Cortez Masto, Catherine [D-NV]
Democrat · NV · 72 bills sponsored
A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to restore treatment of State and local bonds which are guaranteed by a Federal home loan bank as not federally guaranteed for purposes of determining their tax-exempt status.
# Bill Summary: S 3941 - State and Local Bond Tax-Exempt Status **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would change how the federal government treats certain state and local bonds (loans that cities and states issue to raise money) that are backed by Federal Home Loan Banks. Currently, these bonds are classified as "federally guaranteed," which affects their tax status. The bill would reclassify them so they're treated as if they were *not* federally guaranteed. This distinction matters because it affects whether the interest earned on these bonds is taxed at the federal level. **Who It Affects** The primary beneficiaries would be state and local governments that issue bonds through Federal Home Loan Banks, as well as investors who buy these bonds. By restoring tax-exempt status, the bill could make these bonds more attractive to investors (since earnings wouldn't be federally taxed), potentially making it cheaper for states and municipalities to borrow money for housing and infrastructure projects. **Current Status** S 3941 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada).
Santini-Burton Modernization Act of 2026
# Santini-Burton Modernization Act of 2026 Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Santini-Burton Modernization Act of 2026 would update federal land management policies affecting California and Nevada. The bill focuses on land transfers and conservation issues between the federal government and these states, modernizing what appears to be a previous agreement or law (the original Santini-Burton legislation). While specific details aren't publicly available in this summary, the bill addresses how federal lands are managed and potentially transferred to state or local control. **Who It Affects:** This legislation primarily impacts residents, governments, and land users in California and Nevada. It would affect federal land management agencies, state governments, local communities, conservationists, and anyone with interests in public lands in these states—including ranchers, outdoor recreationists, and environmental groups. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (S 3695) is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada). The bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process and would require committee approval and floor votes before becoming law. *Note: More detailed provisions would require access to the full bill text, which wasn't provided in the source information.*
Ruby Mountains Protection Act
# Ruby Mountains Protection Act Summary The Ruby Mountains Protection Act (S 1349) would designate approximately 350,000 acres of public land in northeastern Nevada as protected wilderness and establish new wild and scenic river designations in the Ruby Mountains region. If passed, the bill would prohibit mining, oil and gas drilling, and most commercial development on these federally-owned lands, while allowing hunting, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor recreation to continue. The legislation also aims to protect wildlife habitats and water resources in the area. The bill primarily affects Nevada residents and outdoor enthusiasts who use the Ruby Mountains for recreation, as well as mining and energy companies with interests in the region. Environmental groups generally support the measure as a conservation effort, while some local stakeholders have expressed concerns about potential economic impacts from restricting resource development. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. No action has been taken since its introduction.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Internal Revenue Service relating to "Beginning of Construction Requirements for Purposes of the Termination of Clean Electricity Production Credits and Clean Electricity Investment Credits for Applicable Wind and Solar Facilities".
# Bill Summary: SJRES 107 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would block an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rule about tax credits for wind and solar energy projects. Specifically, it targets IRS regulations defining when construction must "begin" on renewable energy facilities to qualify for federal tax credits. If passed, the bill would overturn the IRS rule, effectively rejecting the agency's interpretation of when projects become eligible for these tax incentives. **Who It Affects** The rule primarily impacts developers and companies building wind and solar power projects, as it determines whether their facilities qualify for valuable federal tax credits established to encourage clean energy development. The decision also affects consumers and the energy market, since tax credits influence which renewable energy projects get built. **Current Status and Key Details** The bill was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. This type of resolution uses a congressional procedure called the "Congressional Review Act," which allows Congress to disapprove of federal agency rules within a limited timeframe.
