Legislative Updates

Senate

MEASURES PASSED:

CRA Resolution of Disapproval - FHA National Performance Management Measures: By 53 yeas to 47 nays (Vote No. 121), Senate passed S.J. Res. 61, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration relating to ‘‘National Performance Management Measures; Assessing Performance of the National Highway System, Greenhouse Gas Emissions Measure’’. [4/10/24]

CRA Resolution of Disapproval - Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status: By 50 yeas to 48 nays (Vote No. 122), Senate passed H.J. Res. 98, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board relating to ‘‘Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status’’. [4/10/24]

MEASURES DISCHARGED:

S.J. Res. 61. Pursuant to a discharge petition filed in accordance with chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works was discharged from further consideration of S.J. Res 61, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the final rule of the Department of Labor relating to "Rescission of Implementing Legal Requirements Regarding the Equal Opportunity Clause's Religious Exemption Rule". The joint resolution was subsequently placed upon the Legislative Calendar under General Orders. [4/9/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 4096. A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to provide for the random assignment of certain cases in the district courts of the United States; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 4/10/24]

S. 4095. A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to limit the authority of district courts to provide injunctive relief, to modify venue requirements relating to bankruptcy proceedings, and to ensure that venue in patents cases is fair and proper, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. McConnell (R-KY); 4/10/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: The Committee ordered favorably reported fourteen measures, including: S. 4042, the "Strengthening Oversight of Federal Records Act of 2024," to amend title 44, United States Code, to reform the management of Federal records, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; S. 4036, the "Government Spending Oversight Act of 2024," to establish a Government Spending Oversight Committee within the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; and S. 4055, the "Improving Contracting Outcomes Act of 2024," to provide for a pilot program to improve contracting outcomes, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. [4/10/24]

House

MEASURES PASSED:

Right-Of-Way Application Transparency and Accountability Act: The House agreed to suspend the rules pass H.R. 6011, as amended, to direct the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to notify applicants of the completion status of right-of-way applications under section 501 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 and section 28 of the Mineral Leasing Act. [4/10/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7971. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide timely equitable relief to an individual who suffers a loss based on an administrative error by the Secretary, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Van Orden (R-WI3); 4/12/24]

H.R. 7947. A bill to protect State and Federal courts’ primary and inherent authority to regulate and oversee the legal profession by prohibiting Federal agencies from regulating licensed attorneys and law firms engaged in litigation activities, prohibiting opposing parties in legal actions from bringing private rights of action against such attorneys and law firms for their litigation activities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Fitzgerald (R-WI5); 4/11/24]

H.R. 7937. A bill to terminate the authorities of certain entities of the Federal Government, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Alford (R-MO4); 4/11/24]

H.R. 7917. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the efficiency of adjudications and appeals of claims for benefits under laws administered by Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Bost (R-IL12); 4/10/24]

H.R. 7900. A bill to establish a regulatory review process for rules that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency plans to propose, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Finstad (R-MN1); 4/9/24]

H.R. 7895. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the restoration of entitlement of individuals entitled to educational assistance under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs who use such entitlement to pursue a course or program of education at an educational institution found to have violated certain prohibitions on advertising, sales, and enrollment practices, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Bost (R-IL12); 4/9/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 4016. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the repayment by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of benefits misused by a fiduciary (H. Rept. 118–457). [4/12/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on House Administration: Subcommittee on Modernization held a markup on legislation within the Subcommittee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 7593, the ‘‘Modernizing the Congressional Research Service’s Access to Data Act,’’ to enhance the authority of the Director of the Congressional Research Service to obtain information directly from agencies of the Federal government. H.R. 7592 and H.R. 7593 were forwarded to the full Committee, without amendment. [4/11/24]

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hearing on legislation within the Subcommittee's jurisdiction, including: H.R. 7100, the ‘‘Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act,’’ to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the organization of the Office of Survivors Assistance of the Department of Veterans Affairs; H.R. 7150, the ‘‘Survivor Benefits Delivery Improvement Act of 2024,’’ to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to improve equitable access to certain benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and to improve certain outreach to individuals who served uniformed services and dependents of such individuals, and for other purposes; H.R. 7793, the ‘‘Veterans Appeals Options Expansion Act of 2024,’’ to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide an individual with a claim for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs with more options to appeal a decision of the Secretary with respect to such claim to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes; H.R. 7816, the ‘‘Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act,’’ to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to seek to enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and development center for an assessment of notice letters that the Secretary sends to claimants for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes; H.R. 7917, the ‘‘Veterans Appeals Efficiency Act of 2024,’’ to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the efficiency of adjudications and appeals of claims for benefits under laws administered by Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes; and H.R. 7919, the ‘‘Veterans Claims Quality Improvement Act of 2024,’’ to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for certain revisions to the manual of the Veterans Benefits Administration and to improve the quality of the adjudication of claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. Testimony was heard from Representatives Self, Duarte, and Hayes; Daniel T. Shedd, Legislative Attorney, American Law Division, Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress; Jaime Areizaga-Soto, Chairman Board of Veterans’ Appeals, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. [4/10/24]

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction and favorably reported 20 measures, including: H.R. 7524, the ‘‘GSA Technology Accountability Act,’’ to amend title 40, United States Code, to require the submission of reports on certain information technology services funds to Congress before expenditures may be made, and for other purposes; legislation on the Allowing Contractors to Choose Employees for Select Skills Act; H.R. 7867, the ‘‘Renewing Efficiency in Government by Budgeting Act,’’ to amend the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 to require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to establish a limit for the total amount of additional unfunded regulatory costs that may be imposed in a fiscal year, and for other purposes. [4/10/24]

Senate

The Senate convened in pro forma session on Monday, April 1, and Thursday, April 4, 2024. There was no relevant legislative activity to report.

House

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7882. A bill to amend section 1124 of title 31, United States Code, to establish an Agency Equity Advisory Team, to amend sections 3520 and 3520A of title 44, United States Code, to ensure the use of equity, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Raskin (D-MD-8); 4/5/24]

H.R. 7867. A bill to amend the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 to require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to establish a limit for the total amount of additional unfunded regulatory costs that may be imposed in a fiscal year, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Fallon (R-TX-4); 4/5/24]

H.R. 7859. A bill to authorize the integration and administrative streamlining of Federal funding for Indian Tribes that have reservations, other Tribal lands, or ways of life at risk due to environmental impacts and natural disasters, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Kilmer (D-WA-6); 4/2/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 3446. To impose certain limitations on consent decrees and settlement agreements by agencies that require the agencies to take regulatory action in accordance with the terms thereof, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–443). [4/5/24]

Senate

The Senate convened in pro forma session on Tuesday, March 26, and Thursday, March 28, 2024. There was no relevant legislative activity to report.

House

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7835. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to increase the accountability of the Office of Special Counsel in enforcing certain provisions of that title vigorously, consistently, and without regard to the political affiliation, career status, or personal characteristics of individuals subject to those provisions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Garcia (D-CA42); 3/29/24]

H.R. 7816. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to seek to enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and development center for an assessment of notice letters that the Secretary sends to claimants for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Duarte (R-CA13); 3/26/24]

Senate

MEASURES PASSED:

Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024: By 74 yeas to 24 nays (Vote No. 114), the Senate agreed to the motion to concur in the amendment of the House of Representatives to the amendment of the Senate to H.R. 2882, making further consolidated appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [3/22/24]

Amendments Submitted & Proposed:

SA 1774. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 2882, to reauthorize the Morris K. Udall and Steward L. Udall Trust Fund, and for other purposes [legislative vehicle for the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024]; which was ordered to lie on the table, as follows:

At the appropriate place, insert the following:

DIVISION ___—REINS ACT

SEC. __. SHORT TITLE.

This division may be cited as the ‘‘Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2024’’ or the ‘‘REINS Act of 2024’’.

SEC. __. PURPOSE.

The purpose of this division is to increase accountability for and transparency in the Federal regulatory process. Section 1 of article I of the United States Constitution grants all legislative powers to Congress. Over time, Congress has excessively delegated its constitutional charge while failing to conduct appropriate oversight and retain accountability for the content of the laws it passes. By requiring a vote in Congress, the REINS Act will result in more carefully drafted and detailed legislation, an improved regulatory process, and a legislative branch that is truly accountable to the American people for the laws imposed upon them.

SEC. __. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF AGENCY RULEMAKING.

Chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:

‘‘CHAPTER 8—CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF AGENCY RULEMAKING

‘‘Sec. 801. Congressional review.

‘‘Sec. 802. Congressional approval procedure for major rules.

‘‘Sec. 803. Congressional disapproval procedure for nonmajor rules.

‘‘Sec. 804. Definitions.

‘‘Sec. 805. Judicial review.

‘‘Sec. 806. Exemption for monetary policy.

‘‘Sec. 807. Effective date of certain rules.

‘‘Sec. 808. Review of rules currently in effect.

CRA Resolution of Disapproval - Importation of Fresh Beef From Paraguay: By 70 yeas to 25 nays (Vote No. 101), Senate passed S.J. Res. 62, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service relating to ‘‘Importation of Fresh Beef From Paraguay’’. [3/21/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 4066. A bill to improve Federal technology procurement, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 3/22/24]

S. 4043. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to make executive agency telework policies transparent, to track executive agency use of telework, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 3/21/24]

S. 4042. A bill to amend title 44, United States Code, to reform the management of Federal records, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 3/21/24]

MEASURES REFERRED:

H.R. 7023. An act to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to provide regulatory and judicial certainty for regulated entities and communities, increase transparency, and promote water quality, and for other purposes, to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [3/22/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Finance: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the President’s proposed budget request for fiscal year 2025, after receiving testimony from Janet L. Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury. [3/21/24]

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine reforming Federal records management to improve transparency and accountability, after receiving testimony from Anne L. Weismann, George Washington University Law School, Bethesda, Maryland; and Gary Ruskin, U.S. Right to Know, Oakland, California. [3/20/24]

House

MEASURES PASSED:

Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H. Res. 1102, providing for the concurrence by the House in the Senate amendment to H.R. 2882, with an amendment, with a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 286 yeas to 134 nays, Roll No. 102. [3/22/24]

Passport System Reform and Backlog Prevention Act: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 6610, as amended, to provide for the modernization of the passport issuance process. [3/19/24]

Sec. 4. Standards for passport issuance process.

Sec. 5. Enhanced information technology solutions to improve the passport issuance process.

Sec. 6. Research on commercially available information technology solutions.

Sec. 7. GAO Report. [3/19/24, Pages H1198–H1201]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7803. A bill to amend title 35, United States Code, to provide a good faith exception to the imposition of certain fines, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Issa (R-CA

H.R. 7793. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide an individual with a claim for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs with more options to appeal a decision of the Secretary with respect to such claim to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Bost (R-IL12); 3/22/24]

H.R. 7751. A bill to require the Secretary of State to report annually on adverse security clearance adjudications, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. [Rep. Lieu (D-CA36); 3/20/24]

H.R. 7737. A bill to transfer antitrust enforcement from the Federal Trade Commission to the Attorney General, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Cline (R-VA6); 3/20/24]

H.R. 7724. A bill to establish, under article I of the Constitution of the United States, a court of record to be known as the United States Immigration Courts; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Lofgren (D-CA18); 3/19/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 6185. To require coordination among Federal agencies on regulatory actions that affect the reliable operation of the bulk-power system (H. Rept. 118–427). [3/19/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 7198, the ‘‘Prove It Act of 2024,’’ to amend title 5, United States Code, to require greater transparency for Federal regulatory decisions that impact small businesses, and for other purposes. Four measure, including H.R. 7198, were ordered reported, as amended. [3/21/24]

Committee on the Budget: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘The President’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Request’’. Testimony was heard from Shalanda D. Young, Director, Office of Management and Budget, Executive Office of the President of the United States. [3/21/24]

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government held a hearing entitled ‘‘President Biden’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Request and Economic Outlook’’. Testimony was heard from Janet Yellen, Secretary, Department of the Treasury; Shalanda Young, Director, Office of Management and Budget, Executive Office of the President of the United States; and Jared Bernstein, Chairman, Council of Economic Advisers, Executive Office of the President of the United States. [3/21/24]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust held a hearing entitled ‘‘Reining in the Administrative State: Agency Adjudication and Other Agency Action’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [3/20/24]

Senate

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3926. A bill to amend the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 to ensure that other transaction agreements are reported to USAspending.gov, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 3/12/24]

S. 3911. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the methods by which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs conducts oversight of certain educational institutions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Cornyn (R-TX); 3/12/24]

S. 3897. A bill to require the Election Assistance Commission to develop voluntary guidelines for the administration of elections that address the use and risks of artificial intelligence technologies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Rules and Administration. [Sen. Klobuchar (D-MN); 3/11/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Budget: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the President’s proposed budget request for fiscal year 2025, after receiving testimony from Shalanda D. Young, Director, Office of Management and Budget. [3/12/24]

House

NEW PUBLIC LAWS:

H.R. 4366. Making consolidated appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. Signed on March 9, 2024 (Public Law 118–42). [3/12/24]

MEASURES PASSED:

Utilizing Space Efficiently and Improving Technologies Act: The House passed H.R. 6276, to direct  the Administrator of General Services and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to identify the utilization rate of certain public buildings and federally-leased space, by a recorded vote of 217 ayes to 203 noes, Roll No. 84. [3/12/24, Pages H1106–14, H1131–33]

Amendments Adopted:

Edwards Amendment (No. 1 printed in H. Rept. 118–419). To require certain data collection and reporting on space utilization, occupancy, and availability of office space leased by an Executive agency. [3/12/24, Pages H1122–23]

Hageman Amendment (No. 3 printed in H. Rept. 118–419). To require federal agencies to report to Congress on whether occupancy and utilization rates are affected by an agency’s remote work and telework policies. [3/12/24, Page H1124]

McCormick Amendment (No. 5 printed in H. Rept. 118–419). To requires the reports on the usage of real property described in Section 4 of the bill to be made public on an accessible website run by the General Services Administration (GSA) with exceptions for national security. [3/12/24, Page H1125]

Rose Amendment (No. 7 printed in H. Rept. 118–419). To require federal agencies to report public buildings or federally-leased spaces with a capacity of 500 or more employees and a utilization rate below 20 percent to their inspector general for investigation. [3/12/24, Pages H1126–27]

FASTA Reform Act: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 6277, to amend the Federal Assets Sale and Transfer Act of 2016 to improve such act. [3/11/24]

"The Federal Assets Sale and Transfer Act [FASTA]…was passed in 2016 to create a temporary board of experts to identify Federal properties for sale and redevelopment. Unfortunately, the process has not worked as Congress originally envisioned, and this bill seeks to remedy that. Federal agencies are reluctant to let go of property they don’t need, and it has become clear the board requires more authority to gather data it needs to develop recommendations. This bill would make a number of reforms to improve the effectiveness of the process, including extending the board’s timeline, speeding up the effective date of incentives for agencies to put properties forward, and giving the board access to the Federal Real Property Council. Madam Speaker, I urge support of this legislation." [Rep. Perry (R-PA10); 3/11/24, Page H1066]

"FASTA established the Public Buildings Reform Board, PBRB, an independent Federal agency, to review and recommend unused properties for the government to sell…Since its establishment, however, the PBRB has faced significant challenges…[including] difficulties in doing research during the pandemic, lack of access to funding to help the agencies prepare for dispositions, delays in selling two particularly valuable properties in the high-value round, and disagreements with GSA and OMB on disposition strategies have all made the board’s work challenging. Due to these challenges and delays, I join Chairman PERRY in sponsoring the FASTA Reform Act…It requires Federal agencies to share their real property data and consolidation plans with the board. It also enables the board to submit recommendations to OMB on a rolling basis. It gives the board control over the sales proceeds in the Asset Proceeds and Space Management Fund. It reduces the quorum requirement for meetings and activities from five board members to four. It permits agencies to prepare properties for disposition, and it extends the operation of the PBRB to December 2026. As agencies’ post-pandemic space needs evolve, efficient and effective disposal of unneeded properties will become even more important…I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time. [Rep. Titus (D-NV1); 3/11/24, Pages H1066-67]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7694. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to limit the use of artificial intelligence at the Internal Revenue Service and to require tax investigations and examinations of taxpayers to be initiated by staff investigators; to the Committee on Ways and Means. [Rep. Higgins (R-LA3]; 3/15/24]

H.R. 7643. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the use of Department of Veterans Affairs work-study allowance to carry out casework, policy making, and oversight related to the activities of the Department at certain congressional offices; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Takano (D-CA39); 3/12/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 6011. To direct the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to notify applicants of the completion status of right-of-way applications under section 501 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 and section 28 of the Mineral Leasing Act, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–420, Part 1). [3/12/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations held a hearing entitled ‘‘Navigating Regulations: Alternative Pathways to Investing in Small Businesses’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [3/12/24]

Senate

MEASURES PASSED:

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024: By 75 yeas to 22 nays (Vote No. 84), the Senate agreed to the motion to concur in the amendment of the House of Representatives to the amendment of the Senate to H.R. 4366, making consolidated appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [3/8/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3888. A bill to mandate the use of artificial intelligence by Federal agencies to adapt to extreme weather, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Schatz (D-HI); 3/6/24]

House

MEASURES PASSED:

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H. Res. 1061, providing for the concurrence by the House in the Senate amendment to H.R. 4366, with an amendment, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 339 yeas to 85 nays, Roll No. 64. [3/6/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7595. A bill to amend the Tennessee Valley Authority Act to provide for further transparency of the Tennessee Valley Authority, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Cohen (D-TN9); 3/8/24]

H.R. 7593. A bill to enhance the authority of the Director of the Congressional Research Service to obtain information directly from agencies of the Federal government; to the Committee on House Administration. [Rep. Bice (R-OK5); 3/8/24]

H.R. 7591. A bill to establish the National Patient Safety Board; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Barragan (D-CA44); 3/8/24]

H.R. 7556. A bill to establish a working group to coordinate regulatory oversight of liquefied natural gas facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Weber (R-TX14); 3/5/24]

H.R. 7554. A bill to amend part A of title IV of the Social Security Act to ensure that Federal funds provided under the program of block grants to States for temporary assistance for needy families are used to supplement State spending, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means. [Rep. Tenney (R-NY24); 3/5/24]

H.R. 7533. A bill to improve retrospective reviews of Federal regulations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. (Rep. Biggs (R-AZ5); 3/5/24]

H.R. 7532. A bill to amend chapter 35 of title 44, United States Code, to establish Federal AI system governance requirements, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Comer (R-KY1); 3/5/24]

H.R. 7528. A bill to amend section 206 of the E-Government Act of 2002 to improve the integrity and management of mass comments and computer-generated comments in the regulatory review process, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Higgins (R-LA3); 3/5/24]

H.R. 7523. A bill to establish the Office of Executive Councils, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Timmons (R-SC4); 3/5/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 6317. To require the Administrator of the General Services Administration to submit a report describing a process for seeking public comment about proposed changes to mandatory design standards for public buildings, and for other purposes (H. Rept. 118–409). [3/6/24]

H.R. 6278. To direct the Administrator of General Services to identify two Federal agencies to consolidate into the GSA Headquarters Building, and for other purposes (H. Rept. 118–408). [3/5/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 4552, the ‘‘Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2023’’; H.R. 7523, the ‘‘Governmentwide Executive Councils Reform Act’’; H.R. 7532, the ‘‘Federal AI Governance and Transparency Act’’; H.R. 7528, the ‘‘Comment Integrity and Management Act of 2024’’; H.R. 7533, the ‘‘Modernizing Retrospective Regulatory Review Act’’; and H.R. 5301, the ‘‘Eliminate Useless Reports Act’’. H.R. 4552, H.R. 7523, H.R. 7532, H.R. 7528, H.R. 7533, H.R. 7525, H.R. 7530, H.R. 7526, H.R. 7527, and H.R. 5301 were ordered reported, as amended. [3/7/24]

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Department of Transportation Discretionary Grants: Stakeholder Perspectives’’. Testimony was heard from Jared W. Perdue, Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation; and public witnesses. [3/7/24]

Senate

MEASURES PASSED:

Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024: By 77 yeas to 13 nays (Vote No. 67), Senate passed H.R. 7463, making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by the order of the Senate of Thursday, February 29, 2024, 60 Senators having voted in the affirmative. [2/29/24]

MEASURES REFERRED:

H.R. 6544. An act to advance the benefits of nuclear energy by enabling efficient, timely, and predictable licensing, regulation, and deployment of nuclear energy technologies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [2/29/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3844. A bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to reduce the number of members of the Federal Election Commission from 6 to 5, to revise the method of selection and terms of service of members of the Commission, to distribute the powers of the Commission between the Chair and the remaining members, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Rules and Administration. [Sen. Van Hollen (D-MD); 2/29/24]

S. 3812. A bill to provide firearm licensees an opportunity to correct statutory and regulatory violations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 2/27/24]

S. 3811. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify the authority of immigration judges to sanction any contempt of the judge’s authority; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Kennedy (R-LA); 2/27/24]

S.J. Res. 62. A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service relating to ‘‘Importation of Fresh Beef From Paraguay’’; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. [Sen. Tester (D-MT); 2/26/24]

House

MEASURES PASSED:

Extension of Continuing Appropriations and Other Matters Act, 2024: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 7463, making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 320 yeas to 99 nays, Roll No. 58. [2/29/24]

Atomic Energy Advancement Act: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 6544, amended, to advance the benefits of nuclear energy by enabling efficient, timely, and predictable licensing, regulation, and deployment of nuclear energy technologies, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 365 yeas to 36 nays with one answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. 55. [2/28/24]

TITLE I—NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION

Subtitle A—Efficiency, Performance, and Preparation for the Future

Sec. 101. NRC mission alignment.

