Bills of The Day:

Earmark Elimination Act of 2024
House of Congress: House of Representatives
Bill Code: H.R. 8051
Date Introduced: April 17, 2024
Sponsor: Mr. Norman
Co-Sponsor(s): Mr. Perry, Mr. Rosendale, Mr. Tiffany, Mr. Ogles, Mr. McClintock, Mr. Good of Virginia, Mrs. Spartz

Summary: This bill seeks to prevent the consideration of any legislation in the House of Representatives that includes earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits. It establishes rules prohibiting the evaluation of any bills, resolutions, or amendments that contain such benefits. If a violation is detected, the objectionable component is automatically removed from the proposal. Special procedures are laid out for dealing with conference reports and amendments between the two chambers of Congress, detailing steps for resolution if a point of order concerning earmarks is sustained. The bill also includes a provision allowing the House to decide on unclear cases without debate.

Next Action: The bill was referred to the Committee on Rules.

Virginia Plan to Reduce Gun Violence Act of 2024
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 4131
Date Introduced: April 16, 2024
Sponsor: Mr. Kaine
Co-Sponsor(s): Mr. Warner

Summary: This comprehensive bill aims to overhaul federal firearms regulations to enhance public safety. It introduces rigorous measures for firearm sales, including mandatory checks and strict regulations on transfers and purchases. The legislation establishes extreme risk protection orders, which allow for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed a risk. It also sets detailed requirements for firearm safety, including penalties for unsafe storage around minors and mandatory reporting of lost or stolen firearms. Additionally, the bill addresses the possession of firearms by stalkers and those under restraining orders, emphasizing enforcement and compliance through updated legal frameworks and extended background checks.

Next Action: The bill was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.

Forest Biomass Emissions Act of 2024
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 4153
Date Introduced: April 17, 2024
Sponsor: Mr. Booker
Co-Sponsor(s): Mr. Markey, Ms. Warren, Mr. Van Hollen

Summary: This legislation mandates that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) assess the lifecycle of greenhouse gas emissions from forest biomass used for electricity generation when formulating applicable rules and regulations. The bill defines forest biomass comprehensively, excluding commonly recycled paper and unsegregated solid waste. It also requires a thorough study to evaluate the environmental and community impacts related to forest biomass industries, particularly focusing on communities near wood pellet production facilities and biomass power plants. This study will measure air quality, noise, dust, and pollutant levels, examining their effects on nearby residents' health, with particular attention to socioeconomic and racial demographics.

Next Action: The bill was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

Digital Skills for Today's Workforce Act
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 4139
Date Introduced: April 17, 2024
Sponsor: Mr. Kaine
Co-Sponsor(s): N/A

Summary: This bill proposes amendments to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to establish a digital skills at work grant program aimed at enhancing digital equity and resilience in the workforce. The legislation emphasizes the need for developing digital and information literacy skills across various industries, targeting especially those workers without foundational digital skills. It seeks to establish systems and provide grants to facilitate the rapid acquisition of digital skills, aligning with the demands of the 21st-century job market. The proposed changes include detailed definitions of digital skills terms, outline the role of different federal departments in the program, and set guidelines for grant distribution and accountability. Priority is given to aiding workers with employment barriers and promoting diversity in digital skill access among underrepresented groups.

Next Action: The bill was referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.

American Students First Act 
House of Congress: House of Representatives
Bill Code: H.R. 8039
Date Introduced: April 17, 2024
Sponsor: Mr. Banks
Co-Sponsor(s): Ms. Foxx

Summary: This bill proposes to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 by establishing specific immigration and residency requirements for participants in Federal TRIO programs, which aim to assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline. The new eligibility criteria would include U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, and certain aliens physically present in the U.S. with the intent to become permanent residents. Additionally, citizens of Freely Associated States and lawful residents of these states, along with those holding CNMI Resident status, would be eligible. The legislation explicitly prohibits any waiver of these requirements under existing laws or appropriations acts, ensuring these criteria are strictly enforced.

Next Action: The bill was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce.