Search Results for keywords:"department of state"

Search Results: keywords:"department of state"

H. R. 8362 — To direct the Secretary of State to host regular U.S.-Africa Leaders Summits, and for other purposes.
May 10, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:441
H.R. 8362 directs the Secretary of State to organize U.S.-Africa Leaders Summits every four years or more often if needed, to strengthen relationships with African leaders and various community groups. The bill also proposes a "Mini Summit" between cities in Africa and the...
Simple Explanation
The bill is like planning a big playdate where leaders from the U.S. and Africa meet every few years to talk and have fun together, and they can have smaller playdates in between. It says who is in charge of organizing these playdates, but it doesn't clearly say where the money will come from or how they will know if the playdates are good or helpful.
S. 4475 — To establish a Special Envoy for Sudan, and for other purposes.
June 05, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:625
S. 4475 aims to establish a Special Envoy for Sudan within the Department of State. The envoy will focus on diplomatic efforts to help resolve the crisis in Sudan, including ending the conflict, facilitating humanitarian aid, and promoting national recovery and democratic...
Simple Explanation
In 2024, the Senate talked about sending a special helper, called a Special Envoy, to Sudan to try to help them stop fighting, get more food and supplies to people who need it, and work towards making the country peaceful and democratic again. This helper will talk with different government teams and share updates regularly for five years.
H. R. 8712 — To authorize the establishment in the Department of State of a Negotiations Support Unit, and for other purposes.
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June 12, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:696
H.R. 8712 aims to create a Negotiations Support Unit within the Department of State. This unit would provide expertise and advice on negotiations, mediation, and peace processes, ensuring the U.S. can effectively participate in and support such efforts worldwide. The bill...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to create a team of experts in the State Department who are really good at making deals and helping people make peace. It plans to use $5 million to set this up and make sure U.S. diplomats can work well with others around the world.
H. R. 10044 — To establish the Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States, and for other purposes.
October 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:848
H.R. 10044, titled the "African Diaspora Council Act," proposes the creation of an Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement within the Department of State. This council will consist of up to 12 members who represent the African American and African immigrant...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to create a special group of people who will help the U.S. government make friends and work better with people from African backgrounds living in America. This group will give advice to help everyone learn from each other and create more opportunities.
H. RES. 1476 — Encouraging the Department of State and civil society to further the Abraham Accords by encouraging peace and tolerance in education.
September 19, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:356
H. RES. 1476 encourages the United States Department of State and civil society to promote peace and acceptance through education as part of the Abraham Accords. The resolution supports expanding these accords to other nations and encourages reforms in educational systems...
Simple Explanation
The bill encourages grown-ups in charge, like the U.S. Department of State, to work with people worldwide to teach kids to be nice and get along instead of fighting or using mean words, especially in schools. They want everyone to help spread this idea and make sure when countries make friends, it's really helpful and safe for everyone.
H. R. 8036 — Making emergency supplemental appropriations for assistance for the Indo-Pacific region and for related expenses for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes.
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April 17, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:3,112
H. R. 8036 is a bill aimed at providing emergency supplemental appropriations for the Indo-Pacific region for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. It allocates funds to various sectors including the Department of Defense, the Department of State, and international...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 8036 is a plan by Congress to spend a lot of money helping countries in Asia feel safer and stronger, mainly by giving more money to the military and improving submarine factories.
S. 4863 — To require an annual report on the unfunded programs, activities, and mission requirements within the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development.
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July 30, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:958
S. 4863 requires that each year the Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator report to specific congressional committees about programs or activities that lack funding but are necessary for achieving foreign policy or national security objectives. The bill highlights an...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants the government to make a list every year of important jobs they can't afford to do to help keep America safe and strong, and it also asks for more money to hire the people needed for these jobs.
H. R. 7217 — Making emergency supplemental appropriations to respond to the attacks in Israel for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, and for other purposes.
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February 05, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:3,775
H.R. 7217, titled the "Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024," is a bill to provide emergency supplemental funding for the United States' response to attacks in Israel. This bill allocates additional funds for the Department of Defense, the Department of State, and other...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 7217 is a plan from the government to send more money and help to Israel because of some attacks there, making sure the military and other helpers have what they need to get the job done quickly and safely.
H. R. 7263 — To authorize amounts collected in certain visa fees to be made available to reduce visa wait times, and for other purposes.
February 06, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:781
H. R. 7263 aims to improve the efficiency of the visa application process by allowing certain fees collected from visa applicants to be used to reduce visa wait times. The bill authorizes the use of these fee funds for general consular services, including protecting U.S....
Simple Explanation
H. R. 7263 wants to make waiting for a visa faster by using money from visa fees to help speed up the process and make sure most people are interviewed quickly.
S. 5377 — To develop a strategy for increasing access to independent information for Chinese citizens, to establish an interagency task force to carry out such strategy, and for other purposes.
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November 21, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:6,247
S. 5377 aims to create a strategy to increase access to independent information for citizens in China. The bill proposes forming an interagency task force to execute this strategy, as well as establishing a Global News Service to distribute content globally. It seeks to...
Simple Explanation
S. 5377 is a bill that wants to help people in China get more information from all around the world without their government blocking it. It plans to use a lot of money to create new ways to share news and asks different parts of the government to work together, but some people worry it might be a little confusing and wasteful.
H. R. 8368 — An Act To establish a Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts in the Department of State, and for other purposes.
November 20, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:649
H.R. 8368 aims to establish a Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts within the Department of State. The Coordinator will oversee the relocation and resettlement of eligible Afghan allies and help U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who wish to leave Afghanistan....
Simple Explanation
H.R. 8368 wants to create a special helper in the U.S. government to organize moving and helping people from Afghanistan who have worked with the U.S., and also help Americans who want to leave Afghanistan. This helper will make sure everything goes smoothly by working with different parts of the government for three years.
H. R. 8368 — An Act To establish a Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts in the Department of State, and for other purposes.
November 21, 2024
Status:Referred in Senate
Congress:118
Words:641
H.R. 8368 is a bill that seeks to establish a Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts within the Department of State. The Coordinator's primary responsibilities include helping relocate and resettle eligible Afghan allies and supporting U.S. citizens and lawful permanent...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 8368 is a plan to help move and settle friends from Afghanistan and any Americans who want to leave. It puts someone in charge to make sure everything goes smoothly for three years.
S. 2414 — An Act To require agencies with working dog programs to implement the recommendations of the Government Accountability Office relating to the health and welfare of working dogs, and for other purposes.
December 18, 2024
Status:Enrolled Bill
Congress:118
Words:550
S. 2414, the "Working Dog Health and Welfare Act of 2023," mandates that U.S. federal agencies with working dog programs follow specific recommendations from a Government Accountability Office report to improve the health and welfare of these dogs. Agencies and their...
Simple Explanation
The Working Dog Health and Welfare Act of 2023 is a rule that says U.S. government programs with helper dogs must take care of them better. They have to follow special advice from a report, but they won't get extra money to do it.
S. 4377 — To require U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to facilitate naturalization services for noncitizen veterans who have been removed from the United States or are inadmissible.
May 21, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:1,105
S. 4377 aims to assist noncitizen veterans in becoming naturalized U.S. citizens, even if they have been removed from or are inadmissible to the country. The bill directs the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to provide naturalization services such as exams, biometric...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to help veterans who aren't U.S. citizens become citizens, even if they had to leave the U.S. before. It tells the government to make it easier for these veterans to do the paperwork and take the tests they need, even if it means doing it at places like airports or embassies.
H. R. 9434 — To direct the heads of certain agencies to review and submit to Congress a report on public-private partnerships for combating the illicit fentanyl trade, and for other purposes.
August 30, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:489
H. R. 9434 requires certain federal agencies to analyze and report to Congress on their public-private partnerships aimed at combating the illegal fentanyl trade. The agencies, including the Department of State, Department of Defense, and the United States Postal Service,...
Simple Explanation
This bill asks certain government groups, like the Department of State and the Postal Service, to check how well they're working with businesses to stop illegal fentanyl. They have to write reports about this and share them with Congress regularly.
H. R. 10281 — To promote United States leadership in technical standards by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of State to take certain actions to encourage and enable United States participation in developing standards and specifications for artificial intelligence and other critical and emerging technologies, and for other purposes.
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December 04, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:1,915
H.R. 10281 is a bill aiming to strengthen U.S. leadership in creating technical standards for artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. It directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of State to support U.S. industry in participating in the...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 10281 is a bill that wants the United States to be a leader in making rules for new technologies like robots and smart devices. It tells special groups to help organize meetings and share information, so more people from the U.S. can join in and have their say in these important decisions.
H. RES. 1108 — Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives in support of science diplomacy, and for other purposes.
