Whitehouse, Sheldon [D-RI]
Democrat · RI · 51 bills sponsored
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Air Plan Approval; Indiana; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".
# Summary of SJRES 122 **What the Bill Does:** This is a "disapproval resolution," which is a mechanism Congress uses to reject federal agency rules. If passed, it would overturn an EPA regulation that approved Indiana's plan for reducing regional haze pollution—primarily from power plants and industrial sources—during the 2024-2034 period. Regional haze rules aim to improve visibility in national parks and wilderness areas by limiting air pollution that drifts across state lines. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily affect Indiana's power plants, industrial facilities, and utilities that must comply with air quality standards, as well as environmental quality and visibility in national parks and protected areas. It could also impact neighboring states that benefit from Indiana's pollution controls. Indiana residents and businesses relying on the regulated industries would be indirectly affected. **Current Status:** The resolution was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate or House. For the resolution to pass, it would need majority support in both chambers and could not be vetoed by the President—a deliberate feature of the Congressional Review Act process.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category-Deadline Extensions; Correction".
# Summary of SJRES 120 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill is a "disapproval resolution" that would reject an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule about water pollution limits from coal and natural gas power plants. Specifically, it targets an EPA rule that extended deadlines for power plants to comply with effluent (wastewater) standards. If passed, this resolution would overturn the EPA's deadline extensions, forcing power plants to meet the original compliance timelines rather than the extended ones. **Who It Affects and Key Details:** The bill would directly impact steam electric power plants across the country, requiring them to implement stricter water quality standards on a faster timeline. Power plant operators would need to invest in pollution control equipment sooner than the EPA's extended deadline allowed. The resolution uses a congressional procedure that allows either chamber to disapprove federal regulations within a set timeframe. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and is currently in committee. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill remains in committee and has not advanced to a full vote in either chamber of Congress.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Air Plan Approval; Montana; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".
# Summary of SJRES 119 **What the Bill Would Do** This resolution would use a congressional procedure called the Congressional Review Act to block an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule regarding Montana's air quality plan for reducing regional haze—pollution that reduces visibility in areas like national parks and wilderness areas. If passed, it would overturn the EPA's approval of Montana's plan for the second implementation period (covering roughly 2024-2034). Regional haze rules require states to make progress in improving visibility at scenic areas by reducing emissions from power plants and other industrial sources. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The resolution primarily affects Montana, the EPA, and entities in Montana subject to air pollution controls—particularly power plants and industrial facilities. It could also impact scenic areas and public health in the region. The bill is currently in committee and has not advanced further in the legislative process. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) is the sponsor, though notably, the bill targets a rule in a state with different political representation.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Oil and Natural Gas Sector Climate Review: Extension of Deadlines in Standards of Performance for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources".
# Summary of SJRES 121 **What the Bill Does:** This bill would disapprove of an EPA rule that extended deadlines for implementing climate standards for the oil and natural gas industry. Specifically, the EPA had delayed when oil and gas companies must meet new pollution control requirements for both new facilities and existing ones. This resolution uses Congress's power to reject federal agency rules it disagrees with. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects oil and natural gas companies, which would face stricter timelines for meeting emissions standards if this resolution passes. It could also impact consumers through potential effects on energy prices, as well as environmental advocates and communities near oil and gas operations. **Current Status:** The bill is sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Congress. No further action has been taken at this time.
A bill to authorize the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces to combat transnational organized crime and to reduce the availability of illicit narcotics in the United States by using a prosecutor-led, multi-agency approach to enforcement, and for other purposes.
