Senate Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. Senate bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Sen. Markey Introduces Warehouse Worker Protection Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 20 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-MA, has introduced the Warehouse Worker Protection Act, designed to enhance protections for warehouse employees across the nation. The bill aims to address key issues such as workplace quotas, safety conditions, and employee rights, ensuring fair treatment and transparency within the warehouse employment sector.
The Warehouse Worker Protection Act seeks to create a framework that establishes clear regulations for warehouse employers concerning workload expectations and worker safety. By introducing measures to prevent adverse employment actions linked
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 20 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-MA, has introduced the Warehouse Worker Protection Act, designed to enhance protections for warehouse employees across the nation. The bill aims to address key issues such as workplace quotas, safety conditions, and employee rights, ensuring fair treatment and transparency within the warehouse employment sector.
The Warehouse Worker Protection Act seeks to create a framework that establishes clear regulations for warehouse employers concerning workload expectations and worker safety. By introducing measures to prevent adverse employment actions linkedto performance quotas, the bill protects employees from potential retaliation due to failing to meet unreasonable benchmarks. The legislation mandates that employers provide written quotas and descriptions regarding their performance expectations, enhancing clarity for workers regarding job requirements.
A significant portion of the bill focuses on workplace safety, calling for compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. It aims to tackle common workplace hazards, particularly those linked to musculoskeletal disorders, by enforcing ergonomic management practices. The bill also stipulates that employers must ensure timely medical attention for injured workers, promoting a healthier workplace environment.
In an era where warehouse jobs are growing rapidly, primarily driven by e-commerce, there is increasing concern about working conditions. This legislation acknowledges the pressing need for reform in a sector known for high injury rates and demanding performance metrics. By addressing these challenges, the Warehouse Worker Protection Act aims to secure the rights of warehouse employees, fostering a work culture that prioritizes health and safety alongside productivity. As debate unfolds in the Senate, stakeholders anticipate that this bill could significantly reshape the future of warehousing jobs in the U.S.
The bill (S. 2613) introduced on 7/31/2025 has 9 co-sponsors: Sens. Josh Hawley, R-MO; Roger Marshall, R-KS; Bernard Sanders, I-VT; Alex Padilla, D-CA; Richard Blumenthal, D-CT; Peter Welch, D-VT; Elizabeth Warren, D-MA; Christopher Murphy, D-CT; Tina Smith, D-MN.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2613/text
Sen. Sullivan Introduces American Grown Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 19 -- Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-AK, has introduced the American Grown Act, which aims to mandate that certain federal agencies procure only cut flowers and cut greens cultivated in the United States. This proposed legislation seeks to support domestic agriculture and reduce reliance on imported floral products.
The American Grown Act applies specifically to agencies including the Executive Office of the President, the Department of Defense, and the Department of State. Under the bill, funds appropriated to these agencies may only be used for the purchase of cut flowers and cut greens
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 19 -- Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-AK, has introduced the American Grown Act, which aims to mandate that certain federal agencies procure only cut flowers and cut greens cultivated in the United States. This proposed legislation seeks to support domestic agriculture and reduce reliance on imported floral products.
The American Grown Act applies specifically to agencies including the Executive Office of the President, the Department of Defense, and the Department of State. Under the bill, funds appropriated to these agencies may only be used for the purchase of cut flowers and cut greenssourced from within qualifying areas, including U.S. states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and federally recognized Indian tribes. This initiative reflects a growing trend among lawmakers to bolster local economies and enhance food security while supporting American farmers.
One of the driving forces behind this legislation is the significant economic impact that the floral industry has on domestic agriculture. By focusing on local production, the bill seeks to stimulate job creation in the floral sector and promote sustainable practices. It is estimated that large-scale purchasing from foreign entities has detrimentally affected local growers; thus, this legislation aims to level the playing field.
Additionally, the American Grown Act establishes regulations surrounding gifts of cut flowers and greens from foreign entities. If federal agencies receive such gifts, they are required to display the origin clearly and must also procure an equivalent amount of domestic flowers for display purposes. This ensures that while agencies may still receive international floral products, there is a consistent commitment to supporting American agriculture.
Overall, the American Grown Act signifies a legislative commitment to prioritize domestic products and reflects a broader movement towards supporting U.S. farmers and enhancing local economies.
The bill (S. 2504) introduced on 7/29/2025 has 3 co-sponsors: Sens. Adam B. Schiff, D-CA; Lisa Murkowski, R-AK; Angus S. King Jr., I-ME.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2504/text
Sen. Padilla Introduces Mental Health for Latinos Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 19 -- Sen. Alex Padilla, D-CA, has introduced the Mental Health for Latinos Act of 2025, aimed at developing an outreach and education strategy to enhance behavioral and mental health awareness within Hispanic and Latino communities. This legislation seeks to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health issues and promote greater acceptance and understanding of mental health conditions and substance abuse.
The Mental Health for Latinos Act amends the Public Health Service Act, tasking the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the creation of a strategic outreach program.