Mining Regulatory Clarity Act
# Mining Regulatory Clarity Act - Plain Language Summary **What the bill does:** This bill would make it easier for mining companies to use federal lands for mining-related activities like waste disposal, even if those lands don't contain valuable minerals themselves. It also creates a new federal fund to help clean up abandoned hardrock mines. The bill is a response to a 2022 court decision (involving the Rosemont Copper Mine in Arizona) that restricted where mining companies could dispose of waste on public lands. **Who it affects:** The primary beneficiaries would be mining operators and companies, who would gain more flexibility in where they can locate waste disposal sites. Environmental advocates and conservation groups may have concerns about the bill's potential impact on public lands. Western states, particularly Nevada and Arizona, would be directly affected since much mining activity occurs on federal lands in that region. **Key provisions:** The bill allows mining operators to include multiple waste disposal sites (called "mill site claims") in their mining plans based on operational needs, rather than being limited to locations with actual mineral deposits. It also establishes a new funding mechanism to address environmental cleanup at abandoned mines across the country. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act
# USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill aims to strengthen the travel and tourism industry across the United States, Mexico, and Canada under the framework of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), which replaced NAFTA in 2020. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, the bill's title suggests it would focus on making the North American travel and tourism sector more resilient—likely addressing issues like cross-border travel policies, industry recovery, and cooperation between the three nations. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily impact the U.S. travel and tourism industry, including hotels, airlines, tour operators, and related businesses. It would also affect American travelers and workers in tourism. Since it involves cross-border commerce, the legislation would involve coordination with Mexican and Canadian counterparts in these industries. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S 3787) is in committee and has not advanced further in the legislative process. It was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, a Democrat from Nevada—a state with significant tourism and hospitality sectors.
Western Wildfire Support Act of 2025
# Western Wildfire Support Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill aims to improve how the federal government responds to and recovers from wildfires in western states. It would authorize funding for emergency teams to stabilize burned areas, prevent erosion, and restore ecosystems and infrastructure damaged by fires. The bill also requires federal agencies to adopt new wildfire detection technology (like sensors) to help manage fires more effectively, and would establish state websites to help communities find recovery resources after disasters. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily impacts residents and communities in western states prone to wildfires, as well as federal land management agencies like the U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Interior. It also affects first responders and emergency management officials who coordinate wildfire response efforts. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S. 91) is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) in the 119th Congress. The bill focuses on coordination, technology, and recovery—rather than addressing the causes of wildfires themselves.
Stronger Engagement for Indian Health Needs Act of 2026
# Stronger Engagement for Indian Health Needs Act of 2026 (S 3767) **What the Bill Would Do** This bill aims to improve healthcare services and engagement efforts for Native American communities. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, the bill's title suggests it would strengthen how federal health programs interact with and serve Indian tribes and their members. The legislation appears focused on making the healthcare system more responsive to Native American health needs. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect Native American tribes and their members who rely on Indian Health Services (IHS) and federal healthcare programs. It could also impact healthcare providers and administrators working within tribal health systems, as well as federal agencies responsible for delivering or coordinating healthcare to Native populations. **Current Status** As of now, S 3767 is in committee review in the Senate (119th Congress), meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full chamber. The bill was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV). To track any updates, you can check Congress.gov for amendments, committee actions, or movement toward a floor vote.
Lowering Home Energy Costs Act
# Lowering Home Energy Costs Act - Summary **What It Does:** The Lowering Home Energy Costs Act aims to reduce the amount American households spend on heating, cooling, and powering their homes. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically focus on improving energy efficiency in homes, supporting renewable energy adoption, and potentially offering financial incentives or tax credits to help homeowners upgrade to more efficient systems and appliances. **Who It Affects:** This legislation would primarily impact residential homeowners and renters who pay energy bills. It could also affect energy companies, contractors who perform home efficiency upgrades, and manufacturers of energy-efficient equipment. The goal is to lower utility costs for everyday households while potentially creating jobs in the energy efficiency sector. **Current Status:** As of now, S 3722 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill was sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV). For detailed information about specific provisions and current progress, you can check Congress.gov or the Senate's official website.