March 26, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:284
H. RES. 1108 expresses the House of Representatives' support for science diplomacy, which uses international scientific collaboration to tackle global challenges and build partnerships. The resolution highlights the importance of international scientific engagement in...
Simple Explanation
The bill talks about how people in charge want to work with other countries using science to solve big problems together, like making everyone safer and healthier. They want special smart helpers in the government to think about the future, give advice, and train more people to understand science.
H. R. 6610 — An Act To provide for the modernization of the passport issuance process, and for other purposes.
March 19, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:3,741
H.R. 6610, titled the "Passport System Reform and Backlog Prevention Act," is intended to improve the passport issuance process in the United States. The bill focuses on reducing wait times, modernizing technology, and enhancing security and customer service. It mandates that...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 6610 is a plan to make getting a passport faster and easier by using new technology to reduce wait times and improve security. It also asks for regular updates to see how well the changes are working and to make sure everyone's information is kept safe.
H. R. 7047 — To prohibit funding for the World Economic Forum.
January 18, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:174
H. R. 7047, also known as the “Defund Davos Act,” seeks to stop the use of U.S. government funds for supporting the World Economic Forum. Introduced by Mr. Perry and others, the bill states that no money from the Department of State, the United States Agency for International...
Simple Explanation
H. R. 7047, also called the “Defund Davos Act,” is a bill that wants to stop the U.S. government from spending any money on the World Economic Forum, which is a big meeting where people from all over the world discuss important issues.
H. R. 9729 — To require the Department of State to improve its emergency response system and planning.
September 20, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:4,641
H.R. 9729 aims to enhance the Department of State's emergency response preparedness and management. The bill mandates the creation of a Crisis Management and Strategy Unit and regular tabletop exercises to simulate real-world crisis scenarios. It also establishes a Department...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 9729 is a plan to help the Department of State be ready for emergencies by setting up new teams and practice activities, so they can better protect people and handle problems when they happen.
S. 5382 — To require nominees for certain senior positions in the Department of Defense, the Department of State, the Department of the Treasury, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to publicly disclose information about recent financial transactions with foreign governments.
November 21, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:1,244
S. 5382 requires individuals nominated for senior positions in the Department of Defense, Department of State, Department of the Treasury, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to publicly disclose information about their financial dealings with foreign...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants people who are chosen for important jobs in different government offices to tell everyone if they've made money from other countries in the last five years. This helps people know who might be influenced by other countries.
S. 3809 — To require electronic medical records at the Department of State for Foreign Service personnel.
February 27, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:643
S. 3809 aims to ensure that Foreign Service personnel at the Department of State have electronic medical records. This bill highlights the importance of having electronic records to improve accessibility to critical health information, particularly in remote locations and for...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to make sure all the health records for people working in the Foreign Service for the Department of State are stored electronically by the end of 2027, so they can easily access their health information even if they’re far away. It also asks for progress updates every six months to make sure everything is going as planned.
H. R. 4039 — An Act To prohibit the use of funds supporting any activities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China.
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February 13, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:643
H.R. 4039, titled the "No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act," aims to stop U.S. government funding from being used to support any activities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. The bill specifically prohibits funds available to the Department of State or the United States...
Simple Explanation
The No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act is a rule that stops the U.S. government from spending money on things made in a part of China called Xinjiang, where people may be treated unfairly. The rule also lets a boss say it's okay to spend the money if they're sure nothing from Xinjiang is used and they tell other grown-ups in charge 15 days before.
H. R. 6798 — To provide internet at residences owned or leased by the United States Government in foreign countries for the use of Department of State personnel, and for other purposes.
December 14, 2023
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:288
H. R. 6798, introduced in the 118th Congress, seeks to provide internet services at residences owned or leased by the United States Government in foreign countries for the benefit of Department of State personnel. The bill amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to help people from the U.S. who work in other countries by giving them internet at their homes if the place they work is extra tough and they get paid a bit more for it. But, only some workers will get this internet help, and the rules about how much money should be spent aren't clear yet.
H. R. 10224 — To require nominees for certain senior positions in the Department of Defense, the Department of State, the Department of the Treasury, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to publicly disclose information about recent financial transactions with foreign governments.
November 21, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:1,609
H.R. 10224 is a proposed law that would require people nominated for high-level positions in the U.S. Departments of Defense, State, Treasury, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to publicly share details about any financial transactions they have had with...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 10224 wants people who might get big jobs in the U.S. government to tell everyone if they got money or did jobs for other countries recently, so that everyone can know who they're connected to.
