Torres, Norma J. [D-CA-35]
Democrat · CA · 24 bills sponsored
Violent Insurrection Recidivist Enhancement Act of 2026
# Summary of HR 6953: Violent Insurrection Recidivist Enhancement Act of 2026 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would enhance criminal penalties for individuals who commit violent crimes related to insurrection after having previously been convicted of insurrection-related offenses. Essentially, it would establish stricter sentencing guidelines for repeat offenders involved in violent insurrectionary activities, treating subsequent convictions more severely than first-time offenses. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The legislation would primarily affect individuals convicted of violent insurrection-related crimes who commit similar offenses again. By increasing penalties for recidivists (repeat offenders) in this category, the bill aims to deter future violent insurrectionary conduct and ensure harsher consequences for those with a pattern of such behavior. **Current Status** As of now, HR 6953 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA). It remains in the early stages of the legislative process and would need to advance through committee review and secure sufficient support before proceeding to a floor vote.
January 6th Oral History Project Act
# January 6th Oral History Project Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** HR 6952 would establish an official oral history project to document and preserve firsthand accounts of the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. The bill would create a structured effort to record interviews with people who were directly involved in or witnessed the events of that day, including Capitol staff, law enforcement, members of Congress, and others present. The goal is to create a comprehensive historical record through recorded testimonies for future research and education. **Who It Affects and Key Details** This bill primarily affects historians, researchers, and institutions focused on preserving historical records, as well as the individuals whose accounts would be documented. It would likely involve the Library of Congress or a similar institution managing the collection. The oral histories would serve as primary source material for understanding what happened during the Capitol riot and could inform future educational efforts about the event. **Current Status** As of now, HR 6952 remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Norma Torres, a Democrat from California.
January 6th Truth and Transparency Act
# January 6th Truth and Transparency Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The January 6th Truth and Transparency Act aims to increase public access to information and records related to the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically seek to declassify documents, mandate the release of security footage or communications, and ensure comprehensive public disclosure of government records connected to that event. The goal would be to provide the American public with a fuller picture of what happened that day and the government's response to it. **Who It Affects and Current Status** This bill would affect federal agencies holding relevant records, as well as the general public seeking information about January 6th. It's currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet advanced for a full House vote. As a Democratic-sponsored measure, it reflects ongoing interest from some lawmakers in thorough transparency around the Capitol riot, though the bill would need bipartisan support to advance. **Note:** More detailed information about specific provisions would require access to the bill's full text, which wasn't provided here.
Supporting Blue Envelope Programs Act
# Supporting Blue Envelope Programs Act (HR 6602) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill aims to support "Blue Envelope Programs," though the specific details about what these programs entail are not publicly available in the basic legislative information provided. Based on the bill's title, it appears to be designed to provide some form of assistance or funding to organizations or initiatives operating under this framework, but without access to the full bill text, the exact provisions and mechanisms cannot be detailed here. **Who It Affects and Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Representative Norma Torres (D-CA) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. Until the bill advances or the full text is made available, its specific impact on individuals, businesses, or communities cannot be determined. **Next Steps:** To get detailed information about this bill's provisions, funding amounts, and intended beneficiaries, you would need to review the full bill text on Congress.gov or contact the bill's sponsor or relevant congressional committees for clarification on what Blue Envelope Programs entail.
Native American Seeds Act of 2025
# Native American Seeds Act of 2025 — Summary **What the Bill Does** The Native American Seeds Act of 2025 would establish protections and support for Native American seed preservation and cultivation practices. While specific details aren't publicly available yet (the bill is still in early stages), bills with this title typically aim to help Native American tribes and indigenous communities maintain control over their traditional seeds and agricultural knowledge, support seed-saving programs, and ensure tribes can grow and distribute culturally significant crops. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily affect Native American tribes and indigenous communities, particularly those working to preserve traditional agricultural practices. It could also impact agricultural organizations, seed banks, and potentially federal agencies involved in agriculture and Native American affairs. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. As of now, no detailed provisions have been released publicly, so the specific requirements and funding mechanisms aren't confirmed. For the most current information, interested parties can track the bill's progress on Congress.gov.
