Schatz, Brian [D-HI]
Democrat · HI · 26 bills sponsored
A bill to support marine carbon dioxide removal activities, and for other purposes.
# S. 3910: Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal Bill **What It Would Do** This bill aims to support projects and research focused on removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the ocean and atmosphere. While the full details aren't specified in the summary provided, bills of this type typically authorize funding for scientific research, pilot programs, and technologies designed to reduce greenhouse gases through marine-based solutions—such as ocean alkalinity enhancement or seaweed farming. The bill could also establish regulatory frameworks or grant programs to advance these technologies. **Who It Affects** This legislation would impact scientists and research institutions studying climate solutions, companies developing marine carbon removal technologies, coastal communities, and potentially the fishing and shipping industries. Environmental advocates generally support such initiatives as part of broader climate change mitigation efforts, while some in the business community may have concerns about costs or regulatory requirements. **Current Status** As of now, S. 3910 is in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) in the 119th Congress. For the bill to become law, it would need to pass committee review, Senate debate, House consideration, and presidential approval.
FAIR Act
# FAIR Act Summary I don't have access to the specific details of S 3823 (the FAIR Act from the 119th Congress) needed to provide you with an accurate summary of what it would do, who it affects, and its key provisions. While I can see it's a Senate bill sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) that's currently in committee, I would need the bill's text or a detailed description to give you reliable information about its contents. **To get this information, I'd recommend:** - Visiting Congress.gov and searching for "S 3823" to read the full text and summary - Checking Senator Schatz's official website for his description of the bill - Looking at news coverage from when the bill was introduced This approach will ensure you get accurate, complete details rather than my making assumptions about what the bill contains.
Data Care Act of 2025
# Data Care Act of 2025 - Summary The Data Care Act of 2025 is a proposed federal law currently being reviewed in the Senate that would establish new standards for how companies handle and protect personal data. While specific details about its provisions aren't available in the information provided, bills with this title generally aim to create baseline privacy and security requirements for businesses that collect consumer information. The legislation would likely affect large technology companies, social media platforms, retailers, and other organizations that gather and use personal data. The bill is still in the early stages of the legislative process, having been introduced by Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) but not yet advanced out of committee for a full Senate vote. This means there may be further discussion, amendments, or hearings before lawmakers decide whether to move forward with it. For a complete understanding of the specific protections or requirements the bill would impose, you would need to review the full legislative text or summaries from Congressional tracking services.
A bill to amend the Native American Tourism and Improving Visitor Experience Act to authorize grants to Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations, and for other purposes.
# Summary of S 612: Native American Tourism Grant Bill **What the Bill Does** This bill would authorize federal grants to support tourism and recreational travel projects run by Native American tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations. The funding would allow these groups to develop and promote tourism-related activities on tribal lands and in Native Hawaiian communities. Multiple federal agencies would be able to provide these grants, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Office of Native Hawaiian Relations. **Who It Affects** The bill directly benefits federally recognized Indian tribes, tribal organizations across the country, and Native Hawaiian organizations. Indirectly, it could affect tourists and communities interested in visiting tribal and Native Hawaiian cultural and recreational sites, as well as local economies in these regions that could see economic growth from increased tourism. **Current Status** The bill has already passed the Senate and is moving through the legislative process. It now awaits action in the House of Representatives.
Unlocking Native Lands and Opportunities for Commerce and Key Economic Developments Act of 2025
# Unlocking Native Lands and Opportunities for Commerce and Key Economic Developments Act of 2025 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill aims to promote economic development on Native American lands by modifying federal rules governing how tribal nations can use and develop their territory. The legislation would give Native American tribes more flexibility and authority over economic projects on their lands, potentially including business ventures, resource development, and commercial activities. By reducing some federal restrictions and bureaucratic requirements, the bill seeks to help tribes generate revenue and create economic opportunities for their communities. **Who It Affects:** The bill directly impacts federally recognized Native American tribes and their members. It could also affect federal agencies that currently oversee or approve development on tribal lands, as well as private businesses and investors interested in working with tribes on economic projects. **Current Status:** As of now, S. 3383 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill was sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaii. *Note: Full legislative text and detailed provisions were not available for review, so this summary reflects the bill's general focus based on its title and subject areas.*
Safeguarding American Families and Expanding Social Security Act of 2025
# Summary: Safeguarding American Families and Expanding Social Security Act of 2025 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill aims to expand Social Security benefits for American retirees, disabled individuals, and surviving family members. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically propose increasing monthly benefit amounts and adjusting how Social Security is funded to ensure the program's long-term sustainability. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily impact current Social Security recipients and future beneficiaries, including seniors, people with disabilities, and families receiving survivor benefits. It could also affect workers and employers through potential changes to Social Security funding mechanisms or payroll taxes. **Current Status:** The bill (S 3462) is currently in committee review in the Senate, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full chamber. As a newly introduced bill, it remains in the early stages of the legislative process. To become law, it would need to pass committee review, Senate approval, House approval, and the President's signature. *Note: Full text details are not available in the provided information, so this summary is based on the bill's title and general legislative context.*
Improving Flood and Agricultural Forecasts Act of 2025
# Improving Flood and Agricultural Forecasts Act of 2025 - Summary **What It Does:** This bill would give official legal authority to NOAA's National Mesonet Program (NMP), a network of automated weather and soil monitoring stations across the United States. Currently operating without formal congressional backing, the program would be formally established to collect real-time weather data that helps predict and track floods, droughts, fires, and other weather-related events. The bill requires the program to continuously improve its forecasting abilities and add new types of environmental observations over time. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects farmers, emergency management agencies, and the general public who rely on weather forecasts. Farmers benefit from improved drought and weather predictions for planning, while communities vulnerable to floods and wildfires gain better early warning systems. NOAA and local weather monitoring networks would gain clearer authority and direction for their work. **Key Provisions:** The bill requires NOAA to only use data that is cost-effective and meets high quality standards, ensuring taxpayer money is spent wisely. It emphasizes expanding the types and number of observations collected annually and integrating them into better forecasting models. The legislation also ties into agricultural research and natural disaster preparedness. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (S 613 in the 119th Congress), meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate.
TAME Extreme Weather and Wildfires Act
# TAME Extreme Weather and Wildfires Act Summary **What It Would Do** The TAME Extreme Weather and Wildfires Act would direct the federal government to invest in advanced technology and research to better predict, monitor, and respond to extreme weather events and wildfires. The bill focuses on improving atmospheric science capabilities and developing new tools to help communities prepare for and manage these natural disasters. It also emphasizes partnerships between government agencies and private companies to accelerate innovation in this area. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily affect communities vulnerable to severe weather and wildfires, as well as federal agencies responsible for disaster response and weather forecasting. It would also involve the private technology sector, which would be encouraged to collaborate with the government on developing new solutions. **Current Status** The bill 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 Brian Schatz (D-HI) and remains in the early stages of the legislative process.
Federal Employees Civil Relief Act
# Federal Employees Civil Relief Act Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill would provide temporary legal protection for federal employees and contractors during government shutdowns. If passed, workers who are furloughed (sent home without pay) or required to work without compensation could ask a court to temporarily pause certain financial obligations—such as rent, mortgage, taxes, loan payments, and insurance premiums—for the duration of the shutdown. The bill defines a shutdown as either a lapse in funding lasting more than 24 hours or when the national debt exceeds the legal limit. **Who It Affects & Key Protections** The bill directly benefits federal workers who lose income during shutdowns. It also includes provisions protecting these workers from eviction during this period. Essentially, it gives workers temporary relief from their financial responsibilities while they're not being paid, preventing them from falling behind on bills and facing penalties during circumstances beyond their control. **Current Status** The bill (S. 2982) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
Reproductive Rights Are Human Rights Act of 2025
# Reproductive Rights Are Human Rights Act of 2025 - Summary This bill would establish federal protections for reproductive rights, including access to abortion, contraception, and fertility treatments. If passed, it would prohibit states from restricting these services and would protect individuals from discrimination based on reproductive decisions. The legislation would create federal standards that would override many existing state laws that currently limit abortion access or other reproductive healthcare options. The bill would affect anyone seeking reproductive healthcare services, healthcare providers offering these services, and potentially state governments whose laws conflict with the federal protections. Key provisions likely include protecting access to abortion throughout pregnancy, safeguarding contraceptive availability, and preventing states from prosecuting individuals for traveling to obtain reproductive care in other states. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It would need to pass both the Senate and House, then be signed by the President, to become law. Given the bill's Democratic sponsorship and the current composition of Congress, its prospects for passage are uncertain.