Sec. 102. Nuclear licensing efficiency.

Sec. 103. Strengthening the NRC workforce.

Subtitle B—Fee Reduction

Sec. 111. Advanced reactor fee reduction.

Sec. 112. Advanced nuclear reactor prize.

Subtitle C—Siting, Licensing, and Oversight Reviews

Sec. 121. Modernization of nuclear reactor environmental reviews.

Sec. 122. Nuclear for Brownfield sites.

Sec. 123. Advancement of nuclear regulatory oversight.

[Pages H703-711, 2/28/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7505. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to the issuance of nonimmigrant status under section 101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b); to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Rosendale (R-MT2); 2/29/24]

H.R. 7497. A bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to reduce the number of members of the Federal Election Commission from 6 to 5, to revise the method of selection and terms of service of members of the Commission, to distribute the powers of the Commission between the Chair and the remaining members, and for other purposes; to the Committee on House Administration. [Rep. Kilmer (D-WA6); 2/29/24]

H.R. 7473. A bill to ensure continued appropriations for certain Small Business Administration programs during a Government shutdown in fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Appropriations. [Rep. Schiff (D-CA30); 2/28/24]

H.R. 7471. A bill to provide firearm licensees an opportunity to correct statutory and regulatory violations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Issa (R-CA48); 2/28/24]

H.R. 7463. A bill making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget. [Rep. Granger (R-TX12); 2/28/24]

H.R. 7455. A bill to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide for Congressional oversight of agency rulemaking, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Rules. [Rep. Emmer (R-MN6); 2/26/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.J. Res. 109, providing for Congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to ‘‘Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121’’; H.R. 6864, the ‘‘HUD Accountability Act of 2023’’; and H.R. 7280, ‘‘HUD Transparency Act of 2024’’. H.J. Res. 109 was ordered reported, without amendment. H.R. 6864, H.R. 7280, and two other measures were ordered reported, as amended. [2/29/24]

Senate

The Senate convened in pro forma session on Tuesday, February 20, and Friday, February 23, 2024. There was no relevant legislative activity to report.

House

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7409. A bill to amend the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to waive the requirement for a Federal drilling permit for certain activities, to exempt certain activities from the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Kim (R-CA40); 2/20/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 7103. To amend the Small Business Act to require Federal agencies to testify and report on scores received under the scorecard program for evaluating Federal agency compliance with small business contracting goals, to testify for failure to meet Governmentwide contracting goals, and for other purposes (H. Rept. 118–396). [2/23/24]

Senate

MEASURES PASSED:

National Security Act: By 70 yeas to 29 nays (Vote No. 48), Senate passed H.R. 815, to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program. [2/12/24]

Amendments Adopted:

By 66 yeas to 33 nays (Vote No. 46), Schumer (for Murray) Amendment No. 1388, in the nature of a substitute.

Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the following:
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``National Security Act, 2024''.

* * * *

DIVISION A--NATIONAL SECURITY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
DIVISION B--FEND OFF FENTANYL ACT
Title I--Sanctions matters
Title II--Anti-money laundering matters
Title III--Exception relating to importation of goods
Title IV--Budgetary effects

House

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7390. A bill to make price gouging unlawful, to expand the ability of the Federal Trade Commission to seek permanent injunctions and equitable relief, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL9); 2/15/24]

H.R. 7380. A bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to clarify and update the authority of the Food and Drug Administration to ensure national uniformity in the regulation of the marketing and labeling of companion animal pet food, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. LaTurner (R-KS2); 2/15/24]

H.R. 7370. A bill to amend the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to establish a deadline for processing applications related to geothermal leasing; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Curtis (R-UT3); 2/15/24]

H.R. 7366. A bill to require timely publication of CBP border encounters, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security. [Rep. Bice (R-OK5); 2/15/24]

H.R. 7359. A bill to provide a framework for the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection and the Department of Education to coordinate in providing assistance to and serving borrowers seeking to resolve complaints related to their private education or Federal student loans, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committees on Financial Services, and Ways and Means. [Rep. Porter (D-CA47); 2/14/24]

H.R. 7340. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to the laws relating to the recognition of agents, attorneys, organizations and their representatives, and other individuals for the purposes of assisting in the preparation, presentation, and prosecution of claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Stanton (D-AZ4); 2/13/24]

H.R. 7322. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to enforcement by an attorney general of a State; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Bishop (R-NC8); 2/13/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 6544. To advance the benefits of nuclear energy by enabling efficient, timely, and predictable licensing, regulation, and deployment of nuclear energy technologies, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–391, Part 1). [2/16/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing entitled ‘‘Artificial Intelligence at VA: Exploring its Current State and Future Possibilities’’. Testimony was heard from Charles Worthington, Chief Technology Officer/Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Office of Information and Technology, Department of Veterans Affairs; Gil Alterovitz, Director, Veterans Affairs National Artificial Intelligence Institute, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; Carolyn Clancy, M.D., Assistant Under Secretary for Health, Office of Discovery, Education and Affiliate Networks, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. [2/15/24]

Committee on the Judiciary: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 7322, the ‘‘Standing Up to the Executive branch (SUE) for Immigration Enforcement Act,’’ to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to enforcement by an attorney general of a State. The Committee favorably reported seven measures, including H.R. 7322. [2/15/24]Committee on Small Business: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Burdensome Regulations: Examining the Impact of EPA Regulations on Main Street’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [2/14/24]

Senate

MEASURES PASSED:

Federal Agency Performance Act: Senate passed S. 709, to improve performance and accountability in the Federal Government, after agreeing to the committee amendment. [2/8/24]

SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT OF STRATEGIC REVIEWS AND REPORTING.

(a) STRATEGIC REVIEWS.—

(1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1121 of title 31, United States Code, is amended—

* * * *

(B) by adding at the end the following:

‘‘(c) AGENCY REVIEWS OF PROGRESS TOWARDS STRATEGIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES.—

* * * *

‘‘(2) REVIEW.—Not less frequently than annually and consistent with guidance issued by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the head and Chief Operating Officer of each agency, shall—

‘‘(A) for each covered goal, review with the appropriate agency official responsible for the covered goal—

‘‘(i) the progress achieved toward the covered goal—

‘‘(I) during the most recent fiscal year; or

‘‘(II) from recent sources of evidence available at the time of the review; and

‘‘(ii) the likelihood that the agency will achieve the covered goal;

‘‘(B) coordinate with relevant personnel within and outside the agency who contribute to the accomplishment of each covered goal;

‘‘(C) assess progress toward each covered goal by reviewing performance information and other types of evidence relating to each covered goal, such as program evaluations and statistical data;

‘‘(D) identify whether additional evidence is necessary to better assess progress toward each covered goal, and prioritize the development of the evidence described in subparagraph (C), such as through the plans required under section 312 of title 5, if applicable;

‘‘(E) assess whether relevant organizations, program activities, regulations, policies, and other activities contribute as planned to each covered goal;

‘‘(F) as appropriate, leverage the assessment performed under subparagraph (E) as part of the portfolio reviews required under section 503(c)(1)(G);

‘‘(G) identify any risks or impediments that would reduce or otherwise decrease the likelihood that the agency will achieve the covered goal; and

‘‘(H) for each covered goal at greatest risk of not being achieved, identify prospects and strategies for performance improvement, including any necessary changes to program activities, regulations, policies, or other activities of the agency. [2/8/24, Pages S487-89]

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024: The Senate considered  H.R. 815, to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements relating to the eligibility of veterans to receive reimbursement for emergency treatment furnished through the Veterans Community Care program. [2/7 - 2/11/24]

Amendments Submitted and Proposed:

SA 1404. Mr. BARRASSO (for himself and Mr. CASSIDY) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1388 submitted by Mrs. Murray (for herself and Mr. Schumer) and intended to be proposed to the bill H.R. 815. [2/8/24] 

At the appropriate place in division A, insert the following:

SEC. llll. ACTION ON APPLICATIONS TO EXPORT LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS.

Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717b) is amended—

(1) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:

* * * *

‘‘(3) UNTIMELY FINAL DECISION.—

‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—If the Commission fails to issue a final decision under paragraph (2) by the applicable date required under that paragraph, the covered application shall be considered approved, and the environmental review shall be considered sufficient to satisfy all requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).

‘‘(B) FINAL AGENCY ACTION.—A determination under subparagraph (A) shall be considered to be a final agency action.

‘‘(4) JUDICIAL REVIEW.—

‘‘(A) JURISDICTION.—Except for review in the Supreme Court of the United States, the court of appeals of the United States for the circuit in which a covered facility is, or will be, located pursuant to a covered application shall have original and exclusive jurisdiction over any civil action for the review of an order issued by the Commission with respect to the covered application.

‘‘(B) EXPEDITED REVIEW.—The applicable United States Court of Appeals shall—

‘‘(i) set any civil action brought under this subsection for expedited review; and

‘‘(ii) set the action on the docket as soon as practicable after the filing date of the initial pleading.

‘‘(C) TRANSFER OF EXISTING ACTIONS.—In the case of a covered application for which a petition for review has been filed as of the date of enactment of this subsection, the petition shall be—

‘‘(i) on a motion by the applicant, transferred to the court of appeals of the United States in which the covered facility that is the subject of the covered application is, or will be, located; and

‘‘(ii) adjudicated in accordance with this paragraph.’’. [2/8/24, Page S507]

SA 1386. Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Mr. SCHUMER) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by her to the bill H.R. 815. [2/5/24]

Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the following:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024’’.

* * * *

DIVISION C—BORDER ACT

* * * *

TITLE I—CAPACITY BUILDING

Subtitle A—Hiring, Training, and Systems Modernization

* * * *

CHAPTER 4—MODERNIZING NOTICES TO APPEAR

Sec. 3131. Electronic notices to appear.

Sec. 3132. Authority to prepare and issue notices to appear.

Subtitle B—Asylum Processing at the Border

Sec. 3141. Provisional noncustodial removal proceedings.

Sec. 3142. Protection merits removal proceedings.

Sec. 3143. Voluntary departure after noncustodial processing; withdrawal of application for admission.

Sec. 3144. Voluntary repatriation.

Sec. 3145. Immigration Examinations Fee Account.

Sec. 3146. Border reforms.

Sec. 3147. Protection Appellate Board.

TITLE II—ASYLUM PROCESSING ENHANCEMENTS

Sec. 3201. Combined screenings.

Sec. 3202. Credible fear standard and asylum bars at screening interview.

Sec. 3203. Internal relocation.

Sec. 3204. Asylum officer clarification.

* * * *

Sec. 3335. Improving efficiency and oversight of refugee and special immigrant processing.

* * * *

Sec. 3511. Access to counsel.

Sec. 3512. Counsel for certain unaccompanied alien children.

Sec. 3513. Counsel for certain incompetent individuals. [2/5/24; Pages S362-400]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3783. A bill to require the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to respond to the Governor of a State who requests a determination with respect to whether a transaction would trigger a review by the Committee; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Cramer (R-ND); 2/8/24]

S. 3735. A bill to prohibit the Securities and Exchange Commission from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing a proposed rule with respect to conflicts of interest associated with the use of predictive data analytics by broker-dealers and investment advisers, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Cruz (R-TX); 2/6/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the Financial Stability Oversight Council Annual Report to Congress, including S. 3554, to amend the Financial Stability Act of 2010 to provide the Financial Stability Oversight Council with duties regarding artificial intelligence in the financial sector, after receiving testimony from Janet L. Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury. [2/8/24]

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS:

EC–3481. A communication from the Chair of the Administrative Conference of the United States, transmitting, a report of the recommendations adopted by the Administrative Conference of the United States at its 80th Plenary Session; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [2/7/24]

House

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7284. A bill to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from using assessments generated by the Integrated Risk Information System as a tier 1 data source in rulemakings and other regulatory actions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Agriculture, and Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Grothman (R-WI6); 2/7/24]

H.R. 7279. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to reduce the administrative burden on physicians and physical and occupational therapists, with respect to plan of care certification and recertification requirements; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means. [Rep. Davis (D-NC1); 2/7/24]

H.R. 7263. A bill to authorize amounts collected in certain visa fees to be made available to reduce visa wait times, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Foreign Affairs, and Appropriations. [Rep. Titus (D-NV1); 2/6/24]

H.R. 7259. A bill to provide for expedited removal of certain illegal aliens; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Ogles (R-TN5); 2/6/24]

H.R. 7255. A bill to require a page on each website of an agency related to discretionary or competitive grants, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Hageman (R-WY-AL); 2/6/24]

H.R. 7225. A bill to restore administrative law judges to the competitive service, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Connolly (D-VA11); 2/5/24]

H.R. 7219. A bill to ensure that Federal agencies rely on the best reasonably available scientific, technical, demographic, economic, and statistical information and evidence to develop, issue or inform the public of the nature and bases of Federal agency rules and guidance, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. McClain (R-MI9); 2/5/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction and favorably reported 17 measures, including H.R. 7219, the ‘‘Information Quality Assurance Act of 2024,’’ ; H.R. 262,the ‘‘All Economic Regulations are Transparent Act of 2023,’’ as amended; H.R. 7184, the ‘‘Congressional Budget Office Data Access Act,’’ as amended; and H.R. 5887, the ‘‘Government Service Delivery and Improvement Act,’’ as amended. [2/6/24]

Senate

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3732. A bill to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out a study on the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence, to require the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to convene a consortium on such environmental impacts, and to require the Director to develop a voluntary reporting system for the reporting of the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Markey (D-MA); 2/1/24]

S. 3727. A bill to establish the Proprietary Education Interagency Oversight Committee and to facilitate the disclosure and reporting of information regarding complaints and investigations related to proprietary institutions of higher education eligible to receive Federal education assistance; to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. [Sen. Durbin (D-IL); 2/1/24]

SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF PROPRIETARY EDUCATION INTERAGENCY OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE.

(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is established the Proprietary Education Interagency Oversight Committee (referred to in this Act as the ‘‘Committee’’) to be composed of the head (or the designee of the head who is designated under subsection (d)) of each of the following:

     (1) The Department.

     (2) The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

     (3) The Department of Justice.

     (4) The Securities and Exchange Commission.

     (5) The Department of Defense.

     (6) The Department of Veterans Affairs.

     (7) The Federal Trade Commission.

     (8) The Department of Labor.

     (9) The Internal Revenue Service.

     (10) At the discretion of the President, any other relevant Federal agency.

(b) PURPOSES.—The Committee shall have the following purposes:

     (1) To improve enforcement of applicable Federal laws and regulations.

     (2) To increase accountability of proprietary institutions of higher education to students and taxpayers.

     (3) To ensure the promotion of high-quality education programs.

     (4) To reduce and prevent fraud and abuse by proprietary institutions of higher education.

[2/1/24, Pages S344-47]

S. 3724. A bill to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from using assessments generated by the Integrated Risk Information System as a tier 1 data source in rulemakings and other regulatory actions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [Sen. Kennedy (R-LA); 2/1/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine scams and fraud in the banking system and their impact on consumers, including S. 2669, to require the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to issue guidance on digital assets, S. 3554, to amend the Financial Stability Act of 2010 to provide the Financial Stability Oversight Council with duties regarding artificial intelligence in the financial sector, after receiving testimony from Carla Sanchez-Adams, National Consumer Law Center, Paul Benda, American Bankers Association, and John Breyault, National Consumers League, all of Washington, D.C. [2/1/24]

Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Monetary Policy held a hearing entitled ‘‘Rules Without Analysis: Federal Banking Proposals Under the Biden Administration’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [1/31/24]Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Full Committee held a markup of legislation within the committee's jurisdiction and favorably reported nineteen measures, including: S. 3654, to amend the Presidential Transition Act of 1963 to require the timely appointment of agency transition officials, to ensure adequate performance and oversight of required transition-related preparation, to require new guidance for agencies and possible transition teams, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; and S. 3594, to require Governmentwide source code sharing, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. [1/31/24]

House

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7201. A bill to secure Federal access to scientific literature and other subscription services by requiring Federal agencies and legislative branch research arms to make recommendations on increasing agency library access to serials, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Foster (D-IL1); 2/1/24]

H.R. 7198. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to require greater transparency for Federal regulatory decisions that impact small businesses, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Small Business. [Rep. Finstad (R-MN1); 2/1/24]

H.R. 7197. A bill to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out a study on the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence, to require the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to convene a consortium on such environmental impacts, and to require the Director to develop a voluntary reporting system for the reporting of the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Eshoo (D-CA16); 2/1/24]

H.R. 7184. A bill to provide the Congressional Budget Office with necessary authorities to expedite the sharing of data from executive branch agencies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Grothman (R-WI6); 2/1/24]

H.R. 7136. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a comprehensive standard for timing between referrals and appointments for care from the Department of Veterans Affairs and to submit a report with respect to that standard, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Franklin (R-FL18); 1/30/24]

H.R. 7103. A bill to amend the Small Business Act to require Federal agencies to testify and report on scores received under the scorecard program for evaluating Federal agency compliance with small business contracting goals, to testify for failure to meet Governmentwide contracting goals, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Small Business. [Rep. Stauber (R-MN8); 1/29/24]

H.R. 7101. A bill to establish requirements for the Federal Trade Commission with respect to certain rules related to automotive retailing, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Armstrong (R-ND-At Large); 1/29/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Technology Modernization held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Future of Data Privacy and Artificial Intelligence at VA’’. Testimony was heard from Charles Worthington, Chief Technology Officer, Office of Information and Technology, Department of Veterans Affairs; and a public witness. [1/29/24]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3667. A bill to amend the Consumer Product Safety Act to strike provisions relating to the maximum civil penalties for violations of product safety standards; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Welch (D-VT); 1/25/24]

S. 3665. A bill to establish a process for waiver of coastwise endorsement requirements; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Lee (R-UT); 1/25/24]

S. 3660. A bill to require electronically prepared tax returns to include scannable code when submitted on paper, and to require the use of optical character recognition technology for paper documents received by the Internal Revenue Service; to the Committee on Finance. [Sen. Carper (D-DE); 1/25/24]

S. 3653. A bill to apply user fees with respect to tobacco products deemed subject to the requirements of chapter IX of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act; to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. [Sen. Shaheen (D-NH); 1/24/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Rules and Administration: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the use of Artificial Intelligence at the Library of Congress, Government Publishing Office, and Smithsonian Institution, after receiving testimony from Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress; Hugh Nathanial Halpern, Director, Government Publishing Office; and Meroe Park, Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, Smithsonian Institution. [1/24/24]Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism concluded a hearing to examine AI in criminal investigations and prosecutions, after receiving testimony from Karen L. Howard, Director, Science, Technology Assessment, and Analytics, Government Accountability Office; Armando R. Aguilar, Miami Police Department, Miami, Florida; and Rebecca Wexler, Berkeley Center for Law and Technology, Berkeley, California. [1/24/24]

