Senate Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. Senate bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Sen. Curtis Introduces Fusion Advanced Manufacturing Parity Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. John R. Curtis, R-UT, has introduced the Fusion Advanced Manufacturing Parity Act aimed at expanding tax credits to promote the production of fusion energy components. This legislation seeks to include these components under the advanced manufacturing production credit of the Internal Revenue Code, thereby incentivizing innovation in the burgeoning field of fusion energy.
The bill comes at a time when global energy demands are surging and interest in sustainable energy solutions has never been greater. With fusion energy seen as a potential game-changer in achieving
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. John R. Curtis, R-UT, has introduced the Fusion Advanced Manufacturing Parity Act aimed at expanding tax credits to promote the production of fusion energy components. This legislation seeks to include these components under the advanced manufacturing production credit of the Internal Revenue Code, thereby incentivizing innovation in the burgeoning field of fusion energy.
The bill comes at a time when global energy demands are surging and interest in sustainable energy solutions has never been greater. With fusion energy seen as a potential game-changer in achievingclean, abundant power, the act aims to reduce financial barriers for manufacturers developing the necessary technology. By allowing a 25% sales price tax credit for fusion energy components, the legislation encourages investment in this critical sector.
Fusion energy represents a paradigm shift from traditional energy sources, aiming to harness the same reactions that power the sun. Unlike fission-based nuclear energy, fusion has the potential to produce minimal radioactive waste and significantly lower risk of catastrophic failures. However, the complexity and cost of developing fusion technology have hindered its widespread adoption. This bill is intended to alleviate some of those challenges by supporting manufacturers involved in the design and production of essential fusion components, such as superconducting magnets and plasma chambers.
In crafting this legislation, the intent is clear: bolster the United States' position in the global energy landscape while simultaneously fostering domestic job creation in advanced manufacturing. As industries worldwide begin to transition to greener technologies, the Fusion Advanced Manufacturing Parity Act underscores a commitment to innovation and sustainable energy development, potentially paving the way for a future powered by fusion.
The bill (S. 3088) introduced on 10/30/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-WA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3088/text
Sen. Cruz Introduces Reciprocity Ensures Streamlined Use of Lifesaving Treatments Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, has introduced the Reciprocity Ensures Streamlined Use of Lifesaving Treatments Act of 2025, aimed at facilitating the rapid marketing approval of certain drugs, biological products, and medical devices that are already available in other countries. This legislation seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, allowing products authorized abroad to potentially enter the U.S. market more efficiently.
The bill addresses the ongoing issue of delays in the availability of potentially lifesaving treatments in the United States. By permitting reciprocal
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, has introduced the Reciprocity Ensures Streamlined Use of Lifesaving Treatments Act of 2025, aimed at facilitating the rapid marketing approval of certain drugs, biological products, and medical devices that are already available in other countries. This legislation seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, allowing products authorized abroad to potentially enter the U.S. market more efficiently.
The bill addresses the ongoing issue of delays in the availability of potentially lifesaving treatments in the United States. By permitting reciprocalmarketing approval, the legislation allows innovators whose products have been legally marketed in specific foreign countries, including the United Kingdom, to gain quicker access to U.S. consumers-particularly when alternatives are scarce. The initiative stems from a growing concern regarding access to medicines, especially amid public health emergencies and rising instances of unmet medical needs.
Under the proposed act, the Secretary of Health and Human Services would grant reciprocal marketing approval if specific conditions are met, including the demonstration of safety and effectiveness relevant to U.S. standards. This streamlined process is intended to address existing regulatory barriers that currently hinder timely access to essential medications and devices.
The motivation behind Sen. Cruz's bill is not only to enhance patient access but also to encourage American innovation in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors. By providing a clear pathway for international products that meet strict safety guidelines, the legislation aims to foster a more competitive environment that ultimately benefits U.S. patients.
Overall, this legislation represents a pivotal shift in how the United States regulates newly approved health products from abroad, promising improved access to vital treatments for American consumers.