Pacific Ready Coast Guard Act
# Pacific Ready Coast Guard Act Summary The Pacific Ready Coast Guard Act (S 2652) is a bill introduced in the Senate that aims to strengthen the U.S. Coast Guard's capabilities and presence in the Pacific region. While specific details about the bill's provisions aren't available in the information provided, the title suggests it would focus on enhancing the Coast Guard's readiness and operational capacity for Pacific operations—likely addressing infrastructure, personnel, equipment, or strategic positioning in response to growing maritime security needs in the Pacific. The bill would primarily affect the U.S. Coast Guard and communities in Pacific states and territories where Coast Guard operations occur. It could also impact American maritime security, trade, and national defense in one of the world's most strategically important regions. Currently, the bill is in the committee stage, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full Senate vote. The bill was sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI). To learn the specific provisions and funding details, you would need to review the full bill text on Congress.gov.
Empowering App-Based Workers Act
# Empowering App-Based Workers Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Empowering App-Based Workers Act (S 2488) would establish new rights and protections for workers who earn money through app-based platforms like Uber, DoorDash, and Instacart. The bill aims to give these independent contractors—who currently have limited legal protections—greater bargaining power and clarity about their working conditions and compensation. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** This legislation would primarily impact gig economy workers and the app-based companies that employ them. While the bill's specific provisions aren't fully detailed in available summaries, similar proposals typically include measures such as requiring companies to provide transparent information about pay structures, protecting workers from arbitrary deactivation, and potentially allowing workers to collectively negotiate certain working conditions. The bill represents an effort to address concerns that app-based workers lack benefits, job security, and negotiation power that traditional employees receive. **Current Status** As of now, S 2488 remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). For the most current details on specific provisions, you may want to check Congress.gov or the bill's official text.
Build More Housing Near Transit Act of 2025
# Build More Housing Near Transit Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Build More Housing Near Transit Act of 2025 would encourage the development of residential housing in areas near public transportation systems like buses, trains, and transit stations. The bill aims to address housing shortages by making it easier and more attractive to build apartments, condos, and other homes in locations with good transit access, rather than in more distant suburban areas. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily impact cities and local governments that control zoning rules, developers who build housing, and people looking for affordable places to live. It could also affect transit agencies and communities near transit stations. The changes would likely influence urban planning decisions across the country. **Current Status:** The bill (S 2363) is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It was sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii. As with many bills at this stage, it may be modified, debated, or ultimately not pass into law. *Note: Specific provisions and details of this bill were not available in the source material provided.*
Unsubscribe Act of 2025
# Unsubscribe Act of 2025 - Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Unsubscribe Act of 2025 aims to make it easier for people to stop receiving unwanted emails and text messages from companies and organizations. While the specific details aren't publicly available yet, bills with this title typically would require businesses to provide a simple, one-click method for consumers to unsubscribe from marketing communications—similar to how some email services already work. This would modernize existing rules about commercial emails and texts. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily affect everyday consumers who receive promotional emails and marketing texts, as well as businesses that send them. Companies would need to update their systems to comply with any new unsubscribe requirements. It could also impact email and text service providers who support these communications. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee, meaning it's in the early stages of the legislative process and hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. Sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), it would need to advance through committee and gain broader support before becoming law.