Large-Scale Water Recycling Reauthorization Act
# Large-Scale Water Recycling Reauthorization Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Large-Scale Water Recycling Reauthorization Act would reauthorize federal programs that support large-scale water recycling projects. Water recycling involves treating used water so it can be reused for purposes like irrigation, industrial processes, or drinking water supplies. By reauthorizing these programs, the bill would continue federal funding and support for states and communities developing recycling infrastructure. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily affects water-stressed regions, particularly in the West, where communities face water shortages. It would impact states, local water agencies, and municipalities working on water recycling projects. The bill would also affect industries and agricultural operations that rely on water supplies in affected areas. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (S 3693) is in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full Senate vote. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) sponsored the bill. Before it can become law, it must pass out of committee and receive approval from both the Senate and House.
Protect Postal Performance Act
# Protect Postal Performance Act (S 3657) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Protect Postal Performance Act, introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, aims to safeguard mail delivery standards at the United States Postal Service (USPS). While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically seek to maintain or improve on-time delivery performance, prevent service cuts, or establish accountability measures for mail delivery timelines. The bill reflects concerns about USPS reliability, particularly for time-sensitive mail like medications, bills, and important documents. **Who It Affects and Current Status** This bill would primarily impact USPS operations and the millions of Americans who depend on mail delivery, including seniors, rural residents, and businesses relying on postal services. Currently, the bill is in committee review, meaning it hasn't advanced to a full Senate vote and remains in the early legislative stage. Without additional details on the bill's specific provisions, it's unclear what exact changes would be required or what enforcement mechanisms would be included. **Note:** For a complete understanding of this bill's specific provisions and potential impacts, you may want to review the full text on Congress.gov or contact your representative's office for more detailed information.
PUBLIC SAFETY Act
# PUBLIC SAFETY Act (S 3631) Summary I don't have access to the specific details of this bill's actual text or provisions. While I can see it's a Senate bill sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) that's currently in committee, I cannot reliably tell you what it would do, who it affects, or its key provisions without access to the bill's language. To get accurate information about this bill, I'd recommend checking: - **Congress.gov** - Search for "S 3631" for the full text and status updates - **Senator Cortez Masto's official website** - Often includes summaries of bills she sponsors - **Govtrack.us** - Provides plain-language summaries and tracking This approach ensures you get factual, up-to-date information directly from official sources rather than my attempting to summarize details I don't have verified access to.
Expanding Access to Lending Options Act
# Expanding Access to Lending Options Act (S 3616) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill aims to expand lending opportunities for individuals and small businesses who may have difficulty accessing traditional bank loans. While the specific details aren't fully available in the summary provided, bills with this title typically work to create alternative lending pathways or modify regulations that currently limit credit access for borrowers with limited credit histories, lower incomes, or those in underserved communities. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily benefit small business owners, low-to-moderate income individuals, and people in rural or underserved areas who struggle to qualify for conventional bank loans. It could also impact lenders by potentially creating new lending categories or reducing restrictions on who they can serve. **Current Status:** As of now, S 3616 remains in committee, meaning it hasn't yet advanced to a full Senate vote. The bill was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada) in the 119th Congress. **Note:** For more detailed information about the specific provisions and mechanisms of this bill, you would need to review the full legislative text, which is typically available on Congress.gov.
Internet Application I.D. Act
# Internet Application I.D. Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Internet Application I.D. Act (S 3614) appears to address identification or authentication systems for internet applications, though specific details about its provisions are not publicly available in the summary provided. Based on the bill's title, it likely relates to how users are identified or verified when using online services or applications, though the exact mechanisms and requirements would be detailed in the full legislative text. **Who It Affects** This type of legislation would potentially impact internet users, technology companies that operate online applications, and platforms that handle user data and authentication. Depending on its specific provisions, it could affect how personal information is managed online and what security or identification standards companies must follow. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full floor vote in the Senate. The bill was sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV). *Note: Complete details about this bill's specific provisions are limited in publicly available summaries. For full information, consult the official bill text on Congress.gov.*
Upholding Protections for Unaccompanied Children Act of 2025
# Upholding Protections for Unaccompanied Children Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill, introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada), would establish or strengthen legal protections for unaccompanied children who arrive at the U.S. border. Based on its stated subjects, the legislation would likely address how these children are detained, their access to healthcare and welfare services, and their legal rights in immigration proceedings, including ensuring access to legal representation. **Who It Affects and Key Areas:** The bill primarily affects unaccompanied minors in the immigration system, as well as government agencies responsible for border security and child welfare. It would also impact immigration courts, legal service providers, and potentially taxpayers through provisions related to legal fees, court costs, and user charges. The legislation covers detention practices, refugee and asylum procedures, and immigrant health and welfare services. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (S 3322) remains in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. This means it is still in the early stages of the legislative process and would require committee approval and further debate before it could advance for a final vote.
Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act
# Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act would require greater transparency and public disclosure in the federal licensing process for hydropower projects. Hydropower facilities generate electricity using flowing water and require federal permits. This bill would make information about these licensing decisions more accessible to the public and likely impose additional reporting requirements on applicants and federal agencies overseeing the process. **Who It Affects:** The bill would impact hydropower companies seeking federal licenses, federal agencies that review and approve these projects (particularly the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission), and the general public who would gain better access to information about these projects. States and communities where hydropower facilities operate would also be affected, as would environmental organizations and other groups interested in how these projects are reviewed. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill remains in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. This means it's still in the early legislative stage and would need to advance through the committee process, pass a Senate vote, move through the House, and receive presidential approval to become law.
Electric Supply Chain Act
# Electric Supply Chain Act Summary The Electric Supply Chain Act (S 3499) is a proposed law that would address issues related to the supply chain for electric vehicle components and electrical equipment manufacturing in the United States. While specific details about this bill's provisions are limited in the available information, such legislation typically focuses on strengthening domestic production capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, and ensuring reliable access to critical materials and components needed for electric vehicles and related technologies. The bill would primarily affect electric vehicle manufacturers, component suppliers, mining and processing companies, and potentially consumers who purchase electric vehicles. It could also impact trade relationships and domestic manufacturing jobs in these industries. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee as of the 119th Congress, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. No further action has been taken. To get more detailed information about specific provisions, you would need to review the full bill text on Congress.gov.
Technical Correction to the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025
# Summary of S 546: Technical Correction to Shoshone-Paiute Tribes Water Rights Settlement **What the bill does:** This bill makes a technical correction to a 2009 water rights settlement agreement between the federal government and the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation. Specifically, it authorizes certain interest payments to be deposited into the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes Water Rights Development Fund, which helps the tribes manage and develop their water resources on the reservation located in Nevada and Idaho. **Who it affects:** The Shoshone-Paiute Tribes are the primary beneficiaries, as the funds will support their water resource projects and economic development. The bill also involves the federal government, which manages trust funds and the settlement agreement on behalf of Native American tribes. **Current status:** The bill has passed the Senate and is moving through the legislative process. As a technical correction to an existing settlement agreement, it is relatively narrow in scope and addresses a specific administrative matter related to fund management rather than changing the overall water rights settlement.
BADGES for Native Communities Act
# BADGES for Native Communities Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The BADGES for Native Communities Act aims to improve how federal agencies respond to cases of missing, unidentified, or murdered Native Americans and Alaska Natives. If passed, it would create a grant program to help tribes and tribal law enforcement agencies improve their ability to investigate missing persons cases and deaths. The bill also requires the Department of Justice to work with the Department of Health and Human Services to provide training resources and mental health support programs for tribal and Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement officers. **Who It Affects:** The bill directly affects Native American tribes, tribal law enforcement agencies, and Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) officers. It also involves federal agencies including the Department of Justice, Department of Interior, and Department of Health and Human Services. Broadly, it impacts Native American communities dealing with missing persons and unsolved deaths. **Current Status:** The bill has already passed the Senate and is moving through the legislative process. As a Senate bill (S 390) in the 119th Congress, it now requires House consideration before potentially becoming law.
