurdles, providing veterans and their spouses with better access to necessary funding. By removing the financial burden of guarantee fees, the legislation promotes a healthier entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The impact of this bill could be far-reaching. With veterans often leading successful enterprises, fostering their success translates into job creation and economic stimulation. This aligns with findings that veteran-owned businesses are more resilient than average, with lower failure rates. By addressing financial barriers, the Veteran Entrepreneurship Empowerment Act endeavors to unlock potential and drive innovation within the veteran community.
As discussions surrounding this bill progress in the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, proponents anticipate that it will gain traction, benefiting thousands of veterans eager to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. The act underscores a commitment to honoring veteran service by empowering them to thrive in the business world.
The bill (S. 3171) introduced on 11/10/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-NH.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3171/text
Sen. Kim Introduces UNLOCK Housing Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Andy Kim, D-NJ, has introduced the UNLOCK Housing Act, aimed at expanding new home construction to address the growing affordable housing crisis in America. This legislation seeks to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, ensuring that metropolitan cities and urban counties can receive funding for residential housing projects targeted at low- and moderate-income individuals.
The UNLOCK Housing Act is a response to the increasing demand for affordable housing options, driven by rising rent prices and a shortage of available homes. By refining the provisions
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Andy Kim, D-NJ, has introduced the UNLOCK Housing Act, aimed at expanding new home construction to address the growing affordable housing crisis in America. This legislation seeks to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, ensuring that metropolitan cities and urban counties can receive funding for residential housing projects targeted at low- and moderate-income individuals.
The UNLOCK Housing Act is a response to the increasing demand for affordable housing options, driven by rising rent prices and a shortage of available homes. By refining the provisionsof the existing Housing and Community Development Act, the bill facilitates the use of federal funds for constructing new residential units, thereby promoting community development and enhancing the quality of life for residents in underserved areas.
The current landscape reflects significant challenges faced by many communities, with limited resources to build new housing. Organizations working to provide affordable homes often encounter bureaucratic hurdles that slow down their ability to make a meaningful impact. The UNLOCK Housing Act aims to remove these barriers, allowing local governments and nonprofit organizations greater leeway to develop new housing necessary for their constituents.
Furthermore, this bill underscores the importance of collaboration between public entities and local nonprofits, fostering a comprehensive approach to tackling housing shortages. By including provisions for neighborhood-based organizations, the legislation aims to enhance community involvement in housing development efforts, ensuring that projects align closely with local needs.
Sen. Kim's initiative represents a proactive step toward addressing a pressing national issue, with the potential to create a ripple effect of positive outcomes for communities grappling with inadequate housing options. The UNLOCK Housing Act seeks not only to provide immediate solutions but also to lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and housing security for future generations.
The bill (S. 3169) introduced on 11/10/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. David McCormick, R-PA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3169/text
Sen. Kennedy Introduces Stuck On Hold Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. John Kennedy, R-LA, has introduced the Stuck On Hold Act aimed at overhauling customer service protocols within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The legislation seeks to implement an automated response system for all customer service telephone lines, significantly improving response times for veterans seeking assistance.
The Stuck On Hold Act mandates that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs develop an automated system that informs callers of their expected wait times and offers the option for a callback if they face anticipated hold periods exceeding ten minutes.
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. John Kennedy, R-LA, has introduced the Stuck On Hold Act aimed at overhauling customer service protocols within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The legislation seeks to implement an automated response system for all customer service telephone lines, significantly improving response times for veterans seeking assistance.
The Stuck On Hold Act mandates that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs develop an automated system that informs callers of their expected wait times and offers the option for a callback if they face anticipated hold periods exceeding ten minutes.This initiative stems from ongoing complaints about excessive wait times that veterans experience when attempting to access vital services and support, impacting their ability to receive timely assistance in critical matters.
In recent years, veterans have voiced frustrations with the VA's customer service operations, often spending long minutes on hold. This bill's introduction reflects a concerted effort to alleviate these concerns and enhance the service experience for millions of veterans nationwide. By implementing this automated system, the VA aims to streamline its operations, ensuring that veterans receive the respect and efficiency they deserve when reaching out for help.
Sen. Kennedy emphasized the necessity of swift action, calling for the Secretary to issue guidance to ensure that the average wait time does not exceed ten minutes. This legislation represents a broader commitment to improving the quality of services available to veterans, illustrating a recognition of their sacrifices and the importance of accessible support systems.
