Christopher A. Coons

NO BOSS Act

States would gain more flexibility in how they run self-employment assistance programs, which help unemployed workers start their own businesses by providing training, counseling, and sometimes cash support while they transition from traditional jobs. The changes would modify tax rules that currently govern these state-run programs, potentially making it easier for states to design and manage them according to their own needs. This affects unemployed workers seeking to become entrepreneurs and the state agencies that administer these job training programs.

NO FAKES Act of 2026

Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act of 2026 or the NO FAKES Act of 2026 This bill creates a federal intellectual property right to protect individuals from unauthorized digital replicas (e.g., digital content made using generative artificial intelligence) of their voice and visual likeness. Specifically, the bill gives each individual or right holder the right to authorize (1) the use of a digital replica embodying the individual's voice or visual likeness, or (2) the use of the individual's voice or visual likeness for a product or service requiring authorization to avoid liability under the bill. This property right is not assignable during the individual’s lifetime but is licensable and does not expire upon the death of the individual. Generally, any individual or entity that engages in specified prohibited activities (e.g., distributing a digital replica without authorization) shall be liable in a civil action and subject to related penalties. The bill exempts specified uses from liability, such as categories of conduct likely to involve protected speech under the First Amendment (e.g., news reporting, sports broadcasts, and satire). The bill establishes (1) a notice-and-takedown process for unauthorized digital replicas; and (2) a counter-notification process, which allows an individual to contest the removal of a digital replica. The bill establishes penalties related to false or deceptive notice or counter-notice. The bill expressly preempts state laws related to digital replicas except for causes of action under state statutes or common law in existence as of January 2, 2025.

Energy Security Pacts Act

The legislation aims to strengthen America's and its allies' ability to access reliable energy sources and critical minerals needed for manufacturing, technology, and national defense. It would likely involve strategies to reduce dependence on potentially hostile countries for these resources and support domestic production or partnerships with friendly nations. This affects businesses in energy and manufacturing sectors, consumers who depend on affordable energy and products, and policymakers focused on national security.

Responsible Artificial Intelligence Defense Act of 2026

The Department of Defense would establish official policies and procedures for developing and using autonomous weapons and artificial intelligence systems in military operations, including requirements to review and verify that these systems work safely and as intended before deployment. This would affect military personnel, defense contractors, and potentially civilians in conflict zones where these technologies might be used. The bill aims to ensure the Pentagon has clear guidelines for how much decision-making power to give to machines versus keeping humans in control of weapons systems.

A resolution designating May 2026 as "ALS Awareness Month".

Congress would officially recognize May 2026 as a month dedicated to raising awareness about ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a serious disease that affects nerve cells and causes progressive muscle weakness. This designation would encourage Americans, organizations, and government agencies to educate the public about the disease, support patients and their families, and promote research efforts to find treatments and a cure. The resolution is largely symbolic but helps bring national attention to a condition that currently has no cure and affects thousands of people in the United States.

Safer Choice Program Authorization Act of 2026

The Environmental Protection Agency's Safer Choice Program would be formally authorized to help businesses identify and use safer chemical alternatives in their products and manufacturing processes. This program affects companies across industries, consumers who use these products, and workers who handle chemicals, by promoting the development and adoption of less toxic substances. The bill would give the EPA official backing to continue and expand this voluntary partnership program that encourages safer innovation.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding critical elements of the United States policy towards the People's Republic of China.

The Senate is expressing its official position on how the United States should approach its relationship with China, covering important policy areas like trade, security, and diplomacy. This resolution doesn't create new laws or require specific actions, but instead signals what the Senate believes should guide American foreign policy decisions toward China. The measure is currently being reviewed by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

A joint resolution to direct removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.

This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Iran unless a declaration of war or authorization to use military force for such purpose has been enacted. The resolution specifies that it shall not be construed to prevent the United States from defending against an attack on the United States or its personnel or facilities in other nations.

A resolution commending the American Chemical Society on the occasion of its 150th anniversary and recognizing its many years of service to the United States.