Kids Off Social Media Act
# Kids Off Social Media Act Summary **What It Would Do** The Kids Off Social Media Act would restrict children's access to social media platforms by prohibiting companies from allowing anyone under 13 to have accounts and requiring deletion of existing child accounts and their data. For teens under 17, platforms would be banned from using algorithms to suggest or promote content based on personal information collected about them. Schools receiving federal discounts for internet service would also be required to implement policies limiting student social media use during school time. **Who It Affects** This bill primarily impacts social media platform companies (like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, etc.), children under 13, teenagers under 17, schools, and state governments. The Federal Trade Commission would enforce the rules, and states could sue platforms for violations that harm their residents. **Current Status** The bill (S 278) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill addresses concerns about child safety, data privacy, and social media's effects on young people, though it represents a significant regulatory shift in how platforms operate.
Wall Street Tax Act of 2025
# Wall Street Tax Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Wall Street Tax Act of 2025 would impose a small tax on financial transactions, such as stock trades, bond sales, and derivatives purchases. This type of tax is sometimes called a "financial transaction tax" or "FTT." The bill aims to generate revenue while potentially reducing high-frequency trading (rapid computerized trading). Similar proposals have been debated for years as a way to raise money for the federal government. **Who It Affects:** The tax would primarily affect Wall Street firms, investment banks, and traders who buy and sell financial securities. It could also indirectly impact everyday Americans with retirement accounts or investment portfolios, though supporters argue the tax rate would be small enough to have minimal impact on typical investors and savers. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (S 2127) is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the Senate. It was sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). The bill has not passed and faces uncertain prospects, as financial transaction taxes have historically faced significant opposition from the financial industry and some lawmakers.
State Public Option Act
# State Public Option Act Summary **What the bill would do:** The State Public Option Act would allow states to offer a Medicaid health insurance plan to uninsured residents starting in 2026. People who don't already have health coverage and aren't eligible for Medicaid could buy into their state's Medicaid program, with each state setting its own premiums and out-of-pocket costs. The bill also provides additional federal funding to states that expand Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act, regardless of timing, and requires state Medicaid programs to cover comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including abortion. **Who it affects:** This bill primarily affects uninsured Americans who fall into a coverage gap—those who don't qualify for Medicaid but can't afford private insurance. It would also impact states' Medicaid programs and budgets, as states could choose whether to participate. Healthcare providers would potentially see changes in patient coverage types. **Current status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't advanced to a full Senate vote. No timeline for further action has been announced.
PATCH Act
# PATCH Act Summary I don't have access to the detailed text of S. 1624 (PATCH Act) from the 119th Congress, so I cannot provide you with an accurate summary of its specific provisions, who it affects, or what it would do if passed. While I can see it's a Senate bill sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) currently in committee, providing details without access to the actual bill content would risk giving you incorrect information. **To get accurate information, I'd recommend:** - Visiting Congress.gov and searching for "S 1624" to read the full bill text - Checking Senator Schatz's official website for a summary of his legislative goals - Looking at relevant committee pages for hearing summaries if available This approach will ensure you get factual, reliable details about what the bill proposes.
Climate Change Financial Risk Act of 2025
# Climate Change Financial Risk Act of 2025 - Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill requires the Federal Reserve to assess whether large banks and financial companies have enough financial reserves to survive losses caused by climate change. Every two years, major financial institutions would undergo stress tests examining how they'd fare under different climate change scenarios (like increased flooding, drought, or extreme weather). If these tests show vulnerabilities, companies must submit plans explaining how they'll strengthen their finances to handle climate risks. If their plans aren't approved, the Federal Reserve can restrict how much money these companies can distribute to shareholders. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily targets large banks and major nonbank financial companies—essentially the institutions that manage trillions of dollars in investments and mortgages. Indirectly, it could affect everyday Americans by potentially influencing how financial institutions manage risk and make lending decisions. The bill also establishes a technical advisory group to help develop climate risk testing standards. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee (S 1471, 119th Congress), meaning it hasn't yet been voted on by the full Senate. It was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii).