H. R. 7245 — To provide supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2024, and for other purposes.
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February 06, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:8,663
H.R. 7245 provides supplemental funding for fiscal year 2024 primarily to support the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of State. The funds address a variety of needs including...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 7245 is a plan to give extra money to help with important work like supporting the army, helping people who had to leave their homes, and giving aid to other countries in need. But some parts of the plan have people worried about making sure the money is used wisely and not wasted.
S. 5281 — To amend the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 to require the President to automatically waive certain critical document fees for individuals and households affected by major disasters for which assistance is provided under the Individuals and Households Program.
September 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:641
S. 5281, also known as the “Replacing Essential Passports and Licenses After Certain Emergencies Act” or the “REPLACE Act,” proposes an amendment to the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018. This amendment requires the President to automatically waive fees for critical...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to help people who lost important papers, like passports or licenses, in a big disaster by letting them get new ones for free. It also asks some government offices to tell everyone about this help and to tell Congress each year how many people they helped.
H. RES. 1316 — Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8774) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8771) making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8752) making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes.
June 26, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:2,403
House Resolution 1316 facilitates the consideration of three appropriation bills for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. The bills covered are H.R. 8774 for the Department of Defense, H.R. 8771 for the Department of State and foreign operations, and H.R. 8752 for the Department of...
Simple Explanation
House Resolution 1316 is like a set of rules for how grown-ups in Congress talk about and change some big spending plans for the army, helping other countries, and keeping everyone safe at home. It also says that one of these plans can't move to the next step until another important rule becomes official.
S. 4517 — To authorize the establishment of a Negotiations Support Unit in the Department of State, and for other purposes.
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June 12, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:705
S. 4517 aims to create a Negotiations Support Unit within the Department of State. This unit will provide expertise, advice, and training on negotiations and peace processes to enhance U.S. diplomacy efforts. It will support key officials in complex political negotiations and...
Simple Explanation
S. 4517 is a plan to start a special team in the Department of State to help the U.S. with talking and making peace with other countries, and it will cost $5 million to get it going.
S. 4819 — To require an annual report on the unfunded programs, activities, and mission requirements within the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development.
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July 29, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:958
S. 4819, known as the “Fully Funding our National Security Priorities Act,” requires the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to submit an annual report detailing unfunded programs and activities essential for fulfilling...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants the Department of State and another agency to make a list every year of the important things they need money for but don't have enough. This list will help decide which things should get extra money to keep the country safe and strong.
H. R. 7089 — An Act To authorize the Diplomatic Security Services of the Department of State to investigate allegations of violations of conduct constituting offenses under chapter 77 of title 18, United States Code, and for other purposes.
September 10, 2024
Status:Referred in Senate
Congress:118
Words:603
H.R. 7089 is a bill titled the "Global Anti-Human Trafficking Enhancement Act." It aims to give the Diplomatic Security Services of the Department of State the authority to investigate human trafficking offenses that occur partly outside the United States or involve foreign...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 7089 is a bill that wants to let a special group called the Diplomatic Security Services help catch and investigate people involved in human trafficking, even if it happens partly outside the United States. They also have to tell everyone how well this is working every year for a while, but the new rules go away after seven years.
S. 3849 — To promote United States leadership in technical standards by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of State to take certain actions to encourage and enable United States participation in developing standards and specifications for artificial intelligence and other critical and emerging technologies, and for other purposes.
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February 29, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:1,869
The proposed bill, S. 3849, aims to enhance U.S. leadership in setting technical standards, especially for artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. It directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of State to identify and...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to help the United States be a leader in creating important rules for things like computers and robots. It asks some government groups to help share information and have meetings to talk about these rules, and they have some money to do this between 2024 and 2028.
S. RES. 569 — Recognizing religious freedom as a fundamental right, expressing support for international religious freedom as a cornerstone of United States foreign policy, and expressing concern over increased threats to and attacks on religious freedom around the world.
February 29, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:534
The resolution, S. RES. 569, acknowledges religious freedom as a fundamental human right and emphasizes its critical role in supporting democracy, governance, and global stability. It expresses serious concern over global threats to religious freedom, such as harassment,...
Simple Explanation
The bill says that people in all countries should be free to believe in any religion they want and should not be hurt for it. It asks the United States to help protect this right and to work with other countries to keep everyone safe in their religious practices.