# Bill Summary: S 4004 - Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces **What It Would Do** This bill would authorize and support the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), a federal program that coordinates efforts across multiple government agencies to fight drug trafficking and organized crime. The bill emphasizes a "prosecutor-led" approach, meaning federal prosecutors would guide investigations and enforcement actions involving agencies like the DEA, FBI, and other law enforcement organizations working together on complex cases involving illegal drugs and criminal organizations. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily impacts federal law enforcement agencies and prosecutors involved in drug and organized crime cases. More broadly, it affects communities struggling with drug trafficking and addiction, as well as criminal organizations involved in distributing illegal narcotics in the United States. **Current Status** As of now, S 4004 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced in the Senate but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full chamber. The bill was sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). Without additional information about specific provisions, this bill appears to be a reauthorization or continuation of existing OCDETF programs rather than a major policy change.
A bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide for additional disclosure requirements for corporations, labor organizations, Super PACs and other entities, and for other purposes.
# Summary of S. 3991 **What the Bill Does** This bill would require corporations, labor unions, Super PACs, and other political spending organizations to disclose more information about their campaign contributions and spending. Essentially, it aims to increase transparency in political money by making it easier for voters to see who is funding political campaigns and advertisements. **Who It Affects** The bill would directly impact businesses, labor organizations, Super PACs (which can raise unlimited funds for political purposes), and other groups that spend money on elections. Indirectly, it could affect voters and candidates by changing how political funding information is reported and made public. **Current Status** The bill (S. 3991) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. For a bill to become law, it must pass committee review, get approval from the full Senate, pass through the House, and be signed by the President.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Effluent Limitations Guidelines and Standards for the Steam Electric Power Generating Point Source Category-Deadline Extensions".
# Summary of SJRES 106 **What the Bill Would Do** This joint resolution would reject an EPA rule that extends deadlines for steam electric power plants to comply with water pollution standards. If passed, it would use a congressional disapproval process to overturn the EPA's decision to delay when these plants must meet stricter limits on what they discharge into waterways. The rule being challenged allowed power plants more time to implement pollution-control measures. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects coal and natural gas-fired power plants that generate electricity, as well as communities and water systems downstream from these facilities. Environmental groups would likely support the disapproval, while power plant operators would oppose it, as stricter timelines could increase their compliance costs. **Current Status** SJRES 106 is currently in committee (as of the 119th Congress) and has not advanced to a full vote. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a Democrat from Rhode Island. For the bill to become law, it would need to pass both the House and Senate and either receive the President's signature or override a presidential veto.
Prior Authorization Relief Act
# Prior Authorization Relief Act (S 3762) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill aims to reduce the burden of "prior authorization" requirements in healthcare. Prior authorization is when insurance companies require doctors to get approval before providing certain treatments or medications to patients. The bill would restrict when insurance companies can demand this pre-approval, making it easier and faster for patients to access care without unnecessary delays. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily affect patients seeking medical care, doctors and healthcare providers, and insurance companies. Patients could benefit from faster access to treatments, while healthcare providers would spend less time dealing with insurance paperwork. Insurance companies would have fewer opportunities to deny or delay coverage decisions before care is provided. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. It was sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island). The bill has not yet passed and its future progress is uncertain.
Empowering States' Rights To Protect Consumers Act of 2026
# Empowering States' Rights To Protect Consumers Act of 2026 Summary This bill would allow individual states to set and enforce their own consumer protection standards, rather than having a single federal standard apply nationwide. The legislation appears designed to give states greater authority to create consumer safeguards tailored to their residents' needs, though the specific details of what protections it would establish are not yet available in public summaries. The bill would primarily affect consumers, businesses operating across multiple states, and state regulatory agencies. Companies doing business in multiple states could face different rules in each jurisdiction, while states would gain more power to regulate consumer-related activities within their borders. The exact scope of consumer issues covered—whether it addresses data privacy, product safety, financial services, or other areas—is not specified in the available information. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee as of the 119th Congress, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full Senate. It was sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
Affordable CHOICE Act
# Affordable CHOICE Act (S 3599) Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Affordable CHOICE Act aims to expand healthcare options and affordability for Americans. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the information provided, bills with this title typically focus on increasing consumer choice in health insurance plans, reducing costs, and potentially modifying aspects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The bill would likely affect how Americans purchase and access health insurance. **Who It Affects** This legislation would primarily impact individuals and families purchasing health insurance, as well as insurance companies and healthcare providers. It could also affect employers who offer health coverage to employees, depending on its specific provisions. **Current Status** As of now, the bill remains in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full Senate vote. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) in the 119th Congress. For detailed information about the bill's exact provisions, you can consult Congress.gov or the Senate's official website.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Air Plan Approval; South Dakota; Regional Haze Plan for the Second Implementation Period".
