Senate Bill Introductions
Here's a look at news stories involving U.S. Senate bills introduced in the 119th Congress
Featured Stories
Sen. Barrasso Introduces No Climate Treaties Act of 2026
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. John Barrasso, R-WY, has introduced the No Climate Treaties Act of 2026, aiming to require Senate approval for any U.S. entry or reentry into international climate agreements. This legislation underscores a commitment to ensuring that significant international accords receive thorough scrutiny and debate within the Senate.
The proposed bill mandates that any agreement involving legally binding reductions in domestic greenhouse gas emissions-or any international climate agreement-must be treated as a treaty, which necessitates the Senate's advice and consent. This includes
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WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. John Barrasso, R-WY, has introduced the No Climate Treaties Act of 2026, aiming to require Senate approval for any U.S. entry or reentry into international climate agreements. This legislation underscores a commitment to ensuring that significant international accords receive thorough scrutiny and debate within the Senate.
The proposed bill mandates that any agreement involving legally binding reductions in domestic greenhouse gas emissions-or any international climate agreement-must be treated as a treaty, which necessitates the Senate's advice and consent. This includesagreements like the Paris Agreement, adopted during the 21st Conference of Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. By establishing these requirements, the bill seeks to maintain the checks and balances enshrined in the U.S. Constitution regarding foreign treaties.
Barrasso's initiative responds to concerns among some lawmakers and constituents about the implications of global environmental agreements on American sovereignty and economic stability. Proponents argue that international commitments should not bypass the rigorous review processes that domestic laws require. Thus, the legislation represents a broader push for transparency and accountability in how climate policies are shaped and implemented.
Critics of international climate agreements have often cited fears that these accords could impose heavy burdens on the U.S. economy and restrict energy production, particularly in fossil fuel-dependent states. The No Climate Treaties Act intends to mitigate these potential impacts by ensuring that any international commitments undergo a comprehensive examination from Congress.
As climate discussions continue to evolve, Barrasso's bill seeks to redefine the U.S. approach to international environmental agreements, reinforcing legislative authority while navigating the complex interplay of global climate initiatives.
The bill (S. 3713) introduced on 1/28/2026 has 23 co-sponsors: Sens. Roger Marshall, R-KS; Marsha Blackburn, R-TN; Bill Cassidy, R-LA; Mike Lee, R-UT; Rick Scott, R-FL; Ashley Moody, R-FL; John Hoeven, R-ND; John Cornyn, R-TX; Tom Cotton, R-AR; Shelley Moore Capito, R-WV; John Kennedy, R-LA; James E. Risch, R-ID; Cynthia M. Lummis, R-WY; John Boozman, R-AR; Bill Hagerty, R-TN; Mike Crapo, R-ID; Tommy Tuberville, R-AL; Ted Cruz, R-TX; Ron Johnson, R-WI; Tim Sheehy, R-MT; Roger F. Wicker, R-MS; Josh Hawley, R-MO; Rand Paul, R-KY.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3713/text
Sen. Banks Introduces SAFE Drugs Act of 2026
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN, has introduced the SAFE Drugs Act of 2026, aimed at enhancing the regulation of compounding pharmacies and outsourcing facilities to safeguard public health and prevent the distribution of fraudulent and potentially harmful drugs.
The SAFE Drugs Act proposes significant amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, specifically targeting compounding practices and large-scale outsourcing facilities. With the rise of compounded medications in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns over safety and efficacy have prompted
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WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Jim Banks, R-IN, has introduced the SAFE Drugs Act of 2026, aimed at enhancing the regulation of compounding pharmacies and outsourcing facilities to safeguard public health and prevent the distribution of fraudulent and potentially harmful drugs.
The SAFE Drugs Act proposes significant amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, specifically targeting compounding practices and large-scale outsourcing facilities. With the rise of compounded medications in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns over safety and efficacy have promptedcalls for stricter oversight. This legislation seeks to address these issues by imposing limits on compounding pharmacies, prohibiting them from producing any drug product that resembles commercially available options more than 20 times per month, thereby reducing the risk of widespread distribution of substandard medications.
In addition, the bill establishes a reporting requirement for pharmacies and outsourcing facilities that exceed a set threshold in compounding activities for out-of-state patients. Under this mandate, facilities will need to submit detailed reports to the Secretary of Health outlining their compounding practices.