H. R. 10040 — To amend section 7342 of title 5, United States Code, to require agencies to submit to the Office of Government Ethics and the Department of State the compiled listing of certain statements relating to the receipt and disposition of foreign gifts and decorations, and for other purposes.
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October 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:1,665
The Gift Accountability, Reporting, and Disclosures Act (GARD Act) proposes changes to existing U.S. law regarding how federal agencies and politicians handle foreign gifts and decorations. It requires agencies to submit a detailed list of received gifts to both the Office of...
Simple Explanation
The GARD Act is about making sure government workers tell the right people when they get gifts from other countries, and they have to be quick or else they might have to pay a fine. It also says that everyone should be able to see a list of these gifts, but it could be tricky and expensive for some agencies to set all this up.
H. RES. 1316 — Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8774) making appropriations for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8771) making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8752) making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes.
June 25, 2024
Status:Reported in House
Congress:118
Words:2,766
H. RES. 1316 sets forth the procedures for the U.S. House of Representatives to consider three major appropriation bills for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. These bills include funding for the Department of Defense (H.R. 8774), Department of State, foreign...
Simple Explanation
The House of Representatives is setting rules to talk about and possibly change three important money plans for defense, helping other countries, and security in the U.S., for the year ending in 2025. These rules will help decide how long they can talk, what changes can be made, and how they should vote on these plans.
S. 3820 — To modernize diplomatic security, and for other purposes.
February 28, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:2,294
The Diplomatic Security Modernization Act aims to update various aspects of diplomatic security within the U.S. Department of State. It includes provisions for improving the organizational structure and management of the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, expanding authorities...
Simple Explanation
The Diplomatic Security Modernization Act is like a big instruction manual for making sure the people who protect America's diplomats are ready for new challenges, like fighting cybercrime and helping people who have been hurt. It also talks about using rewards to catch bigger bad guys, like cyber criminals, and finding better ways for these protectors to manage their work time.
H. R. 4039 — An Act To prohibit the use of funds supporting any activities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China.
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February 26, 2024
Status:Referred in Senate
Congress:118
Words:631
H.R. 4039, titled the "No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act," aims to prevent the use of U.S. government funds for activities involving goods from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China. The bill prohibits funding from the Department of State or USAID from supporting...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 4039 wants to make sure that the U.S. doesn't use taxpayer money to buy stuff from a part of China called Xinjiang because there's a worry people there are being forced to work without being paid fairly.
H. R. 8824 — To require the Secretary of State to develop a strategy to strengthen United States-European nuclear energy cooperation and combat Russian malign influence in the nuclear energy sector in Europe.
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June 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:1,814
H. R. 8824 aims to improve cooperation between the United States and Europe in the field of nuclear energy while countering Russian influence in this sector. It requires the Secretary of State to develop a strategy that enhances U.S.-European collaboration on nuclear...
Simple Explanation
The bill is about making friends between the U.S. and Europe to share and use nuclear power safely, while also making sure Russia isn't being a sneaky troublemaker. It plans to spend a bunch of money each year to help teach and support Europe's good nuclear energy use.
H. R. 6950 — To require agencies with working dog programs to implement the recommendations of the Government Accountability Office relating to the health and welfare of working dogs, and for other purposes.
January 10, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:722
H.R. 6950, also known as the “Working Dog Health and Welfare Act of 2024,” seeks to ensure that all U.S. government agencies with working dog programs follow recommendations from the Government Accountability Office to improve the health and welfare of these dogs. This...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 6950 is a proposal to make sure that dogs working for the government are healthy and treated well, by following special advice and rules. It also wants to make sure that when the government gives these dogs to other countries, those countries treat the dogs nicely too.
H. R. 10102 — To sunset the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, to provide that employees of the Office are eligible for the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program, and for other purposes.
November 08, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:520
H. R. 10102 aims to close the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction by January 31, 2026. Employees of this Office will be eligible for the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program to help them find new government jobs. Any leftover...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to stop a special office that checks on building projects in Afghanistan. It also helps people who work there find new government jobs and plans what to do with any leftover money.
S. 4202 — To require the Department of State to create and implement a process for better supporting new diplomatic missions.
April 23, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:1,346
S. 4202, titled the “Embassy in a Box Act of 2024,” requires the Department of State to create a more efficient process for establishing new diplomatic missions. The bill emphasizes the need for the U.S. to increase its diplomatic presence, especially in strategic locations...