Repairing Social Security After Trump and DOGE Act
# Summary of HR 6237: Repairing Social Security After Trump and DOGE Act **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill, introduced by Rep. Norma Torres (D-CA), aims to protect and repair Social Security. While the bill text itself isn't available in the summary provided, the title suggests it's designed to counter potential changes to Social Security that the sponsor believes could result from Trump administration policies or proposals associated with DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency). The specific provisions aren't detailed in this summary, but bills with this framing typically address either preventing benefit cuts, increasing revenue to the program, or both. **Who It Affects:** The bill would impact current and future Social Security recipients—including retirees, disabled workers, and surviving family members of deceased workers. It could also affect working Americans who pay Social Security payroll taxes, and potentially higher-income earners depending on the specific provisions related to how the program is funded. **Current Status:** As of this summary, HR 6237 remains in committee and has not advanced to a floor vote. To understand the exact provisions and their effects, you would need to review the full bill text on Congress.gov, as the title alone doesn't specify whether it addresses benefit levels, tax rates, the program's trust fund, or other aspects of Social Security reform.
Wildfire Grid Resiliency Act
# Wildfire Grid Resiliency Act Summary **What It Would Do:** The Wildfire Grid Resiliency Act aims to strengthen and protect electrical power systems in areas prone to wildfires. The bill would support improvements to electrical grids to make them more resilient during wildfire events, reducing the risk of power outages caused by fires or preventive shutdowns. It focuses on modernizing infrastructure in high-risk wildfire zones, particularly in western states. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily affect residents and businesses in wildfire-prone areas, particularly in California and other western states. It would also impact utility companies that operate in these regions, as they would need to implement grid improvements. More broadly, any stakeholders involved in energy infrastructure, emergency management, and wildfire prevention could be affected. **Key Provisions & Current Status:** While specific provisions weren't detailed in the available information, bills of this type typically authorize funding for grid upgrades, hardening of power lines, development of microgrids, and improvements to vegetation management near power infrastructure. The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. As of now, it has not been enacted into law.
PHASE Act of 2025
# PHASE Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Does** The PHASE Act directs two federal agencies—the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Department of Transportation (DOT)—to focus on improving pedestrian and cyclist safety. NIST would research new technologies to make traffic control devices work better for both drivers and pedestrians. The DOT would create a grant program giving money to cities, tribes, and local governments to upgrade their streets with safety improvements like smarter crosswalks, wider buffer zones between cars and pedestrians, and better traffic signals. The bill also requires a study on physical barriers and other ways to protect pedestrians from traffic accidents. **Who It Affects** This bill would benefit pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users in communities across the country. Local governments, cities, and Native American tribes would be eligible to apply for federal grants to improve their infrastructure. Drivers would also benefit from better traffic control systems designed with new technology. **Current Status** The bill is still in committee as of now, meaning it hasn't yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative Norma Torres (D-California) in the 119th Congress.
Multiple Firearm Sales Reporting Modernization Act of 2025
# Summary of HR 4270: Multiple Firearm Sales Reporting Modernization Act of 2025 **What the Bill Does:** This bill would modernize federal requirements for reporting multiple firearm sales. Currently, federally licensed gun dealers must report to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) when a customer purchases two or more handguns within five days. The bill would likely expand or update these reporting requirements, though specific details about the proposed changes are not publicly available in standard summaries. **Who It Affects:** The primary groups affected would be federally licensed firearms dealers and potentially gun purchasers. Law enforcement agencies, particularly the ATF, would also be involved in receiving and processing any expanded reporting data. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (HR 4270) remains in committee and has not advanced to a full House vote. The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Norma Torres (D-CA). Further information about specific provisions would require reviewing the full legislative text, which can be found on Congress.gov.