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 19 -- Sen. Alex Padilla, D-CA, has introduced the Mental Health for Latinos Act of 2025, aimed at developing an outreach and education strategy to enhance behavioral and mental health awareness within Hispanic and Latino communities. This legislation seeks to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health issues and promote greater acceptance and understanding of mental health conditions and substance abuse.
The Mental Health for Latinos Act amends the Public Health Service Act, tasking the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the creation of a strategic outreach program.This program focuses on addressing the unique mental health needs of diverse Hispanic and Latino populations, recognizing the cultural and linguistic barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking help. By prioritizing tailored educational initiatives, the bill aims to increase awareness of common mental health symptoms and available resources, encouraging community engagement and empowerment.
Historically, Hispanic and Latino communities have faced significant challenges when addressing mental health concerns, often exacerbated by cultural stigma and lack of access to appropriate services. With mental health issues affecting all demographics, this legislation represents a critical step toward ensuring equitable mental health care. By emphasizing a comprehensive public health approach that integrates behavioral and physical health, the bill aims to foster a holistic view of health that promotes wellness in all aspects of life.
To ensure accountability and measure progress, the bill also mandates annual reports to Congress, analyzing the effectiveness of the outreach strategy. With an initial funding authorization of $1 million for fiscal year 2026, the Mental Health for Latinos Act seeks to create a lasting impact on the mental health landscape for Hispanic and Latino individuals, ultimately contributing to healthier communities.
The bill (S. 2446) introduced on 7/24/2025 has 3 co-sponsors: Sens. Ruben Gallego, D-AZ; Martin Heinrich, D-NM; Mazie K. Hirono, D-HI.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2446/text
Sen. Kelly Introduces Medic Education and Deployment Into Civilian Careers Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 -- Sen. Mark Kelly, D-AZ, has introduced the Medic Education and Deployment Into Civilian Careers Act of 2025, aimed at enhancing the transition process for military medics into civilian health care roles. This legislation seeks to streamline the pathway for these skilled professionals, facilitating their integration into critical health care positions, such as certified nurse aides and medical assistants.
The MEDIC Careers Act is motivated by the urgent need to address the workforce shortage in the health care sector, particularly in light of the increasing demand for qualified
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 -- Sen. Mark Kelly, D-AZ, has introduced the Medic Education and Deployment Into Civilian Careers Act of 2025, aimed at enhancing the transition process for military medics into civilian health care roles. This legislation seeks to streamline the pathway for these skilled professionals, facilitating their integration into critical health care positions, such as certified nurse aides and medical assistants.
The MEDIC Careers Act is motivated by the urgent need to address the workforce shortage in the health care sector, particularly in light of the increasing demand for qualifiedhealth care professionals. Many medics possessing substantial training and experience face significant challenges when trying to navigate the complexities of civilian employment requirements. By requiring the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to develop strategies for recognizing and translating military credentials, the bill aims to eliminate barriers hindering the transition of medics into civilian jobs.
This legislative initiative also sets the groundwork for accelerated training programs designed to help former service members obtain necessary civilian credentials. It emphasizes collaboration among various state and federal agencies to enhance understanding of how military medics' skills align with civilian health care needs. Moreover, the bill proposes a pilot program that provides grants to health care providers, incentivizing them to hire and train transitioning service members.
Supporters argue that facilitating these transitions will not only provide valuable career opportunities for veterans but also help alleviate the pressing workforce shortages in the health care sector. The MEDIC Careers Act is seen as a critical step in ensuring that those who have served in the Armed Forces can effectively leverage their expertise in civilian contexts, ultimately benefiting the health care system and the nation as a whole.
The bill (S. 2673) introduced on 8/1/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Mike Rounds, R-SD.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2673/text
Sen. Grassley Introduces Psychiatric Hospital Inspection Transparency Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 -- Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-IA, has introduced the Psychiatric Hospital Inspection Transparency Act, aimed at enhancing transparency in hospital and psychiatric hospital accreditation surveys. The bill seeks to amend the Social Security Act, allowing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make accreditation survey information public, thereby equipping consumers with the knowledge needed to make informed health care choices.
This legislation responds to growing concerns about the quality of care within psychiatric facilities and the need for greater accountability in health
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 -- Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-IA, has introduced the Psychiatric Hospital Inspection Transparency Act, aimed at enhancing transparency in hospital and psychiatric hospital accreditation surveys. The bill seeks to amend the Social Security Act, allowing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make accreditation survey information public, thereby equipping consumers with the knowledge needed to make informed health care choices.
This legislation responds to growing concerns about the quality of care within psychiatric facilities and the need for greater accountability in healthservices. By requiring the release of accreditation surveys and relevant data, the bill intends to establish a more informed patient base, enabling individuals to assess the quality of care offered by different institutions. Currently, much of this data remains inaccessible to the public, leaving patients and families to navigate the complexities of health care without sufficient information about provider performance.
The proposed changes will require national accreditation bodies to include specific survey forms and additional information in their accreditation processes, which will then be published on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Care Compare website. This measure aims to bridge the gap between health care providers and consumers, promoting better decision-making regarding care options based on transparent data.