Simple Explanation
The Embassy in a Box Act of 2024 is about making it easier and faster for the U.S. to set up new places for diplomats to work around the world, especially in small countries, so they can keep up with other countries like China. It asks the State Department to plan better, use new safety rules, and let a special person lead the project, but there are some worries about how much it will cost, how the plan will work, and if it will be fair and efficient.
H. R. 6610 — An Act To provide for the modernization of the passport issuance process, and for other purposes.
March 20, 2024
Status:Referred in Senate
Congress:118
Words:3,718
H.R. 6610, also known as the "Passport System Reform and Backlog Prevention Act," aims to modernize and enhance the passport issuance process in the United States. The bill outlines strategies to reduce wait times for passport applications, improve technology systems, and...
Simple Explanation
The bill is about making it faster and safer to get a passport. It wants to use better technology to help people know what's happening with their passport applications and make sure everything stays secure.
H. R. 7493 — Making emergency supplemental appropriations to the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security to provide assistance to Israel, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific region, and for other purposes.
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February 29, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:5,440
H.R. 7493, also known as the "Strategic Humanitarian Investments to Ensure Lasting Democracies Act" or the "SHIELD Act," seeks to make emergency supplemental appropriations for the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security. It aims to provide financial aid to Israel,...
Simple Explanation
The SHIELD Act is a plan by the U.S. government to give extra money to help other countries like Israel and Ukraine with things like food, safety, and military support, but there are worries about whether all the money will be used properly and fairly.
S. 5404 — To direct the Secretary of State to host regular Summits of the Americas, and for other purposes.
November 21, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:689
S. 5404 directs the Secretary of State to host regular Summits of the Americas to strengthen ties and promote cooperation between the United States and countries in the Western Hemisphere. The bill authorizes organizing a Summit of the Americas every four years, or more often...
Simple Explanation
The bill tells the Secretary of State to have regular meetings with other countries in the Americas to be friends and work together better. These meetings will happen every four years, and the Secretary of State will prepare a report each year to show how things are going.
S. 3849 — To promote United States leadership in technical standards by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Department of State to take certain actions to encourage and enable United States participation in developing standards and specifications for artificial intelligence and other critical and emerging technologies, and for other purposes.
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August 01, 2024
Status:Reported to Senate
Congress:118
Words:3,712
S. 3849, titled the "Promoting United States Leadership in Standards Act of 2024," aims to bolster U.S. involvement in developing standards for artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. The bill directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to help the United States be a leader in creating rules for new technologies like robots and computers, by giving $10 million to make meetings and a website to help people join in the rule-making. It also wants to make sure everything is fair and that the money is spent wisely.
H. RES. 1246 — Condemning the Department of State’s statement expressing condolences for the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, and other members of their delegation.
May 21, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:193
H. RES. 1246 is a resolution from the U.S. House of Representatives that condemns the Department of State for issuing a statement of condolences after the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and other officials in a helicopter crash. The resolution outlines the reasons...
Simple Explanation
The U.S. House of Representatives made a resolution saying they are upset with the Department of State for saying "sorry" that a leader from Iran, who did many bad things, died in a helicopter crash. They think he was not a nice person, so they shouldn't have said sorry.
H. R. 8550 — To provide for the prohibition on the use of United States passports for travel to, in, or through the Turks and Caicos Islands.
May 23, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:254
H. R. 8550 aims to temporarily prohibit the use of United States passports for travel to, in, or through the Turks and Caicos Islands. This law would make US passports invalid for such travel starting 60 days after the law is enacted and could initially last for up to 90...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to make a new rule that says people with a United States passport can't travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands for a little while, and the person in charge of passports can decide to keep this rule going if they think it's needed.
H. R. 5179 — An Act To require the maintenance of the country of origin markings for imported goods produced in the West Bank or Gaza, and for other purposes.
September 18, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:393
H.R. 5179, known as the "Anti-BDS Labeling Act," requires that the existing U.S. policy on the country of origin markings for imported goods produced in the West Bank or Gaza remains unchanged unless repealed by Congress. The bill also prohibits the use of federal funds by...
Simple Explanation
The bill wants to keep the rule the same for how products from the West Bank or Gaza are labeled, saying where they come from, and it won't let the government spend money to change that rule, unless Congress says so.