The bill (S. 3081) introduced on 10/30/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Mike Lee, R-UT.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3081/text
Sen. Cortez Masto Introduces Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-NV, has introduced the Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act, aimed at reauthorizing vital rural cooperative development grants. This legislation is designed to bolster rural economies by supporting the establishment and sustainability of cooperatives across the United States.
The bill seeks to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to provide renewed funding targeting cooperative development initiatives. These initiatives encompass outreach, education, training, and technical assistance focused on assisting both
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-NV, has introduced the Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act, aimed at reauthorizing vital rural cooperative development grants. This legislation is designed to bolster rural economies by supporting the establishment and sustainability of cooperatives across the United States.
The bill seeks to amend the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to provide renewed funding targeting cooperative development initiatives. These initiatives encompass outreach, education, training, and technical assistance focused on assisting bothnew and existing cooperatives. By ensuring access to these resources, the bill aims to enhance the economic stability and growth potential of rural communities.
Rural cooperatives play a critical role in empowering local economies, allowing small businesses and farmers to work collaboratively to address common challenges. They are essential for fostering innovation and improving access to markets. The reauthorization of grants is crucial in an era where many rural areas face declining populations and economic disinvestment. This support is expected to forge stronger community ties and encourage local investment, which is vital for sustained economic health.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for enhanced reporting and analysis. It mandates the Secretary to review the effectiveness of cooperative development programs and ensure transparency regarding outcomes to Congress. These annual reports will provide insights into the impact of the funding, enabling future policymaking to be informed by data-driven results.
The Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act reflects a commitment to not only preserving existing rural businesses but also cultivating an environment where new enterprises can flourish, thereby strengthening the overall fabric of rural America. Sen. Cortez Masto's initiative is a significant step toward revitalizing underserved communities across the country.
The bill (S. 3075) introduced on 10/30/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Deb Fischer, R-NE.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3075/text
Sen. Cortez Masto Introduces No Coffee Tax Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-NV, has introduced the No Coffee Tax Act, aiming to prohibit any additional tariffs on coffee imports from countries that have normal trade relations with the United States. This legislation seeks to protect both consumers and coffee producers from escalating costs associated with potential tariff increases.
The No Coffee Tax Act comes amid ongoing debates about trade policies and their impact on everyday goods. The bill specifically addresses the need to maintain current tariff rates on coffee, which include various forms such as roasted beans,
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-NV, has introduced the No Coffee Tax Act, aiming to prohibit any additional tariffs on coffee imports from countries that have normal trade relations with the United States. This legislation seeks to protect both consumers and coffee producers from escalating costs associated with potential tariff increases.
The No Coffee Tax Act comes amid ongoing debates about trade policies and their impact on everyday goods. The bill specifically addresses the need to maintain current tariff rates on coffee, which include various forms such as roasted beans,decaffeinated coffee, and coffee substitutes. By freezing the tariff rate as of January 19, 2025, the legislation aims to provide stability in pricing for American consumers and support the broader coffee market, which has substantial consumer demand.
Cortez Masto's initiative is particularly timely, as the coffee industry has been facing volatility due to shifting global supply chains influenced by economic challenges, climate change, and international trade tensions. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the United States, and any sudden increase in tariffs could drastically inflate prices, impacting both household budgets and small businesses in the hospitality sector that rely heavily on coffee sales.
In introducing this bill, Cortez Masto emphasizes the importance of maintaining fair trade practices that benefit both consumers and producers alike. By ensuring a stable tariff regime, the No Coffee Tax Act is expected to foster a competitive market environment while shielding coffee drinkers from unexpected price hikes. The bill has been referred to the Committee on Finance for further consideration, marking a crucial step toward safeguarding the coffee trade in America.
The bill (S. 3072) introduced on 10/29/2025 has 2 co-sponsors: Sens. Rand Paul, R-KY; Margaret Wood Hassan, D-NH.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3072/text
Sen. Cassidy Introduces Restoring Integrity in Fiduciary Duty Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-LA, has introduced the Restoring Integrity in Fiduciary Duty Act, a significant measure aimed at reinforcing the criteria by which fiduciaries manage investments under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The bill seeks to clarify how fiduciaries may evaluate investments, emphasizing the centrality of financial returns over nonpecuniary factors while ensuring both prudence and exclusive purpose in fiduciary duties.