Small Business Innovation Voucher Act of 2025
# Small Business Innovation Voucher Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Small Business Innovation Voucher Act of 2025 would create a voucher program to help small businesses access innovation and research services. While specific details aren't fully detailed in the available information, this type of voucher program typically provides small companies with funding or credits they can use to purchase services from research institutions, universities, or private consultants to develop new products, improve processes, or solve technical challenges. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily benefit small businesses by reducing barriers to accessing expensive research and innovation support services that they might not otherwise afford. It could also benefit research institutions and consulting firms that provide these services, as they would gain new clients and funding sources. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S. 3415) is in committee and has not yet advanced further in the legislative process. It was sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada). The bill would need to pass through committee review, floor votes in both the Senate and House, and presidential approval to become law.
Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act
# Summary of S. 3429: Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act **What the Bill Would Do** This bill aims to encourage Americans to volunteer and work in national parks and on public lands. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically create incentives—such as tax credits, loan forgiveness programs, or educational benefits—for people who take jobs or volunteer positions with the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, or other federal land management agencies. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect young people and job-seekers interested in environmental conservation, park management, and outdoor recreation. It could also impact national parks and public lands by potentially expanding their workforce. Taxpayers would be affected depending on what incentives the bill includes and how they're funded. **Current Status** As of now, S. 3429 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill was sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada). Without the specific legislative language, the exact details of what incentives or programs it would create remain unclear.
Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act
# Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill aims to support economic development and environmental conservation in southern Nevada through a combination of infrastructure investments, land management, and community programs. Based on its subject areas, the legislation would likely authorize funding for projects related to water management (floods and storm protection), renewable energy development, housing for low- and moderate-income residents, emergency services, and outdoor recreation. The bill may also involve transferring or managing federal lands in the region and establishing partnerships between government agencies and private entities to achieve these goals. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily targets residents and businesses in southern Nevada, particularly those in the Las Vegas area. It would affect local governments, Native American tribes in the region, first responders and emergency personnel, workers in energy and construction sectors, and low-income families seeking affordable housing. Federal land management agencies would also be involved in implementing the bill's provisions. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S 1005) has been introduced in the Senate and remains in committee, meaning it hasn't yet advanced to a full vote. The bill was sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, a Nevada Democrat.
No Nuclear Testing Without Approval Act
# No Nuclear Testing Without Approval Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require Congressional approval before the United States conducts any nuclear weapons tests. Currently, the U.S. has observed a voluntary moratorium on nuclear testing since 1992, but this bill would make Congressional authorization a legal requirement if the government ever wanted to resume testing. The legislation is sponsored by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, a state with historical significance to nuclear testing programs. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects the Executive Branch's nuclear weapons authority, requiring the President to seek Congressional approval rather than acting unilaterally. It would also impact nuclear weapons scientists and facilities that might conduct such tests. By mandating Congressional involvement, the bill aims to add a democratic check on nuclear weapons policy decisions. **Current Status** As of now, the bill remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. It has not advanced to a floor vote, and no companion bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives.
STOP Human Trafficking Act
# STOP Human Trafficking Act (S 3110) Summary **What the Bill Does:** The STOP Human Trafficking Act aims to strengthen federal efforts to combat human trafficking—the illegal practice of exploiting people through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or sexual services. While the bill's specific details aren't publicly available in the provided information, human trafficking bills typically focus on increasing funding for law enforcement, victim services, prevention programs, and coordination between federal agencies. **Who It Affects:** The bill would impact federal law enforcement agencies, organizations that support trafficking victims, businesses involved in supply chain transparency, and trafficking survivors. It may also affect interstate commerce regulations if it includes provisions to combat trafficking in commercial activities. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill remains in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full Senate vote. The proposal was introduced by Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nevada). For a complete understanding of specific provisions—such as funding amounts, new criminal penalties, or victim support programs—the full bill text would need to be reviewed on Congress.gov or the Senate's official website.