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7096. A bill to amend the Consumer Product Safety Act to strike provisions relating to the maximum civil penalties for violations of product safety standards; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL9); 1/25/24]

H.R. 7081. A bill to establish a process for waiver of coastwise endorsement requirements; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Cline (R-VA6); 1/25/24]

H.R. 7080. A bill to reinstate pre-pandemic telework policies of Executive agencies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Carl (R-AL1); 1/25/24]H.R. 7079. A bill to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from finalizing, implementing, or enforcing certain changes to regulations regarding meat and poultry products effluent discharges, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Burlison (R-MO7); 1/25/24]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act: By 77 yeas to 18 nays (Vote No. 12), Senate passed H.R. 2872, to amend the Permanent Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2013 to allow the Secretary of the Interior to issue electronic stamps under such Act, by the order of the Senate of Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 60 Senators having voted in the affirmative. [1/18/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3630. A bill to amend title XI of the Social Security Act to establish a pilot program for testing the use of a predictive risk-scoring algorithm to provide oversight of payments for durable  medical equipment and clinical diagnostic laboratory tests under the Medicare program; to the Committee on Finance. [Sen. Braun (R-IN); 1/18/24]

S. 3598. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a comprehensive standard for timing between referrals and appointments for care from the Department of Veterans Affairs and to submit a report with respect to that standard, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 1/17/24]

S. 3594. A bill to require Governmentwide source code sharing, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Cruz (R-TX); 1/16/24]S. 3592. A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to clarify the authority of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection with respect to persons regulated by a State insurance regulator, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Scott (R-SC); 1/16/24]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act: The House concurred in the Senate amendment to H.R. 2872, to amend the Permanent Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2013 to allow the Secretary of the Interior to issue electronic stamps under such Act, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 314 yeas to 108 nays, Roll No. 15. [1/18/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 7048. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to modify provisions relating to assistance by States, and political subdivisions of States, in the enforcement of Federal immigration laws, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Pfluger (R-TX11); 1/18/24]

H.R. 7042. A bill to reform the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Mann (R-KS1); 1/18/24]

H.R. 7032. A bill to amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to provide the Congressional Budget Office with necessary authorities to expedite the sharing of data from executive branch agencies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Budget. [Rep. Boyle (D-PA2); 1/18/24]

H.R. 7030. A bill to require the Securities and Exchange Commission to periodically review final rules issued by the Commission and to amend the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Company Act of 1940, and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 to require the Securities and Exchange Commission to consider the cumulative effect of proposed and final rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Kim (R-CA40); 1/18/24]

H.R. 7021. A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect to the procedure for the development of water quality criteria, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Owens (R-UT4); 1/17/24]

H.R. 7008. A bill to amend section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to judicial review of a permit issued under such section, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Burlison (R-MO7); 1/17/24]

H.R. 7000. A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to clarify the authority of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection with respect to persons regulated by a State insurance regulator, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Steil (R-WI1); 1/16/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation held a hearing entitled ‘‘Toward an AI-Ready Workforce’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [1/17/24]Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Biden Administration’s Regulatory and Policymaking Efforts to Undermine U.S. Immigration Law’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [1/17/24]

SENATE

NEW PUBLIC LAWS:

S. 2747. To amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to extend the Administrative Fine Program for certain reporting violations. Signed on December 19, 2023 (Public Law 118–26). [1/8/24]

PRESIDENTIAL VETO SUSTAINED:

CRA Resolution of Disapproval - Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act Rule: By 54 yeas to 45 nays (Vote No. 5), two-thirds of the Senators voting, a quorum being present, not having voted in the affirmative, S.J. Res. 32, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to ‘‘Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)’’, upon reconsideration failed of passage, and the veto of the President was sustained. [1/10/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3587. A bill to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to immediately initiate removal proceedings for aliens whose visas are revoked on security or related grounds; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Rubio (R-FL); 1/11/24]

S. 3583. A bill to address patent thickets; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Welch (D-VT); 1/11/24]

S. 3576. A bill to authorize certain States to take certain actions on certain Federal land to secure an international border of the United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. [Sen. Blackburn (R-TN); 1/10/24]

S. 3567. A bill to establish within the Department of Veterans Affairs a Veterans Affairs History Office, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Brown (D-OH); 1/10/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine harnessing AI to improve government services and customer service, after receiving testimony from Beth Simone Noveck, New Jersey Chief Innovation Officer, Trenton; Jennifer Pahlka, Federation of American Scientists, Oakland, California; and Beth Blauer, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland. [1/10/24]

HOUSE

NEW PUBLIC LAWS:

H.R. 1226. An Act to amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for the electronic request of certain Department of Veterans Affairs records, and for other purposes (Public Law 118-21). [1/9/23]

MEASURES PASSED:

CRA Resolution of Disapproval - Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status Rule: The House passed H.J. Res. 98, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board relating to ‘‘Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status’’, by a yea-and-nay vote of 206 yeas to 177 nays, Roll No. 10. [1/12/24, Pages H112-24]

Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2023: The House passed H.R. 788, to limit donations made pursuant to settlement agreements to which the United States is a party, by a yea-and-nay vote of 211 yeas to 197 nays, Roll No. 7. [1/11/24, Pages H71-77]

SEC. 2. LIMITATION ON DONATIONS MADE PURSUANT TO SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS TO WHICH THE UNITED STATES IS A PARTY.

(a) LIMITATION ON REQUIRED DONATIONS.—An official or agent of the Government may not enter into or enforce any settlement agreement on behalf of the United States directing or providing for a payment to any person or entity other than the United States, other than a payment that provides restitution for or otherwise directly remedies actual harm (including to the environment) directly and proximately caused by the party making the payment, or constitutes payment for services rendered in connection with the case.

* * * *

(e) REPORTS ON SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS.—

(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than at the end of the first fiscal year that begins after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the head of each Federal agency shall submit electronically to the Congressional Budget Office a report on each settlement agreement entered into by that agency during that fiscal year that directs or provides for a payment to a person or entity other than the United States that is providing restitution for or otherwise directly remedies actual harm (including to the environment) directly and proximately caused by the party making the payment, or that constitutes payment for services rendered in connection with the case, which shall include the parties to each settlement agreement, the source of the settlement funds, and where and how such funds were and will be distributed.

* * * *

(f) ANNUAL AUDIT REQUIREMENT.—

(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than at the end of the first fiscal year that begins after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Inspector General of each Federal agency shall submit a report on any settlement agreement entered into in violation of this section by that agency to [the House & Senate's Judiciary, Budget, and Appropriations Committees]. [1/11/24, Page H71]

"Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H.R. 788, the Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act. This legislation seeks to repair a loophole that has been exploited by the executive branch agencies to redirect funds from Federal law enforcement settlements to outside, nongovernment entities. Under this third-party settlement policy, agencies reach a settlement and include mandatory donation terms to externally divert these funds to third parties instead of either depositing them with the Treasury or exclusively using them to provide restitution to the victims.  Instead of depositing these settlements with the Treasury or compensating the victims, which should be the only appropriate use of these funds, agencies give sizable chunks to third parties diluting the share of the victims and even cutting out the Treasury completely…It is my goal to end this policy once and for all. It is bad business for the American people, it is wrong, and it needs to be stopped no matter who the President is." [Rep. Gooden (R-TX5); 1/11/24, Page H72]

"Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 788…This harmful legislation would prevent the Justice Department from negotiating settlements to include payments to third parties, primarily nonprofits and community-based organizations, that are best positioned to remedy harms to society at large that were caused by a corporate wrongdoer’s violation of Federal environmental, labor, consumer, and financial protections. This bill is nothing short of a gift to large corporations that would leave victims of their misconduct out in the cold. No credible facts justify H.R. 788. This bill is based on the false premise that the Justice Department uses these types of settlements as illegitimate favors for an administration’s political allies, with the bill’s supporters describing such settlements as politically motivated slush funds…Unsurprisingly, the House Republican investigation into these settlements produced not one shred of credible evidence to support their allegations that [these settlement agreements] represent[] some sort of improper action." [Rep. Nadler (D-NY12); 1/11/24, Page H72]

CRA Resolution of Disapproval - Waiver of Buy America Requirements for Electric Vehicle Chargers Rule: The House passed S.J. Res. 38, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration relating to ‘‘Waiver of Buy America Requirements for Electric Vehicle Chargers’’, by a yea-and-vote of 209 yeas to 198 nays, Roll No. 8. [1/11/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6986. A bill to address patent thickets; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Arrington (R-TX19); 1/12/24]

H.R. 6971. A bill to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to immediately initiate removal proceedings for aliens whose visas are revoked on security or related grounds; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Hunt (R-TX38); 1/11/24]

H.R. 6962. A bill to place the Financial Stability Oversight Council and the Office of Financial Research under the regular appropriations process, to provide for certain quarterly reporting and public notice and comment requirements for the Office of Financial Research, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Emmer (R-MN6); 1/11/24]

H.R. 6947. A bill to establish within the Department of Veterans Affairs a Veterans Affairs History Office, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Turner (R-OH10); 1/10/24]

H.R. 6936. A bill to require Federal agencies to use the Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology with respect to the use of artificial intelligence; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. [Rep. Lieu (D-CA36); 1/10/24]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 3400. To amend the National Labor Relations Act to adjust the dollar thresholds for National Labor Relations Board jurisdiction over certain labor disputes, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–343). [1/11/24]

H.R. 788. To limit donations made pursuant to settlement agreements to which the United States is a party, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–339). [1/9/24]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Rural Access: Is VA Meeting All Veterans Where They Live?’’. Testimony was heard from Alyssa Hundrup, Director, Healthcare, Government Accountability Office; Shereef Elnahal, Under Secretary for Health, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; Joshua Jacobs, Under Secretary for Benefits, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; Marisa Schultz, Veteran, U.S. National Guard; and public witnesses. [1/11/24]

Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Inclusion held a hearing entitled ‘‘Regulatory Whiplash: Examining the Impact of FSOC’s Ever-changing Designation Framework on Innovation’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [1/10/24]Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on H.R. 788, the ‘‘Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2023’’; H.J. Res. 98, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board relating to ‘‘Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status’’; and S.J. Res. 38, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration relating to ‘‘Waiver of Buy America Requirements for Electric Vehicle Chargers’’. The Committee granted, by record vote of 6–2, a rule providing for consideration of H.R. 788, H.J. Res. 98, and S.J. Res. 38. [1/9/24]

SENATE

CONVENING THE SECOND SESSION OF THE 118th CONGRESS: The Senate convened the Second Session of the 118th Congress, in pro forma session, and adjourned at 12:00:40 p.m.. [1/3/24]

HOUSE

CONVENING THE SECOND SESSION OF THE 118th CONGRESS:

Pursuant to the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, the House met at 12 noon on January 3, 2024 for the convening of the second session of the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress.  [1/3/24]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:H.R. 6911. A bill to require heads of Executive agencies to, upon request, submit to relevant congressional committees information regarding the furlough or indefinite suspension without pay of employees of such Executive agencies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Tenney (R-NY24); 1/2/24]

SENATE The Senate convened in pro forma session on Tuesday, December 26, and Friday, December 29, 2023. No legislative business was conducted.

HOUSE

The House convened in pro forma session on Tuesday, December 26, and Friday, December 29, 2023.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS REFERRED: EC–2809. A letter from the Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, transmitting the Office’s notice of availability — Issuance of Revised OMB Circular No. A-4, ‘‘Regulatory Analysis’’ received November 29, 2023, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); jointly to the Committees on Oversight and Accountability and the Judiciary. [12/29/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Eliminate Useless Reports Act: Senate passed S. 2073, to amend title 31, United States Code, to require agencies to include a list of outdated or duplicative reporting requirements in annual budget justifications, after agreeing to the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute. [12/18/23]

GAO Database Modernization Act: Senate passed S. 679, to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to require Federal agencies to submit to the Comptroller General of the United States a report on rules that are revoked, suspended, replaced, amended, or otherwise made ineffective. [12/18/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3554. A bill to amend the Financial Stability Act of 2010 to provide the Financial Stability Oversight Council with duties regarding artificial intelligence in the financial sector, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Warner (D-VA); 12/18/23]

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT: Transmitting the report of the veto of S.J. Res. 32, a joint resolution that would disapprove of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s final rule titled ‘‘Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)’’; ordered to be printed in the Record, spread in full upon the Journal, and held at the desk (PM–34). [12/19/23, Pages S6056–57]

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6906. A bill to amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1992 and the Flood Control Act of 1968 to provide for provisions relating to collection and retention of user fees at recreation facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Westerman (R-AR4); 12/22/23]

H.R. 6890. A bill to improve the process for awarding grants under certain programs of the Department of Transportation to certain counties in which the majority of land is owned or managed by the Federal Government and to other units of local government and Tribal governments in those counties, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Maloy (R-UT2); 12/22/23]

H.R. 6891. A bill to improve the process for awarding grants under certain programs of the Department of Agriculture to certain counties in which the majority of land is owned or managed by the Federal Government and to other units of local government and Tribal governments in those counties, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Financial Services. [Rep. Maloy (R-UT2); 12/22/23]

H.R. 6886. A bill to direct agencies to be transparent when using automated and augmented systems to interact with the public or make critical decisions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Higgins (R-LA3); 12/22/23]

H.R. 6881. A bill to direct the Federal Trade Commission to establish standards for making publicly available information about the training data and algorithms used in artificial intelligence foundation models, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Beyer (D-VA8); 12/22/23]

H.R. 6874. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to implement a system or process to actively monitor the veteran self-service and data transmission functions of the main internet website of the Department of Veterans Affairs for certain adverse events, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Rosendale (R-MT2); 12/19/23]

REPORTS FILED:H.R. 6231. To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require a prioritized policy issuance review process for the Department of Homeland Security, and for other purposes (H. Rept. 118–322). [12/19/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3529. A bill to provide procedures for appealing certain Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives rulings or determinations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Braun (R-IN); 12/14/23]

S. 3478. A bill to require agencies that use, fund, or oversee algorithms to have an office of civil rights focused on bias, discrimination, and other harms of algorithms, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Markey (D-MA); 12/12/23]

S. 3460. A bill to direct the Director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics to establish a database with respect to corporate offenses, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Durbin (D-IL); 12/11/23]

‘‘(4) ENFORCEMENT ACTION.—The term ‘enforcement action’ includes any concluded administrative, civil, or criminal enforcement action or any declination, settlement, deferred prosecution agreement, or non-prosecution agreement entered into by a Federal agency to enforce a law or regulation.

‘‘(5) FEDERAL AGENCY.—The term ‘Federal agency’ has the meaning given the term ‘agency’ in section 551 of title 5, United States Code.

‘‘(b) ESTABLISHMENT.—Beginning not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Corporate Crime Database Act of 2023, the Director shall—

‘‘(1) collect, aggregate, and analyze information regarding enforcement actions taken with respect to corporate offenses; and

‘‘(2) publish on the internet website of the Bureau a database of the enforcement actions described in paragraph (1).

* * * *

‘‘(d) INFORMATION COLLECTION BY DIRECTOR.—

‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Corporate Crime Database Act of 2023, the Director shall establish guidance for the collection of information from each Federal agency that carries out an enforcement action with respect to corporate offenses, including identification of each Federal agency that shall submit information to the Director and the manner in which, time at which, and frequency with which the information shall be submitted.

‘‘(2) COOPERATION BY FEDERAL AGENCIES.—Each Federal agency identified in the guidance established under paragraph (1) shall submit to the Director the information specified by the Director, in accordance with that guidance. [12/11/23, Pages S5898-99]

MEASURES REPORTED:

S. 2286. To improve the effectiveness and performance of certain Federal grant and cooperative agreement programs, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute (S. Rept. No. 118–126). [12/11/23]

S. 2260. To require transparency in notices of funding opportunity (S. Rept. No. 118–125). [12/11/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights concluded a hearing to examine the impact of algorithms on competition and consumer rights, after receiving testimony from Bill Baer, The Brookings Institution, and Damon T. Hewitt, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, both of Washington, D.C.; Robert Epstein, American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology, Vista, California; Sarah Myers West, AI Now Institute, New York, New York; and Roger P. Alford, Notre Dame Law School, South Bend, Indiana. [12/13/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Ensuring Accountability in Agency Rulemaking Act: The House passed H.R. 357, to require the head of an agency to issue and sign any rule issued by that agency, by a recorded vote of 218 ayes to 203 noes, Roll No. 717. [12/12/23, Pages H6836-42]

"Under our Constitution, those who make the laws are accountable to those who elect them. Career Federal employees are not beholden to the voters of this Nation, and yet unelected bureaucrats across the Federal agencies…have been making thousands of rules that impact this country’s voters and taxpayers. According to a recent Pacific Legal Foundation study, career employees and unconfirmed officials issued over 70 percent of the rules at the Department of Health and Human Services between 2001 and 2017. These rules have economic impacts on the people of this country, just as the laws we pass in this Chamber do, yet we are accountable to the voters who elect us. Federal employees are accountable to no one…The Ensuring Accountability in Agency Rulemaking Act would lessen the power of career civil servants who are not accountable to the taxpayer. It would require, with exceptions, that rules be issued and signed by presidentially nominated and Senate-confirmed appointees. This upholds the Constitution by putting decisions in the hands of those who are held accountable to the American people." [Rep. Fischbach (R-MN7); 12/12/23, Page H6829]

"Today, we are also considering H.R. 357, another attempt by the Republican majority to derail the Federal rulemaking process. This is an unnecessary and vague bill designed to undermine the critical work of Federal agencies…The fact is that the regulatory process that our Republican colleagues seek to frame as a battle against some vast bureaucratic conspiracy is actually an essential part of ensuring that we all have clean air and water to breathe and drink, healthy food to eat, and safe planes, trains, and automobiles to travel in. The truth is that Congress already has a wide range of ways to exercise oversight and control over rulemaking…[B]ills like this would create a bottleneck in our government’s operations that will prevent rules that the Republican majority doesn’t like…[and] would politicize the process of confirming nominees to administrative agencies even more than it is already. Individual Senators would have even more incentive to block an administration’s nomination for partisan and corporate goals. More corporate influence would be allowed to infiltrate the Senate confirmation process. Ultimately, our agencies would be obstructed from doing important work to protect the American people’s health and safety and making government function better." [Rep. Scanlon (D-PA5); 12/12/23, Pages H6830-31]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6784. A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide for protective regulations when a species is listed as an endangered species; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Stauber (R-MN8); 12/14/23]

H.R. 6758. A bill to establish a uniform and more efficient Federal process for protecting property owners’ rights guaranteed by the fifth amendment; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Langworthy (R-NY23); 12/13/23]

H.R. 6726. A bill to amend the Securities Act of 1933 to require the accounting principles standard setting body to comply with the Administrative Procedure Act and the Government in the Sunshine Act, to require the head of such body to testify annually before Congress, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Luetkemeyer (R-MO3); 12/12/23]

H.R. 6713. A bill to direct the Director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics to establish a database with respect to corporate offenses, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Scanlon (D-PA5); 12/11/23]

H.R. 6695. A bill to authorize private parties to compel the Securities and Exchange Commission to seek sanctions by filing civil actions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Davidson (R-OH8); 12/11/23]

H.R. 6692. A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to establish the position of the Assistant Director and Student Loan Borrower Advocate of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, to establish the Office for Students and Young Consumers of the Bureau, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Bonamici (D-OR1); 12/11/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Energy and Commerce: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Leveraging Agency Expertise to Foster American AI Leadership and Innovation’’. Testimony was heard from Helena Fu, Director of Critical and Emerging Technology, Office of the Undersecretary for Science, Department of Energy; Micky Tripathi, National Coordinator for Health Information Tech, Department of Health and Human Services; and Saif Khan, Senior Advisor to Secretary for Critical and Emerging Technologies, Department of Commerce. [12/13/23]

Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection held a hearing entitled ‘‘Considering DHS’ and CISA’s Role in Securing Artificial Intelligence’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [12/12/23]

Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on H.R. 357, the ‘‘Ensuring Accountability in Agency Rulemaking Act’’; H.R. 1147, the ‘‘Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023’’; and H.R. 6570, the ‘‘Protect Liberty and End Warrantless Surveillance Act’’. The Committee granted, by a record vote of 8–4, a rule providing for consideration of H.R. 1147  and H.R. 357. [12/11/23]