The bill is set to come into effect two years after its enactment, with the intention of allowing sufficient time for relevant stakeholders to access and integrate the new standards. By emphasizing the release of this information while respecting patient privacy, the legislation seeks to strike a balance between transparency and confidentiality in mental health care settings, ultimately fostering a more accountable healthcare environment.
The bill (S. 2649) was introduced on 8/1/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2649/text
Sen. Markey Introduces Preventing HEAT Illness and Deaths Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-MA, has introduced the Preventing HEAT Illness and Deaths Act of 2025 aimed at addressing the rising health risks associated with extreme heat. The legislation seeks to establish the National Integrated Heat Health Information System and an interagency committee to enhance preparedness, planning, and response to heat-related health threats.
The legislation comes in response to the alarming increase in heat-related health emergencies in the United States, with extreme heat events now recognized as the leading cause of weather-related deaths over the
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 15 -- Sen. Edward J. Markey, D-MA, has introduced the Preventing HEAT Illness and Deaths Act of 2025 aimed at addressing the rising health risks associated with extreme heat. The legislation seeks to establish the National Integrated Heat Health Information System and an interagency committee to enhance preparedness, planning, and response to heat-related health threats.
The legislation comes in response to the alarming increase in heat-related health emergencies in the United States, with extreme heat events now recognized as the leading cause of weather-related deaths over thepast three decades. With global temperatures on the rise, the potential for more frequent and severe heat waves poses significant challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income communities, and those lacking access to cooling resources.
The proposed National Integrated Heat Health Information System will serve as a centralized hub for data collection, analysis, and dissemination related to heat health risks. This system aims to empower communities with actionable information to enhance their resilience during extreme heat events. Additionally, the interagency committee will coordinate efforts among federal agencies to streamline communication and service delivery, ensuring a comprehensive approach to heat-health management.
The act emphasizes environmental justice, prioritizing support for those in communities disproportionately affected by heat. Financial assistance programs will be developed to facilitate local-level solutions, such as the establishment of cooling centers, implementation of heat action plans, and community awareness campaigns.
Ultimately, the Preventing HEAT Illness and Deaths Act of 2025 seeks to mitigate the growing public health crisis posed by rising temperatures, ensuring that communities are equipped to face the challenges of a warming climate. As extreme heat becomes an increasingly common threat, this legislation reflects a critical step toward protecting the health and well-being of Americans nationwide.
The bill (S. 2675) introduced on 8/1/2025 has 9 co-sponsors: Sens. Alex Padilla, D-CA; Ruben Gallego, D-AZ; Martin Heinrich, D-NM; Richard Blumenthal, D-CT; Jeff Merkley, D-OR; Ron Wyden, D-OR; Tammy Duckworth, D-IL; Cory A. Booker, D-NJ; Bernard Sanders, I-VT.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2675/text
Sen. Coons Introduces Global Fragility Reauthorization Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 -- Sen. Christopher A. Coons, D-DE, has introduced the Global Fragility Reauthorization Act aimed at renewing and enhancing U.S. efforts to stabilize conflict-affected areas globally. This legislation seeks to reauthorize and extend the provisions of the original Global Fragility Act of 2019, which focused on coordinating U.S. foreign assistance, diplomatic engagement, and security cooperation to prevent and mitigate violence in fragile states.
The reauthorization emphasizes an integrated approach to foreign policy, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies that align
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WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 -- Sen. Christopher A. Coons, D-DE, has introduced the Global Fragility Reauthorization Act aimed at renewing and enhancing U.S. efforts to stabilize conflict-affected areas globally. This legislation seeks to reauthorize and extend the provisions of the original Global Fragility Act of 2019, which focused on coordinating U.S. foreign assistance, diplomatic engagement, and security cooperation to prevent and mitigate violence in fragile states.
The reauthorization emphasizes an integrated approach to foreign policy, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies that aligndevelopment, diplomacy, and defense objectives. By formalizing an annual steering committee meeting, the legislation aims to ensure ongoing assessment and adaptation of U.S. strategies in priority countries, allowing for proactive rather than reactive measures in addressing fragility and conflict prevention.
This initiative comes in response to the increasing recognition that unstable regions pose direct threats not only to their local populations but also to global security. By enhancing the effectiveness of foreign assistance through improved monitoring and evaluation, the bill proposes the reauthorization of critical funds, including the Prevention and Stabilization Fund and Complex Crises Fund, extending their utilities to 2030. This fiscal commitment is designed to bolster U.S. engagement and investment in stabilization efforts.
Additionally, the legislation allows for the identification of new priority countries that require urgent attention based on updated assessments by the President. It also includes a directive for a comprehensive report detailing the effectiveness of ongoing strategies and the necessary reforms to overcome barriers to conflict prevention.
Sen. Coons' introduction of this bill represents a vital step towards reinforcing U.S. foreign policy in fragile regions, focusing on long-term stability and security to benefit both the United States and the international community.
The bill (S. 2678) introduced on 8/1/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2678/text