Asbestos Exposure in Housing Reduction Act of 2025
# Asbestos Exposure in Housing Reduction Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill aims to reduce asbestos exposure in residential housing by establishing new regulations and requirements for asbestos management in homes. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically focus on identifying asbestos-containing materials in older homes, requiring disclosure of asbestos hazards to homeowners and buyers, and potentially funding remediation or removal efforts. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily impact homeowners, renters, home buyers, and sellers—especially those in older housing stock where asbestos was commonly used in insulation, flooring, roofing, and other materials before being restricted in the 1970s. It could also affect construction companies, contractors, and real estate professionals who would need to comply with new disclosure and handling requirements. **Current Status:** The bill (HR 4247) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Norma Torres (D-CA) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. Further details about specific provisions would become available as the bill moves through the legislative process.
Taxpayer Protection Act
# Taxpayer Protection Act (HR 4208) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Taxpayer Protection Act is currently pending in committee, but based on its title and sponsor, it appears designed to protect taxpayers' interests in the federal tax system. Without detailed legislative text publicly available, the specific provisions cannot be confirmed. Typically, bills with this name address issues like tax compliance, audit fairness, or preventing misuse of taxpayer information. **Who It Affects:** If passed, this bill would likely impact individual taxpayers, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and potentially tax preparation companies. The actual scope depends on the bill's specific provisions, which would be clarified once the bill is formally reviewed by its House committee. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 4208 remains in committee review, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full House vote. The bill was introduced by Representative Norma Torres (D-California) in the 119th Congress. For the most current details on this bill's specific provisions and any recent activity, check Congress.gov.
Veterans Skilled Trades Transition Act
# Veterans Skilled Trades Transition Act Summary **What the Bill Does** The Veterans Skilled Trades Transition Act (HR 3611) would help military veterans transition into careers in skilled trades—jobs like electrician, plumber, carpenter, and HVAC technician. The bill aims to create pathways for veterans leaving military service to enter apprenticeships and training programs in these fields, which typically offer good wages and job security. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily benefits veterans seeking civilian employment after their military service ends. It would likely establish or expand apprenticeship programs, provide training resources, and possibly offer financial assistance or incentives to employers who hire veterans for skilled trade positions. This could also help address workforce shortages in the construction and trades industries. **Current Status** As of now, HR 3611 is in the committee stage, meaning it has been introduced in Congress but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Norma Torres (D-CA).
Veterans Administration Backlog Accountability Act of 2025
# Veterans Administration Backlog Accountability Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the VA's Office of Inspector General to produce a report examining the backlog of disability compensation claims waiting to be processed. These are claims from veterans seeking benefits for service-related injuries or disabilities. The report would provide information about how many claims are pending and where they're stuck in the system—either at the Veterans Benefits Administration (the initial review stage) or the Board of Veterans' Appeals (the appeals stage). **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects veterans waiting for disability benefits decisions, as well as VA officials and Congress. By requiring detailed reporting on the backlog, the bill aims to increase transparency about how long veterans must wait for their claims to be processed and decided. **Current Status** The bill (HR 3571) was introduced by Representative Norma Torres (D-California) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House. No action has been taken since introduction, so the bill has not advanced toward a vote.
Pink Tax Repeal Act
# Pink Tax Repeal Act Summary **What the bill would do:** The Pink Tax Repeal Act aims to prohibit companies from charging different prices for substantially similar products based on the gender of the intended consumer. If passed, it would make it illegal for manufacturers and retailers to charge more for items marketed to women compared to equivalent products marketed to men—such as razors, deodorant, dry cleaning services, or haircuts. The bill would give the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) authority to enforce these rules and allow consumers to file complaints about price discrimination. **Who it affects:** This bill would impact consumers, particularly women who research suggests often pay more for personal care and clothing items. It would also affect manufacturers and retailers who currently use gender-based pricing strategies. The legislation applies to any products or services offered in the United States where gender-based pricing occurs. **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 House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Norma Torres (D-CA).