CONNECT for Health Act of 2025
# CONNECT for Health Act of 2025 Summary I don't have access to the specific details of this bill beyond the basic information you've provided. The bill summary you've shared only includes the bill number (S 1261), sponsor, status, and title—but doesn't include the actual legislative text or detailed provisions that would explain what it would do. To provide you with an accurate summary covering what the bill would do, who it affects, and key provisions, I would need access to: - The full bill text - The official summary from Congress.gov - Committee reports or explanatory materials **What I can tell you:** This bill is currently in committee (not yet voted on by the full Senate), was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii, and based on its title, likely relates to healthcare connectivity in some form. However, I cannot responsibly speculate about specific provisions without seeing the actual text. I'd recommend visiting **Congress.gov** and searching for "S 1261" to read the full bill text, summary, and any committee actions for accurate details.
Tribal Energy Fairness Act of 2025
# Tribal Energy Fairness Act of 2025 Summary **What the bill would do:** The Tribal Energy Fairness Act of 2025 aims to improve how Native American tribes can develop and benefit from energy resources on their lands. While the bill's specific provisions aren't detailed in the publicly available information, legislation with this title typically addresses barriers that tribal nations face in developing energy projects—whether renewable energy like solar and wind, or traditional resources like oil and gas. The bill would likely make it easier for tribes to pursue energy development while ensuring they receive fair economic benefits. **Who it affects:** This legislation primarily affects Native American tribes and their members, as well as energy companies seeking to work on tribal lands. It could also impact federal agencies that oversee tribal energy projects, and potentially consumers if tribal energy development affects regional energy availability or pricing. **Current status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it's under review and hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The bill has not yet advanced to a floor vote.
Cultural Trade Promotion Act
# Cultural Trade Promotion Act (S. 1125) Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Cultural Trade Promotion Act would establish new policies and frameworks to promote the international trade of cultural goods and services—such as films, music, artwork, literature, and performing arts. While specific details aren't provided in this summary, bills of this type typically aim to reduce trade barriers, expand markets for American cultural products abroad, and potentially provide support or incentives for cultural industries competing globally. **Who It Affects** This legislation would primarily impact the U.S. creative and cultural industries, including filmmakers, musicians, artists, publishers, and entertainment companies. It could also affect international trade relationships and cultural exchange between the United States and other countries. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It remains in the early stages of the legislative process. *Note: This summary is based on limited publicly available information. For detailed provisions, consult Congress.gov or the bill's full text.*
Rights for the TSA Workforce Act
# Rights for the TSA Workforce Act (S 997) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would extend certain labor rights and protections to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers. The TSA is the federal agency that screens passengers at airports and handles security operations. Currently, TSA employees have limited collective bargaining rights compared to most other federal workers, meaning they have fewer legal protections for unionizing and negotiating workplace conditions. **Who It Affects:** Primarily TSA employees—approximately 60,000 security officers, supervisors, and other staff members working at airports nationwide. The bill could also indirectly affect travelers, as improved working conditions and job satisfaction among TSA workers might influence service quality and wait times at security checkpoints. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. No companion bill appears to have been introduced in the House yet.
Hawaii Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025
# Hawaii Native Species Conservation and Recovery Act of 2025 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would establish new protections and recovery programs for native Hawaiian plant and animal species that are endangered or at risk of extinction. If passed, it would authorize funding and create frameworks for conservation efforts targeting species found only in Hawaii. The legislation aims to preserve Hawaii's unique wildlife—much of which exists nowhere else on Earth—through habitat restoration, research, and management initiatives. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect Hawaiian ecosystems and species native to the islands. It would also involve federal agencies (likely the Department of Interior or Fish and Wildlife Service), state Hawaiian authorities, conservation organizations, and potentially landowners whose property contains critical habitats for these species. Hawaii residents and visitors who value the islands' natural heritage would also be indirectly affected through changes to environmental protection and land management. **Current Status** As of now, the bill (S. 871) has been introduced in the Senate and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full chamber. The bill was sponsored by Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii. For it to become law, it would need to pass committee review, Senate floor debate, House approval, and presidential signature.