Vasquez, Gabe [D-NM-2]
Democrat · NM · 29 bills sponsored
To provide that employees of tribally controlled schools are eligible to receive a pension under the Federal Employees Retirement System and to participate in the Thrift Savings Plan, and for other purposes.
# Summary of HR 7781 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would extend federal retirement benefits to employees working at tribally controlled schools—schools operated by Native American tribes rather than traditional public school districts. Specifically, it would allow these employees to participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which provides pensions, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings account similar to a 401(k). Currently, these federal retirement benefits are not available to tribal school employees, even though they perform the same educational work as federally employed teachers. **Who It Affects** The bill directly impacts teachers, administrators, and staff employed by Native American tribal schools across the country. It also affects the tribes that operate these schools and manage their budgets. Indirectly, it could affect Native American students who attend these schools, as improved retirement benefits might help attract and retain qualified educators. **Current Status** HR 7781 is currently in committee and has not yet advanced for a full vote in the House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez, a Democrat from New Mexico, a state with significant tribal populations.
Veteran Education Assistance Adjustment Act
# Veteran Education Assistance Adjustment Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Veteran Education Assistance Adjustment Act would adjust education benefits for veterans to account for inflation and rising college costs. While the specific provisions aren't detailed in the summary provided, the bill's focus on "adjustment" suggests it would increase the monetary value of education assistance programs that currently serve veterans, making these benefits more adequate in today's higher education market where tuition and living expenses have significantly increased since these benefit levels were last set. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily affects military veterans using education benefits, as well as their families who may depend on these programs. It could also indirectly impact higher education institutions, which serve veteran students, and potentially affects federal budget allocations for veteran services. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (as of the 119th Congress), meaning it has been referred to the relevant congressional committee for review and discussion but has not yet advanced to a full floor vote. To become law, it would need to pass committee, then be voted on and approved by both the House of Representatives and Senate, and signed by the President.
Patient Debt Relief Act
# Patient Debt Relief Act (HR 7478) Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Patient Debt Relief Act aims to address medical debt, which is one of the leading causes of personal bankruptcy in the United States. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically focus on reducing the financial burden patients face from healthcare costs—whether through debt forgiveness programs, changes to how medical debt is collected, or reforms to billing practices. **Who It Affects** This legislation would primarily impact Americans struggling with medical bills and debt. It could also affect healthcare providers, hospitals, debt collection agencies, and insurance companies depending on its specific requirements. **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 Gabe Vasquez (D-NM). For detailed information about the bill's specific provisions, you would need to review the full text on Congress.gov, as the summary information available is limited.
Feed Our Veterans Act
# Feed Our Veterans Act (HR 7383) Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Feed Our Veterans Act is designed to improve food assistance and nutrition support for military veterans. While specific details about the bill's provisions aren't provided in the available information, bills with this title typically focus on expanding access to food programs, meal assistance, or nutritional resources for veterans who may be struggling with food insecurity. **Who It Affects:** This legislation would primarily benefit veterans—people who have served in the U.S. military—particularly those experiencing economic hardship or food insecurity. It may also involve the Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal agencies responsible for veteran services. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 7383 remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM). For specific details about the exact provisions, funding amounts, and implementation methods, you would need to review the full bill text on Congress.gov.
Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act of 2025
# Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act of 2025 is a proposed law intended to strengthen safety and security regulations around drone operations in U.S. airspace. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically establish or enhance rules for how drones are registered, monitored, and operated—particularly regarding commercial and recreational use, airspace restrictions, and potential national security concerns. **Who It Affects:** This legislation would impact drone operators (both commercial companies and hobbyists), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and potentially national security agencies. It could also affect the broader drone industry, technology companies, and the general public through changes to airspace safety rules. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (HR 6605) is in committee, meaning it hasn't yet advanced to a full vote in the House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM). The bill remains in the early stages of the legislative process and would need committee approval and further congressional action to become law. *Note: More detailed provisions would be available once the bill's full text is published.*
Waste Heat to Wattage Act of 2026
# Waste Heat to Wattage Act of 2026 Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Waste Heat to Wattage Act of 2026 would establish federal support for technology that captures excess heat produced by industrial processes and converts it into usable electricity. Currently, much of the heat generated by factories, power plants, and other industrial facilities is simply released into the environment as waste. This bill would create incentives and programs to help businesses install and use waste heat recovery systems, which could reduce energy waste and lower operating costs. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily targets industrial manufacturers, power generation facilities, and other energy-intensive industries. It could also benefit consumers through potentially lower energy costs and reduced electricity demand. The broader public could see environmental benefits from increased energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 7080 is in committee, meaning it has been referred to the relevant congressional committee for review and discussion but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-2). *Note: Limited details are publicly available about specific provisions, funding amounts, or tax incentives included in this bill at this stage.*
Strengthening Our Workforce Act of 2025
# Strengthening Our Workforce Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Strengthening Our Workforce Act of 2025 is a proposed law currently being reviewed in Congress. Unfortunately, the specific details of what this bill contains are not available in the information provided. Without access to the bill's text, I cannot describe the particular provisions, programs, or policy changes it would implement. **Current Status:** The bill (HR 5098) was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez, a Democrat from New Mexico, in the 119th Congress. It is currently in the committee review stage, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. **Next Steps:** To learn what this bill actually proposes, you can visit Congress.gov and search for "HR 5098" to read the full text, view the summary, and track any updates as it moves through the legislative process. This will provide the specific details about which workers it affects and what workforce-related changes it would make.
Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act
# Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act Summary **What the bill would do:** The Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act aims to address affordability issues in the mobile home industry. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically focus on preventing rapid rent increases in mobile home parks, protecting residents from displacement, and ensuring manufactured housing remains accessible to low and middle-income Americans. **Who it affects:** The bill would primarily impact mobile home residents and park owners. Mobile homes represent an important source of affordable housing for millions of Americans, particularly seniors, low-income families, and rural communities. Park owners and investors would also be affected by any regulatory or financial changes. **Current status:** The bill (HR 4969) is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. As of now, it remains in the early stages of the legislative process. **Note:** For complete details on specific provisions, you may want to check Congress.gov or the sponsor's official website, as the full legislative language would provide more precise information about what restrictions or protections the bill proposes.
Energy Workers Health Improvement and Compensation Fund Act
# Energy Workers Health Improvement and Compensation Fund Act (HR 4905) **What the bill would do:** This bill would establish a federal fund to provide health benefits and compensation to energy workers who have suffered injuries or illnesses related to their work in the energy industry. The program would help cover medical expenses and provide financial support to affected workers and potentially their families. **Who it affects:** The primary beneficiaries would be current and former energy workers—including those in oil, gas, coal, nuclear, and renewable energy sectors—who have developed job-related health problems. The bill is sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), reflecting interest from energy-producing regions like New Mexico. **Current status:** As of now, HR 4905 remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill has not advanced beyond the initial committee review stage.
No More Narcos Act
# No More Narcos Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The No More Narcos Act (HR 4471) is a proposed law currently under review in Congress. However, the available information does not specify the bill's detailed provisions or exact objectives. Based on the title alone, the bill appears intended to address drug trafficking and criminal organizations, but without access to the full text or committee documents, we cannot confirm the specific policies or enforcement mechanisms it would establish. **Who It Affects:** Without the bill's specific provisions, it's unclear exactly who would be affected. Typically, legislation with this focus might impact drug enforcement agencies, border security personnel, international law enforcement partnerships, communities affected by drug trafficking, or individuals involved in drug-related crimes—but this cannot be confirmed without reviewing the actual bill text. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House. This is an early stage in the legislative process. To learn more about this bill's specific proposals and current progress, you can search for HR 4471 on Congress.gov, which provides the full text and latest updates.
Stop COYOTES Act
# Stop COYOTES Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Stop COYOTES Act (HR 4472) aims to strengthen federal penalties and enforcement against human smugglers and trafficking networks that operate along the U.S. border. "COYOTES" refers to smugglers who illegally transport people across borders. The bill would enhance tools available to law enforcement to prosecute and combat human trafficking operations, which often involve dangerous and exploitative conditions for migrants. **Who It Affects:** The legislation would primarily impact human smuggling organizations and the federal agencies tasked with border enforcement and human trafficking prevention. Indirectly, it affects migrants who may be vulnerable to exploitation by smuggling networks, as well as communities near border regions where smuggling operations occur. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), whose district includes the New Mexico-Mexico border region. *Note: Specific provisions of the bill are not detailed in the available information provided.*
TRICARE Travel Improvement Act
# TRICARE Travel Improvement Act (HR 4289) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill aims to improve travel benefits for TRICARE beneficiaries—people who receive military health insurance through the Defense Department. While specific details aren't provided in the basic bill information, TRICARE travel improvements typically address reimbursement policies, travel distances covered, or procedures for accessing care when military beneficiaries must travel for medical treatment. **Who It Affects** The legislation would impact TRICARE users, which includes active-duty service members, retirees, and their families who rely on this military health insurance system. These individuals may benefit from expanded or improved provisions when they need to travel for medical care, particularly those in rural or remote areas far from military medical facilities. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full House vote. It remains in the early stages of the legislative process.