Fairness to Freedom Act of 2025
# Fairness to Freedom Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would establish a right to free legal representation for people who cannot afford a lawyer in immigration removal proceedings and bond hearings. Currently, immigrants can have a lawyer in these cases, but they must pay for one themselves. The bill would have the government cover legal costs for those who qualify financially. It would create an Office of Immigration Representation to manage this system and set rules about when people can meet with lawyers, what documents they receive, and other procedural protections. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects low-income immigrants facing deportation or immigration-related legal proceedings. It would also impact the government agencies and courts handling immigration cases, as they would need to implement and manage the new legal representation system. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (HR 3127, 119th Congress) and was introduced by Representative Norma J. Torres, a Democrat from California. It has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. This is a significant piece of legislation that would represent a major change to how immigration proceedings are handled in the U.S., as the right to government-funded legal representation would be new in immigration cases.
Stealthing Act of 2025
# Stealthing Act of 2025 - Summary **What It Would Do** The Stealthing Act of 2025 (HR 3084) aims to make it illegal to remove or damage a condom without a partner's consent during sexual activity. The term "stealthing" refers to the practice of secretly removing or disabling protection during sex without the knowledge or agreement of the other person. If passed, this bill would establish federal penalties for this action, treating it as a form of sexual assault or reproductive coercion. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** This bill would primarily affect individuals engaging in sexual activity, as it would criminalize nonconsensual condom removal. The legislation targets a specific harmful behavior that some argue violates consent and puts partners at risk of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections without their knowledge. The bill establishes this as a federal offense, though specific penalties and enforcement mechanisms would depend on the final language of the legislation. **Current Status** As of now, HR 3084 is in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA-35) in the 119th Congress. For the bill to become law, it would need to pass out of committee, receive approval from the full House, pass the Senate, and be signed by the President.
Consent is Key Act
# Consent is Key Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Consent is Key Act (HR 3083) is a proposed federal law currently being reviewed in committee. Based on its title, the bill appears to address consent-related policies, though specific details about its exact provisions aren't available in the information provided. To understand what this bill specifically proposes, you would need to review the full text on Congress.gov, as the summary here only indicates the bill's basic designation and sponsorship. **Who It Affects and Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Representative Norma Torres (D-California) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. At this stage, the bill is still in the early legislative process. **Next Steps:** For complete information about what this bill would actually do—including its specific provisions and which groups would be affected—readers should visit Congress.gov and search for "HR 3083" to access the full bill text and any supporting documents.
Protecting America’s Cybersecurity Act
# Protecting America's Cybersecurity Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Protecting America's Cybersecurity Act (HR 3026) is a proposed law currently under review in Congress that addresses cybersecurity threats to the United States. While specific details about the bill's provisions aren't available in the information provided, legislation with this title typically focuses on strengthening defenses against cyber attacks, improving information sharing between government and private companies, and establishing standards for protecting critical infrastructure like power grids and water systems. **Who It Affects:** This bill would likely impact federal agencies, private sector companies (especially those in critical infrastructure), and potentially American consumers. It could create new requirements for how organizations handle and report cyber attacks, and may establish government programs to support cybersecurity efforts across industries. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 3026 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The bill was sponsored by Representative Norma Torres (D-California). To understand the bill's specific proposals and exact requirements, interested parties should consult Congress.gov or wait for more detailed information as it moves through the legislative process.
ATC Protection Act
# ATC Protection Act (HR 2751) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** The ATC Protection Act is a proposed law that would provide protections for Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs). While specific details about the bill's provisions aren't available in the information provided, bills with this title typically aim to safeguard the working conditions, safety standards, or job security of the federal employees who manage aircraft in U.S. airspace. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily impact air traffic controllers who work for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as well as potentially the aviation industry and flying public. It could also affect federal workforce policies more broadly. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Norma Torres (D-California) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. To see the specific provisions and current progress, you can search for "HR 2751" on Congress.gov, which maintains the most up-to-date legislative details.
