Bills of The Day:

Helping More Families Save Act
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 3904
Date Introduced: March 11, 2024
Sponsor: Reed (D-RI)
Co-Sponsor(s): Britt (R-AL)

Summary: This bill initiates a pilot program to enhance the family self-sufficiency program by establishing and funding interest-bearing escrow accounts for eligible families. These accounts are to be funded with an amount equal to any increase in rent payments due to rises in earned income by these families. The program specifically targets families whose adjusted income does not surpass 80% of the area median income. Eligible entities, varying in size and type, will be awarded allocations to manage these accounts, ensuring geographic diversity across the United States. The bill outlines the application process for entities, the establishment and duration of escrow accounts, and conditions for withdrawal. Additionally, it addresses the impact of family income increases on eligibility for other benefits, offers an opt-out for families, and mandates a study to evaluate the program's effectiveness.

Next Action: The bill was read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Industry Improvement Act
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 3902
Date Introduced: March 11, 2024
Sponsor: Tester (D-MT)
Co-Sponsor(s): Cramer (R-ND)

Summary: This legislation amends the National Housing Act to permit state-licensed appraisers to perform appraisals for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), ensuring they meet existing education and competency standards. Appraisers must demonstrate education in FHA appraisal requirements, including completing a specific course. The bill outlines steps for implementing these changes, including issuing guidance and setting compliance deadlines. It also adjusts the annual registry fees for Appraisal Management Companies. It incorporates State credentialed trainee appraisers into the National Registry, providing a framework for their fees, roles, and the assistance they may offer to certified appraisers. Furthermore, it establishes grants for state agencies to support education, training, and workforce needs in the appraisal industry, aiming to address workforce challenges and maintain high standards within the profession.

Next Action: The bill was read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

Time Off to Vote Act
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 3901
Date Introduced: March 11, 2024
Sponsor: Hirono (D-HI)
Co-Sponsor(s): Butler (D-CA), Casey (D-PA), Durbin (D-IL), Kaine (D-VA), Padilla (D-CA), Reed (D-RI), Van Hollen (D-MD), Warren (D-MA), Welch (D-VT), Whitehouse (D-RI), Wyden (D-OR)

Summary: This legislation mandates that employers provide at least two consecutive hours of paid leave to employees requesting time off to vote in Federal elections. This provision aims to facilitate employee participation in the democratic process, allowing them to vote, return mail ballots in person, or engage in other voting-related activities without financial penalty. Employers retain the right to determine when this leave can be taken during the voting period, ensuring it does not overlap with regular break times. The act strictly prohibits employers from interfering with employees' rights to take this leave, retaliating against employees for taking leave, or otherwise discriminating against employees exercising their rights under this act. The Department of Labor is tasked with investigating potential violations of this act, with employers facing penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. This act applies to employers with 25 or more employees. It takes effect from the first Federal election after its enactment, emphasizing the importance of voting access while considering the operational needs of employers.

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

End Aerial Invasion Act
House of Congress: Senate
Bill Code: S. 3898
Date Introduced: March 11, 2024
Sponsor: Marshall (R-KS)
Co-Sponsor(s): Lee (R-UT)

Summary: This bill proposes to amend Title 49 of the United States Code to permanently prohibit any air carrier from operating flights out of Reagan Washington National Airport if the carrier has provided or facilitated the transportation of any alien using the CBP One Mobile Application for identification purposes. The intention behind this amendment is to restrict the operation rights of airlines at a key national airport based on their involvement in transporting individuals identified through the CBP One Mobile App, a tool used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to streamline the entry process for travelers and migrants at U.S. borders. The bill represents a direct intervention in the operational criteria for airlines based on their compliance with specific immigration-related policies and practices.

Next Action: The bill was read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Daylight Act
House of Congress: House of Representatives
Bill Code: H.R. 7615
Date Introduced: March 11, 2024
Sponsor: Ms. Maloy (R-UT)
Co-Sponsor(s): N/A

Summary: The Daylight Act amends the Uniform Time Act of 1966 to give states the option to observe Daylight Saving Time (DST) throughout the year. This legislative change allows states, if they so choose, to not revert to standard time during the winter months, providing them the flexibility to maintain DST year-long. The bill modifies existing provisions to ensure states can uniformly apply standard time or DST across all areas within their jurisdiction, regardless of time zones. This option aims to give states more control over their timekeeping practices to suit their regional preferences better and potentially benefit from longer daylight hours in the evening throughout the year.

Next Action: The bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.