The legislation arises from ongoing concerns that fiduciaries have increasingly allowed nonpecuniary considerations to influence
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-LA, has introduced the Restoring Integrity in Fiduciary Duty Act, a significant measure aimed at reinforcing the criteria by which fiduciaries manage investments under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. The bill seeks to clarify how fiduciaries may evaluate investments, emphasizing the centrality of financial returns over nonpecuniary factors while ensuring both prudence and exclusive purpose in fiduciary duties.
The legislation arises from ongoing concerns that fiduciaries have increasingly allowed nonpecuniary considerations to influenceinvestment decisions, potentially jeopardizing the financial interests of retirement plan participants. By requiring fiduciaries to prioritize economic interests when evaluating investment options, the bill aims to protect retirement savings from undue risks associated with ideological or social goals. Importantly, the act stipulates that when fiduciaries cannot distinguish between investment options based solely on financial criteria, they must apply a specific selection standard that ensures randomness rather than nonpecuniary preferences.
Additionally, the act addresses the exercise of shareholder rights, mandating that fiduciaries act solely in the financial interests of plan participants when voting on shareholder issues. This provision underscores the duty to carefully assess when and how to exercise voting rights, emphasizing economic outcomes rather than nonpecuniary objectives. By implementing clear guidelines for discretion in proxy voting and shareholder rights, Cassidy's bill seeks to return focus to the primary duty of fiduciary oversight-maximizing the financial benefits for those whose investments they manage.
As the legislation moves to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, its introduction sparks a crucial debate about the fundamental responsibilities of fiduciaries in the evolving landscape of retirement investments.
The bill (S. 3086) introduced on 10/30/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3086/text
Sen. Cassidy Introduces Learning Innovation and Family Empowerment with AI Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-LA, has introduced the Learning Innovation and Family Empowerment with AI Act, aimed at enhancing student privacy and parental engagement in educational technology. This legislation seeks to establish a framework that empowers parents and students while ensuring the protection of sensitive data within school systems.
The proposed bill emphasizes significant improvements to the way educational institutions handle student information. A notable component includes the implementation of an instant verification technology that allows parents and eligible students
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-LA, has introduced the Learning Innovation and Family Empowerment with AI Act, aimed at enhancing student privacy and parental engagement in educational technology. This legislation seeks to establish a framework that empowers parents and students while ensuring the protection of sensitive data within school systems.
The proposed bill emphasizes significant improvements to the way educational institutions handle student information. A notable component includes the implementation of an instant verification technology that allows parents and eligible studentsto provide real-time consent regarding the use of educational technology. By streamlining this consent process, the bill aims to increase transparency and facilitate better communication between educators and families, thus fostering a collaborative educational environment.
In addition to modernizing consent mechanisms, the legislation aims to establish a Golden Seal of Excellence in Student Data Privacy. This certification will recognize schools that adopt exemplary privacy practices, thereby promoting a culture of responsibility and accountability within educational institutions. Cassidy's bill emerges from growing concerns about student data protection amid the expanding use of technology in classrooms.
Furthermore, the legislation addresses critical issues related to the use of artificial intelligence in education. It prohibits the use of facial recognition technology without prior parental consent, reinforcing parental authority over students' personal data. With emphasis on personalized learning, the bill encourages the integration of AI in educational settings while safeguarding students' critical thinking skills.
The bill has been referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions for further review. If enacted, the LIFE with AI Act could reshape the educational landscape by marrying technological innovation with robust protective measures for student privacy and parental involvement, thereby setting a new standard for how educational technology is managed in schools across the nation.
The bill (S. 3063) was introduced on 10/28/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3063/text
Sen. Blunt Rochester Introduces SNAP BACK Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-DE, has introduced the SNAP BACK Act of 2025, a legislative initiative designed to ensure state agencies are reimbursed for costs incurred while administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during lapses in federal appropriations.
