Tag

Federal Legislation

All articles tagged with #federal legislation

GOP MEGA Act would rewrite federal voting rules with ID, citizenship checks and a centralized database
politics27 days ago

GOP MEGA Act would rewrite federal voting rules with ID, citizenship checks and a centralized database

The House introduced the Make Elections Great Again Act (MEGA Act), a sweeping voting bill from Rep. Bryan Steil that would impose a strict photo ID for federal elections, require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship for registration, mandate ongoing eligibility checks, create a single centralized statewide voter registration database with a unique voter ID, expand who can sue election officials, and sharply curb universal mail voting. Critics call it one of the most drastic attacks on voting rights in U.S. history, while Senate leaders contemplate bringing a more restrictive version to the floor.

Federal Shutdown Threatens Hemp Industry and THC Market in Texas
politics3 months ago

Federal Shutdown Threatens Hemp Industry and THC Market in Texas

A recent U.S. Senate deal to end the government shutdown includes a provision that effectively bans unregulated hemp-based THC products in Texas, threatening the state's thriving hemp industry and raising concerns about federal overreach and industry regulation. The bill's implementation is delayed by a year, allowing potential legislative changes, but it has already sparked opposition from Texas lawmakers and industry groups.

Federal Shutdown Threatens Hemp and THC Markets in Minnesota and Texas
politics3 months ago

Federal Shutdown Threatens Hemp and THC Markets in Minnesota and Texas

A U.S. Senate spending bill could effectively ban hemp-derived THC products nationwide, threatening Minnesota's thriving hemp THC industry, which includes edibles and beverages, due to a proposed limit on THC content. The bill's passage could lead to industry collapse in Minnesota unless changes are made within a year, raising concerns among local businesses and lawmakers about economic and regulatory impacts.

California Advances Zero-Emission Vehicle Policies Amid Federal Tensions
environment6 months ago

California Advances Zero-Emission Vehicle Policies Amid Federal Tensions

Despite federal efforts to roll back California's auto-emission standards and end incentives for zero-emission vehicles, California is committed to maintaining its leadership in clean air and climate goals by exploring state-funded subsidies, expanding charging infrastructure, and implementing new regulations to boost electric vehicle adoption and reduce emissions.

US Senate Rejects Ban on State AI Regulations
technology8 months ago

US Senate Rejects Ban on State AI Regulations

The US Senate overwhelmingly rejected a proposed 10-year ban on state regulation of AI, a move supported by major tech companies and advocates for innovation, while raising concerns about the potential for inconsistent regional rules and the need for federal oversight. The vote leaves room for state-level AI regulations to proceed, with some states already enacting or considering related laws.

Push to Abolish U.S. Department of Education Gains Momentum
politics1 year ago

Push to Abolish U.S. Department of Education Gains Momentum

Republican Senator Mike Rounds has introduced a bill to abolish the US Department of Education, redistributing its $200 billion budget and responsibilities to other federal agencies and states. The bill aligns with Donald Trump's goal of eliminating the department, arguing it causes more harm than good. However, it faces significant hurdles, requiring a supermajority in the Senate to pass. Education experts express concern over the potential impact on programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which are currently managed by the department.

"Alabama's IVF Battle: Senate Showdown and Employer Benefits"
politics2 years ago

"Alabama's IVF Battle: Senate Showdown and Employer Benefits"

Senate Democrats, led by Sen. Tammy Duckworth, are pushing for federal protection of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and other fertility treatments, setting up a showdown with Republicans. Duckworth's bill aims to override any state policies that restrict access to IVF, and she plans to seek unanimous consent for its passage, daring Republicans to block it. The move comes in response to a controversial Alabama Supreme Court ruling and highlights the ongoing battle over reproductive rights and the fallout from the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

"2024 Child Tax Credit Payments: Changes, Defections, and Bipartisan Pushback"
finance2 years ago

"2024 Child Tax Credit Payments: Changes, Defections, and Bipartisan Pushback"

14 states are planning to send out additional child tax credit payments in 2024, with varying eligibility requirements and refundable amounts. These payments are separate from the federal child tax credit and are aimed at providing relief to families. The eligibility criteria and refundable amounts differ by state, with some states offering credits for children under age 6 and others extending the age range. It's important for families to check if they qualify for these state-specific child tax credit payments as the 2024 tax season begins.

"California Rep. Adam Schiff Proposes Solution for Home Insurance Crisis"
politics2 years ago

"California Rep. Adam Schiff Proposes Solution for Home Insurance Crisis"

California Rep. Adam Schiff has introduced the INSURE Act to stabilize the home insurance market by implementing federal reinsurance, requiring insurers to cover natural disasters, and establishing improved market monitoring. The bill aims to address the crisis in the home insurance market, particularly in California, where insurers have stopped writing new policies due to increased risks of natural disasters. The proposed act must pass through the House and Senate and receive the president's signature to become law.

"Democrats Advocate for Comprehensive Federal Voting Protections"
politics2 years ago

"Democrats Advocate for Comprehensive Federal Voting Protections"

Democratic lawmakers are vowing to challenge restrictive state election laws ahead of the 2024 elections by holding rallies, launching voter registration drives, and reintroducing federal voting legislation. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which aims to protect voting rights and restore provisions in the Voting Rights Act, has repeatedly stalled in Congress but supporters are pledging to champion its passage. Republicans argue that the new laws help protect against fraud, while Democrats argue they make it harder to vote, particularly for people of color. The chances of passage for the legislation are slim, but advocates believe it is important to keep it part of the political discourse.