Senate Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. Senate bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Sen. Whitehouse Introduces Affordable CHOICE Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 -- Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-RI, has introduced the Affordable CHOICE Act, a legislation aimed at amending the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act by establishing a public health insurance option. This initiative seeks to provide Americans with increased access to affordable, high-quality health coverage while enhancing competition within the insurance market.
The Affordable CHOICE Act is designed to address persistent issues in the U.S. healthcare system, particularly the rising costs of insurance and the need for greater choice among consumers. By creating a public
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 -- Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-RI, has introduced the Affordable CHOICE Act, a legislation aimed at amending the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act by establishing a public health insurance option. This initiative seeks to provide Americans with increased access to affordable, high-quality health coverage while enhancing competition within the insurance market.
The Affordable CHOICE Act is designed to address persistent issues in the U.S. healthcare system, particularly the rising costs of insurance and the need for greater choice among consumers. By creating a publichealth insurance option, the bill aims to offer a viable alternative to private insurance plans, ensuring that all Americans have access to affordable healthcare services starting in 2027. The public option will be exclusively available through the Health Insurance Exchanges, ensuring compliance with existing standards for benefits and consumer protections.
Sen. Whitehouse's motivation for this legislation stems from the ongoing challenges many individuals face in securing reliable healthcare coverage. As the costs of medical services continue to escalate, families are often left with limited financial resources. By implementing a public option, the bill aspires to stabilize the market and counterbalance escalating premiums charged by private insurers.
Moreover, the Affordable CHOICE Act emphasizes the importance of quality and access in health coverage. The Secretary of Health will develop the public plan to ensure it reflects these standards. Additionally, the act allows for state advisory councils to contribute to policy decisions, promoting localized control and responsiveness to community needs.
In summary, the introduction of the Affordable CHOICE Act signals a significant step toward rethinking access to healthcare in the United States, aiming to provide enhanced consumer choice and mitigate the financial burden often associated with obtaining essential medical care.
The bill (S. 3599) introduced on 1/8/2026 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-MI.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3599/text
Sen. Duckworth Introduces PROTECT Military Families Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-IL, has introduced the PROTECT Military Families Act, which aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to facilitate the entry of certain family members of current and former U.S. Armed Forces personnel into the country. The proposed legislation would empower the Secretary of Homeland Security to parole the spouses, parents, and children of these service members, fostering family unity and support for military families.
The motivation behind the bill stems from the unique sacrifices made by military families, who often endure long separations
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-IL, has introduced the PROTECT Military Families Act, which aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to facilitate the entry of certain family members of current and former U.S. Armed Forces personnel into the country. The proposed legislation would empower the Secretary of Homeland Security to parole the spouses, parents, and children of these service members, fostering family unity and support for military families.
The motivation behind the bill stems from the unique sacrifices made by military families, who often endure long separationsand stress related to military service. By allowing the entry of immediate family members, the act seeks to alleviate some of the burdens faced by service members and enhance their overall well-being. In particular, the legislation addresses the challenges faced by those with loved ones residing abroad, ensuring that they can maintain family connections despite geographical barriers.
Under the provisions of the act, family members would be paroled into the U.S. for one-year increments, with strict criteria governing denial of applications, which would require a joint written justification from the Secretaries of Homeland Security, Defense, and Veterans Affairs. This collaborative approach underscores the bill's emphasis on service member welfare, as it safeguards against arbitrary denials while maintaining national security protocols.
The PROTECT Military Families Act not only represents a critical step in recognizing the contributions of military families but also reflects a broader commitment to support those who serve the nation. By improving access for relatives of service members, the legislation aims to foster a supportive environment conducive to the resilience and stability of military families across the United States.
The bill (S. 3592) introduced on 1/7/2026 has 4 co-sponsors: Sens. Richard Blumenthal, D-CT; Mazie K. Hirono, D-HI; Ron Wyden, D-OR; Cory A. Booker, D-NJ.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3592/text
Sen. Cornyn Introduces Stop Illegal Aliens Drunk Driving
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-TX, has introduced the Stop Illegal Aliens Drunk Driving bill aimed at redefining the parameters of aggravated felonies within the Immigration and Nationality Act to encompass serious drunk driving offenses. This legislative move seeks to address rising concerns surrounding public safety and immigration laws.
The bill specifically targets offenses related to driving under the influence, especially when such actions result in severe consequences like death or serious bodily injury to individuals. By adding these drunk driving offenses to the aggravated
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. John Cornyn, R-TX, has introduced the Stop Illegal Aliens Drunk Driving bill aimed at redefining the parameters of aggravated felonies within the Immigration and Nationality Act to encompass serious drunk driving offenses. This legislative move seeks to address rising concerns surrounding public safety and immigration laws.