SENATE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

National Defense Authorization Act—Cloture: Senate began consideration of the conference report to accompany H.R. 2670, to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2024 for military activities of the Department of Defense and for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year. [12/7/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3442. A bill to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to make timely decisions on applications of retail food stores to accept benefits from recipients of supplemental nutrition assistance through on-line transactions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. [Sen. Booker (D-NJ); 12/7/23]

S.J. Res. 52. A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency entitled ‘‘Finding That Lead Emissions From Aircraft Engines That Operate on Leaded Fuel Cause or Contribute to Air Pollution That May Reasonably Be Anticipated To Endanger Public Health and Welfare’’; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [Sen. Murkowski (R-AK); 12/6/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

CRA Joint Resolution of Disapproval - Department of Education Rule Entitled "Improving Income Driven Repayment for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program’’: The House passed H.J. Res. 88, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Education relating to ‘‘Improving Income Driven Repayment for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program’’, by a yea-and-nay vote of 210 yeas to 189 nays, Roll No. 705. [12/7/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6671. A bill to authorize the court to make an advisory statement under certain circumstances, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Issa (R-CA48); 12/7/23]

H.R. 6667. A bill to provide limitations for Federal agencies entering into settlement agreements and consent decrees, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Good (R-VA5); 12/7/23]

H.R. 6666. A bill to codify Executive Order 13771 (relating to reducing regulation and controlling regulatory costs); to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Gallagher (R-WI8); 12/7/23]

H.R. 6644. A bill to amend title IV of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 to provide for the timely payment of black lung benefits pending liability determinations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means. [Rep. Rogers (R-KY5); 12/6/23]

H.R. 6634. A bill to increase the capacity of the Department of Labor and labor enforcement agencies of States to address labor violations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce. [Rep. McGarvey (D-KY3); 12/6/23]

H.R. 6610. A bill to provide for the modernization of the passport issuance process, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. [Rep. Issa (R-CA48); 12/6/23]

H.R. 6574. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify the contempt authority of immigration judges, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Gallagher (R-WI8); 12/4/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation held a hearing entitled ‘‘White House Policy on AI’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [12/6/23]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 2798. To make reforms to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–297, Part 1). [12/4/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3382. A bill to amend the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 to protect ranchers from out-of-state regulation that interferes with interstate livestock production, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. [Sen. Hawley (R-MO); 11/30/23]

MEASURES REFERRED:

H.R. 4668. An act to amend the Small Business Act to require the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman to publish guidance documents for certain rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. [11/29/23]

REMARKS:

Senate Bi-Partisan AI Insight Forums

"Mr. President, on AI and our insight forums, yesterday, the Senate held our seventh bipartisan AI Insight Forum. We had an enlightening and informative discussion, and I want to thank my Senate colleagues who stopped by to listen and learn from the experts. Our discussion focused on a few of the most critical issues we face with AI: transparency, explainability, intellectual property, and copyright. We had a consensus on a few important points: We must create and enforce protections for creators to maintain their identities in the age of AI. We must protect American companies’ IP and make sure America sets the international standard for IP. We must make sure AI systems are transparent and that the public can understand why AI systems produce the answers they do. And we must do all this while continuing to prioritize our North Star when it comes to AI: innovation." [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 11/30/23, Page S5682]

The AI Research, Innovation, and Accountability Act

"The right way to approach AI regulation is to pursue a bipartisan, nationwide approach in Congress that will protect innovation while putting in place the necessary safeguards for the riskiest applications of this technology. To that end, shortly before Thanksgiving, I introduced bipartisan AI legislation with Senator KLOBUCHAR and several of our Commerce Committee colleagues from both parties. Our bill is intended to establish some basic rules of the road for artificial intelligence while protecting the ability of companies to innovate and advance this technology. Our bill focuses on two things: transparency for consumers and a tiered, risk-based framework for oversight of the highest impact applications of AI…On the transparency front, our bill would require any large-scale internet platform that uses generative AI to create content to clearly inform consumers of that fact…The second part of our bill deals with high-impact and critical-impact AI, that is, AI applications used to make significant applications in particularly high-risk sectors. Our bill establishes a two-tiered system for overseeing these applications. Critical-impact AI applications—for example, like those used to make significant decisions in the operation of critical infrastructure—would be required to self-certified (sic) compliance with testing evaluation, validation, and verification standards. What does all that mean? High-impact AI applications will be subject solely to transparency reporting requirements. Importantly, this part of the bill is carefully tailored to apply only to AI applications making complex decisions in high-risk sectors and is meant to respond directly and narrowly to the recent leap in capabilities of foundation models that power them." [Sen. Thune (R-SD); 11/28/23, Page S5620]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Providing Opportunities to Show Transparency via Information Technology Act of 2023: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 4668, as amended, to amend the Small Business Act to require the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman to publish guidance documents for certain rules. [11/28/23; Page H5913]

"This bipartisan legislation simply requires Federal agencies to post follow-up guidance on the SBA’s Office of the National Ombudsman’s website for any regulation that will have a significant impact on small businesses. While there are official guidance documents that are released when rules are initially finalized, over time, agencies often release additional materials related to compliance. This leads to updated policy statements and technical clarifications that ultimately lead to a labyrinth of regulatory confusion and oversight by enforcement. The POST IT Act ensures these updates will be housed in a centralized location so small business owners can worry less about abiding by government regulations and focus more on running their businesses, employing our neighbors, and investing in our communities." [Rep. Molinaro (R-NY19); 11/28/23, Pages H5913-14]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6558. A bill to prohibit the issuance of the rule entitled ‘‘Upholding Civil Service Protections and Merit System Principles’’ or any successor rule; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Ogles (R-TN5); 12/1/23]

H.R. 6544. A bill to advance the benefits of nuclear energy by enabling efficient, timely, and predictable licensing, regulation, and deployment of nuclear energy technologies, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Science, Space, and Technology, and Foreign Affairs. [Rep. Duncan (R-SC3); 12/1/23]

H.R. 6526. A bill to facilitate the efficient licensing and deployment of advanced civilian nuclear technologies; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Hudson (R-NC9); 11/30/23]

H.R. 6514. A bill to require agencies to notify the Archivist of the date on which a final rule is submitted to Congress and the Government Accountability Office; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Alford (R-MO4); 11/30/23]

H.R. 6493. A bill to limit the involvement of Federal agencies in voter registration activities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on House Administration, and in addition to the Committees on the Judiciary, Oversight and Accountability, Science, Space, and Technology, and Education and the Workforce. [Rep. Hagerty (R-WY/AL); 11/29/223]

H.R. 6483. A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to require greater transparency and accountability within the grantmaking process of the National Institutes of Health; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Huizenga (R-MI4]; 11/28/23]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 357. To require the head of an agency to issue and sign any rule issued by that agency, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–282). [11/29/23]

H.J. Res. 66. Disapproving the rule submitted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau relating to ‘‘Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)’’ (H. Rept. 118–279). [11/28/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of Federal Agencies’ Post-Pandemic Telework Policies: Part II’’. Testimony was heard from Bob Leavitt, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Human Resources and Chief Human Capital Officer, Department of Health and Human Services; Oren McKnelly, Executive Counselor, U.S. Social Security Administration; Jeremy Pelter, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration, Department of Commerce; and Kathryn Stevens, Acting Chief Human Capital Officer, U.S. Agency for International Development. [11/29/23]

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hearing entitled ‘‘Examining the VA Appeals Process: Ensuring High Quality Decision-Making for Veterans’ Claims on Appeal’’. Testimony was heard from Elizabeth Curda, Director, Education, Workforce, and Income Security Issues, Government Accountability Office; Kenneth A. Arnold, Vice Chairman, Board of Veterans’ Appeals, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. [11/29/23]

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a markup on legislation within the Subcommittee's jurisdiction and forwarded ten bills to the full Committee, including: H.R. 4016, to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the repayment by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs of benefits misused by a fiduciary; H.R. 4190, to amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to repay the estates of deceased beneficiaries for certain benefits paid by the Secretary and misused by fiduciaries of such beneficiaries; H.R. 5559, to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish certain rules of evidence in certain claims under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; H.R. 5891, to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve decisions issued by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals; and H.R. 5870, to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to the processing of claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the transparency of actions of Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes. [11/29/23]

SENATE

The Senate met in pro forma session on Tuesday, November 21, and Friday, November 24, 2023. There were no relevant legislative actions to report.

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6477. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to reform the process for inspection of applicants for admission; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Weber (R-TX14); 11/21/23]

H.R. 6466. A bill to require disclosures for AI-generated content, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. [Rep. Kean (R-NJ7); 11/21/23]

H.R. 6461. A bill to ensure that claims for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act are processed in a fair and timely manner, to better protect miners from pneumoconiosis (commonly known as ‘‘black lung disease’’), and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means. [Rep. Cartwright (D-PA8); 11/21/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act: By 87 yeas to 11 nays (Vote No. 312), the Senate passed H.R. 6363, making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by the order of the Senate of Wednesday, November 15, 2023, 60 Senators having voted in the affirmative. [11/15/23]

MEASURES REJECTED:

S.J. Res 43. By 49 yeas to 50 nays (Vote No. 310), the Senate failed to pass S.J. Res. 43, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Education relating to ‘‘Improving Income Driven Repayment for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program’’. [11/15/23]

MEASURES DISCHARGED FROM COMMITTEE:

S.J. Res. 43. Joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Education relating to ‘‘Improving Income Driven Repayment for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program’’. [11/14/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3320. A bill to provide that an individual may not serve as an employee in the executive branch for longer than 12 years, except for Presidential appointees, law enforcement officers, members of the military, and employees of the Department of Defense; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Marshall (R-KS); 11/15/23]

S. 3312. A bill to provide a framework for artificial intelligence innovation and accountability, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Thune (R-SD); 11/15/23]

S. 3304. A bill to ensure that claims for benefits under the Black Lung Benefits Act are processed in a fair and timely manner, to better protect miners from pneumoconiosis (commonly known as ‘‘black lung disease’’), and for other purposes; to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. [Sen. Casey (D-PA); 11/15/23]

S. 3295. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a portal for maintaining digital records of former members of the Armed Forces and to establish an advisory committee regarding the maintenance of those records, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Lankford (R-OK); 11/4/23

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Further Continuing Appropriations and Other Extensions Act, 2024: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 6363, amended, making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 336 yeas to 95 nays, Roll No. 658. [11/14/23]

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2024: The House considered H.R. 5894, making appropriations for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [11/14/23]

Amendments Adopted:

Aderholt En Bloc Amendment No. 1, consisting of amendments printed in part B of H. Rept. 118–272, including: Kiggans (No. 57) that increases and decreases Medicare Hearings and Appeals funding by $196,000,000 to direct CMS to transmit information, either on the CMS website or on the claim denial notification, to those whose Medicare or Medicaid claims are denied about how to effectively appeal their denied claims; and Gottheimer (No. 79) that increases and decreases funds by $10 million to hire more Social Security Administration employees in the Office of Hearing Operations to reduce hearings backlog and processing times for disability claims. [11/14/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6363. A bill making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget. [Rep. Granger (R-TX12); 11/13/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Prudential Regulators’’. Testimony was heard from Michael Barr, Vice Chairman for  Supervision, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; Martin Gruenberg, Chairman, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; Todd Harper, Chairman, National Credit Union Administration; and Michael Hsu, Acting Comptroller, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Department of the Treasury. [11/15/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3256. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish the Veterans Experience Office, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. King (I-ME); 11/8/23]

S. 3252. A bill to terminate the authorities of certain entities of the Federal Government, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Schmitt (R-MO); 11/8/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the philosophy of AI, focusing on learning from history and shaping our future, after receiving testimony from Daron Acemoglu, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge; Margaret Hu, William and Mary Law School Digital Democracy Lab, Williamsburg, Virginia; and Shannon Valor, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom. [11/8/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Intellectual Property concluded a hearing to examine reforming the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, focusing on S. 2220, the PREVAIL Act and proposals to promote U.S. innovation leadership, after receiving testimony from former Representative Lamar Smith; Michelle E. Armond, Armond Wilson LLP, Newport Beach, California; Joseph Matal, Clear IP, LLC, Washington, D.C.; and Joe Kiani, Masimo Corp, Irvine, California. [11/8/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024: The House considered H.R. 4664, making appropriations for financial services and general government for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [11/7/23 - 11/9/23]

Amendments Adopted:

Womack En Bloc Amendment No. 1, consisting of the amendments printed in part B of H. Rept. 118–269, including: Schweikert (No. 6) that increases and decreases funding for the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration by $1 million to provide a report to Congress on the Internal Revenue Service’s use of artificial intelligence in compliance efforts and in investigating complex tax evasion cases through information on the no-change rate of cases selected, dollar amounts recovered through this technology, human controls on the technology’s decision-making ability and processes, and privacy controls of taxpayer data; and Schweikert (No. 13) that increases and decreases funding for the Internal Revenue Service’s Taxpayer Service by $1 million to provide an update to Congress on the agency’s use of artificial intelligence and chatbot technology at the taxpayer and customer service level and to detail plans to expand the use of chatbot technology to include providing taxpayers with tools, information, and assistance needed to comply with tax filing obligations with the goal of reducing delays in email or text response and telephone wait times further, decreasing the complexity of the tax code, and improving taxpayer resolution and satisfaction. [11/8/23]

Cammack Amendment No. 43, that prohibits funds from being used to finalize any rule or regulation that has resulted in or is likely to result in an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. [11/8/23]

Graves (LA) Amendment No. 57, that prohibits the use of funds to promulgate new major rules if OMB determines that the regulation is likely to result in a significant impact on the economy, a major increase in prices for consumers, or adverse effects on American global competition. [11/8/23] 

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024: The House considered H.R. 4820, making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [11/6/23 - 11/7/23]

Amendments Adopted:

Cammack Amendment No. 49, that prohibits funds from being used to finalize any rule or regulation that has resulted in or is likely to result in an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. [11/7/23]

Graves (LA) Amendment No. 53, that prohibits the use of funds to promulgate new major rules if OMB determines that the regulation is likely to result in a significant impact on the economy, a major increase in prices for consumers, or adverse effects on American global competition. [11/7/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6317. A bill to require the Administrator of the General Services Administration to submit a report describing a process for seeking public comment about proposed changes to mandatory design standards for public buildings, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Titus (D-NV1); 11/8/23]

H.R. 6265. A bill to direct the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to update the mission statement of the Commission to ensure licensing and regulation is efficient and is in alignment with the policies stated in the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Duncan (R-SC3); 11/7/23]

H.R. 6253. A bill to authorize the Secretary of Energy to make awards to cover regulatory costs relating to licensing certain first-of-a-kind advanced nuclear reactors; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Curtis (R-UT3); 11/7/23]

H.R. 6241. A bill to require certain data collection and reporting on space utilization, occupancy, and availability of office space leased by an Executive agency; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Edwards (R-NC11); 11/6/23]

H.R. 6236. A bill to streamline nuclear technology regulatory permitting and licensing, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Allen (R-GA12); 11/6/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a legislative hearing on legislation within the Subcommittee's jurisdiction, including: H.R. 5559, the ‘‘Protecting Veterans Claim Options Act’’; H.R. 5891, the ‘‘Veteran Appeals Decision Clarity Act’’; and H.R. 5870, the ‘‘Veteran Appeals Transparency Act of 2023’’. Testimony was heard from Chairman Bost, and Representatives Luttrell, Ciscomani, Spanberger, Self, Trone, and Issa; Beth Murphy, Executive Director, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; Kevin Friel, Deputy Director, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; Kenneth Arnold, Vice Chairman, Board of Veterans’ Appeals, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. [11/8/23]

Committee on Small Business: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Burdensome Regulations: Examining the Effects of Department of Energy Regulations on America’s Job Creators’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [11/8/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Consolidated Appropriations Act: By 82 yeas to 15 nays (Vote No. 284), Senate passed H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, by the order of the Senate of Tuesday, October 24, 2023, 60 Senators having voted in the affirmative, and after taking action on the following amendments. [11/1/23]

Amendments Adopted:

Schumer (for Murray/Collins) Amendment No. 1092, in the nature of a substitute. [11/1/23]

Ernst Amendment No. 1177 (to Amendment No. 1092), to require reporting regarding telework by employees of agencies funded under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024. [10/31/23]

Amendments Rejected:

Paul (for Lee) Amendment No. 1121 (to Amendment No. 1092), to require congressional review of certain agency rulemaking, by 46 yeas to 51 nays (Vote No. 283). [11/1/23]

MEASURES REPORTED:

S. 1564. To require the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to establish, or otherwise ensure the provision of, a training program on artificial intelligence for Federal management officials and supervisors, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute (S. Rept. No. 118–109). [11/2/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3208. A bill to provide for a biennial budget process and a biennial appropriations process and to enhance oversight and the performance of the Federal Government; to the Committee on the Budget. [Sen. Shaheen (D-NH); 11/2/23]

S. 3205. A bill to require Federal agencies to use the Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology with respect to the use of artificial intelligence; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Moran (R-KS); 11/2/23]

S. 3178. A bill to establish the Children’s Court to improve the adjudication of immigration cases involving unaccompanied alien children; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Bennet (D-CO);  11/1/23]

S. 3170. A bill to prescribe judicial review requirements for certain projects, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [Sen. Cassidy (R-LA); 10/31/23]

S. 3162. A bill to improve the requirement for the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to establish testbeds to support the development and testing of trustworthy artificial intelligence systems and to improve interagency coordination in development of such testbeds, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Lujan (D-NM); 10/30/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Committee concluded a hearing to examine small businesses and America’s outdoor recreation economy, including S. 1411, to amend title 5, United States Code, to require greater transparency for Federal regulatory decisions that impact small businesses, after receiving testimony from public witnesses. [11/1/23]

REMARKS:

Asylum Adjudication Backlogs

"If I go back to 2010—ancient history, 2010—that year we had 21,000 people cross our southern border and ask for asylum that year—21,000 in the year 2010. We now have 21,000 asking for asylum in 3 days now…No matter how many countries they have been through to be able to get there, they can say, ‘‘I fear my original country,’’ and we allow them in and then put them in line to get to an immigration judge. That line currently in New York is 10 years long to get to a judge. So they wait 10 years to get to a judge on the first stage. Then they still have got to do the next stage. It could be up to 20 years now, with the backlog, before they get an answer to the question: Are you eligible for asylum? By the way, statistics show the vast majority are not eligible for asylum, and everyone knows the joke. But there is a gap in our law that is being exploited by cartels." [Sen. Lankford (R-OK); 11/2/23, Page S5329]

Regulation of Artificial Intelligence

"Madam President, I just got back from an important event at the White House where President Biden announced a first-ever Executive order regulating AI, artificial intelligence. I applaud the President for breaking new ground with this Executive order, and I told him that the Senate will work very closely with the White House to do more on AI through legislation...While today’s AI Executive order is a massive step forward, everyone agrees there is no substitute for congressional action. Congress must act, must take the next step to build upon, augment, and expand today’s Executive order by the President, and we must do it through bipartisan legislation…On Wednesday morning, the Senate will bring some of the Nation’s leading minds in labor, business, and tech to talk about AI’s impact on America’s workforce, as part of our third AI Insight Forum. And on Wednesday afternoon, we will hold our fourth AI Insight Forum to discuss areas where AI will have an especially high impact, including healthcare, financial services, and our justice system. If the Senate’s AI Insight Forums have made anything clear so far, it is that the government must be involved in AI, must be ready to invest significantly toward AI innovation, and that we don’t have a lot of time. AI development is moving quickly. Adversaries like the Chinese Government are moving quickly. So Congress has to act quickly too." [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 10/30/23, Page S5222]

HOUSE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024: The House began consideration of H.R. 4821, making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes. Consideration is expected to resume tomorrow, November 3rd.