This resolution honors the American Chemical Society for 150 years of work in chemistry research, education, and scientific advancement in the United States. The resolution recognizes the organization's contributions to developing new materials, medicines, and technologies that have benefited American industry and society. The Senate unanimously approved this commendation.

Railroad Retirement Fairness Act of 2026

Railroad workers and their families would receive changes to how their retirement benefits are calculated and paid under this proposal. The bill aims to address fairness concerns in the railroad retirement system, which operates separately from Social Security and covers employees of freight and passenger rail companies. The measure has been sent to the Senate committee responsible for labor and pension issues for review.

Pro Codes Act of 2026

The bill would establish legal protections and standards for professional licensing codes used in construction and building trades, likely making it easier for workers to move between states without having to retake exams or get new licenses. This could help skilled tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, and contractors work across state lines more freely while ensuring they still meet safety and quality standards. The measure affects both workers seeking greater mobility and construction companies that operate in multiple states.

ESCRA Act

The bill addresses financial sector regulations, though the specific details would depend on what ESCRA stands for and what provisions it contains. Based on its referral to the Banking Committee, it likely aims to modify rules affecting banks, lending practices, or financial institutions in some way. Without more information about the bill's actual provisions, the exact impact on consumers, businesses, or the financial system cannot be determined.

Military Learning for Credit Act of 2025

This bill would allow military service members and veterans to earn college credits for training and education they complete while serving in the armed forces, making it easier for them to finish college degrees after leaving the military. The change would help servicemembers transition to civilian careers more quickly and reduce the time and cost of getting a college degree by recognizing the skills and knowledge they've already gained through military training.

Supporting Blue Envelope Programs Act

This bill would support "Blue Envelope" programs, which help law enforcement officers and their families cope with trauma, mental health challenges, and financial hardship resulting from their work. The legislation likely provides funding or establishes guidelines for these peer-support and assistance programs that serve police officers, sheriffs, and other first responders dealing with job-related stress and crisis situations.

Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2026

This bill would renew and update federal funding and programs that help protect tropical forests and coral reefs around the world, likely through grants and partnerships with other countries. The legislation aims to preserve these ecosystems, which support wildlife and provide benefits like carbon storage and protection from storms, while also supporting conservation efforts in developing nations. The bill would affect environmental organizations, international partners, and potentially U.S. taxpayers who fund these conservation programs.

ICE Accountability Act

This bill would establish new oversight and accountability measures for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), likely including requirements for reporting on enforcement actions, detention practices, and civil rights complaints. The legislation would affect ICE operations, immigration detainees, and potentially immigrants and their families by creating stronger mechanisms to monitor how the agency conducts its work. The bill aims to increase transparency and ensure ICE follows proper procedures in its immigration enforcement activities.

Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025

Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025 This act makes several changes to the administration of bankruptcy cases, particularly by increasing amounts received by certain trustees, extending the sunset date of various fees, and extending the term of specified bankruptcy judgeships. (Sec. 3) The act increases the amounts paid out of fees to the trustee in Chapter 7 (liquidation) cases. (Sec. 4) The act extends for an additional five years the fees paid quarterly to the U.S. trustee in Chapter 11 (reorganization) cases. The act also increases the fee percentage for cases with large disbursements, subject to limitations. (Sec. 5) Finally, temporary bankruptcy judgeships in various districts are extended for an additional five years.