H. R. 7089 — To authorize the Diplomatic Security Services of the Department of State to investigate allegations of violations of conduct constituting offenses under chapter 77 of title 18, United States Code, and for other purposes.
January 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:347
H.R. 7089, also known as the “Global Anti-Human Trafficking Enhancement Act,” allows the Diplomatic Security Services of the Department of State to investigate international human trafficking cases, especially those involving foreign nationals or crimes committed outside of...
Simple Explanation
The bill lets a special group of people in charge of security for the U.S. government check out cases where people are being hurt and moved from one place to another, like a bad kind of travel, especially if these happen in other countries.
H. R. 7089 — An Act To authorize the Diplomatic Security Services of the Department of State to investigate allegations of violations of conduct constituting offenses under chapter 77 of title 18, United States Code, and for other purposes.
September 09, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:628
The Global Anti-Human Trafficking Enhancement Act authorizes the Diplomatic Security Services of the U.S. Department of State to investigate human trafficking and related offenses that occur partially outside the United States or involve foreign nationals. It expands the...
Simple Explanation
The Global Anti-Human Trafficking Enhancement Act lets special police at the U.S. Department of State help catch bad guys who do human trafficking, even if it happens in different countries or involves people from other countries. It lasts for seven years, and then it stops.
H. R. 8368 — To establish a Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts in the Department of State, and for other purposes.
May 10, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:657
H.R. 8368 aims to create a position called the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts within the Department of State. The Coordinator's responsibilities include relocating and resettling eligible Afghan allies and helping U.S. citizens and permanent residents who request...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 8368 wants to make sure that people in the U.S. government help friends from Afghanistan find new homes safely. A special person will be in charge, and they can hire helpers and use money from other government places to do this, but their job will only last for three years.
H. R. 9524 — To enhance subnational diplomacy efforts within the Department of State, and for other purposes.
September 10, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:355
H.R. 9524 is a proposed law aimed at enhancing subnational diplomacy efforts in the United States. The bill authorizes the State Department to assist state, county, and city officials in engaging in international activities that align with U.S. foreign policy interests, such...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 9524 is a plan to help state and city leaders in the U.S. work better with people in other countries by giving them support and money to join global meetings and host events that match America's interests. The bill would let U.S. officials help local governments build better services and meet foreign policy goals with new projects and partnerships.
H. R. 1157 — An Act To provide for the authorization of appropriations for the Countering the People’s Republic of China Malign Influence Fund, and for other purposes.
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September 09, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:1,573
H.R. 1157, also known as the "Countering the PRC Malign Influence Fund Authorization Act of 2023," authorizes $325 million annually from 2023 to 2027 to counteract negative influences from the Chinese Communist Party. The funds aim to disrupt activities undermining international order,...
Simple Explanation
The bill lets the government spend a lot of money every year to help stop bad things that another country might do, like spreading lies or being unfair. It plans to have a special helper to manage this, but doesn't have clear rules about what they need to be good at, and there's no exact way to tell if the money is being used well.
H. R. 9846 — To amend the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 to require the President to automatically waive certain critical document fees for individuals and households affected by major disasters for which assistance is provided under the Individuals and Households Program.
September 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:635
H.R. 9846, known as the “REPLACE Act”, aims to change the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018. This bill requires the President to automatically waive certain fees for critical documents that are lost or destroyed in major disasters. These waivers are available to...
Simple Explanation
If a big disaster happens and people lose important papers, this bill says the President has to make it free to get new ones, so they don't have to pay to replace them.
S. 4647 — To require the transfer of regulatory control of certain munitions exports from the Department of Commerce to the Department of State, and for other purposes.
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July 09, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:6,527
S. 4647 aims to transfer the regulatory control over certain munitions exports from the Department of Commerce to the Department of State. The bill highlights concerns about the illegal export and trafficking of firearms from the United States to countries like Mexico and...
Simple Explanation
The bill asks for a change in who oversees the export of certain weapons from the U.S., moving this job from one government department to another, to help stop illegal gun shipments to places where bad things happen because of too many guns.
S. 2626 — To impose sanctions with respect to the Supreme Leader of Iran and the President of Iran and their respective offices for human rights abuses and support for terrorism.
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May 07, 2024
Status:Reported to Senate
Congress:118
Words:6,609
S. 2626, known as the "Mahsa Amini Human Rights and Security Accountability Act" or the "MAHSA Act," is a proposed law aiming to impose sanctions on the Supreme Leader and President of Iran, as well as their offices, for human rights violations and supporting terrorism. It...
