House Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. House bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Rep. Norcross Introduces Trust Through Transparency Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Donald Norcross, D-NJ, has introduced the Trust Through Transparency Act, aimed at promoting accountability among immigration enforcement officers by mandating the use of body cameras during public-facing immigration actions. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and ensure that officers' conduct is documented in order to foster trust within communities.
The Trust Through Transparency Act amends the Immigration and Nationality Act, specifically section 287, requiring all immigration enforcement officers to wear and operate body cameras while conducting duties
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Donald Norcross, D-NJ, has introduced the Trust Through Transparency Act, aimed at promoting accountability among immigration enforcement officers by mandating the use of body cameras during public-facing immigration actions. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and ensure that officers' conduct is documented in order to foster trust within communities.
The Trust Through Transparency Act amends the Immigration and Nationality Act, specifically section 287, requiring all immigration enforcement officers to wear and operate body cameras while conducting dutiesthat involve public interactions. This measure not only establishes clear guidelines for camera usage but also outlines the retention period for recorded footage, which must be kept for at least six months, with certain circumstances extending this period to three years.
The legislation responds to growing concerns about immigration enforcement practices and their impacts on communities. By implementing body camera requirements, the bill aims to hold officers accountable for their actions, particularly in instances of use of force or complaints lodged by individuals subject to immigration scrutiny. The act also introduces a framework for disciplinary measures against officers who fail to comply with the camera requirements.
In addition to public accountability, the bill mandates annual reporting by the Secretary of Homeland Security on the enforcement functions conducted and any compliance issues encountered. These reports will be made publicly available, with specific provisions for independent reviews of body camera policies to ensure they align with civil rights standards.
The introduction of the Trust Through Transparency Act marks a significant step toward reforming immigration enforcement practices, emphasizing the need for integrity and oversight within immigration agencies. By ensuring that officers are equipped with body cameras, the act seeks to protect the rights of individuals while fostering a culture of accountability.
The bill (H.R. 5653) was introduced on 9/30/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5653/text
Rep. Harris Introduces No Funding for Lawless Jurisdictions Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Mark Harris, R-NC, has introduced the No Funding for Lawless Jurisdictions Act, aimed at restricting federal crime control grants to states and local governments with lenient bail and pretrial release policies. The bill seeks to ensure that federal funds are allocated only to jurisdictions that prioritize public safety through stringent law enforcement measures.
The legislation arises from growing concerns over crime rates in various communities, where lawmakers argue that certain bail reforms undermine public safety. By prohibiting grants to jurisdictions that limit
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Mark Harris, R-NC, has introduced the No Funding for Lawless Jurisdictions Act, aimed at restricting federal crime control grants to states and local governments with lenient bail and pretrial release policies. The bill seeks to ensure that federal funds are allocated only to jurisdictions that prioritize public safety through stringent law enforcement measures.
The legislation arises from growing concerns over crime rates in various communities, where lawmakers argue that certain bail reforms undermine public safety. By prohibiting grants to jurisdictions that limitcash bail, the bill targets policies that allow individuals charged with serious offenses, including violent crimes, to secure pretrial release without financial conditions. This move is intended to discourage the adoption of what supporters describe as soft on crime policies that have emerged in recent years.
The bill also stipulates that jurisdictions reducing law enforcement budgets without justification linked to overall government budget shortfalls will also become ineligible for federal grants. By curtailing funding to areas that decrease police resources, the legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining robust law enforcement efforts in combating crime.
Harris's proposal places a spotlight on the ongoing debates over justice reforms in America, particularly the balance between maintaining public safety and addressing issues of mass incarceration. Proponents of the bill believe it will incentivize local governments to reconsider lenient policies, while opponents argue that it may hinder the implementation of necessary reforms aimed at creating a fairer justice system.
As the bill moves through the legislative process, its implications are expected to resonate across various political and social spectrums, rekindling discussions about the effectiveness and consequences of current crime control measures.