Amendments Adopted:

Graves (LA) Amendment No. 64, that prohibits the use of funds under this act to issue new major rules if OMB determines that the rule will have a significant negative effect on the economy, increase inflation, or adversely impact American international competitiveness. [11/2/23]

Cammack Amendment No. 81, that prohibits funds from being used to finalize any rule or regulation that has resulted in or is likely to result in an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. [11/2/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6185. A bill to require coordination among Federal agencies on regulatory actions that affect the reliable operation of the bulk-power system; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Duncan (R-SC3); 11/2/23]

H.R. 6145. A bill to establish the Children’s Court to improve the adjudication of immigration cases involving unaccompanied alien children; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Goldman (D-NY10); 11/1/23]

H.R. 6129. A bill to require the Council on Environmental Quality to publish an annual report on environmental reviews and causes of action based on compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Yakym (R-IN2); 11/1/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3112. A bill to require the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to annually review and update CBP policies and manuals to ensure uniform inspection practices along the United States border; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ricketts (R-NE); 10/24/23]

S. 3109. A bill to require the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Commissioner of Social Security to review and simplify the processes, procedures, forms, and communications for family caregivers to assist individuals in establishing eligibility for, enrolling in, and maintaining and utilizing coverage and benefits under the Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Social Security programs respectively, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Finance. [Sen. Markey (D-MA); 10/24/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine combating the networks of illicit finance and terrorism, including S. 2281, to provide for consumer protection and responsible financial innovation, to bring crypto assets within the regulatory perimeter, after receiving testimony from Matthew Levitt, The Washington Institute for Near East Policy, and Danielle Pletka, American Enterprise Institute, both of Washington, D.C.; and Shlomit Wagman, Harvard Kennedy School, Cambridge, Massachusetts. [10/26/23]

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a business meeting to consider legislation within the committee's jurisdiction, favorably reporting nine measures, including: S. 2685, to make data and internal guidance on excess personal property publicly available, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; S. 2866, to improve the customer experience of the Federal Government, ensure that Federal services are simple, seamless, and secure, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; and S. 1258, to require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to submit to Congress an annual report on projects that are over budget and behind schedule. [10/25/23]

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine VA accountability and transparency, focusing on quality care and benefits for veterans, after receiving testimony from Tracey Therit, Chief Human Capital Officer, Office of Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security and Preparedness, David Perry, Chief Officer, Workforce Management and Consulting, Veterans Health Administration, Aaron Robison, Senior Attorney-Advisor, Accountability, Office of General Counsel, and Ted Radway, Executive Director, Investigations, and Acting Executive Director, Compliance and Oversight, Office of Accountability and Whistleblower Protection, all of the Department of Veterans Affairs. [10/15/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024: The House passed H.R. 4394, making appropriations for energy and water development and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, by a yea-and-nay vote of 210 yeas to 199 nays, Roll No. 558. Consideration began October 25th. [10/26/23]

AMENDMENTS ADOPTED:

Cammack Amendment (No. 34 printed in part B of H. Rept. 118–242) that prohibits funds from being used to finalize any rule or regulation that has resulted in or is likely to result in an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. [10/25/23; Page H5098]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 4957. To apply the requirements of the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998 to a vacancy in the office of the Secretary of Labor, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–254). [10/25/23]

H.R. 4510. To reauthorize the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, to update the mission and functions of the agency, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–249). [10/25/23]

H.R. 3369. To direct the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to conduct a study and hold public meetings with respect to artificial intelligence systems, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–244). [10/25/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Social Security held a hearing entitled ‘‘One Million Claims and Growing: Improving Social Security’s Disability Adjudication Process’’. Testimony was heard from Linda Kerr-Davis, Acting Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Social Security Administration; and public witnesses. [10/26/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act - CRA Resolution of Disapproval: By 53 yeas to 44 nays (Vote No. 260), Senate passed S.J. Res. 32, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to ‘‘Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)’’. [10/18/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3099. A bill to require the Secretary of Energy to further develop and support the adoption of a voluntary streamlined permitting and inspection process for authorities having jurisdiction over the permitting of qualifying distributed energy systems, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. [Sen. Heinrich (D-NM); 10/19/23]

S. 3095. A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to clarify the funding of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Haggerty (R-TN); 10/19/23]

S. 3065. A bill to provide counsel for unaccompanied children, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Hirono (D-HI); 10/17/23]

S. 3050. A bill to require a report on artificial intelligence regulation in the financial services industry, to establish artificial intelligence bug bounty programs, to require a vulnerability analysis study for artificial intelligence-enabled military applications, and to require a report on data sharing and coordination, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Armed Services. [Sen. Rounds (R-SD); 10/17/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, and Border Safety concluded a hearing to examine the nation’s immigration courts, focusing on preserving due process and the rule of law and actions needed to address workforce planning and other management challenges, after receiving testimony from Rebecca Gambler, Director, Homeland Security and Justice, Government Accountability Office; Charles D. Stimson, The Heritage Foundation, Washington, D.C.; Jeremy L. McKinney, American Immigration Lawyers Association, Greensboro, North Carolina; and Mimi Tsankov, National Association of Immigration Judges, New York, New York. [10/18/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 6009. A bill to require the Director of the Bureau of Land Management to withdraw the proposed rule relating to fluid mineral leases and leasing process, and for other purposes. [Rep. Boebert (R-CO3); 10/20/23]

H.R. 5999. A bill to enhance the ability of the Office of the National Ombudsman to assist small businesses in meeting regulatory requirements and develop outreach initiatives to promote awareness of the services the Office of the National Ombudsman provides, and for other purposes. [Rep. Mfume (D-MD7); 10/19/23]

H.R. 5997. A bill to require the Secretary of Energy to further develop and support the adoption of a voluntary streamlined permitting and inspection process for authorities having jurisdiction over the permitting of qualifying distributed energy systems, and for other purposes. [Rep. Lee (D-NV3); 10/19/23]

H.R. 5993. A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to clarify the funding of the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, and for other purposes. [Rep. Hill (R-AR2); 10/19/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Powering America’s Energy Future’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [10/19/23]

Committee on Small Business: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Burdensome Regulations: Examining the Effects of DOL Rulemaking on America’s Job Creators’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [10/19/23]

Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Innovation, Data, and Commerce held a hearing entitled ‘‘Safeguarding Data and Innovation: Building the Foundation for the Use of Artificial Intelligence’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [10/18/23]

Committee on Science, Space, and Technology: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations and Subcommittee on Research and Technology held a joint hearing entitled ‘‘Balancing Knowledge and Governance: Foundations for Effective Risk Management of Artificial Intelligence’’. Testimony was heard from Elham Tabassi, Associate Director for Emerging Technologies, Information Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses. [10/18/23]

SENATE

The Senate met in pro forma session on Tuesday, October 10, and Friday, October 13, 2023. There were no relevant legislative actions to report.

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5930. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to require a clarification of the underlying authority for a rulemaking. [Rep. Posey (R-FL8); 10/11/23]

H.R. 5913. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve employment services for veterans by consolidating various programs in the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. [Rep. Van Orden (R-WI3); 10/10/23]

H.R. 5914. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the processes to approve programs of education for purposes of the educational assistance programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. [Rep. Van Orden (R-WI3); 10/10/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 3015. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to address telework for Federal employees, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Lankford (R-OK); 10/4/23]

S. 3014. A bill to establish requirements for the Federal Trade Commission with respect to certain rules related to automotive retailing, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Moran (R-KS); 10/4/23]S. 3004. A bill to specify control and management of Department of Defense data and to establish the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer Governing Council, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Armed Services. [Sen. Manchin (D-WV); 10/3/23]

HOUSE

NEW PUBLIC LAWS:

H.R. 5860. Making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024. Signed on September 30, 2023 (Public Law 118–15). [10/3/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5891. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve decisions issued by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. [Rep. Luttrell (R-TX8); 10/3/23]

H.R. 5890. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to limit the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to deny the claim of a veteran for benefits under the laws administered by such Secretary on the sole basis that such veteran failed to appear for a medical examination associated with such claim. [Rep. Luttrell (R-TX8); 10/3/23]

H.R. 5887. A bill to amend chapter 3 of title 5, United States Code, to improve Government service delivery, and build related capacity for the Federal Government, and for other purposes. [Rep. Khana (D-CA17); 10/3/23]

H.R. 5870. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to the processing of claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the transparency of actions of Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Self (R-TX3); 10/2/23]

REPORTS FILED:H.R. 3557. To streamline Federal, State, and local permitting and regulatory reviews to expedite the deployment of communications facilities, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–240, Part 1). [10/2/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act: By 88 yeas to 9 nays (Vote No. 247), Senate passed H.R. 5860, making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by the order of the Senate of Saturday, September 30, 2023, 60 Senators having voted in the affirmative, and after agreeing to the motion to proceed thereto. [9/30/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2981. A bill to require review of tax regulatory actions by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Lankford (R-OK); 9/28/23]

S. 2980. A bill to amend title 49, United States Code, to eliminate the requirement for cost-benefit analyses in the establishment of minimum safety standards for pipeline transportation and pipeline facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Markey (D-MA); 9/28/23]

S. 2953. A bill to consolidate or repeal unnecessary agency major rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 9/27/23]

S. 2930. A bill to make exclusive the authority of the Federal Government to regulate the labeling of products made in the United States and introduced in interstate or foreign commerce, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Lee (R-UT); 9/26/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Rules and Administration: Committee concluded a hearing to examine AI and the future of our elections, after receiving testimony from Steve Simon, Minnesota Secretary of State, Saint Paul; Trevor Potter, former Commissioner and Chairman of the Federal Election Commission, Campaign Legal Center, Maya Wiley, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, and Ari Cohn, TechFreedom, all of Washington, D.C.; and Neil Chilson, Utah State University Center for Growth and Opportunity, Logan. [9/27/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Making Continuing Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 5860, as amended, making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 335 yeas to 91 nays, Roll No. 513. [9/30/23]

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Continuing Appropriations and Border Security Enhancement Act, 2024: The House failed to pass H.R. 5525, making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, by a yea-and-nay vote of 198 yeas to 232 nays, Roll No. 511. [9/29/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5860. A bill making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes; to the Committees on Appropriations, the Budget, and Ways and Means considered and passed. [Rep. Granger (R-TX12]; 9/30/23]

H.R. 5838. A bill to improve immigration adjudicatory capacity, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. [Rep. Gonzalez (T-TX23); 9/29/23]

H.R. 5795. A bill to direct the heads of Federal agencies and departments to publish certain data with respect to disaster relief, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 9/28/23]

H.R. 5745. A bill to provide for the regulation of digital assets, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committees on Agriculture, and Ways and Means. [Rep. Beyer (D-VA8); 9/27/23]

H.R. 5700. A bill to direct the Secretary of State to develop and submit to Congress a strategy to improve the processing of passport applications; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. [Rep. Caraveo (D-CO8); 9/26/23]

H.R. 5696. A bill to provide for a period of continuing appropriations in the event of a lapse in appropriations under the normal appropriations process, and establish procedures and consequences in the event of a failure to enact appropriations; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committees on Rules, House Administration, the Budget, and Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Arrington (R-TX19); 9/26/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hearing entitled ‘‘VA’s Fiduciary Program: Ensuring Veterans’ Benefits are Properly Managed’’. Testimony was heard from Kevin Friel, Deputy Director, Pension and Fiduciary Service, Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and Lisa Van Haeren, Director, Claims and Fiduciary Division, Office of Audits and Evaluations, Office of Inspector General, Department of Veterans Affairs. [9/28/23]

SENATE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: The Senate resumed consideration of H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [9/18/23]

Amendments Submitted:

SA 1257. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1092 proposed by Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. COLLINS) to the bill H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table. [9/19/23]

At the end, add the following:

DIVISION D—PREVENT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWNS ACT OF 2023

SECTION 4001. SHORT TITLE.

This division may be cited as the ‘‘Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2023’’.

SEC. 4002. AUTOMATIC CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS.

* * * *

SEC. 4003. TIMELY ENACTMENT OF APPROPRIATION ACTS.

SA 1232. Mr. LANKFORD submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1092 proposed by Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. COLLINS) to the bill H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table. [9/18/23]

At the end, add the following:

DIVISION D—PREVENT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWNS

SEC. 4001. SHORT TITLE.

This division may be cited as the ‘‘Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2023’’.

SEC. 4002. AUTOMATIC CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS.

* * * *

SEC. 4003. TIMELY ENACTMENT OF APPROPRIATION ACTS.

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2910. A bill to amend section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to require each Federal department or agency to have a compliance officer to ensure the department or agency is meeting the requirements of such section; to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. [Sen. Casey (D-PA); 9/21/23]

S. 2909. A bill to provide for congressional review of rules rescheduling marijuana; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Lumis (R-WY); 9/21/23]

S. 2892. A bill to direct the Federal Trade Commission to require impact assessments of automated decision systems and augmented critical decision processes, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Wyden (D-OR); 9/21/23]

S. 2871. A bill to advance Federal Government innovation through the implementation and use of multi-cloud computing software technology, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Daines (R-MT); 9/20/23]

S. 2866. A bill to improve the customer experience of the Federal Government, ensure that Federal services are simple, seamless, and secure, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 9/20/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine artificial intelligence in financial services, after receiving testimony from Melissa Koide, FinRegLab, and Daniel S. Gorfine, Gattaca Horizons LLC, both of Washington, D.C.; and Michael P. Wellman, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. [9/20/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2023: The House agreed to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 1530, amended, to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the requirement to publish disability benefit questionnaire forms of Department of Veterans Affairs, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 423 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 401. [9/20/23]

Isakson-Roe Education Oversight Expansion Act: H.R. 3981, amended, to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the methods by which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs conducts oversight of certain educational institutions, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 410 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 392. [9/18/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5672. A bill making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committees on the Budget, and Ways and Means. [Rep. Bacon (R-NE2); 9/22/23]

H.J. Res. 91. A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Energy relating to the ‘‘Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Consumer Water Heaters and Residential-Duty Commercial Water Heaters’’; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Ogles (R-TN5); 9/21/23]

H.R. 5666. A bill to establish an Office of Public Engagement within the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Strickland (D-WA10); 9/21/23]

H.R. 5628. A bill to direct the Federal Trade Commission to require impact assessments of automated decision systems and augmented critical decision processes, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Clarke (D-NY9]; 9/21/23]

H.R. 5626. A bill to require rulemaking by the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to address considerations in evaluating the need for public and individual disaster assistance, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Bost (R-IL12]; 9/21/23]

H.R. 5599. A bill to establish the Federal Emergency Management Agency as a cabinet-level independent agency, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Homeland Security. [Rep. Moskowitz (D-FL23); 9/20/23]

H.R. 5595. A bill to provide for the establishment of a process for the review of rules and sets of rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Hinson (R-IA2); 9/20/23]

H.R. 5586. A bill to protect national security against the threats posed by deepfake technology and to provide legal recourse to victims of harmful deepfakes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Homeland Security. [Rep. Clarke (D-NY9); 9/20/23]

H.R. 5559. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish certain rules of evidence in certain claims under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Bost (R-IL2); 9/19/23]

H.R. 5556. A bill to make exclusive the authority of the Federal Government to regulate the labeling of products made in the United States and introduced in interstate or foreign commerce, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Curtis (R-UT3); 9/19/23]

H.R. 5543. A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to provide for automatic continuing resolutions; to the Committee on Appropriations. [Rep. Mace (R-SC1); 9/18/23]

H.R. 5536. A bill to require transparency in notices of funding opportunity, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Fry (R-SC7); 9/18/23]

H.R. 5525. A bill making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on the Budget. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 9/18/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 4428, the ‘‘Guidance Clarity Act of 2023’’. The committee favorably reported nine measures, including H.R. 4428, as amended. [9/20/23]

Committee on the Budget: Full Committee held a markup on legislation on the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2024. Legislation on the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2024 was ordered reported, without amendment. [9/20/23]

Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Monetary Policy, held a hearing entitled ‘‘A Holistic Review of Regulators: Regulatory Overreach and Economic Consequences’’. [9/19/23]

SENATE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024: The Senate considered H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. [9/12 - 9/14/23]

Amendments Submitted:

SA 1121. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1092 submitted by Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. COLLINS) and intended to be proposed to the bill H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table. [9/12/23]

At the end, add the following:

DIVISION D

CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF AGENCY RULEMAKING

SEC. 101. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW.

* * * *

SEC. 102. CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR MAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 103. CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR NONMAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 108. REVIEW OF RULES CURRENTLY IN EFFECT.

SA 1126. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1092 submitted by Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. COLLINS) and intended to be proposed to the bill H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table. [9/12/23]

At the end of division A, insert the following:

TITLE IV

CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF RULEMAKING BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

SEC. 401. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW.

* * * *

SEC. 402. CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR MAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 403. CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR NONMAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 408. REVIEW OF RULES CURRENTLY IN EFFECT.

SA 1128. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1092 submitted by Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. COLLINS) and intended to be proposed to the bill H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table. [9/12/23]

At the end of division A, insert the following:

TITLE IV

CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF RULEMAKING BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

SEC. 401. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW.

* * * *

SEC. 402. CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR MAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 403. CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR NONMAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 408. REVIEW OF RULES CURRENTLY IN EFFECT.

SA 1142. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 1092 submitted by Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. COLLINS)

and intended to be proposed to the bill H.R. 4366, making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table. [9/13/23]

At the end of division C, add the following:

TITLE V

CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW OF RULEMAKING BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

SEC. 501. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW.

* * * *

SEC. 502. CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR MAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 503. CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL PROCEDURE FOR NONMAJOR RULES.

* * * *

SEC. 507. REVIEW OF RULES CURRENTLY IN EFFECT.

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2811. A bill to require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Assistant Administrator for Fisheries of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to withdraw proposed rules relating to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [Sen. Lummis (R-WY); 9/14/23]

S. 2803. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to allow for the electronic request of certain records, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Padilla (D-CA); 9/14/23]

S. 2770. A bill to prohibit the distribution of materially deceptive AI-generated audio or visual media relating to candidates for Federal office, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Rules and Administration. [Sen. Klobuchar (D-MN); 9/12/23]

S. 2765. A bill to require a watermark for AI-generated materials, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Ricketts (R-NE); 9/12/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine governing AI through acquisition and procurement, after receiving testimony from Rayid Ghani, Carnegie Mellon University Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Fei-Fei Li, Stanford University Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, Stanford, California; Devaki Raj, formerly of CrowdAI, Mountain View, California; Will Roberts, ASI Government, LLC, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida; and Michael Shellenberger, Public, Albany, California. [9/14/23]

Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security concluded a hearing to examine the need for transparency in Artificial Intelligence, after receiving testimony from Victoria Espinel, BSA The Software Alliance, and Rob Strayer, Information Technology Industry Council, both of Washington, D.C.; Ramayya Krishnan, Carnegie Mellon University Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Sam Gregory, WITNESS, New York, New York. [9/12/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law concluded an oversight hearing to examine A.I., focusing on legislating on artificial intelligence, after receiving testimony from Woodrow Hartzog, Boston University School of Law, Boston, Massachusetts; Bill Dally, NVIDIA, Santa Clara, California; and Brad Smith, Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington. [9/12/23]

REMARKS:

Senate AI Insight Forum "Mr. President, on the AI Insight Forum this Wednesday, I will join with Senators ROUNDS, YOUNG, and HEINRICH in hosting one of the most important meetings Congress has held in years as we welcome the top minds in AI for the Senate’s first-ever AI Insight Forum… Wednesday’s inaugural forum can be boiled down to three words: bipartisan, diverse, and above all, balanced. We will have AI advocates and critics, CEOs and unions, leading experts and researchers all together in one room, talking about where Congress should start, what questions to ask, and how to build a consensus for SAFE innovation…Our subcommittees and committees have already held no fewer than nine hearings on AI this year on issues like national security, intellectual property, human rights, and more. This week, the Commerce Committee, the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the Judiciary Committee are scheduled to hold more hearings on AI transparency and oversight, which is just what our insight forums are intended to promote. I am hopeful that our AI Insight Forums will supercharge the work already happening in the Senate by bringing outside voices to give their insights, their expertise, and their perspectives on how Congress can best proceed." [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 9/11/23, Page S4338]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Accurately Counting Risk Elimination Solutions (ACRES) Act: The House passed H.R. 1567, as amended, to require that the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior submit accurate reports regarding hazardous fuels reduction activities, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 406 yeas to 4 nays, Roll No. 386. Consideration of H.R. 1567 began on September 12, 2023. [9/13/23]