As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential positive impact on veterans' experiences, paving the way for a more responsive and efficient VA customer service framework.
The bill (S. 3170) introduced on 11/10/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Mark Kelly, D-AZ.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3170/text
Sen. Ernst Introduces Stop 8(a) Contracting Fraud Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-IA, has introduced the Stop 8(a) Contracting Fraud Act, aiming to halt the awarding of sole source contracts by the Small Business Administration (SBA) until a comprehensive audit of its business development program is completed and reported to Congress. This legislation seeks to address concerns regarding transparency and accountability within the SBA's contracting procedures.
The primary motivation behind this bill stems from ongoing debates about the integrity of federal contracts awarded under the 8(a) program, which is designed to assist small businesses
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-IA, has introduced the Stop 8(a) Contracting Fraud Act, aiming to halt the awarding of sole source contracts by the Small Business Administration (SBA) until a comprehensive audit of its business development program is completed and reported to Congress. This legislation seeks to address concerns regarding transparency and accountability within the SBA's contracting procedures.
The primary motivation behind this bill stems from ongoing debates about the integrity of federal contracts awarded under the 8(a) program, which is designed to assist small businessesowned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Ernst's proposal comes in response to growing concerns that sole source contracts may be vulnerable to fraud and misuse. By enforcing a moratorium on these contracts, the legislation aims to ensure that taxpayers' funds are safeguarded and that only qualified businesses benefit from government contracting.
Under the provisions of the bill, the SBA is required to conduct a full audit of the business development program, examining its effectiveness and compliance with established guidelines. This audit is expected to provide valuable insights into how the program is being utilized and if any measures need to be taken to enhance its integrity and efficiency.
The bill also outlines a conditional allowance for sole source contracts in cases deemed critical for national security, permitting contracting officers to seek waivers under specific guidelines. This balance ensures that necessary contracting can continue while still holding the SBA accountable.
The introduction of the Stop 8(a) Contracting Fraud Act reflects Ernst's commitment to promoting fairness and fostering a more trustworthy federal contracting system, ultimately benefiting small businesses and taxpayers alike. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship for further consideration.
The bill (S. 3173) was introduced on 11/10/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3173/text
Sen. Alsobrooks Introduces Federal Worker Mortgage Forbearance Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Federal Worker Mortgage Forbearance Act, designed to provide federal employees with the ability to request and receive a forbearance on certain mortgage loans during government funding lapses. The proposed legislation seeks to alleviate financial pressures faced by federal workers during furlough periods by offering them the opportunity to pause mortgage payments without penalties.
The act is a direct response to the economic hardships experienced by many federal employees during government shutdowns, which have become
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Federal Worker Mortgage Forbearance Act, designed to provide federal employees with the ability to request and receive a forbearance on certain mortgage loans during government funding lapses. The proposed legislation seeks to alleviate financial pressures faced by federal workers during furlough periods by offering them the opportunity to pause mortgage payments without penalties.
The act is a direct response to the economic hardships experienced by many federal employees during government shutdowns, which have becomemore frequent in recent years. Employees find themselves in precarious financial situations when their income is disrupted, often struggling to meet mortgage obligations. By permitting forbearance, the bill aims to ease the burden on these individuals and prevent them from falling into financial distress, which could result in long-term damage to their credit scores and housing stability.
In practical terms, the bill allows covered individuals-federal employees and certain contractors-to submit requests for mortgage forbearance regardless of their loan's delinquency status. If approved, forbearance can be granted for a period of 90 days, during which time no additional fees or interest will accrue. Notably, the legislation also prohibits lump-sum payments upon the conclusion of the forbearance period, ensuring that recipients can transition back to regular payment schedules without overwhelming financial obligations.
The Federal Worker Mortgage Forbearance Act is set against the backdrop of increasing calls for financial protections for government employees, highlighted during recent discussions around appropriations and budget stability. By establishing safeguards, this measure aims to provide federal workers with critical financial relief during times of uncertainty, ultimately contributing to their long-term economic security.
The bill (S. 3156) introduced on 11/7/2025 has 3 co-sponsors: Sens. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD; Tim Kaine, D-VA; Mark R. Warner, D-VA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3156/text