Furthermore, the legislation enhances inspection protocols for large-scale outsourcing facilities, requiring more frequent examinations to ensure compliance with safety standards. Facilities compounding over 100 drug products annually will now face stricter oversight to guarantee the quality and integrity of their products. These proposed changes reflect a growing urgency to protect consumers from ineffective or hazardous drugs, ensuring that they receive safe and reliable medication.
By enforcing these new regulations, Sen. Banks aims to restore confidence in the compounded drug market and protect American patients from the dangers associated with inadequate oversight of pharmaceutical practices.
The bill (S. 3794) introduced on 2/5/2026 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-NM.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3794/text
Sen. Baldwin Introduces Retaining Access and Restoring Exclusivity Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-WI, has introduced the Retaining Access and Restoring Exclusivity Act, aimed at reforming the approval process for drugs designated for rare diseases and conditions. The bill seeks to amend existing regulations to prevent the exclusive approval of drugs that treat the same specific approved use within these rare conditions.
The introduction of this legislation comes in response to growing concerns regarding the limited access to potentially life-saving treatments for patients suffering from rare diseases. Currently, once a drug is approved for a specific
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WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-WI, has introduced the Retaining Access and Restoring Exclusivity Act, aimed at reforming the approval process for drugs designated for rare diseases and conditions. The bill seeks to amend existing regulations to prevent the exclusive approval of drugs that treat the same specific approved use within these rare conditions.
The introduction of this legislation comes in response to growing concerns regarding the limited access to potentially life-saving treatments for patients suffering from rare diseases. Currently, once a drug is approved for a specificcondition, it often enjoys exclusivity that can hinder the development and availability of alternative treatments. The RARE Act intends to strike a balance, ensuring that while innovative therapies can be developed, existing drugs can remain accessible for patients with similar medical needs.
By redefining terms related to approved uses and indications, the bill hopes to foster a more competitive environment in the pharmaceutical industry, which could ultimately lower prices and expand treatment options for patients. The amendments proposed in the act would apply irrespective of the date when a drug was designated for a rare disease, ensuring that all relevant drugs are subject to the same updated regulatory framework.
Sen. Baldwin's efforts reflect a growing movement in Congress to make healthcare more affordable and accessible, particularly for those affected by rare diseases, which often receive less attention and funding compared to more common conditions. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, advocates are optimistic that it will pave the way for significant improvements in how drugs for rare diseases are approved and utilized, potentially transforming the landscape for patients in need of effective treatments.
The bill (S. 3716) was introduced on 1/28/2026.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3716/text
Sen. Alsobrooks Introduces Transportation Project Accountability Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Transportation Project Accountability Act, aimed at enhancing transparency in the decision-making processes of state transportation projects. This legislation mandates that states provide public access to detailed reports on the selection of substantial transportation initiatives, ensuring accountability and performance assessment.
Under this new bill, states will be required to publish annual online reports that list projects with costs exceeding $10 million. These reports will detail the expected benefits of each project,
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WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Transportation Project Accountability Act, aimed at enhancing transparency in the decision-making processes of state transportation projects. This legislation mandates that states provide public access to detailed reports on the selection of substantial transportation initiatives, ensuring accountability and performance assessment.
Under this new bill, states will be required to publish annual online reports that list projects with costs exceeding $10 million. These reports will detail the expected benefits of each project,compliance with national transportation goals, and the rationale behind their selection. The initiative seeks to create a systematic approach to demonstrate how selected projects align with state and federal transportation objectives.
The motivation behind this legislation stems from a growing need for transparency in government-funded projects. As infrastructure funding continues to be a pivotal issue, the lack of accessible information has often led to public skepticism about financial decision-making in transportation initiatives. By mandating public disclosure and performance tracking, the Transportation Project Accountability Act aims to build public trust and foster an informed dialogue about transportation investments.
Implementation of this act is expected to have a significant impact on the future of transportation projects across the country. State transportation departments will be held to higher standards of accountability, fostering a culture of performance assessment and strategic planning. The requirement for project performance metrics will compel states to prioritize initiatives that deliver measurable benefits, ultimately improving the efficiency of public resource allocation.