Downwinder Commemoration Act of 2025
# Downwinder Commemoration Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Downwinder Commemoration Act of 2025 would establish a formal commemoration for "downwinders"—people who were exposed to radioactive fallout from nuclear weapons testing conducted by the U.S. government, primarily during the Cold War era. The bill aims to recognize and honor those affected by this exposure and its health consequences. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects people living in areas downwind of nuclear test sites, particularly in the Southwest (Nevada, Utah, and neighboring regions), who experienced radiation exposure from atmospheric nuclear testing that occurred between the 1950s and 1960s. This includes both direct victims who suffered illness and their families. **Current Status:** HR 4290 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-2). Specific provisions detailing the exact form of commemoration are not yet publicly detailed in available records.
Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act
# Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act (HR 4003) is designed to support economic development in U.S. communities near the Mexican border. While specific details aren't available in the summary provided, bills with this title typically aim to create jobs, attract investment, and improve infrastructure in these regions. The bill is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't yet advanced to a full floor vote in the House of Representatives. **Who It Affects:** This legislation would primarily affect residents and businesses in border communities, particularly in states like New Mexico (the sponsor's state), Texas, Arizona, and California. It could also impact federal agencies involved in regional development and any private companies interested in investing in border areas. **Current Status:** As of the last update, HR 4003 remains in committee review. To learn more about the specific provisions—such as whether it includes tax incentives, grants, infrastructure funding, or other economic tools—you can visit Congress.gov, which provides full bill text and the most current status updates.
Humane Accountability Act
# Humane Accountability Act (HR 3473) Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Humane Accountability Act is currently in the committee review stage and has not yet been detailed in available public records. Without access to the bill's specific language or provisions, I cannot provide accurate details about its intended purpose or mechanisms. The bill's title suggests it may relate to accountability measures, but the actual scope—whether it covers animal welfare, law enforcement, immigration, or another area—cannot be determined from the information available. **Current Status** HR 3473 was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-New Mexico) in the 119th Congress and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full House vote. At this stage, the bill could be debated, amended, or stalled indefinitely. **How to Learn More** For accurate information about this bill's specific provisions and who it affects, I recommend checking Congress.gov or the House Clerk's website, where you can find the full text once it's publicly available. This will clarify what "humane accountability" specifically refers to in this legislation.
Expanding Regional Airports Act
# Expanding Regional Airports Act – Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do** If passed, HR 3085 would create a new federal grant program to help smaller regional airports improve their facilities and operations. The Department of Transportation would award 3 to 10 grants each year to eligible airports, with funding available for projects like expanding runways, building hangars, upgrading passenger screening areas, and improving terminal facilities. The grants could also help airports cover costs related to meeting safety and security standards. **Who It Affects** This bill targets general aviation airports and smaller commercial airports (not major hub airports like those in large cities) that serve communities with populations of at least 75,000 people. The funding would benefit these regional airports, the airlines operating from them, and the communities they serve by potentially improving air service access and capacity. **Current Status** HR 3085 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez, a Democrat from New Mexico.
Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act of 2025
# Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act of 2025 aims to improve wildlife movement and ecosystem health on privately owned agricultural and ranching lands. If passed, the bill would likely establish programs to help landowners create or maintain wildlife corridors—pathways that allow animals to move between habitat areas—while continuing to use their land for farming, ranching, or other productive purposes. This approach recognizes that much of America's wildlife depends on private lands, not just protected public areas. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill would primarily affect farmers, ranchers, and other private landowners, potentially offering them incentives or technical assistance to implement wildlife-friendly practices. Relevant federal agencies would likely be involved in administering any programs. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, habitat connectivity bills typically include funding for conservation easements, technical support, or cost-sharing programs that compensate landowners for maintaining or restoring wildlife corridors. **Current Status** As of now, HR 2235 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full House vote. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM).
Honor Farmer Contracts Act
# Honor Farmer Contracts Act Summary **What It Does:** The Honor Farmer Contracts Act would require the USDA to release frozen funding for farm agreements and contracts, pay any overdue amounts owed to farmers, and prevent the USDA from canceling existing farmer contracts without cause. The bill also requires the USDA to notify Congress at least 60 days before closing any Farm Service Agency county offices, Natural Resources Conservation Service field offices, or Rural Development Service Centers. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily impacts farmers and agricultural businesses that have signed contracts with the USDA, as well as rural communities that depend on USDA service centers. It also affects USDA operations and gives Congress oversight authority over office closures. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. No action has been taken since its introduction in the 119th Congress.