NDO Fairness Act of 2026

NDO Fairness Act of 2026 This bill increases the requirements the government must meet to obtain a nondisclosure order (NDO) under the Stored Communications Act (SCA). The SCA generally prohibits providers of remote computing services or electronic communication services (providers) from disclosing stored electronic communications or records (e.g., emails) or information pertaining to customers or subscribers. However, the SCA authorizes the government seek a warrant, order, or subpoena to compel providers to disclose electronic communications or records or information pertaining to customers or subscribers during an investigation. Providers may notify customers and subscribers of the warrant, order, or subpoena unless the government obtains a court order—an NDO—that delays the notification. This bill raises the standard the government must meet to obtain (or extend) an NDO. The bill also requires the court, before issuing an NDO, to issue a written determination that the standard was met based on specific and articulable facts, and to review the underlying warrant, order, or subpoena. The bill requires NDOs to be narrowly tailored. It also limits their duration to 90 days for most investigations, though it permits a duration of up to one year for investigations pertaining to an offense involving child pornography or sexual exploitation of children. Finally, the bill requires the Department of Justice to report annually on NDO-related data, including the number of customers or subscribers targeted; applications for orders; orders granted, extended, or denied; and orders targeting members of the media or conduct related to certain protected activities.

A bill to provide for an extension of the legislative authority of the National Emergency Medical Services Memorial Foundation to establish a commemorative work in the District of Columbia and its environs.

This bill extends the authority of the National Emergency Medical Services Memorial Foundation to establish a commemorative work in the District of Columbia that honors the commitment and service of emergency medical services.

HIRRE Prosecutors Act of 2025

The bill would likely authorize the federal government to hire additional prosecutors to handle criminal cases in federal courts. This would expand the workforce at the Department of Justice to help process more cases and potentially reduce backlogs in the federal criminal justice system, affecting how quickly federal crimes are prosecuted.

EARLY Benefits for Workers Act

The bill would allow workers to receive Social Security benefits earlier than the current minimum age, likely giving people access to retirement payments before they reach the standard eligibility age. This would affect millions of American workers nearing retirement and could provide financial relief to those who need income sooner, though it might result in lower monthly benefit amounts since payments would be spread over a longer period.

A resolution designating October 16, 2025, and October 16, 2026, as "World Food Day".

This resolution designates October 16, 2025, and October 16, 2026, as World Food Day. It also reaffirms the commitment of the United States to combating global food insecurity and malnutrition through humanitarian support and investment in resilient agriculture to improve long-term food security.

Biomanufacturing Excellence Act of 2025

This bill aims to strengthen the U.S. biomanufacturing industry—the production of medicines, vaccines, and biological products—by investing in research, workforce training, and manufacturing facilities. It would help American companies compete globally in biotechnology while reducing dependence on other countries for critical medicines and vaccines. The legislation affects pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, workers entering the biotech field, and patients who depend on these medicines.

A resolution honoring Dr. Jane Goodall and her legacy as an ethologist, conservationist, and activist.

This resolution proclaims April 3, 2025, and April 3, 2026, as Jane Goodall Day and expresses gratitude for her dedication to the well-being of animals, conservation, and the planet as a whole.

A resolution designating the week beginning on October 12, 2025, as "National Wildlife Refuge Week".

This resolution designates the week beginning on October 12, 2025, as National Wildlife Refuge Week. The resolution acknowledges the importance of national wildlife refuges for their recreational opportunities and contribution to local economies. Finally, the resolution reaffirms the support of the Senate for wildlife conservation and the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025

Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act of 2025 This bill makes several changes to the administration of bankruptcy cases, particularly by increasing certain fees, extending the sunset date of various fees, and extending the term of specified bankruptcy judgeships. The bill increases the fees paid to the trustee in Chapter 7 (liquidation) cases. The bill extends for an additional five years the fees paid quarterly to the U.S. trustee in Chapter 11 (reorganization) cases. The bill also increases the fee percentage for cases with large disbursements, subject to limitations. Finally, temporary bankruptcy judgeships in various districts are extended for an additional five years.

Energy Savings and Weatherization Reauthorization Act of 2025

This bill would reauthorize federal programs that help low-income households and buildings reduce energy costs by improving insulation, fixing air leaks, and upgrading heating and cooling systems. The legislation would provide funding and set new rules for weatherization assistance that helps families lower their utility bills while also reducing energy waste. The bill affects low-income households, building owners, and the contractors who perform these energy-saving upgrades.