The bill specifically targets offenses related to driving under the influence, especially when such actions result in severe consequences like death or serious bodily injury to individuals. By adding these drunk driving offenses to the aggravatedfelony category, the legislation mandates that any individual convicted of such an offense, regardless of whether it is categorized as a misdemeanor or felony under various jurisdictions, will face increased barriers for legal admission to the United States.
Sen. Cornyn's initiative comes in response to mounting public pressure for stricter immigration controls concerning individuals engaged in dangerous criminal behaviors. Advocates argue that inclusion of serious drunken driving offenses in the aggravated felony definition will enhance the overall safety of American communities by allowing for swifter deportation of offenders. The bill intends to ensure that those who endanger lives through irresponsible driving are held accountable in the immigration system.
In the broader context, this legislative proposal reflects ongoing debates within the U.S. Congress about the intersection of immigration policy and public safety. Proponents of such measures assert that maintaining secure communities is a critical responsibility of the government, while opponents raise concerns over potential adverse effects and fairness in adjudicating immigration matters. The bill has been referred to the Committee on the Judiciary for consideration, where further deliberations on its implications will ensue.
The bill (S. 3584) introduced on 1/7/2026 has 10 co-sponsors: Sens. Ted Cruz, R-TX; Ruben Gallego, D-AZ; Ted Budd, R-NC; Thom Tillis, R-NC; Cynthia M. Lummis, R-WY; Bill Hagerty, R-TN; John Kennedy, R-LA; Eric Schmitt, R-MO; James Lankford, R-OK; Markwayne Mullin, R-OK.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3584/text
Sen. Blunt Rochester Introduces Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Act of 2026
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-DE, has introduced the Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Act of 2026, aimed at reauthorizing key federal programs designed to enhance the resilience and sustainability of clean drinking water and wastewater infrastructure across the nation. The bill seeks to extend support for crucial infrastructure investments over the next five years.
This legislation aims to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change and aging water systems, which have been highlighted by a series of recent environmental crises. With the reauthorization
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-DE, has introduced the Water Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability Act of 2026, aimed at reauthorizing key federal programs designed to enhance the resilience and sustainability of clean drinking water and wastewater infrastructure across the nation. The bill seeks to extend support for crucial infrastructure investments over the next five years.
This legislation aims to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change and aging water systems, which have been highlighted by a series of recent environmental crises. With the reauthorizationof the clean water infrastructure resiliency and sustainability program under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, the bill provides vital funding for local and state governments to improve their water systems. This effort is essential to ensure that communities have access to clean water while minimizing the risk of contamination and infrastructure failure.
Moreover, the bill reauthorizes specific programs under the Safe Drinking Water Act, which supports midsize and large drinking water systems in enhancing their infrastructure resilience. By increasing investments in these areas, the legislation underscores a commitment to the long-term sustainability of the nation's water supply, benefiting millions of Americans who rely on public water systems for their daily needs.
The introduction of this legislation reflects a growing recognition of the crucial nexus between water infrastructure, public health, and environmental protection. By securing funding for the years 2027 through 2031, the bill seeks to promote innovative solutions and empower municipalities to tackle existing deficiencies, ensuring safe and reliable water services now and for future generations. As climate-related events become more frequent, measures such as these are increasingly vital to fortifying the United States' water infrastructure against potential disruptions.
The bill (S. 3590) introduced on 1/7/2026 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. John R. Curtis, R-UT.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3590/text
Sen. Blackburn Introduces No Tax on Wrongful Delay Act of 2026
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-TN, has introduced the No Tax on Wrongful Delay Act of 2026, aimed at exempting interest paid to taxpayers by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from being counted as gross income. The bill responds to concerns that taxpayers receiving compensation after successful audits or litigation should not be penalized by taxation on these payments.
The legislation specifically targets the interests accrued on overpayments to the IRS during audits or legal disputes. By amending the Internal Revenue Code, the proposed bill ensures that any interest owed to taxpayers
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-TN, has introduced the No Tax on Wrongful Delay Act of 2026, aimed at exempting interest paid to taxpayers by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) from being counted as gross income. The bill responds to concerns that taxpayers receiving compensation after successful audits or litigation should not be penalized by taxation on these payments.
The legislation specifically targets the interests accrued on overpayments to the IRS during audits or legal disputes. By amending the Internal Revenue Code, the proposed bill ensures that any interest owed to taxpayersfollowing an internal revenue tax overpayment will not be included in their gross income for tax purposes. This legislative change is expected to provide financial relief to individuals who have already endured the often burdensome process of an audit or litigation against the IRS.
In recent years, rising concerns about taxpayer rights and the fairness of the tax system have fueled discussions around the treatment of interest payments. Taxpayers who have successfully contested tax liabilities can face a double burden if the IRS compensates them with interest, only for that interest to then be taxed. The introduction of this bill reflects an ongoing effort to improve taxpayer protections and promote fairness in the tax system.