"Wildfire risk reduction projects are complex multistep processes requiring significant planning and investments often carried out over several years. Therefore, it is important that we receive accurate, transparent, and accessible data on how forest management projects are being planned and implemented. This legislation would require the agency to include a report in the President’s annual budget on hazardous fuel activities carried out in a given fiscal year to account for each treated acre. This ongoing reporting requirement will enhance transparency and accountability, providing critical information that can help guide investments in management of our national forests—including how we deploy our historic investments in wildfire risk reduction efforts…The ACRES Act is a simple solution to hold our Federal agencies accountable to see the actual work they are doing to reduce the enormous risk of wildfire." [Rep. Grijalva (D-AZ3); 9/12/23, Pages H4250-51]

ENROLLED MEASURES SIGNED:

S.J. Res. 24. A Joint Resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to ‘‘Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat’’. [9/13/23]

S.J. Res. 9. A Joint Resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service relating to ‘‘Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Lesser Prairie-Chicken; Threatened Status With Section 4(d) Rule for the Northern Distinct Population Segment and Endangered Status for the Southern Distinct Population Segment’’. [9/13/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5509. A bill to modernize permitting systems at the Department of the Interior, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Porter (D-CA47); 9/14/23]

H.R. 5395. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to establish a demonstration program relating to medical necessity determinations under the Medicare program; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Harshbarger (D-TN1); 9/12/23]

H.R. 5392. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure timely review of local coverage determination requests under the Medicare program; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Dunn (R-FL2); 9/12/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of Federal Agencies’ Post-Pandemic Telework Policies’’. Testimony was heard from Karen Marrongelle, Chief Operating Officer, National Science Foundation; Robert Gibbs, Associate Administrator for the Mission Support Directorate, National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Dan Dorman, Executive Director for Operation, Nuclear Regulatory Commission; and Randolph Alles, Deputy Under Secretary for Management and Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Under Secretary for Management, Department of Homeland Security. [9/14/23]

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation held a hearing entitled ‘‘How are Federal Agencies Harnessing Artificial Intelligence?’’. Testimony was heard from Arati Prabhakar, Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy; Craig Martell, Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer, Department of Defense; and Eric Hysen, Chief Information Officer, Department of Homeland Security. [9/14/23]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 1530. To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the requirement to publish disability benefit questionnaire forms of Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–199). [9/14/23]H.R. 3784. To amend title VII of the Social Security Act to provide for a single point of contact at the Social Security Administration for individuals who are victims of identity theft, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–191). [9/12/23]

SENATE

MEASURES REPORTED:

S. 1865. To direct agencies to be transparent when using automated and augmented systems to interact with the public or make critical decisions, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute (S. Rept. No. 118–89). [8/22/23]

S. 2073. To amend title 31, United States Code, to require agencies to include a list of outdated or duplicative reporting requirements in annual budget justifications, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute (S. Rept. No. 118–91). [8/22/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2729. A bill to provide for a period of continuing appropriations in the event of a lapse in appropriations under the normal appropriations process, and to prohibit consideration of other matters in the Senate if appropriations are not enacted; to the Committee on Appropriations. [Sen. Kaine (D-VA); 9/6/23]

"Madam President, today I want to discuss legislation I am introducing, the End Shutdown Act. When Congress is unable to come to an agreement about government funding, Federal employees, government contractors, and Americans who depend on critical government services all suffer the consequences of using government shutdowns as a negotiating tactic. This bill prevents government shutdowns by initiating an automatic continuing resolution on October 1 if no appropriations bill is passed by that date and stops Congress from considering any nonemergency legislation until it reaches a long-term spending deal." [Sen. Kaine (D-VA); 9/6/23, Page S4230]

S. 2727. A bill to preclude the Department of Labor from allowing the Deputy Secretary to serve as the Secretary of Labor indefinitely; to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. [Sen. Cassidy (R-LA); 9/6/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee concluded a hearing to examine recent advances in artificial intelligence and the Department of Energy’s role in ensuring United States competitiveness and security in emerging technologies, after receiving testimony from David Turk, Deputy Secretary of Energy; Anna B. Puglisi, Georgetown University Center for Security and Emerging Technology, Washington, D.C.; Rick Stevens, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois; and Andrew Wheeler, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Fort Collins, Colorado. [9/7/23]

REMARKS:

Remote Work at Federal Agencies

"Thousands of calls to the Department of Veterans Affairs from veterans seeking mental health services are going unanswered. Desperate travelers are waiting hours on the phone or in line hoping to speak with someone at the State Department about passport delays that are causing vacation cancelations. Our seniors are calling the Social Security Administration and are increasingly being greeted with busy messages, waiting longer to speak to a representative, or having their calls go unanswered. Frustrated Americans are being put on hold while too many Federal employees are phoning it in…Taxpayers are also picking up the cost of maintaining mostly empty buildings in Washington, as 75 percent or more of the office space at the headquarters of most of our Federal Agencies is not being used. The vacant offices beg the question: Where are all of the Federal employees? Only one out of every three bureaucrats is fully back in the office—one out of every three—according to a recent Office of Personnel Management survey. Some said they never report to a physical office…That is why I have asked the inspector general of every single Federal Department and Agency to determine, first, the impact of telework on the delivery and response times of services and, second, how much taxpayer money could be saved by consolidating unused office space and adjusting government salaries for those who have relocated and chosen to remain out of the office. Most of America is back to work, and it is time for burrowed bureaucrats in Washington to answer the call of duty on behalf of taxpayers, veterans, seniors, and our great Nation." [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 9/6/23, Page S4222]

Senate AI Insight Forum

"As we work to fund the government, there are plenty of other things we must do, too, both on and off the floor. We will, for one, continue laying a foundation for bipartisan congressional action on AI. Next Wednesday, along with Senators ROUNDS, HEINRICH, and YOUNG, I will host the Senate’s inaugural AI Insight Forum, a first-ever convening of the top minds in AI here in the Congress. Voices from business and the civil rights community, researchers, worker advocates, and many more, all in one room having an open discussion about how Congress can act on AI: where to start, what questions to ask, and how to build a foundation for safe AI innovation…Now, ultimately, of course, the real legislative work will come in committees, but the AI forums will give us the nutrient agar, the facts and the challenges, that we need to understand in order to reach this goal. Of course, next week’s forum is just the start. The Senate will continue hosting AI forums throughout the fall on a variety of topics, including finding ways to promote AI innovation, IP issues, workforce issues, privacy, security, alignment, and many more." [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 9/6/23, Page S3870]

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5380. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to increase data transparency for supplemental benefits under Medicare Advantage; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Sarbanes (D-MD3); 9/8/23]

H.R. 5353. A bill to provide for a period of continuing appropriations in the event of a lapse in appropriations under the normal appropriations process, and to prohibit consideration of other matters in the House of Representatives if appropriations are not enacted; to the Committee on Appropriations, and in addition to the Committee on Rules. [Rep. Beyer (D-VA8); 9/8/23]

H.R. 5346. A bill to establish Schedule F in the excepted service, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. James (R-MI10); 9/5/23]

SENATE

The Senate met in pro forma session on Tuesday, August 1, and Friday, August 4, 2023. There was no relevant legislative action to report.

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5127. A bill to reduce appointment wait times for certain nonimmigrant visas known as visitor visas, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Salazar (D-FL27); 8/1/23]

H.R. 5108. A bill to abolish the United States Agency for International Development, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Appropriations, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Gaetz (R-FL1); 8/1/23]

H.R. 5103. A bill to require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to approve or deny spend plans within a certain amount of time, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 8/1/23]

SENATE

NEW PUBLIC LAWS:

S. 111. To require each agency, in providing notice of a rulemaking, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule. Signed on July 25, 2023. (Public Law 118–9) [7/26/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2714. A bill to establish the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Heinrich (D-NM); 7/27/23]

S. 2676. A bill to require executive agencies and Federal courts to comply with address confidentiality programs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Klobuchar (D-MN); 7/27/23]

S. 2632. A bill to improve visa processing times, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Klobuchar (D-MN); 7/27/23]

S. 2607. A bill to provide for the establishment of a process for the review of rules and sets of rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 7/27/23]

S. 2597. A bill to amend the Clayton Act to establish a new Federal commission to regulate digital platforms, including with respect to competition, transparency, privacy, and national security; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Warren (D-MA); 7/27/23]

S. 2504. A bill to require the Secretary of Agriculture to streamline applications from farmers to be vendors under certain nutrition programs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. [Sen. Smith (D-MN); 7/26/23]

S. 2466. A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to modify False Claims Act procedures, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Grassley (R-IA); 7/25/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Committee concluded a hearing to examine pathways to women’s entrepreneurship, focusing on understanding opportunities and barriers, including S. 1411, to amend title 5, United States Code, to require greater transparency for Federal regulatory decisions that impact small businesses, after receiving testimony from public witnesses. [7/26/23]

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Full Committee held a markup and ordered favorably reported the thirteen business items, including: S. 2251, to improve the cybersecurity of the Federal Government, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; S. 2286, to improve the effectiveness and performance of certain Federal financial assistance programs, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; S. 2293, to establish the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers Council, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers, and Artificial Intelligence Governance Boards, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; S. 2073, to amend title 31, United States Code, to require agencies to include a list of outdated or duplicative reporting requirements in annual budget justifications, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; and S. 2260, to require transparency in notices of funding opportunity. [7/26/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law, concluded an oversight hearing to examine artificial intelligence, focusing on principles for regulation, after receiving testimony from Stuart Russell, University of California, Berkeley; Yoshua Bengio, Mila—Quebec AI Institute, Quebec, Canada; and Dario Amodei, Anthropic, San Francisco, California. [7/25/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 5077. A bill to establish the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. [Rep. Eschoo (D-CA16); 7/28/23]

H.R. 4957. A bill to apply the requirements of the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998 to a vacancy in the office of the Secretary of Labor, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce. [Rep. Kiley (R-CA3); 7/27/23]

H.R. 4891. A bill to advance Federal Government innovation through the implementation and use of multi-cloud computing software technology, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Timmons (R-SC4); 7/25/23]

H.R. 4830. A bill to establish an interactive online dashboard to improve public access to information about grant funding related to mental health and substance use disorder programs; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Gonzalez (R-TX23); 7/24/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Energy and Commerce: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction and favorably reported six business items, including H.R. 3369, the ‘‘AI Accountability Act’’. [7/27/23]

REMARKS:

Blue Ribbon AI Advisory Commission

"I am excited about artificial intelligence. AI has moved society forward and will continue to do amazing things in the medical field and many other fields. At the same time, there are potential risks to artificial intelligence, and we need to make sure we can harness the benefits of AI and reduce these risks. That is why I have proposed a national AI commission that is a bipartisan blue ribbon commission that will make recommendations to Congress as to what kinds of AI we should regulate and how we might go about doing so. This legislation is coauthored by Republican Congressman KEN BUCK with Congresswoman ANNA ESHOO, and on the Senate side it will be carried by Senator SCHATZ. Mr. Speaker, I urge the Speaker to put this legislation on the floor for a vote." [Rep. Lieu (D-CA36); Pages H4038-39, 7/27/23]

Loper Bright & Chevron Deference

"Pending on the Supreme Court docket is Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, a case with the potential to overturn 40 years of bureaucratic overreach and restore the proper role of Congress, the courts, and the Presidency. Nearly 40 years of deference by lawmakers and judges to the executive has given rise to the administrative state, sometimes called the fourth branch of government. Over time, this unaccountable bureaucracy has gradually subverted the doctrine of separation of powers laid out by our Founders…[A]t the heart of Loper Bright…lies the doctrine of Chevron deference, a legal construct which would make our Founders turn in their graves…For many in this body, fighting back against the Biden administration requires confronting an uncomfortable truth. Congress creates, enables, and abides by the administrative state when it passes statutory language without clear meaning. Congress’ illegal delegation of its Article I authority and the accelerated transfer of legislative powers to unaccountable bureaucrats in the executive has been a fault of this body over decades and the fault of both parties…To fulfill the will of the people, the Court must repeal Chevron deference in Loper Bright. I pray next term that the Court reclaims and fortifies Congress’ rightful powers." [Rep. Foxx (R-NC5); Pages H3961-62, 7/26/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Tribal Trust Land Homeownership Act: Senate passed S. 70, to require the Bureau of Indian Affairs to process and complete all mortgage packages associated with residential and business mortgages on Indian land by certain deadlines. [7/18/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2444. A bill to establish an interactive online dashboard to improve public access to information about grant funding related to mental health and substance use disorder programs; to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. [Sen. Fischer (R-NE); 7/20/23]

S. 2411. A bill to place further congressional oversight on any quantitative easing or tightening programs or any emergency lending programs of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, to require reports to Congress relating to those programs, to require congressional approval of the extension of those programs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 7/20/23]

S. 2334. A bill to require each public housing agency to establish and maintain an online portal for tenants and applicants, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Gillibrand (D-NY); 7/18/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Providing Accountability Through Transparency Act of 2023: S. 111, to require each agency, in providing notice of a rulemaking, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 400 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 329 [7/17/23]

"This bill is a commonsense approach to increasing agency transparency and accountability. It requires agencies to provide a link to a plain language summary of 100 words or less for proposed rules. This requirement is a simple, easy way to help the American people better understand what the rules are that agencies may impose. I urge Members to support this bill." [Rep. Van Drew (R-NJ2); 7/17/23, H3619-20]

"Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of S. 111, the Providing Accountability Through Transparency Act of 2023. This simple but important legislation would require our regulatory agencies to provide a summary in no more than 100 words and in plain language of proposed rules on Regulations.gov, thus providing the American public with more transparency and easy understanding of new rules and regulations." [Rep. Nadler (D-NY12); 7/1/723, H3619]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 4814. A bill to direct the Consumer Product Safety Commission to establish a pilot program to explore the use of artificial intelligence in support of the mission of the Commission and to direct the Secretary of Commerce and the Federal Trade Commission to study and report on the use of blockchain technology and digital tokens, respectively; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Soto (D-FL9); 7/20/23]

H.R. 4793. A bill to require executive agencies to use the latest available technology to improve website search function, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Khanna (D-CA17); 7/20/23]

H.R. 4766. A bill to provide for the regulation of payment stablecoins, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. McHenry (R-NC10); 7/20/23]

H.R. 4763. A bill to provide for a system of regulation of digital assets by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on Agriculture. [Rep. Thompson (R-PA15); 7/20/23]

H.R. 4718. A bill to require each public housing agency to establish and maintain an online portal for tenants and applicants, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Malliotakis (R-NY11); 7/18/23]

H.R. 4711. A bill to limit the authority of the Secretary of Education to propose or issue regulations and executive actions; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce. [Rep. Grothman (R-WI6); 7/18/23]

H.R. 4689. A bill to amend the Federal Power Act to facilitate more expeditious review and permitting of certain electric transmission facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Natural Resources, and Agriculture. [Rep. Peters (D-CA50); 7/17/23]

H.R. 4668. A bill to amend the Small Business Act to require the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman to publish guidance documents for certain rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Small Business. [Rep. Molinaro (R-NY19); 7/17/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a markup on legislation within the Subcommittee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 592, the ‘‘Department of Veterans Affairs Electronic Health Record Modernization Improvement Act’’; H.R. 608, to terminate the Electronic Health Record Modernization Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs; H.R. 1659, the ‘‘Department of Veterans Affairs IT Modernization Improvement Act’’; H.R. 196, the ‘‘Expediting Temporary Ratings for Veterans Act’’; and H.R. 4461, the ‘‘Modernizing Department of Veteran Affairs Disability Benefit Questionnaires Act’’. The Subcommittee forwarded ten measures, including H.R. 592, H.R. 608, H.R. 1659, H.R. 196, and H.R. 4461, to the full Committee. [7/19/23]

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations held a hearing entitled ‘‘Burdensome Red Tape: Overregulation in Health Care and the Impact on Small Businesses’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [7/19/23]

Committee on Energy and Commerce: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 4529, the ‘‘Public Health Guidance Transparency and Accountability Act of 2023,’’ and H.R. 4381, the ‘‘Public Health Emergency Congressional Review Act.’’ The Committee favorably reported fifteen measures, including H.R. 4529 and H.R. 4381. [7/19/23]

Committee on Small Business: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 3995, the ‘‘Small Business Regulatory Reduction Act’’ and H.R. 4668, the ‘‘POST IT Act’’. Six measures, including H.R. 3995 and H.R. 4668, were ordered reported. [7/18/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2319. A bill to improve the environmental review process for highway projects through the use of interactive, digital, cloud-based platforms, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [Sen. Lummis (R-WY); 7/13/23]

S. 2293. A bill to establish the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers Council, Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers, and Artificial Intelligence Governance Boards, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 7/13/23]

S. 2292. A bill to improve the transparency of purchases by the Federal Government of data or information that can be used to identify an individual, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 7/13/23]

S. 2286. A bill to improve the effectiveness and performance of certain Federal financial assistance programs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 7/12/23]

S. 2281. A bill to provide for consumer protection and responsible financial innovation, to bring crypto assets within the regulatory perimeter, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Finance. [Sen. Lummis (R-WY); 7/12/23]

S. 2249. A bill to improve the timeliness, resiliency, and transparency of passport processing operations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Relations. [Sen. Lankford (R-OK); 7/11/23]

MEASURES REPORTED:

S. 884. To establish a Government-wide approach to improving digital identity, with amendments. (S. Rept. No. 118–47) [7/11/23]

MEASURES REFERRED:

H.R. 1548. An act to amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to specify that actions of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation are not a collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [7/12/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Intellectual Property concluded a hearing to examine Artificial Intelligence and intellectual property, focusing on copyright, after receiving testimony from Jeff Harleston, Universal Music Group, Santa Monica, California; Ben Brooks, Stability AI, and Karla Ortiz, both of San Francisco, California; Matthew Sag, Emory University School of Law, Atlanta, Georgia; and Dana Rao, Adobe Inc., San Jose, California. [7/12/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Improving Access to Small Business Information Act: The House passed H.R. 1548, as amended, to amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to specify that actions of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation are not a collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act, by a vote of 398 yeas to 11 nays, Roll No. 290. [7/11/23]

SEC. 2. EXCLUSION FROM THE PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT.

Section 4(j) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78d(j)) is amended by adding at the end the following:

‘‘(10) EXCLUSION FROM THE PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT.—

‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Actions taken by the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation under this subsection shall not be a ‘collection of information’ for purposes of subchapter I of chapter 35 of title 44, United States Code (commonly known as the ‘Paperwork Reduction Act’). [7/11/23; Cong. Rec. Page H3186]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 4649. A bill to provide for additional requirements when Federal banking agencies undertake rulemakings that implement policies of non-governmental international organizations, to require Federal banking agencies to report on certain covered international organizations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Loudermilk (R-GA11); 7/14/23]

H.R. 4621. A bill to improve the environmental review process for highway projects through the use of interactive, digital, cloud-based platforms, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Johnson (R-SD-At Large); 7/13/23]

H.R. 4529. A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act regarding guidance documents of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [7/11/23]

H.R. 4503. A bill to amend the Artificial Intelligence Training for the Acquisition Workforce Act to expand AI training within the executive branch of the Federal Government, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Mace (R-SC1); 7/10/23]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 1548. To amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to specify that actions of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation are not a collection of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–135, Part 1). [7/11/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a hearing entitled ‘‘When the Lights Are On But No One’s Home: An Examination of Federal Office Space Utilization’’. Testimony was heard from David Marroni, Acting Director for Physical Infrastructure Issues, Government Accountability Office; and Nina Albert, Commissioner, Public Buildings Service, U.S. General Services Administration. [7/13/23]

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 4435, the ‘‘Unauthorized Spending Accountability Act’’; H.R. 3230, the ‘‘Unfunded Mandates Accountability and Transparency Act’’; and H.R. 890, the ‘‘Guidance Out Of Darkness Act’’.  Eighteen measures, including H.R. 4435, H.R. 3230, and H.R. 890, were ordered reported. [7/12/23]

Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a markup on legislation within the Subcommittee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 3369, the ‘‘AI Accountability Act’’. Four measures, including H.R. 3369, were forwarded to the full Committee, as amended. [7/12/23]

SENATE

The Senate met in pro forma session on Monday, July 3, and Thursday, July 6, 2023. There were no relevant legislative actions to report.

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

H.R. 4482. A bill to amend titles 23 and 49, United States Code, to improve public understanding of how transportation investments are made by public agencies through establishing greater transparency and accountability processes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. DeSaulnier (D-CA10); 7/6/23]

SENATE

The Senate met in pro forma session on Monday, June 26, and Thursday, June 29, 2023. There was nothing to report.