Removing Nitrate and Arsenic in Drinking Water Act
# Removing Nitrate and Arsenic in Drinking Water Act (HR 2656) **What the Bill Would Do** This bill, if passed, would authorize federal funding and programs to help remove nitrate and arsenic contamination from drinking water supplies. These are naturally occurring chemicals that can be harmful to human health, particularly in agricultural areas where nitrate contamination from fertilizers is common, and in regions with naturally high arsenic levels. The bill would likely establish grants, research initiatives, or infrastructure improvements to help communities identify and treat contaminated water. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects communities with unsafe drinking water levels of nitrate or arsenic—often including agricultural regions and rural areas. It would also impact water utilities responsible for treatment, and potentially benefit public health by preventing exposure to these contaminants. **Current Status** As of now, HR 2656 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was sponsored by Representative Norma Torres (D-CA). Until it advances from committee and gains broader support, it remains in the early stages of the legislative process.
Thriving Communities Act of 2025
# Thriving Communities Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does** The Thriving Communities Act of 2025 would provide federal funding and support for housing development, infrastructure projects, and community planning efforts. The bill aims to help neighborhoods and regions grow in coordinated ways by funding housing, improving infrastructure, and supporting regional planning initiatives. It also establishes oversight mechanisms to ensure federal funds are used effectively. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily benefit communities seeking federal funding for development projects, local governments overseeing regional planning, and residents in areas receiving housing and infrastructure improvements. It could also affect federal agencies responsible for distributing and monitoring these funds. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. As it remains in the early stages of the legislative process, it has not been passed into law.
Mudslide Recovery Act
# Mudslide Recovery Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Mudslide Recovery Act (HR 1356) is a proposed federal bill designed to provide assistance and resources to communities affected by mudslides. While specific details aren't available in the summary provided, bills with this title typically authorize federal funding, emergency aid, and recovery programs for areas that have experienced mudslide disasters. This could include support for rebuilding infrastructure, providing emergency assistance to affected residents, and funding prevention or mitigation efforts. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily benefit communities that have experienced mudslide damage, particularly in regions prone to such disasters like California (where the sponsor is from). It could also affect federal agencies involved in disaster response and recovery, as well as taxpayers funding these federal programs. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Representative Norma J. Torres (D-CA) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. This is an early stage in the legislative process, and the bill may be revised, debated, or set aside depending on committee actions and congressional priorities.
911 SAVES Act
# 911 SAVES Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The 911 SAVES Act would officially classify 911 dispatchers and emergency call center workers as "protective service" workers in the federal government's Standard Occupational Classification system. This classification system is used to organize job categories for statistical purposes across federal agencies. The bill requires this change to be made within 30 days of passage. **Who It Affects and Why It Matters** This bill primarily affects the roughly 100,000+ 911 dispatchers and emergency telecommunicators across the United States. Currently, these workers may not be classified as protective service employees, which can impact how federal agencies collect data about them, determine eligibility for certain benefits and training programs, and potentially influence pay standards and workplace protections. By reclassifying them as protective service workers—similar to police officers and firefighters—the bill aims to give dispatchers greater recognition and potentially improve their access to benefits and career advancement opportunities. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Norma Torres, a Democrat from California.
911 SAVES Act of 2025
# 911 SAVES Act of 2025 – Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Does:** The 911 SAVES Act would require the federal government's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to consider creating a separate job classification for 911 operators and emergency dispatchers within the federal system that tracks occupations. Currently, these workers are grouped together with other protective service jobs. If OMB decides not to create this separate category, they would have to explain their reasoning to Congress. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily affects 911 operators and emergency dispatchers across the country. It could also impact how government agencies collect data about these workers' employment, salaries, and benefits. The separate classification could help highlight the specific skills and challenges of emergency communications work, potentially supporting better pay, training, and working condition discussions for these workers. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Norma Torres (D-California) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House.