As the bill moves through Congress, advocates are hopeful it will pave the way for a more transparent and accountable transportation framework that serves not only government entities but also the citizens who rely on these essential infrastructure projects.
The bill (S. 3629) introduced on 1/13/2026 has 1 co-sponsor: Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-MN.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3629/text
Sen. Alsobrooks Introduces National Council on African American History and Culture Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the National Council on African American History and Culture Act, aimed at establishing a national council within the National Endowment for the Humanities dedicated to the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture.
The proposed council will consist of twelve members appointed by the President, reflecting a balanced representation from both major political parties. Members will be selected based on their expertise, commitment, and contributions to the field of African American studies, ensuring that
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WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the National Council on African American History and Culture Act, aimed at establishing a national council within the National Endowment for the Humanities dedicated to the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture.
The proposed council will consist of twelve members appointed by the President, reflecting a balanced representation from both major political parties. Members will be selected based on their expertise, commitment, and contributions to the field of African American studies, ensuring thatdiverse perspectives are represented. Each appointee will serve a term of five years, with provisions for equitable representation of women and individuals with disabilities.
This initiative seeks to address a long-standing gap in the national dialogue surrounding African American contributions to the nation's cultural, economic, and political fabric. With the council in place, it will gather and analyze critical information on cultural trends and historical developments, set national policies to enhance understanding, and recommend actions to the National Endowment for the Humanities.
The necessity of such a council is underscored by ongoing discussions about cultural representation and the importance of recognizing African American history as integral to the American narrative. By focusing on the evaluation of existing programs and the promotion of new initiatives, the council aims to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of African American culture across the country.
Ultimately, the National Council on African American History and Culture will serve as a vital resource for large-scale historical preservation efforts, ensuring that African American stories and achievements are honored and promoted effectively. The council is set to operate for ten years, with an option for re-evaluation and extension based on its achievements and impact.
The bill (S. 3890) introduced on 2/12/2026 has 5 co-sponsors: Sens. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD; Adam B. Schiff, D-CA; Jacky Rosen, D-NV; Cory A. Booker, D-NJ; Ron Wyden, D-OR.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3890/text
Sen. Alsobrooks Introduces Fiscal Harms of Federal Firing Act
Bailey Malota
WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Fiscal Harms of Federal Firing Act aimed at evaluating the broader effects of federal workforce reductions on state and local governments. The legislation mandates a comprehensive study by the U.S. Comptroller General to assess the financial and social ramifications of such downsizing initiatives.
The proposed study will investigate how federal layoffs impact the budgets of state and local governments, examining various areas such as unemployment insurance, Medicaid, workforce development, and housing assistance programs.
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WASHINGTON, March 9 -- Sen. Angela D. Alsobrooks, D-MD, has introduced the Fiscal Harms of Federal Firing Act aimed at evaluating the broader effects of federal workforce reductions on state and local governments. The legislation mandates a comprehensive study by the U.S. Comptroller General to assess the financial and social ramifications of such downsizing initiatives.
The proposed study will investigate how federal layoffs impact the budgets of state and local governments, examining various areas such as unemployment insurance, Medicaid, workforce development, and housing assistance programs.Recent trends suggesting a potential rise in federal workforce reductions have prompted concerns about their ripple effects on state economies. The bill recognizes that state and local governments possess varying capacities to manage the sudden influx of demand for social services that typically follows federal layoffs.
The legislation is rooted in findings indicating that large-scale reductions in federal employment can lead to significant regional economic consequences. These include disruptions in local economies, decreased tax revenues, and increased demand for state-administered social services. Without a comprehensive assessment of these impacts, state and local governments may struggle to prepare or respond effectively to federal changes.
Within 18 months of the bill's enactment, the Comptroller General is required to submit a report detailing the study's findings, including an analysis of previous reductions in force and their effects on state and local budgets. The report will also aim to provide policy options for Congress regarding potential support for governments and displaced workers, ensuring a more coordinated federal-state response in the face of significant workforce adjustments. The initiative seeks to create a framework for better understanding and mitigating the fiscal impacts of federal employment changes on local communities.
The bill (S. 3844) introduced on 2/11/2026 has 3 co-sponsors: Sens. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD; Mark R. Warner, D-VA; Alex Padilla, D-CA.
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Primary source of information: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3844/text