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

H.R. 4435. A bill to establish a budgetary level reduction schedule, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committees on the Budget, and Rules. [Rep. Rodgers (R-WA5); 6/30/23]

H.R. 4434. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to modify the provisions of that title relating to the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Porter (D-CA47); 6/30/23]

H.R. 4428. A bill to require a guidance clarity statement on certain agency guidance, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Luetkemeyer (R-MO3); 6/30/23]

H.R. 4416. A bill to prohibit the use of Federal funds to hire armed Federal regulatory enforcement officers in certain agencies; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Education and the Workforce, Energy and Commerce, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Agriculture. [Rep. Higgins (R-LA3); 6/30/23]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED: 

Providing Accountability Through Transparency Act: Senate passed S. 111, to require each agency, in providing notice of a rulemaking, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule. [6/22/23] 

Congressional Budget Office Data Access Act: Senate passed S. 1549, to provide the Congressional Budget Office with necessary authorities to expedite the sharing of data from executive branch agencies. [6/22/23] 

MEASURES PLACED ON THE CALENDAR: 

H.R. 277. An act to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide that major rules of the executive branch shall have no force or effect unless a joint resolution of approval is enacted into law. [6/21/23] 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

S. 2168. A bill to rescind discretionary appropriations in the event of a debt ceiling crisis period and to honor the full faith and credit of the debts of the United States in the event of a debt ceiling crisis; to the Committee on Finance. [Sen. Braun (R-IN); 6/22/23] 

S. 2108. A bill to amend the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to require that certain information is made publicly available, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 6/22/23] 

S. 2095. A bill to authorize the Federal Communications Commission to enforce its own forfeiture penalties with respect to violations of restrictions on the use of telephone equipment; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Lujan (D-NM); 6/21/23] 

S. 2073. A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to require agencies to include a list of outdated or duplicative reporting requirements in annual budget justifications, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ossoff (D-GA); 6/21/23] 

REMARKS: 

AI Regulatory Framework 

"Tomorrow morning, I will speak at the Center for Strategic and International Studies on how Congress can begin acting on AI in earnest. I will share my ideas about a comprehensive framework Congress can use to supercharge AI innovation in a safe and responsible way. Because AI is moving so fast, it is so complex, and so outside Congress’s expertise, I will talk about some steps we must take to stay ahead of AI’s rapid development…Congress cannot behave like ostriches in the sand when it comes to AI. Some might think it is better to ignore this issue or hope someone else figures it out because it is so complex, but ignoring AI is untenable for Congress. In the 21st century, elected representatives must treat AI with the same level of seriousness as national security, job creation, and our civil liberties, because AI will touch on these issues and many, many more." [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); Page S2131, 6/20/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Middle Class Borrower Protection Act of 2023: The House passed H.R. 3564, to cancel recent changes made by the Federal Housing Finance Agency to the up-front loan level pricing adjustments charged by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for guarantee of single-family mortgages, by a yea-and-nay vote of 230 yeas to 189 nays, Roll No. 289. [6/23/23] 

SEC. 3. RESTRICTIONS ON FHFA ADJUSTMENTS TO SINGLE-FAMILY PRICING FRAMEWORK. 

* * * * 

(b) ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES FOR ADOPTION OF ADJUSTMENTS TO THE SINGLE-FAMILY PRICING FRAMEWORK.—After expiration of the period referred to in subsection (a), when proposing adjustments to the single-family pricing framework, the Director shall follow procedures that are as close as practicable to those requirements for a Federal agency issuing a rule under chapter 5 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the ‘‘Administrative Procedure Act’’). [Page S3120, 6/23/23] 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

H.R. 4324. A bill to amend the Federal Trade Commission Act to provide the Commission with notice and comment rulemaking authority respecting unfair or deceptive acts or practices and to provide for civil penalties for violations of such Act respecting unfair or deceptive acts or practices, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Castor (D-FL14); 6/23/23] 

H.R. 4266. A bill to authorize the Federal Trade Commission to independently initiate civil actions to recover certain civil penalties, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL9); 6/21/23] 

H.R. 4262. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide for the online administration of the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Peters (D-CA50); 6/21/23] 

H.R. 4245. A bill to amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to provide for discretionary spending limits for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Budget. [Rep. Grothman (R-WI6); 6/21/23] 

H.R. 4223. A bill to establish an artificial intelligence commission, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. [Rep. Lieu (D-CA36); 6/20/23] 

H.R. 4222. A bill to require executive branch agencies to prohibit conflicting financial interests through prohibited holdings regulations; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Langworthy (R-NY23); 6/20/23] 

COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 

Committee on Small Business: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Reviewing the SBA’s Office of Advocacy Report on the Regulatory Flexibility Act’’. Testimony was heard from Major L. Clark III, Deputy Chief Counsel for Advocacy, U.S. Small Business Administration. [6/22/23] 

Committee on Science, Space, and Technology: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Artificial Intelligence: Advancing Innovation Towards the National Interest’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [6/22/23] Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce held a hearing entitled ‘‘Please Leave Your Message at the Tone: Addressing Post-Pandemic Backlogs and Delays at Federal Agencies’’. Testimony was heard from Rena Bitter, Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs, Department of State; Scott Levin, Director, National Personnel Records Center, U.S. National Archives and Records Administration; and Chad M. Poist, Deputy Commissioner for Budget, Finance, and Management, U.S. Social Security Administration. [6/21/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 2041. A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to provide for automatic continuing resolutions; to the Committee on Appropriations. [Sen. Braun (R-IN); 6/15/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a business meeting and ordered favorably reported twelve business items, including S. 1865, to direct agencies to be transparent when using automated and augmented systems to interact with the public or make critical decisions, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. [6/14/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Human Rights and the Law held a hearing to examine artificial intelligence and human rights, after receiving testimony from Geoffrey Cain, Foundation for American Innovation, Chicago, Illinois; Alexandra Reeve Givens, Center for Democracy and Technology, Washington, D.C.; Aleksander Madry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge; and Jennifer DeStefano, Scottsdale, Arizona. [6/13/23]

REMARKS:

House Passage of the REINS Act

"Mr. President, it has been a long time coming, but it is with enormous pride that I stand to celebrate the passage of the REINS Act in the House of Representatives today. This landmark legislation represents a significant step forward toward reining in the ever-expanding Federal Government…By requiring congressional approval for major regulations, for enactment of a new major rule or regulation, as if it were a legislative proposal, rather than just allowing executive branch Agencies to make new laws themselves, the REINS Act brings accountability and transparency to the rulemaking process, injecting a much needed and constitutionally prescribed dose of common sense into our bureaucratic system." [Sen. Lee (R-UT); Pages S2103-04, 6/14/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2023: The House passed H.R. 288, to amend title 5, United States Code, to clarify the nature of judicial review of agency interpretations of statutory and regulatory provisions, by a yea-and-nay vote of 220 yeas to 211 nays, Roll No. 271. [6/15/23]

AMENDMENTS ADOPTED:

Hageman amendment (No. 1 printed in part B of H. Rept. 118–108) that subjects interpretative rules, general statements of policy, and all other agency guidance to de novo judicial review.

Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2023: The House passed H.R. 277, to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide that major rules of the executive branch shall have no force or effect unless a joint resolution of approval is enacted into law, by a yea-and-nay vote of 221 yeas to 210 nays, Roll No. 265. Consideration began on June 13th. [6/14/23]

AMENDMENTS ADOPTED:

Hageman amendment (No. 5 printed in part A of H. Rept. 118–108) to clarify that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs must issue a finding for each rule determining whether the rule has a significant economic impact.

Good (VA) amendment (No. 6 printed in part A of H. Rept. 118–108) that directs the Comptroller General, in consultation with the Director of the Congressional Budget Office, to make a determination on whether an agency action qualifies as a major rule under the definition of this act, if requested in writing by a member of Congress; codifies in statute existing procedures for the Comptroller General to make a determination on whether an agency action qualifies as a rule under the definition of this act, if requested in writing by a member of Congress.

Good (VA) amendment (No. 8 printed in part A of H. Rept. 118–108) that creates a process for Congress to review all rules currently in effect over a 5-year period.

Joyce (OH) amendment (No. 13 printed in part A of H. Rept. 118–108) that amends the definition of ‘rule’ to include interpretative rules, general statements of policy, and all other agency guidance documents.

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 4141. A bill to provide that certain communications projects are not subject to requirements to prepare certain environmental or historical preservation reviews, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Fulcher (R-ID1); 6/15/23]

H.R. 16. A bill to authorize the cancellation of removal and adjustment of status of certain aliens, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Education and the Workforce. [Rep. Garcia (D-TX29]; 6/15/23]

H.R. 4114. A bill to establish procedures to reduce agency funding for failure to adhere to original congressional intent, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 6/14/23]

H.R. 4113. A bill to prohibit agencies from removing or altering public comments on their websites; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 6/14/23]

H.R. 4112. A bill to amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to prohibit the Securities and Exchange Commission from issuing conflicting proposed or final rules, to require the Commission to consider industry-specific costs, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 6/14/23]

H.R. 4067. A bill to rescind the executive order relating to the revocation of certain executive orders concerning Federal regulation and to codify certain executive orders; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Hinson (R-IA2); 6/13/23]

H.R. 4035. A bill to require the Secretary of the Treasury to harmonize the effective dates of all rules required under the Corporate Transparency Act, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. McHenry (R-NC10); 6/12/23]

H.R. 4019. A bill to amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to expand and restructure the leadership of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Davidson (R-OH8); 6/12/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Death by a Thousand Regulations: The Biden Administration’s Campaign to Bury America in Red Tape’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [6/14/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust held a hearing entitled ‘‘Where’s the Beef? Regulatory Barriers to Entry and Competition in Meat Processing’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [6/13/23]

Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Future of Digital Assets: Providing Clarity for the Digital Asset Ecosystem’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [6/13/23]

Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on H.J. Res. 44, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives relating to ‘‘Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached ‘Stabilizing Braces’ ’’; H.R. 277, the ‘‘REINS Act of 2023’’ [Rule Markup Only]; H.R. 288, the ‘‘Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2023’’ [Rule Markup Only]; H.R. 1615, the ‘‘Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act’’ [Rule Markup Only]; and H.R. 1640, the ‘‘Save Our Gas Stoves Act’’ [Rule Markup Only]. The Committee granted, by record vote of 9–4, a rule providing for consideration of H.J. Res. 44, H.R. 277, H.R. 288, H.R. 1615, and H.R. 1640. [6/12/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 1882. A bill to amend chapter 31 of title 31, United States Code, to provide procedures for congressional disapproval of the issuance of additional debt; to the Committee on Finance. [Sen. Durbin (D-IL); 6/8/23; Text]

S. 1865. A bill to direct agencies to be transparent when using automated and augmented systems to interact with the public or make critical decisions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 6/7/23]

S. 1812. A bill to modify the exemption for trade secrets and commercial or financial information in the Freedom of Information Act, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Grassley (R-IA); 6/6/23]

S. 1807. A bill to require agencies to notify the Director of the Office of Management and Budget when the agency suspends or terminates a Federal award, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 6/6/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine FASTA implementation and optimizing the efficient use of Federal property, after receiving testimony from after receiving testimony from Nina Albert, Commissioner, Public Buildings Service, General Services Administration; David Marroni, Acting Director, Physical Infrastructure, Government Accountability Office; and Nick Rahall, Board Member, Public Buildings Reform Board. [6/8/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Intellectual Property concluded a hearing to examine artificial intelligence and intellectual property, focusing on patents, innovation, and competition, after receiving testimony from Corey Salsberg, Novartis, and Rama G. Elluru, Special Competitive Studies Project, both of Washington, D.C.; Laura Sheridan, Google, New York, New York; and Ryan Abbott, University of California David Geffen School of Medicine, and John Villasenor, University of California Institute for Technology, Law, and Policy, both of Los Angeles. [6/7/23]

REMARKS:

All-Senate Briefings on Artificial Intelligence

"Mr. President, this morning, I released a ‘Dear Colleague,’ alongside Senators HEINRICH, ROUNDS, and YOUNG, announcing three Senators-only briefings on artificial intelligence taking place starting in the next few weeks…These all-Senate briefings are important because elected representatives in the 21st century cannot ignore AI any more than we can ignore national security, job creation, or our civil liberties. AI will permanently impact all these things and more. The first briefing in the next few weeks will focus on the state of artificial intelligence today. The second briefing will focus on where this technology is headed in the future and how America can stay at the forefront of innovation. The third, our first-ever classified briefing on AI, will focus on how our adversaries will use AI against us, while detailing how defense and intelligence agencies will use this technology to keep Americans safe. We will share more details on dates, times, and speakers in the coming days, and again, I urge every Senator, Democrat and Republican, to attend all three briefings." [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 6/6/23, Page S1963]

HOUSE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

H. Res. 463.  The House failed to agree to H. Res. 463, providing for consideration of H.R. 277, the "Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act," H.R. 288, the "Separation of Powers Restoration Act," H.R. 1615, the "Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act," and H.R. 1640,  the "Save Our Gas Stoves Act," by a recorded vote of 206 ayes to 220 noes, Roll No. 248, after the previous question was ordered by a yea-and-nay vote of 215 yeas to 203 nays, Roll No. 247.  Subsequently, Rep. Scalise moved to reconsider the vote, and Rep. Pallone moved to table the motion to reconsider, on which further proceedings were postponed. [6/6/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 3995. A bill to require the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to ensure that the small business regulatory budget for a fiscal year is not greater than zero, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Small Business. [Rep. Van Duyne (R-TX24); 6/9/23]

H.R. 3953. A bill to amend chapter 31 of title 31, United States Code, to provide procedures for congressional disapproval of the issuance of additional debt; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Rules. [Rep. Boyle (D-PA2); 6/9/23]

H.R. 3901. A bill to establish procedures to reduce agency funding for failure to comply with lawfully issued congressional subpoenas, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Rules, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 6/7/23]

H.R. 3833. A bill to amend the National Labor Relations Act to reform the National Labor Relations Board, the Office of the General Counsel, and the process for appellate review, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and the Workforce. [Rep. Walberg (R-MI5); 6/5/23]

H.R. 3831. A bill to require generative artificial intelligence to disclose that their output has been generated by artificial intelligence, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Torres (D-NY15); 6/5/23]

H.R. 3808. A bill to amend the Afghan Allies Protection Act of 2009 to authorize additional special immigrant visas, to require a strategy for efficient processing, and to establish designated senior special immigrant visa coordinating officials, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Crow (D-CO6); 6/5/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs; and Subcommittee on Technology Modernization held a joint hearing entitled ‘‘From Months to Hours: The Future of VA Benefits Claims Processing’’. Testimony was heard from Raymond Tellez, Acting Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs; and a public witness. [6/6/23]

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government held a hearing entitled ‘‘Government Litigation and the Need for Reform’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [6/6/23]

Committee on Agriculture: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Future of Digital Assets: Providing Clarity for Digital Asset Spot Markets’’. Testimony was heard from Rostin Behnam, Chairman, Commodities Futures Trading Commission; and public witnesses. [6/6/23]

Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on H.R. 277, the ‘‘REINS Act of 2023’’; H.R. 288, the ‘‘Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2023’’; H.R. 1615, the ‘‘Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act’’; and H.R. 1640, the ‘‘Save Our Gas Stoves Act’’. The Committee granted, by record vote of 9–4, a rule providing for consideration of H.R. 277, the ‘‘REINS Act of 2023’’, H.R. 288, the ‘‘Separation of Powers Restoration Act of 2023’’, H.R. 1615, the ‘‘Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act’’, and H.R. 1630, the ‘‘Save Our Stoves Act’’. [6/5/23]

REMARKS:

REINS Act

"Mr. Speaker, when President Obama said that he would govern with a telephone and a pen, he was setting an example for his then-Vice President. Now, the Biden administration has attempted to enact a radical agenda through agency rulemaking. During his first year in office, President Biden finalized regulations that cost taxpayers more than $200 billion. This wasteful spending cannot be allowed to continue unchecked. It is essential that we pass the REINS Act and ensure that President Biden is forced to account for every wasteful dollar. This legislation would, once again, assert that Congress and not the far-left Biden administration has the power to create law. It is time to put a stop to the runaway spending. It is time to end the backroom rulemaking that has been a trademark of the Biden administration." [Rep. Joyce (R-PA13); 6/7/23, H2774]

SENATE

MEASURES PASSED:

Fiscal Responsibility Act: By 63 yeas to 36 nays (Vote No. 146), the Senate passed H.R. 3746, to provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling, by the order of the Senate of Thursday, June 1, 2023, 60 Senators having voted in the affirmative, and after agreeing to the motion to proceed, and rejecting 11 amendments proposed thereto. [6/1/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 1804. A bill to amend the Federal Power Act to facilitate more expeditious review and permitting of certain electric transmission facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. [Sen. Heinrich (D-NM); 6/1/23]

S. 1789. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the review of claims for benefits under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Kennedy (R-LA); 6/1/23]

S. 1758. A bill to address the rising trend of venue-shopping in Federal courts; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Wyden (D-OR); 5/30/23]

MEASURES REPORTED:

S. 70. To require the Bureau of Indian Affairs to process and complete all mortgage packages associated with residential and business mortgages on Indian land by certain deadlines. (S. Rept. No. 118–33) [5/30/23]

S. 666. To amend title 31, United States Code, to require the Chief Operating Officer of each agency to compile a list of unnecessary programs. (S. Rept. No. 118–36) [5/30/23]

REMARKS:

Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 & REINS Act: 

"Perhaps the cherry on top of this deal from hell is the glaring omission of an essential regulatory reform measure, called the REINS Act. The REINS Act…stands for Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny. Limit, Save, Grow, the debt ceiling bill passed by the House about a month ago, incorporated the REINS Act, which seeks to ensure that every major regulation put forth by a Federal Agency has to pass through congressional scrutiny. It has to be affirmatively enacted by Congress…This is already required by the Constitution…Executive branch Agencies have been getting around this for a long time with the assistance, sadly, of Congress. Congress has delegated, increasingly, lawmaking power to unelected, unaccountable bureaucrats—people who don’t work for the American people, who can’t be fired by them. This is a big problem…We were finally going to close that loop and say that Agencies can write laws that would be considered proposed bills—bill proposals—within Congress, but only Congress can enact them." [Sen. Lee (R-UT); 5/31/23, Pages S1821-22]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023: The House passed H.R. 3746, to provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling, by a recorded vote of 314 ayes to 117 noes, Roll No. 243. [5/31/23]

Division B—SAVE TAXPAYER DOLLARS

TITLE III—STATUTORY ADMINISTRATIVE PAY-AS-YOU-GO

Sec. 261. Short title.

Sec. 262. Definitions.

Sec. 263. Requirements for administrative actions that affect direct spending.

Sec. 264. Issuance of administrative guidance.

Sec. 265. Waiver.

Sec. 266. Exemption.

Sec. 267. Judicial review.

Sec. 268. Sunset.

Sec. 269. GAO report.

Sec. 270. Congressional Review Act compliance assessment.

* * * *

Division C—GROW THE ECONOMY

TITLE III—PERMITTING REFORM

Sec. 321. Builder Act.

Sec. 322. Interregional Transfer Capability Determination Study.

Sec. 323. Permitting streamlining for energy storage.

Sec. 324. Expediting completion of the Mountain Valley Pipeline.

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.J. Res. 66. A joint resolution disapproving the rule submitted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau relating to ‘‘Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B)’’; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Williams (R-TX25); 5/31/23]

H.R. 3770. A bill to amend the definition of section 804 of title 5; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Joyce (R-OH14); 5/31/23]

H.R. 3767. A bill to require the Council on Environmental Quality to submit to Congress a report on the potential for online and digital technologies to address delays in reviews and improve public accessibility and transparency under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources. [Rep. Graves (R-LA6); 5/31/23]

H.R. 3746. To provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committees on the Budget, Appropriations, Veterans’ Affairs, Rules, Transportation and Infrastructure, the Judiciary, Education and the Workforce, Agriculture, Energy and Commerce, Financial Services, Natural Resources, Small Business, and Homeland Security. [Rep. McHenry (R-NC10); 5/29/23]

REPORTS FILED:

H.R. 288. To amend title 5, United States Code, to clarify the nature of judicial review of agency interpretations of statutory and regulatory provisions, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–83). [6/1/23]

H.R. 277. To amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to provide that major rules of the executive branch shall have no force or effect unless a joint resolution of approval is enacted into law, with an amendment (H. Rept. 118–84, Part 1). [6/1/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on H.R. 3746, the ‘‘Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023’’. The Committee granted, by record vote of 7–6, a rule providing for consideration of H.R. 3746, the ‘‘Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023’’, under a closed rule. [5/30/23]

SENATE

The Senate met in pro forma session on Tuesday, May 23, Thursday, May 25, and Friday, May 26, 2023. There were no items of interest to report.

