Senate Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. Senate bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Sen. Ernst Introduces Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-IA, has introduced the Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act, aimed at reforming the Internal Revenue Code to enhance accessibility to funding for small manufacturing firms and first-time farmers. This legislation seeks to modify the existing regulations surrounding qualified small issue manufacturing bonds and expand exceptions related to private activity bonds.
The bill addresses fundamental challenges faced by small manufacturers and agricultural entrepreneurs by increasing the limitations on debt financing. Currently set at $10 million,
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WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Joni Ernst, R-IA, has introduced the Modernizing Agricultural and Manufacturing Bonds Act, aimed at reforming the Internal Revenue Code to enhance accessibility to funding for small manufacturing firms and first-time farmers. This legislation seeks to modify the existing regulations surrounding qualified small issue manufacturing bonds and expand exceptions related to private activity bonds.
The bill addresses fundamental challenges faced by small manufacturers and agricultural entrepreneurs by increasing the limitations on debt financing. Currently set at $10 million,the qualifying threshold for manufacturing bonds will rise to $30 million, thereby allowing businesses to navigate expansion and modernize operations effectively. Additionally, the legislation seeks to raise the limit for private activity bonds available to first-time farmers to $1 million, facilitating their entry into agricultural endeavors.
The need for this bill stems from the ongoing challenges that small-scale manufacturers, particularly in rural areas, face in securing capital for growth. As these businesses form the backbone of local economies, providing jobs and livelihoods, easing their financial burdens is crucial for fostering economic development.
The proposed changes also include adjusting dollar limitations in accordance with inflation, ensuring that the financial thresholds remain effective for years to come. This proactive approach would allow businesses to adapt to changing economic conditions without undermining their financial stability.
By modernizing these financing structures, Sen. Ernst's legislation aims to create a more favorable environment for small businesses and farmers. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, legislation like this intends to empower new generations of farmers and manufacturers, thereby bolstering the economy while also promoting sustainable practices.
The bill (S. 2100) introduced on 6/17/2025 has 2 co-sponsors: Mark R. Warner, D-VA; Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-MS.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2100/text
Sen. Cruz Introduces CREATE JOBS Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, has introduced the CREATE JOBS Act, a legislative effort aimed at amending the Internal Revenue Code to enable businesses to capitalize on investments in qualified property with permanent tax deductions at the time of investment. The bill seeks to stimulate economic growth by easing financial burdens on businesses and encouraging capital expenditures.
The CREATE JOBS Act comes in response to the ongoing need for economic revitalization and job creation, particularly as the nation emerges from the economic challenges posed by recent global disruptions.
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WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, has introduced the CREATE JOBS Act, a legislative effort aimed at amending the Internal Revenue Code to enable businesses to capitalize on investments in qualified property with permanent tax deductions at the time of investment. The bill seeks to stimulate economic growth by easing financial burdens on businesses and encouraging capital expenditures.
The CREATE JOBS Act comes in response to the ongoing need for economic revitalization and job creation, particularly as the nation emerges from the economic challenges posed by recent global disruptions.By allowing immediate tax deductions for investments, the legislation is designed to bolster investment in critical sectors, including manufacturing and technology. Such financial flexibility is expected to foster innovation and enhance competitiveness in the marketplace.
Currently, businesses face delays in realizing the tax benefits of capital investments, which can hinder immediate reinvestment and expansion efforts. By shifting to a system of permanent full expensing, the CREATE JOBS Act seeks to remove this obstacle, enabling firms to redirect saved tax amounts quickly into further growth opportunities.
Additional provisions of the bill include amendments to research and experimental expenditure treatments, allowing companies to treat qualifying costs as immediate expenses rather than amortized deductions. This change is particularly relevant for startups and established firms alike looking to engage in research and innovation without prolonged financial liability.
Overall, Cruz's introduction of the CREATE JOBS Act symbolizes a concerted effort to inspire business confidence and spur economic recovery. If passed, it could dramatically change the landscape of taxation for businesses, moving towards a more favorable framework that supports immediate investment and long-term growth strategies across a diverse array of industries.
The bill (S. 2056) was introduced on 6/12/2025.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2056/text
Sen. Cassidy Introduces Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-LA, has introduced the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2025, aimed at expanding coverage for mental and behavioral health services provided through telehealth. This legislation seeks to amend the Social Security Act to ensure that individuals have access to crucial mental health support remotely, especially in areas lacking adequate healthcare facilities.
The bill addresses a growing need for mental health services that became increasingly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when telehealth proved to be a lifeline for many. With the rising rates
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WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-LA, has introduced the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2025, aimed at expanding coverage for mental and behavioral health services provided through telehealth. This legislation seeks to amend the Social Security Act to ensure that individuals have access to crucial mental health support remotely, especially in areas lacking adequate healthcare facilities.
The bill addresses a growing need for mental health services that became increasingly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when telehealth proved to be a lifeline for many. With the rising ratesof anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders exacerbated by social isolation and economic uncertainty, this measure aims to facilitate easier access to necessary care. By broadening the scope of telehealth to include behavioral health services, it eliminates previous restrictions that often left patients without essential support.