# Summary of SJRES 86 **What the Bill Would Do:** This resolution would overturn an EPA rule that approved South Dakota's plan to reduce air pollution that affects visibility in national parks and wilderness areas. If passed, it would nullify the EPA's August 2025 approval of South Dakota's "regional haze plan," which outlines how the state intends to improve air quality and visibility in protected areas like national parks. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects South Dakota's environmental regulations and could impact federal oversight of the state's air quality standards. It may also affect national parks and wilderness areas in South Dakota and potentially neighboring states, as well as industries and entities regulated under the state's air quality rules. **Current Status:** SJRES 86 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by Congress. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
No Settlements for January 6 Law Enforcement Assaulters Act
# Summary of S 3581: No Settlements for January 6 Law Enforcement Assaulters Act **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would prohibit the federal government from settling lawsuits filed by individuals involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot who were charged with assaulting law enforcement officers. In other words, if someone accused of attacking police during that event sued the government, the bill would prevent the Department of Justice from reaching a financial settlement to resolve the case—instead, such cases would have to go to trial or be otherwise resolved without monetary payouts. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill targets a specific group: people prosecuted for assaulting officers during the Capitol riot. It would restrict the government's usual ability to settle civil lawsuits, which is a common practice to avoid lengthy court battles and their associated costs. The legislation reflects concerns about compensating individuals involved in the violent events of January 6. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee and has not advanced further in the Senate. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) in the 119th Congress. The bill has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
Crime Gun Tracing Modernization Act of 2025
# Crime Gun Tracing Modernization Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Crime Gun Tracing Modernization Act of 2025 aims to update and improve the federal system used to trace guns found at crime scenes back to their owners. Currently, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) uses older methods to track firearms used in crimes. This bill would modernize those processes, making it faster and easier for law enforcement to trace guns involved in criminal activity. **Who It Affects and Key Details** The bill primarily affects law enforcement agencies that investigate crimes, as well as firearms dealers and manufacturers who would likely need to comply with updated tracing requirements. By improving the speed and efficiency of gun tracing, the legislation could help police solve crimes more quickly. The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate.
Bivens Act of 2025
# Bivens Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Bivens Act of 2025 aims to clarify and strengthen the legal rights of people who believe they've been wronged by federal employees. Currently, under a 1971 court decision called "Bivens v. Six Unknown Named Agents," people can sometimes sue federal agents (like FBI or customs officers) directly for violating their constitutional rights. However, courts have increasingly limited when these lawsuits are allowed. This bill would likely restore or expand those legal rights, making it easier for individuals to hold federal agents accountable in court. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** This bill primarily affects federal agents and the citizens who interact with them. It would impact anyone who believes federal law enforcement or other federal employees violated their constitutional rights—such as through illegal searches, excessive force, or wrongful arrest. Without seeing the full text, the bill likely addresses limits that courts have placed on Bivens lawsuits and may specify circumstances where these lawsuits can proceed. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee (S 3187, 119th Congress), sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
Constitutional Accountability Act
# Constitutional Accountability Act (S 3186) - Summary **What It Would Do:** The Constitutional Accountability Act aims to increase oversight and accountability for Supreme Court justices. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the basic information available, bills with this title typically propose measures such as ethics guidelines, financial disclosure requirements, or other accountability mechanisms for federal judges. The bill would affect how the Supreme Court operates and functions as an institution. **Who It Affects:** This legislation would primarily impact Supreme Court justices and potentially other federal judges. It could also affect the broader judicial system and cases heard in federal courts, depending on its specific provisions. **Current Status:** The bill (S 3186) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't advanced to a full Senate vote. The detailed provisions of this specific bill aren't publicly summarized in readily available sources, so interested parties would need to review the full legislative text for complete information about what it proposes.