Should the bill pass, it would apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025, thereby establishing a clearer framework for how taxpayer winnings from audits and litigation are handled. Advocates for the bill argue that it not only brings relief to taxpayers but also encourages people to challenge unjust tax claims without the fear of incurring additional tax penalties on the interest awarded to them. The bill is now set for consideration by the Senate Committee on Finance.
The bill (S. 3587) was introduced on 1/7/2026.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3587/text
Sen. Bennet Introduces No War with Venezuela Act of 2026
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Michael F. Bennet, D-CO, has introduced the No War with Venezuela Act of 2026, aimed at prohibiting the use of federal funds for deploying U.S. military or intelligence personnel to Venezuela without congressional approval for specific operations. The move reflects an urgent call for accountability regarding U.S. military engagements overseas.
The legislation arises against a backdrop of escalating tensions in Venezuela, where political strife and humanitarian crises have prompted discussions around foreign intervention. Bennet's bill seeks to ensure that any military
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Michael F. Bennet, D-CO, has introduced the No War with Venezuela Act of 2026, aimed at prohibiting the use of federal funds for deploying U.S. military or intelligence personnel to Venezuela without congressional approval for specific operations. The move reflects an urgent call for accountability regarding U.S. military engagements overseas.
The legislation arises against a backdrop of escalating tensions in Venezuela, where political strife and humanitarian crises have prompted discussions around foreign intervention. Bennet's bill seeks to ensure that any militaryinvolvement is subject to legislative scrutiny, preventing unauthorized actions that could exacerbate the already volatile situation. By delineating clear boundaries for military engagement, the bill emphasizes the principles of democratic oversight in matters of war and peace.
Under the proposed law, U.S. funds would not finance military operations against the Venezuelan regime, assist law enforcement actions involving suspects indicted by the U.S., or support military occupation efforts. Importantly, it also prohibits the provision of security to private industries, including oil companies operating in Venezuela. This provision reflects concerns about corporate interests potentially overshadowing humanitarian and diplomatic objectives.
The bill does, however, allow for certain exceptions, including defensive actions against attacks on U.S. personnel and intelligence activities focused on countering threats from hostile nations. This nuanced approach aims to balance national security considerations with the need to avoid wrongful military entanglements.
As the political landscape in Venezuela continues to evolve, Sen. Bennet's legislation represents a significant step towards fostering a more restrained and accountable U.S. foreign policy, encouraging dialogue over conflict and prioritizing adherence to constitutional principles in matters of military engagement.
The bill (S. 3595) was introduced on 1/7/2026.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3595/text
Sen. Banks Introduces RISE Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN, has introduced the Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower Act, commonly known as the RISE Act, aimed at enhancing access to higher education for students with disabilities. The legislation seeks to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to ensure that students with disabilities and their families receive essential information to help them choose suitable colleges and thrive during their college experience.
The RISE Act emerges from the ongoing struggle faced by students with disabilities when navigating the complexities of higher education. With the
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WASHINGTON, Feb. 5 -- Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN, has introduced the Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower Act, commonly known as the RISE Act, aimed at enhancing access to higher education for students with disabilities. The legislation seeks to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to ensure that students with disabilities and their families receive essential information to help them choose suitable colleges and thrive during their college experience.
The RISE Act emerges from the ongoing struggle faced by students with disabilities when navigating the complexities of higher education. With thenational graduation rates for students with disabilities significantly lagging behind their peers, the act is designed to eliminate barriers that have historically hindered these individuals from achieving academic success. By providing clearer guidelines for documentation that supports a student's disability status, the bill empowers institutions to adopt more lenient policies that facilitate access to necessary accommodations.
Under the proposed amendments, colleges will be required to create transparent policies regarding the eligibility criteria for disability accommodations. This includes adopting documentation from high schools, private institutions, or licensed professionals as sufficient proof of disability. Additionally, institutions will need to improve communication by disseminating vital information about these processes to students and families, ensuring that these details are accessible in formats that cater to various needs.
The legislation also addresses the funding necessary for the establishment of a national center dedicated to supporting students with disabilities in higher education. It authorizes an appropriation of $10 million from the federal budget for this initiative, aimed at providing ongoing resources for students and educational institutions alike.
By increasing accountability and resources, the RISE Act represents a significant step towards inclusivity and support for students with disabilities, fostering an environment where every learner has the opportunity to succeed in higher education.
The bill (S. 3589) introduced on 1/7/2026 has 7 co-sponsors: Sens. Margaret Wood Hassan, D-NH; Bill Cassidy, R-LA; Chris Van Hollen, D-MD; Todd Young, R-IN; Tina Smith, D-MN; Mark Kelly, D-AZ; Eric Schmitt, R-MO.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3589/text