In the context of an ongoing mental health crisis in the U.S., the Telemental Health Care Access Act emphasizes the importance of integrating telehealth into standard healthcare practices. Studies indicate that telehealth can significantly increase treatment access, improve patient engagement, and enhance overall health outcomes. This is particularly vital for individuals in rural and underserved urban areas who may otherwise face significant barriers to receiving timely and effective care.
This initiative reflects a bipartisan acknowledgment of the necessity for modernizing healthcare delivery systems to offer flexibility in treatment modalities. By ensuring that telehealth services are adequately covered, the bill intends to empower patients with greater options for managing their mental health, ultimately fostering a more resilient society. As discussions around mental health continue to gain importance, this legislation represents a pivotal step towards comprehensive and accessible healthcare.
The bill (S. 2011) introduced on 6/10/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Tina Smith, D-MN.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2011/text
Sen. Blackburn Introduces REMOVE Act to Expedite Immigration Removal Proceedings
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-TN, has introduced the Rapid Expulsion of Migrant Offenders who Violate and Evade (REMOVE) Act, aimed at ensuring the timely completion of removal proceedings for non-citizens convicted of deportable offenses. The proposed legislation seeks to streamline immigration court processes to enhance efficiency and deter unlawful immigration practices.
The REMOVE Act proposes amendments to the Immigration and Nationality Act, mandating that the Attorney General commence removal proceedings promptly following the filing of a Notice to Appear for an alien.
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WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-TN, has introduced the Rapid Expulsion of Migrant Offenders who Violate and Evade (REMOVE) Act, aimed at ensuring the timely completion of removal proceedings for non-citizens convicted of deportable offenses. The proposed legislation seeks to streamline immigration court processes to enhance efficiency and deter unlawful immigration practices.
The REMOVE Act proposes amendments to the Immigration and Nationality Act, mandating that the Attorney General commence removal proceedings promptly following the filing of a Notice to Appear for an alien.Most notably, the bill requires that for individuals convicted of deportable offenses, proceedings must be initiated expeditiously after their conviction.
This legislation comes at a time when immigration enforcement and border control are critical topics in national discourse. By implementing measures for faster processing of cases, the REMOVE Act addresses concerns surrounding the backlog in immigration courts, which has been exacerbated by rising immigration levels and an overextended judicial system. Advocates argue that timely removal of individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws is essential to uphold legal standards and protect national security.
In addition to expediting proceedings, the bill insists on the completion of cases within 15 days of their commencement, a timeline that proponents believe will significantly accelerate the overall immigration process. Critics, however, warn that such compressed timelines could compromise due process rights, potentially hindering fair hearings for those facing removal.
Sen. Blackburn emphasizes that the REMOVE Act is designed to uphold the rule of law while simultaneously addressing the complexities of immigration enforcement. As this bill progresses through the legislative process, it is likely to spark debates about immigration policy and judicial efficiency across party lines.
The bill (S. 1977) introduced on 6/5/2025 has 4 co-sponsors: Ted Cruz, R-TX; Ted Budd, R-NC; Ashley Moody, R-FL; Bernie Moreno, R-OH.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1977/text
Sen. Banks Introduces Delivering Digitally to Our Veterans Act of 2025
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN, has introduced the Delivering Digitally to Our Veterans Act of 2025, a legislative effort aimed at enhancing communication between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and veterans regarding educational assistance benefits. The bill seeks to establish an electronic correspondence system that allows veterans to manage their educational benefits more efficiently.
This initiative is motivated by the increasing reliance on digital communication and the need for streamlined processes within the VA. Currently, many veterans face delays and complications
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WASHINGTON, June 28 -- Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN, has introduced the Delivering Digitally to Our Veterans Act of 2025, a legislative effort aimed at enhancing communication between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and veterans regarding educational assistance benefits. The bill seeks to establish an electronic correspondence system that allows veterans to manage their educational benefits more efficiently.
This initiative is motivated by the increasing reliance on digital communication and the need for streamlined processes within the VA. Currently, many veterans face delays and complicationsdue to traditional mail methods when trying to access important information about their educational benefits. By allowing eligible veterans the option to communicate electronically, the bill aims to reduce these barriers.
If enacted, the law would amend Title 38 of the United States Code, specifically directing the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to create an electronic communication channel. This system would enable veterans to send and receive essential correspondence, ensuring they remain informed about their eligibility and options for educational assistance. Furthermore, the proposal requires the VA to actively inform enrolled veterans about their ability to opt into this electronic system, fostering greater awareness and participation.
The Delivering Digitally to Our Veterans Act of 2025 is part of a broader trend to modernize veteran services, reflecting a commitment to harnessing technology for improved delivery of benefits. The anticipated impact of the bill includes not only expedited communication but also enhanced access to educational opportunities, ultimately supporting veterans in their pursuit of higher education and career development. With this bill, Sen. Banks underscores the necessity of adapting to digital advancements in order to provide better service to those who have served the nation.
The bill (S. 2101) introduced on 6/17/2025 has 1 co-sponsor: Mazie K. Hirono, D-HI.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2101/text