Simple Explanation
The MAHSA Act is a plan that wants to punish important people in Iran by making rules, called sanctions, if they do mean things like hurting people or helping bad guys. It also talks about giving $15 million to make sure these rules are followed properly.
S. 5344 — To provide for international protection of digital freedom, and for other purposes.
November 19, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:904
S. 5344 aims to protect digital freedom internationally. It establishes the role of the Coordinator for Digital Freedom within the U.S. Department of State to promote and protect digital rights globally, advocate for democratic use of technology, and combat digital...
Simple Explanation
S. 5344 is a plan to help people all over the world use the internet safely and fairly. It wants to make sure that the U.S. works to protect everyone's right to digital freedom, like letting people use the internet to share ideas and learn without anyone trying to control or block them.
S. 4279 — To require the Department of State and the Department of Defense to engage with the Government of Japan regarding areas of cooperation within the Pillar Two framework of the AUKUS partnership, and for other purposes.
May 08, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:1,667
S. 4279 aims to strengthen US cooperation with Japan within the AUKUS partnership's Pillar Two framework, focusing on advanced technologies such as cyber and space capabilities. It requires US officials to engage with Japan to explore areas of mutual interest and assess...
Simple Explanation
S. 4279 is about the United States working together with Japan on smart tech projects, like space and computer stuff, with two other countries, the UK and Australia, to make sure they all play well together and share ideas. They also want a report to check how well this teamwork is going.
H. R. 7586 — To establish a Department of State Domestic Protection Mission relating to unmanned aircraft system and unmanned aircraft.
March 07, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:3,125
H.R. 7586 proposes to establish a Department of State mission focused on protecting against threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to certain facilities and assets in the U.S. The bill gives the Secretary of State authority to track, disable, or seize these drones...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 7586 is a plan to let the U.S. Department of State watch and stop flying robots, like drones, from causing trouble at important places, while making sure they play nicely with other flying things and respect people's privacy.
H. RES. 1589 — Advancing racial justice and the global rights of people of African descent in the next decade.
November 20, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:405
H. RES. 1589 seeks to advance racial justice and support the rights of people of African descent globally. The resolution acknowledges the approaching end of the United Nations' decade-long initiative focused on this cause, and it emphasizes the need for continued effort into...
Simple Explanation
The resolution says that people should work together around the world to make life fairer and better for people of African descent, by tackling problems like unfairness in justice and education. It also wants the United States to help stop racism everywhere, so everyone can have a happy and equal life.
S. 5190 — To prohibit the procurement of certain batteries by the Department of State.
September 25, 2024
Status:Introduced in Senate
Congress:118
Words:437
S. 5190, known as the “Blocking Bad Batteries Act,” seeks to prevent the Department of State from using funds to purchase batteries from certain companies starting October 1, 2027. The companies listed are Contemporary Amperex Technology Company, BYD Company, Envision Energy,...
Simple Explanation
S. 5190, the "Blocking Bad Batteries Act," is a plan to stop the U.S. Department of State from buying batteries from some specific companies, starting in 2027, unless there's a super important reason to do so.
H. R. 8771 — An Act Making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, and for other purposes.
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June 28, 2024
Status:Engrossed in House
Congress:118
Words:63,595
The bill, H.R. 8771, provides funding for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. It allocates budget resources to various international efforts, including global health programs, economic and military aid, humanitarian...
Simple Explanation
The bill is about giving money to help other countries and do special projects around the world, like health programs and helping people in need, but it also says certain things can't get money, like teams that help with the weather and special cultural events. Some people worry it gives too much money to certain countries for military use or doesn't help with important things like keeping the planet healthy and fair.
H. R. 9677 — To clarify the Department of State’s exclusive regulatory authority over the au pair cultural exchange program, and for other purposes.
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September 19, 2024
Status:Introduced in House
Congress:118
Words:986
H.R. 9677, titled the "Modernize the Au Pair Program Act of 2024," seeks to clearly establish that the Department of State has the sole authority to regulate the au pair cultural exchange program in the United States. The bill prohibits states and their subdivisions from...
Simple Explanation
H.R. 9677 is a plan to make sure only the big boss, the U.S. government, can make rules about au pairs, who are like special babysitters from other countries, and they want to make these rules fair and helpful for everyone, like families with different work hours.

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