Federal policy battles and legislative gridlock
Key Questions
What major legislation is Congress addressing upon returning from recess?
Lawmakers face a backlog of must-pass bills covering immigration, FISA reauthorization, housing, the farm bill, and highway funding. The BUILD America 250 Act is also shifting transportation authority toward states.
How are federal attacks on DEI affecting public health policy?
Ongoing federal scrutiny of DEI initiatives, including investigations at universities like Arizona State, is impacting public health programs and science policy. This follows broader efforts to rebuild science policy after prior administrations.
What budget and confirmation hearings are currently active?
Hearings include testimony from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh on reform priorities and ongoing reviews of data privacy legislation. Additional actions involve moving thousands of federal positions to Schedule Policy/Career status via executive order.
What progress has been made on ending federal marijuana prohibition?
Federal legislation to end marijuana prohibition has gained its 73rd sponsor in Congress, advancing the effort amid other policy priorities. This occurs alongside debates on data privacy and budget matters.
How is the federal government addressing science policy and regulatory reform?
Rebuilding efforts are underway following prior changes, with new Fed leadership emphasizing reform. Related moves include reclassifying federal positions and scrutinizing DEI policies in public institutions.
Congress returns to backlog of must-pass bills (immigration, FISA, housing, farm bill, highway). BUILD America 250 Act shifts transportation power to states. Federal attacks on DEI impact public health. Science policy rebuilding after Trump 2.0. Budget hearings ongoing.