The bill (H.R. 5624) introduced on 9/30/2025 has 12 co-sponsors: Reps. Andy Biggs, R-AZ; Chip Roy, R-TX; David J. Taylor, R-OH; Gregory F. Murphy, R-NC; Josh Brecheen, R-OK; Mary E. Miller, R-IL; Ralph Norman, R-SC; Chuck Edwards, R-NC; Sheri Biggs, R-SC; Keith Self, R-TX; Russell Fry, R-SC; Abraham J. Hamadeh, R-AZ.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5624/text
Rep. DeSaulnier Introduces School Food Modernization Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, D-CA, has introduced the School Food Modernization Act, aimed at enhancing school lunch programs across the nation by facilitating crucial improvements to food service facilities and training for personnel. The bill seeks to provide loan guarantees and grants under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, ensuring that schools can maintain and upgrade their food service infrastructure to better serve nutritious meals to students.
The act proposes that the Secretary of Agriculture be empowered to issue loan guarantees to local educational agencies,
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, D-CA, has introduced the School Food Modernization Act, aimed at enhancing school lunch programs across the nation by facilitating crucial improvements to food service facilities and training for personnel. The bill seeks to provide loan guarantees and grants under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, ensuring that schools can maintain and upgrade their food service infrastructure to better serve nutritious meals to students.
The act proposes that the Secretary of Agriculture be empowered to issue loan guarantees to local educational agencies,tribal organizations, or consortia, enabling them to finance construction, remodeling, or equipment purchases necessary for providing healthier meal options. With an emphasis on serving diverse student populations, the act designates a significant amount of funding specifically for schools that demonstrate a substantial need for infrastructure upgrades and equipment improvements.
By prioritizing training programs, the bill addresses a critical gap in school food service personnel education. It aims to enhance the efficacy and efficiency of these programs, ensuring that staff are well-equipped to meet updated nutrition standards. By granting funds to third-party institutions with expertise in food and nutrition services, the legislation seeks to bolster the skill set of those responsible for preparing and serving meals in schools.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of nutrition in educational environments, aiming to combat hunger and promote health among students. The bill not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the foundation for a more sustainable and health-conscious approach to school food service, ultimately benefiting countless children across the United States.
The bill (H.R. 5731) introduced on 10/10/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Rep. Glenn Thompson, R-PA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5731/text
Rep. Barr Introduces Housing Promotes Livelihood and Ultimate Success Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Andy Barr, R-KY, has introduced the Housing Promotes Livelihood and Ultimate Success Act of 2025 to enhance the effectiveness of the Continuum of Care program overseen by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. The proposed legislation aims to streamline the distribution of funds while ensuring that recipients can incorporate supportive services like job training and counseling into their programs.
The Housing PLUS Act seeks to empower organizations that provide comprehensive support to vulnerable populations. By allowing funding recipients to establish prerequisites
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Andy Barr, R-KY, has introduced the Housing Promotes Livelihood and Ultimate Success Act of 2025 to enhance the effectiveness of the Continuum of Care program overseen by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. The proposed legislation aims to streamline the distribution of funds while ensuring that recipients can incorporate supportive services like job training and counseling into their programs.
The Housing PLUS Act seeks to empower organizations that provide comprehensive support to vulnerable populations. By allowing funding recipients to establish prerequisitesfor program participants-such as sobriety or mental health treatment-the bill encourages a holistic approach to homelessness prevention and recovery. The legislation recognizes that stable housing alone is not sufficient to break the cycle of homelessness and that supportive services are often critical for long-term success.
According to existing laws, limitations have been placed on how Continuum of Care funds can be utilized, often hindering the ability of organizations to impose necessary conditions for program participation. This bill proposes to eliminate those restrictions, thereby enabling entities to prioritize wraparound services without fear of financial penalties. Specifically, it mandates that at least 50% of the funds allocated yearly be directed to organizations that provide such comprehensive services.
The bill also includes provisions for accountability by requiring the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to submit annual reports to Congress on fund allocation and compliance with the new requirements. This transparency is crucial to ensure that significant taxpayer resources are being used effectively and that they contribute meaningfully to reducing homelessness.
By leveraging existing resources and promoting a model that emphasizes holistic support, Rep. Barr's legislation aims to create a sustainable framework for tackling homelessness in the U.S.