DISRUPT Act

The DISRUPT Act aims to counter foreign interference and destabilization efforts by authorizing new tools and strategies for the U.S. government to identify, prevent, and respond to activities by hostile nations and non-state actors that threaten American interests abroad. The legislation likely gives federal agencies expanded authority to take diplomatic, economic, or intelligence actions against countries or groups engaged in disinformation campaigns, election interference, or other disruptive operations targeting the United States or its allies. This would affect how the State Department, intelligence agencies, and other federal bodies coordinate their response to foreign threats.

Finding ORE Act

This bill would establish or expand programs to help develop and extract mineral resources, likely including rare earth elements and other materials needed for energy production and technology. The legislation would probably affect mining companies, energy producers, and communities where these resources are located by creating new opportunities or requirements for resource development. The bill aims to increase domestic production of critical minerals that are currently imported from other countries.

ABC-ED Act of 2025

Based on the vague title and health subject matter, this bill likely addresses some combination of health policy, education, or workforce training related to health professions, though the specific details are unclear from the title alone. The bill has just been introduced and sent to the Senate committee responsible for health and education matters for initial review and discussion. Without access to the bill's actual text, the precise impact on patients, healthcare workers, or the health system cannot be determined.

PREVAIL Act

The PREVAIL Act addresses commercial practices, though the specific details of what it would require or prohibit are not clear from the title alone. Based on its referral to the Judiciary Committee, it likely involves regulating business conduct or protecting consumers or workers in some way. The bill is currently under review and has not yet been debated or voted on by Congress.

NO TIME TO Waste Act);

New Opportunities for Technological Innovation, Mitigation, and Education To Overcome Waste Act or the NO TIME TO Waste Act This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reduce U.S. food loss and waste (FLW) through federal coordination, grants, and education. Under the bill, food loss means the food that does not reach a consumer as a result of an issue in the production, storage, processing, or distribution phase. Food waste means that food intended for human consumption is unconsumed for any reason at the retail or consumption phase. The bill requires USDA to collaborate with the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out a December, 17, 2020, agreement to coordinate federal efforts to cut FLW. Further, USDA must establish an Office of Food Loss and Waste to support the existing role of the Food Loss and Waste Liaison. The office must also, among other things, establish a grant program to support collecting data on existing state and local FLW policies (and the office must use the data to establish model policies for state and local governments); a block grant program for states and Indian tribes to develop and support food recovery infrastructure and innovative food distribution models; and a grant program to incentivize state, municipal, local, and tribal governments to establish public-private partnerships that commit to reducing FLW by 50% by 2030. The Office of Food Loss and Waste must also initiate a national FLW education and public awareness campaign.

NO FAKES Act of 2025

This bill would make it illegal to sell counterfeit goods online and establish penalties for people who knowingly traffic in fake products, targeting e-commerce platforms and sellers who profit from selling knockoff items. It aims to protect consumers from purchasing fraudulent merchandise and help legitimate businesses compete fairly by cracking down on the distribution of counterfeit goods through digital marketplaces.

Expanding Partnerships for Innovation and Competitiveness Act

This bill aims to strengthen partnerships between government, universities, and private companies in science and technology fields to help the United States compete globally and drive innovation. It likely includes funding or support for research programs, tech startups, and educational initiatives that prepare workers for jobs in advanced industries like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. The measure would affect researchers, technology companies, students, and communities looking to build stronger local tech economies.

Concrete and Asphalt Innovation Act of 2025

This bill would likely support research and development into more environmentally friendly ways to make and use concrete and asphalt, which are widely used in roads, buildings, and infrastructure projects. The legislation probably aims to reduce the pollution and carbon emissions that come from producing these materials, which are major contributors to climate change. Construction companies, road builders, and environmental groups would be the main stakeholders affected by any new standards or incentives the bill might create.

Stop Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act of 2025

This bill would prevent the federal government from charging tax penalties to Americans who are held hostage abroad and unable to file their taxes or pay what they owe on time. The measure aims to protect hostages and their families from accumulating additional financial burdens during their captivity by temporarily suspending penalties and interest on unpaid taxes until they are released and able to resume normal financial obligations.