The motivation behind the bill stems from concerns regarding food security and the operational challenges faced by state agencies when funding for SNAP is interrupted. In circumstances where federal appropriations lapse, states often continue to provide benefits to low-income individuals and families,
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-DE, has introduced the SNAP BACK Act of 2025, a legislative initiative designed to ensure state agencies are reimbursed for costs incurred while administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during lapses in federal appropriations.
The motivation behind the bill stems from concerns regarding food security and the operational challenges faced by state agencies when funding for SNAP is interrupted. In circumstances where federal appropriations lapse, states often continue to provide benefits to low-income individuals and families,ensuring they have access to essential nutrition. This bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden on these state agencies by formally authorizing the Secretary of Agriculture to reimburse them for their expenses during such periods.
The SNAP program, established under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, plays a critical role in addressing hunger and promoting nutrition among vulnerable populations throughout the United States. The inability to swiftly restore funding during lapses can lead to disruption in services, creating periods where recipients may go without necessary assistance. By guaranteeing reimbursement, the SNAP BACK Act aims to reinforce the continuity of support for those relying on food assistance.
This legislation highlights a proactive approach to maintaining food security and sustaining state efforts in handling the administrative responsibilities of federal programs. Ensuring that state agencies are financially supported can not only streamline operations during uncertain times but also strengthen public confidence in the nutrition assistance program's reliability.
As the bill moves forward, it will be reviewed by the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, where its potential impact on state-level SNAP operations and food security nationwide will be assessed.
The bill (S. 3074) was introduced on 10/29/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3074/text
Sen. Alsobrooks Introduces Shutdown Student Loans for Feds Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Shutdown Student Loans for Feds Act, aimed at providing student loan borrower relief for federal employees during government shutdowns. The proposed legislation seeks to ease the financial burden on federal workers and contractors when there are lapses in appropriations.
The bill stipulates that during any shutdown lasting 14 days or more, the Secretary of Education would suspend loan payments for affected federal employees and contractors. Importantly, interest would not accrue on these loans during the suspension period,
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 6 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Shutdown Student Loans for Feds Act, aimed at providing student loan borrower relief for federal employees during government shutdowns. The proposed legislation seeks to ease the financial burden on federal workers and contractors when there are lapses in appropriations.
The bill stipulates that during any shutdown lasting 14 days or more, the Secretary of Education would suspend loan payments for affected federal employees and contractors. Importantly, interest would not accrue on these loans during the suspension period,allowing employees to focus on stabilization rather than accruing debt. Additionally, the legislation ensures that months of suspended payments would still count towards loan forgiveness programs, benefiting borrowers seeking relief within the educational system.
The motivation behind this bill is rooted in the increasing frequency of government shutdowns, which not only disrupt federal operations but also inflict financial instability on employees. By addressing the immediate financial consequences of these shutdowns, the legislation aims to provide peace of mind to those who serve the public sector.
Historically, federal employees have been left in precarious situations during shutdowns, often resulting in delayed salaries and heightened anxiety over financial obligations. The proposed measures would not only alleviate student loan pressures but also signal a commitment to the well-being of federal workers. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for retroactive effects, allowing individuals to seek refunds for any payments made during these critical periods, thereby reinforcing the intent to provide comprehensive support.
Sen. Alsobrooks' legislation highlights the necessity for protective measures for federal employees, emphasizing that during shutdowns, their financial obligations should not exacerbate the challenges faced in their professional and personal lives.
The bill (S. 3070) introduced on 10/29/2025 has 15 co-sponsors: Sens. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD; Elizabeth Warren, D-MA; Richard Blumenthal, D-CT; Mark R. Warner, D-VA; Mazie K. Hirono, D-HI; Ron Wyden, D-OR; Andy Kim, D-NJ; Edward J. Markey, D-MA; Ben Ray Lujan, D-NM; Jeff Merkley, D-OR; Tim Kaine, D-VA; Bernard Sanders, I-VT; Cory A. Booker, D-NJ; Kirsten E. Gillibrand, D-NY; Alex Padilla, D-CA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3070/text