The bill (H.R. 5618) introduced on 9/30/2025 has 2 co-sponsors: Reps. Mike Flood, R-NE; Bill Huizenga, R-MI.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5618/text
Rep. Ansari Introduces Geothermal Gold Book Development Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-AZ, has introduced the Geothermal Gold Book Development Act, aimed at establishing standardized procedures and guidelines for geothermal leasing and permit issuance on federal lands in an environmentally responsible manner. This legislation strives to streamline the geothermal development process while ensuring compliance with vital environmental protections.
The Geothermal Gold Book Development Act mandates the Department of the Interior to identify and publish comprehensive procedures for geothermal operations within one year of its enactment. The
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 12 -- Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-AZ, has introduced the Geothermal Gold Book Development Act, aimed at establishing standardized procedures and guidelines for geothermal leasing and permit issuance on federal lands in an environmentally responsible manner. This legislation strives to streamline the geothermal development process while ensuring compliance with vital environmental protections.
The Geothermal Gold Book Development Act mandates the Department of the Interior to identify and publish comprehensive procedures for geothermal operations within one year of its enactment. Theinitiative arises from the growing need for efficient and eco-friendly energy sources, as the demand for renewable energy intensifies amid climate change concerns. By facilitating clear guidelines, the bill seeks to promote geothermal energy development while safeguarding natural resources.
Under the proposed legislation, the Department of the Interior will create a Gold Book that contains essential procedures for geothermal leasing and permitting, including exploration, drilling, production, and compliance with relevant laws. This resource aims to assist both the Bureau of Land Management's field offices and geothermal operators in navigating the regulatory landscape. Furthermore, the bill calls for periodic reviews and updates every five years to ensure that the Gold Book remains current and effective.
By fostering a transparent and efficient regulatory framework, the Geothermal Gold Book Development Act aspires to encourage investment in geothermal energy, which has the potential to play a crucial role in diversifying the nation's energy portfolio. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to transition to sustainable energy solutions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future. Ultimately, Rep. Ansari's legislation aims to ensure that geothermal projects can move forward without compromising environmental integrity.
The bill (H.R. 5617) introduced on 9/30/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Rep. Jared Huffman, D-CA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5617/text
Rep. DeSaulnier Introduces Metropolitan Planning Enhancement Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, D-CA, has introduced the Metropolitan Planning Enhancement Act, aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in how public transportation investments are planned and implemented by agencies across the nation.
The bill seeks to amend existing laws governing metropolitan transportation planning, emphasizing the need for a clear, publicly available selection process for transportation projects. By instituting rigorous criteria for categorizing and prioritizing projects, the legislation aims to ensure that the most effective and impactful transportation
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WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 -- Rep. Mark DeSaulnier, D-CA, has introduced the Metropolitan Planning Enhancement Act, aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in how public transportation investments are planned and implemented by agencies across the nation.
The bill seeks to amend existing laws governing metropolitan transportation planning, emphasizing the need for a clear, publicly available selection process for transportation projects. By instituting rigorous criteria for categorizing and prioritizing projects, the legislation aims to ensure that the most effective and impactful transportationinitiatives receive the attention and funding they deserve.
Rep. DeSaulnier's legislation is motivated by a growing demand for understanding how transportation decisions are made and the desire to foster greater public participation in planning processes. Many communities have expressed concerns that essential projects, particularly in economically distressed areas, are overlooked in favor of less impactful initiatives. This bill seeks to address these inequities by requiring public explanations for any deviation from prioritizing higher-performing projects, thereby enhancing community involvement and trust in government actions.
The Metropolitan Planning Enhancement Act will also affect the development of long-range statewide transportation plans by mandating transparency at all stages. As local and state agencies draft plans, they will need to account for geographic balance and equity in project selection, ensuring that all communities can benefit from federal funding and infrastructure improvements.
By establishing these measures, the bill aims to cultivate a more equitable transportation landscape, encouraging investments that align with national transportation goals and delivering the most benefit to the public. In a time when infrastructure is a critical topic in legislative discussions, this proposed change seeks to reshape how decisions affect the daily lives of millions of Americans.
The bill (H.R. 5711) was introduced on 10/8/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5711/text