HOUSE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 3740. A bill to amend chapter 131 of title 5, United States Code, to require Senior Executive Service and schedule C employees to disclose Federal student loan debt, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Biggs (R-AZ5); 5/26/23]

H.R. 3692. A bill to require bipartisan membership in the Federal Trade Commission in order for the Commission to act following a vacancy, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Fitzgerald (R-WI5); 5/25/23]

H.R. 3652. A bill to address the rising trend of venue-shopping in Federal courts; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Ross (D-NC2); 5/24/23]

H.R. 3643. A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to deliver notice of the denial of claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary by certified mail, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Latta (R-OH5); 5/24/23]

H.R. 3642. A bill to require the Office of Government Ethics to establish and maintain a centralized database for executive branch ethics records of noncareer appointees; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Langworthy [R-NY23]; 5/24/23]

H.R. 3599. A bill to reform the immigration laws; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Homeland Security, Ways and Means, Agriculture, Transportation and Infrastructure, the Budget, Education and the Workforce, Foreign Affairs, Oversight and Accountability, Intelligence (Permanent Select), Financial Services, and Armed Services. [Rep. Salazar (R-FL27); 5/23/23]

H.R. 3595. A bill to improve the process for awarding grants under certain programs of the Department of Agriculture to certain counties in which the majority of land is owned or managed by the Federal Government and to other units of local government and Tribal governments in those counties, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce, and Financial Services. [Rep. Stewart (R-UT2); 5/22/23]

H.R. 3594. A bill to improve the process for awarding grants under certain programs of the Department of Transportation to certain counties in which the majority of land is owned or managed by the Federal Government and to other units of local government and Tribal governments in those counties, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Stewart (R-UT2); 5/22/23]

H.R. 3557. A bill to streamline Federal, State, and local permitting and regulatory reviews to expedite the deployment of communications facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Natural Resources, and Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Carter (R-GA1); 5/22/23]

H.R. 3556. A bill to amend the Federal financial laws to increase financial regulatory accountability and transparency, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committees on Oversight and Accountability, and Rules. [Rep. Barr (R-KY6); 5/22/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary:  Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 277, the ‘‘Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act’’, and H.R. 357, the ‘‘Ensuring Accountability in Agency Rulemaking Act’’. Seven measures including, H.R. 277 and H.R. 357, were ordered reported. [5/24/23]

Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 3556, the ‘‘Increasing Financial Regulatory Accountability and Transparency Act’’. Six measures, including H.R. 3556, were ordered reported. [5/24/23]

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 3316, to amend titles 46 and 49, United States Code, to streamline the environmental review process for major projects, and for other purposes. H.R. 3316 and seventeen other measures were ordered reported. [5/23/23]

SENATE 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

S. 1671. A bill to establish a new Federal body to provide reasonable oversight and regulation of digital platforms; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Bennet (D-CO); 5/18/23] 

S. 1645. A bill to impose certain limitations on consent decrees and settlement agreements by agencies that require the agencies to take regulatory action in accordance with the terms thereof, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Grassley (R-IA); 5/17/23] 

S. 1635. A bill to require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to take certain actions to improve the processing by the Department of Veterans Affairs of claims for disability compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Sen. Klobuchar (D-MN); 5/17/23] 

S. 1615. A bill to improve agency rulemaking, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Lankford (R-OK); 5/16/23] 

S. 1629. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to increase the accountability of the Office of Special Counsel in enforcing certain provisions of that title vigorously, consistently, and without regard to the political affiliation, career status, or personal characteristics of individuals subject to those provisions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Lujan (D-NM); 5/16/23] 

MEASURES REPORTED: 

S. 111. To require each agency, in providing notice of a rulemaking, to include a link to a 100-word plain language summary of the proposed rule. (S. Rept. No. 118–28) [5/16/23] 

COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: The Committee held a business meeting to consider legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction. The Committee ordered favorably reported thirteen measures, including: S. 285, to provide for the perpetuation, administration, and funding of Federal Executive Boards, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute;  S. 1528, to streamline the sharing of information among Federal disaster assistance agencies, to expedite the delivery of life-saving assistance to disaster survivors, to speed the recovery of communities from disasters, to protect the security and privacy of information provided by disaster survivors; S. 1549, to provide the Congressional Budget Office with necessary authorities to expedite the sharing of data from executive branch agencies; and S. 1564, to require the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to establish, or otherwise ensure the provision of, a training program on artificial intelligence for Federal management officials and supervisors, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. [5/17/23] 

Committee on Environment and Public Works: Committee concluded a hearing to examine Federal actions to improve project reviews for a cleaner and stronger economy, after receiving testimony from Brenda Mallory, Chair, Council on Environmental Quality; Christine Harada, Executive Director, Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council; and Jason S. Miller, Deputy Director for Management, Office of Management and Budget. [5/17/23] 

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine artificial intelligence in government, including key practices to help ensure accountability in Federal use of AI, after receiving testimony from Taka Ariga, Chief Data Scientist, Science, Technology Assessment and Analytics, Government Accountability Office; Ritchie Eppink, American Civil Liberties Union Foundation, Boise, Idaho; Lynne E. Parker, University of Tennessee AI for Tennessee Initiative, Knoxville; Daniel E. Ho, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and Jacob Siegel, Brooklyn, New York. [5/16/23] 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law concluded an oversight hearing to examine AI, focusing on rules for artificial intelligence, after receiving testimony from Sam Altman, OpenAI, San Francisco, California; Christina Montgomery, IBM, Cortlandt Manor, New York; and Gary Marcus, New York University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. [5/16/23] 

HOUSE 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

H.R. 3515. A bill to require agencies to notify the Director of the Office of Management and Budget when the agency suspends or terminates a Federal award, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Lesko (R-AZ8); 5/18/23] 

H.R. 3480. A bill to establish the Commission on Intergovernmental Relations of the United States to facilitate the fullest cooperation, coordination, and mutual accountability among all levels of government, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Connolly (D-VA11); 5/18/23] 

H.R. 3467. A bill to bill to enhance Federal Reserve transparency; to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Barr (R-KY6); 5/18/23] 

H.R. 3466. A bill to enhance Financial Stability Oversight Council transparency; to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Barr (R-KY6); 5/18/23] 

H.R. 3446. A bill to impose certain limitations on consent decrees and settlement agreements by agencies that require the agencies to take regulatory action in accordance with the terms thereof, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Spartz (R-IN5); 5/17/23] 

H.R. 3407. A bill to provide for enhanced Federal enforcement of, and State and local assistance in the enforcement of, the immigration laws of the United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Carter (R-GA1); 5/17/23] 

H.R. 3369. A bill to direct the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to conduct a study and hold public meetings with respect to artificial intelligence systems, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. [Rep. Harder (D-CA9); 5/16/23] 

H.R. 3316. A bill to amend titles 46 and 49, United States Code, to streamline the environmental review process for major projects, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Rep. Crawford (R-AR1); 5/15/23] 

COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet held a hearing entitled ‘‘Artificial Intelligence and Intellectual Property: Part I—Interoperability of AI and Copyright Law’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [5/17/23] 

SENATE 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

S. 1580. A bill to improve the process for awarding grants under certain programs of the Department of Agriculture to certain counties in which the majority of land is owned or managed by the Federal Government and to other units of local government and Tribal governments in those counties, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. [Sen. Cortez Masto (D-NV); 5/11/23] 

S. 1577. A bill to require the appointment or designation of emerging technology leads in certain Federal agencies; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Bennet (D-CO); 5/11/23] 

S. 1565. A bill to require Executive agencies to submit to Congress a study of the impacts of expanded telework and remote work by agency employees during the COVID–19 pandemic and a plan for the agency’s future use of telework and remote work, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Blackburn (R- 

S. 1564. A bill to require the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to establish, or otherwise ensure the provision of, a training program on artificial intelligence for Federal management officials and supervisors, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 5/11/23] 

S. 1528. A bill to streamline the sharing of information among Federal disaster assistance agencies, to expedite the delivery of life-saving assistance to disaster survivors, to speed the recovery of communities from disasters, to protect the security and privacy of information provided by disaster survivors, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Peters (D-MI); 5/10/23] 

S. 1496. A bill to provide that all Federal employees in the executive branch of the Federal Government are at-will employees, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 5/9/23] 

MEASURES REPORTED: 

S. 679. To amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, to require Federal agencies to submit to the Comptroller General of the United States a report on rules that are revoked, suspended, replaced, amended, or otherwise made ineffective. (S. Rept. No. 118–25) [5/11/23] 

S. 717. To improve plain writing and public experience. (S. Rept. No. 118–26) [5/11/23] 

S. 108. To require a guidance clarity statement on certain agency guidance. (S. Rept. No. 118–19) [5/9/23] 

COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 

Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee concluded a hearing to examine opportunities for Congress to reform the permitting process for energy and mineral projects, after receiving testimony from Jason Grumet, American Clean Power Association, Rich Nolan, National Mining Association, and Elizabeth H. Shuler, AFL–CIO, all of Washington, D.C.; and Paul Ulrich, Jonah Energy LLC, Pinedale, on behalf of the Wyoming Energy Authority. [5/11/23] 

HOUSE 

MEASURES PASSED: 

Secure the Border Act of 2023: The House passed H.R. 2, to secure the borders of the United States, by a yea-and-nay vote of 219 yeas to 213 nays, Roll No. 209. [5/11/23] 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

H.R. 3230. A bill to amend the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 to provide for regulatory impact analyses for certain rules, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committees on Rules, the Budget, and the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Foxx (R-NC5); 5/11/23] 

H.R. 3217. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to tighten asylum laws, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Carter (R-TX31); 5/11/23] 

H.R. 3194. A bill to provide an earned path to citizenship, to address the root causes of migration and responsibly manage the southern border, and to reform the immigrant visa system, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Ways and Means, Armed Services, Education and the Workforce, House Administration, Financial Services, Natural Resources, Oversight and Accountability, Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Intelligence (Permanent Select), and Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Sanchez (D-CA38); 5/10/23] 

H.R. 3175. A bill to require agencies to repeal existing regulations before issuing a new regulation, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Bice (R-OK5); 5/10/23] 

H.R. 3163. A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to prohibit the issuance of nationwide injunctions from single-judge divisions of U.S. District Courts; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Sherrill (D-NJ11); 5/9/23] 

COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 

Committee on Education and Workforce: Full Committee held a markup on H.J. Res. 45, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Education relating to ‘‘Waivers and Modifications of Federal Student Loans’’. H.J. Res. 45 was ordered reported, without amendment. [5/10/23] 

Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Inclusion; and Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development of the House Committee on Agriculture held a joint hearing entitled ‘‘The Future of Digital Assets: Measuring the Regulatory Gaps in the Digital Assets Markets’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [5/10/23] 

Committee on the Judiciary: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 288, the ‘‘Separation of Powers Restoration Act.’’ H.R. 288 and additional measures were favorably reported. [5/10/23] 

SENATE 

MEASURES REPORTED: 

S. 206. To require the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to regularly review and update policies and manuals related to inspections at ports of entry. (S. Rept. No. 118–16) [5/4/23] 

S. 709. To improve performance and accountability in the Federal Government. (S. Rept. No. 118–18) [5/4/23] 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

S. 1456. A bill to provide for certain energy development, permitting reforms, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. [Sen. Barrasso (R-WY); 5/4/23] 

S. 1449. A bill to improve the environmental review process, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works. [Sen. Capito (R-WV); 5/4/23] 

S. 1431. A bill to require agencies to publish a reference to the specific provision of law, including any relevant statutory language, under which agency rules are proposed, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Lee (R-UT); 5/3/23] 

S. 1419. A bill to require each agency to repeal 3 existing regulations before issuing a new regulation, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Schmitt (R-MO); 5/3/23] 

S. 1411. A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to require greater transparency for Federal regulatory decisions that impact small businesses, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 5/3/23] 

S. 1399. A bill to provide for American energy security by improving the permitting process; to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. [5/2/23] 

S. 1395. A bill to temporarily suspend the debt limit through December 31, 2024; read the first time. [Sen. Schumer (D-NY); 5/1/23] 

COMMITTEE MEETINGS: 

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine improving access to Federal grants for underserved communities, after receiving testimony from Jeff Arkin, Director, Strategic Issues, Government Accountability Office; Meagan Elliot, City of Detroit Office of Development and Grants, Detroit, Michigan; and Matthew Hanson, Witt O’Brien’s LLC, Houston, Texas. [5/2/23] 

Committee on the Budget: Committee concluded a hearing to examine H.R. 2811, to provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling, after receiving testimony from Mark Zandi, Moody’s Analytics, Malvern, Pennsylvania; Fred Krupp, Environmental Defense Fund, and Brian Riedl,  The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research, both of New York, New York; and Abigail Ross Hopper, Solar Energy Industries Association, and Jason J. Fichtner, Bipartisan Policy Center, both of Washington, D.C. [5/4/23] 

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS: 

EC–1119. A communication from the Chair of the Administrative Conference of the United States, transmitting a report entitled ‘‘Equal Access to Justice Act Awards - Report to Congress, Fiscal Year 2022’’; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [5/1/23] 

HOUSE 

MEASURES INTRODUCED: 

H.R. 3114. A bill to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide for quarterly town hall meetings for veterans to meet with appropriate employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs at each medical center of the Department; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. [Rep. Rodgers (R-WA5); 5/4/23] 

H.R. 3115. A bill to provide that all Federal employees in the executive branch of the Federal Government are at-will employees, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Roy (R-TX21); 5/4/23] 

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 1363. A bill to eliminate the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Cruz (R-TX); 4/27/23]

S. 1362. A bill to amend the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 to enhance rulemaking requirements for the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. [Sen. Kennedy (R-LA); 4/27/23]

S. 1356. A bill to establish a task force on organizational structure for artificial intelligence governance and oversight; to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. [Sen. Bennet (D-CO); 4/27/23]

S.J. Res. 25. A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Labor relating to ‘‘Adverse Effect Wage Rate Methodology for the Temporary Employment of H–2A Nonimmigrants in Non-Range Occupations in the United States’’; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 4/25/23]

S. 1265. A bill to provide the United States District Court for the District of Columbia with original and exclusive jurisdiction over civil actions with a nationwide effect; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Hirono (D-HI); 4/25/23]

S. 1258. A bill to require the Director of the Office of management and Budget to submit to Congress an annual report on projects that are over budget and behind schedule, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. [Sen. Ernst (R-IA); 4/25/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Committee concluded an oversight hearing to examine the SBA’s implementation of final rules to expand access to capital, after receiving testimony from Patrick Kelley, Associate Administrator, Office of Capital Access, and Sheldon Shoemaker, Deputy Inspector General, Office of Inspector General, both of the Small Business Administration; Hilda Kennedy, AmPac Tri-State CDC, Inc., dba AmPac Business Capital, Ontario, California; and Chris Pilkerton, Accion Opportunity Fund, Tilghman, Maryland. [4/26/23]

HOUSE

MEASURES PASSED:

H.R. 2811. The House passed H.R. 2811, the Limit, Save, Grow Act, to provide for a responsible increase to the debt ceiling, by a yea-and-nay vote of 217 yeas to 215 nays, Roll No. 199. [4/26/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 2968. A bill to require the disclosure of information relating to the cost of programs, projects, or activities carried out using Federal funds; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability. [Rep. Norman (R-SC5); 4/27/23]

H.R. 2946. A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to advance meritorious asylum claims, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Homeland Security. [Rep. Gonzalez (D-TX34); 4/27/23]

H.R. 2937. A bill to eliminate the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection; to the Committee on Financial Services. [Rep. Donalds (R-FL19); 4/27/23]

H.R. 2809. A bill to authorize an electronic health record modernization program of the Department of Veterans Affairs and increase oversight and accountability of the program to better serve veterans, medical professionals of the Department, and taxpayers, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services. [Rep. Takano (D-CA41); 4/24/23]

H.R. 2798. A bill to make reforms to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committees on Oversight and Accountability, the Judiciary, and Small Business. [Rep. Barr (R-KY6); 4/24/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’’. Testimony was heard from Kathi Vidal, Undersecretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property, and Director, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. [4/27/23]

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Future of Digital Assets: Identifying the Regulatory Gaps in Spot Market Regulation’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. [4/27/23]

Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held a markup on legislation within the Committee's jurisdiction, including H.R. 1548, the ‘‘Improving Access to Small Business Information Act,’’ and H.R. 2798, the ‘‘CFPB Transparency and Accountability Reform Act’’. Fifteen bills, including H.R. 1548 and H.R. 2798, were ordered reported, as amended. [4/26/23]

Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Government Accountability Office’s 2023 High Risk List’’. Testimony was heard from Gene L Dodaro, Comptroller General, Government Accountability Office. [4/26/23]

SENATE

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

S. 1234. A bill to apply the Freedom of Information Act to actions and decisions of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information in carrying out the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Scott (R-FL); 4/20/23]

S. 1187. A bill to establish the right to counsel, at Government expense for those who cannot afford counsel, for people facing removal; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Sen. Gillibrand (D-NY); 4/18/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: April 20, Full Committee, concluded a hearing to examine the Government Accountability Office’s 2023 High Risk List, focusing on recommendations for reducing waste, fraud, and abuse.

HOUSE

MEASURES CONSIDERED:

H.J. Res. 27. The House voted to sustain the President’s veto of H.J. Res. 27, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency relating to ‘‘Revised Definition of ‘Waters of the United States’ ’’, by a yea-and-nay vote of 227 yeas to 196 nays, Roll No. 187 (two-thirds of those present not voting to override). [4/18/23]

MEASURES INTRODUCED:

H.R. 2640. A bill to provide for reform of the asylum system and protection of the border; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Ways and Means, Education and the Workforce, and Homeland Security. [Rep. McClintock (R-CA5); 4/17/23]

H.R. 2689. A bill to improve the service delivery of agencies and public perception of agency interactions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, and in addition to the Committees on Foreign Affairs, Ways and Means, Natural Resources, Agriculture, Energy and Commerce, Education and the Workforce, Veterans’ Affairs, Homeland Security, Small Business, and Armed Services. [Rep. Porter (D-CA47); 4/18/23]

H.R. 2697. A bill to establish the right to counsel, at Government expense for those who cannot afford counsel, for people facing removal; to the Committee on the Judiciary. [Rep. Torres (D-CA35); 4/18/23]

H.R. 2701. A bill to provide for individual rights relating to privacy of personal information, to establish privacy and security requirements for covered entities relating to personal information, and to establish an agency to be known as the Digital Privacy Agency to enforce such rights and requirements, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on the Judiciary, House Administration, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Eshoo (D-CA16); 4/19/23]

H.R. 2710. A bill to amend title 46, United States Code, to allow the Federal Maritime Commission to provide injunctive relief without a court order, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. [Rep. Garamendi (D-CA8); 4/19/23]

COMMITTEE MEETINGS:

Committee on the Judiciary: Full Committee, concluded a markup on H.R. 2640, the Border Security Enforcement Act of 2023; and H.J. Res. 44, providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives relating to ‘‘Factoring Criteria for Firearms with Attached ‘Stabilizing Braces’ ’’. H.R. 2640 was ordered reported, as amended. H.J. Res 44 was ordered reported, without amendment. [4/20/23]

Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: April 19, Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a markup on legislation within the Subcommittee’s jurisdiction, including H.R. 1329, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for an increase in the maximum number of judges who may be appointed to the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; H.R. 1378, the ‘‘Veterans Appeals Backlog Improvement Act’’; and H.R. 1530, the ‘‘Veterans Benefits Improvement Act’’. H.R. 1329, H.R. 1378, and H.R. 1530 were forwarded to the full Committee, as amended. [4/19/23]