Ranching Without Red Tape Act of 2025
# Ranching Without Red Tape Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Ranching Without Red Tape Act of 2025 would reduce regulatory requirements for ranchers and agricultural operations. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, the bill's title suggests it aims to streamline or eliminate federal regulations that ranchers consider burdensome paperwork and compliance requirements. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily impact ranchers and livestock operators across the United States. It could also affect federal agencies responsible for environmental protection, land management, and agricultural oversight, depending on which specific regulations would be eliminated or modified. **Current Status:** The bill (HR 2238) is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Representative Gabe Vasquez, a Democrat from New Mexico, where ranching is a significant part of the economy. Without the full text or committee details available, it's unclear what specific regulations the bill targets or how much support it has among lawmakers. *Note: For detailed information about specific provisions, you may want to check Congress.gov or request the full bill text from your representative's office.*
Healthy Foods for Native Seniors Act
# Healthy Foods for Native Seniors Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Healthy Foods for Native Seniors Act (HR 2236) would provide assistance to help Native American seniors access healthier food options. While specific details aren't available in the basic bill information, legislation with this title typically focuses on improving nutrition programs or food assistance for elderly members of Native American tribes and communities. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily benefit senior citizens living in Native American communities across the United States. It may also affect tribal governments and organizations that administer food assistance programs on tribal lands. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM). To become law, it would need to advance out of committee, pass the House, be approved by the Senate, and be signed by the President. *Note: Complete legislative details were not available in the source information provided. For more specific information about the bill's provisions and funding, you may want to consult Congress.gov or the bill's full text.*
M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act
# M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act Summary This bill would designate a section of the Gila River in New Mexico as a "Wild and Scenic River," a federal protection status that preserves river corridors in their natural state. The designation would protect the river from major dam construction and commercial development while allowing recreational activities like fishing and boating. The bill is named after M.H. Dutch Salmon, presumably honoring someone significant to the region's conservation efforts. The bill primarily affects New Mexico residents, outdoor enthusiasts, and environmental interests in the Gila River area. It could also impact local water users, landowners, and businesses near the designated section, though the specific boundaries and restrictions aren't detailed in this summary. The legislation addresses conservation of aquatic ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and forest resources in the region. **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. No further action has been taken at this time.
Honor and Hire Veterans Act of 2025
# Honor and Hire Veterans Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Honor and Hire Veterans Act of 2025 is designed to help veterans find employment by creating incentives for employers to hire them. While specific details aren't available in the information provided, bills with this title typically include tax credits or other benefits that encourage private companies to recruit veterans and may streamline hiring processes for former military personnel. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect veterans transitioning to civilian employment and employers—particularly businesses that might receive tax incentives for hiring former service members. It could also benefit federal agencies involved in veteran employment programs. **Current Status** The bill (HR 2801) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. Additional legislative details would become available once the bill is formally released or moves forward in the legislative process.
Tax Relief from Tariffs and High Costs Act
# Tax Relief from Tariffs and High Costs Act (HR 2802) Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill aims to provide tax relief to American taxpayers and businesses affected by tariffs and rising costs. However, specific details about the relief mechanisms, eligibility requirements, and financial impacts are not available in the provided summary. To understand exactly what tax breaks or credits the bill proposes, you would need to review the full legislative text. **Who It Affects:** Based on the title, the bill would likely affect individuals and businesses dealing with higher prices resulting from tariffs (taxes on imported goods) and general cost increases. The exact scope of who qualifies for relief depends on details not included in this summary. **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 Gabe Vasquez (D-New Mexico). *Note: For complete information about specific provisions, estimated costs, and legislative details, you would need to consult the full bill text on Congress.gov.*
Boost the Middle Class Act
# Boost the Middle Class Act Summary **What It Would Do:** The Boost the Middle Class Act (HR 2800) is a proposed bill aimed at providing economic support to middle-class Americans, though specific details about its provisions are not publicly available in the basic information provided. Based on its title, the bill appears designed to address middle-class economic challenges through policy changes, though the exact mechanisms and benefits would need to be reviewed in the full legislative text. **Who It Affects:** If passed, this bill would primarily affect middle-class households across the United States. The specific financial impact would depend on the bill's detailed provisions, which could involve tax changes, direct payments, wage support, or other economic measures. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 2800 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced in the House of Representatives but has not yet advanced to a full floor vote. The bill was sponsored by Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM). For voters interested in this legislation, tracking its progress through Congress would require reviewing the full bill text and committee discussions, which are typically available on Congress.gov.