REPO Implementation Act of 2025
# REPO Implementation Act of 2025 - Summary **What This Bill Would Do:** The REPO Implementation Act of 2025 is a bill introduced in the Senate that would implement the REPO (Recognizing Every Person's Obligation) framework, though the specific details of what REPO entails are not provided in the available information. Based on the bill's name and sponsorship, it appears to establish rules or requirements related to this policy framework, but the exact provisions and their practical effects cannot be determined from the information available. **Who It Affects & Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-Rhode Island) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. Until the bill's detailed text is released and reviewed, it's difficult to specify which groups or industries would be most affected. **What You Should Know:** To understand the true impact and implications of this legislation, you would need to review the full bill text, which would outline specific requirements, penalties, timelines, and affected parties. The bill remains in early stages of the legislative process.
Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2025
# Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill aims to reduce pollution from diesel engines, which are commonly used in trucks, buses, construction equipment, and other heavy-duty vehicles. The legislation would likely establish programs and provide funding to help replace or upgrade older diesel engines with cleaner, more efficient alternatives. The bill addresses air quality concerns since diesel engines are a significant source of particulate matter and other pollutants that affect public health. **Who It Affects:** The bill would impact owners and operators of diesel vehicles and equipment—including trucking companies, public transit systems, construction firms, and agricultural operations. It could also affect manufacturers who produce diesel engines and equipment. Communities near highways, ports, and industrial areas would potentially benefit from improved air quality if diesel emissions are reduced. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. At this stage, it remains under review and has not advanced further in the legislative process.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Highway Administration relating to "Rescinding Regulations Regarding Management Systems Pertaining to the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Refuge Roads Program"".
# Plain Language Summary of SJRES 92 **What This Bill Would Do** This bill is a "disapproval resolution" that would reject a rule issued by the Federal Highway Administration. The rule in question would eliminate existing regulations that set up management systems for the Fish and Wildlife Service's Refuge Roads Program. If passed, this resolution would prevent the Federal Highway Administration from rescinding (canceling) those regulations, effectively blocking the removal of these management rules. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The bill primarily affects the Fish and Wildlife Service and how it manages roads within wildlife refuges across the country. It was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) in the 119th Congress. As of now, the bill remains in committee and has not moved forward for a full vote in either chamber of Congress. Congressional disapproval resolutions like this one follow a specific legal process that allows Congress to overturn federal agency rules under the Congressional Review Act.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement relating to "Restoration of Names That Honor American Greatness; Gulf of America".
# Summary of SJRES 93 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill is a "resolution of disapproval" that would reject a rule issued by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE). The rule in question changed official government names, specifically renaming the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America." If passed, this resolution would overturn that naming change and restore the previous official name. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The change would primarily affect federal agencies, maps, and official documents that use these geographic names. The bill was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. Under congressional rules, Congress has 60 legislative days to disapprove of certain federal agency rules through this type of resolution. **Key Context** This represents a legislative disagreement over a naming decision made by a federal agency. Supporters of the resolution argue the original "Gulf of Mexico" name should be maintained, while opponents of the resolution would support the BSEE's decision to change it.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management relating to "Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness: Gulf of America".
# Summary of SJRES 87 **What the Bill Does:** This resolution would reject a rule issued by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) that would change the official name of the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." The bill uses a congressional disapproval process that allows Congress to overturn federal agency regulations they disagree with. If passed, it would prevent BOEM's naming change from taking effect. **Who It Affects:** The resolution primarily affects federal agencies, maps, and official government documents that reference the Gulf of Mexico. It could impact how the U.S. officially refers to the body of water in maritime law, commerce, environmental regulations, and international agreements. The change would have symbolic significance regarding how the nation names geographical features. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and is currently in committee. It has not yet been voted on by Congress. The disapproval resolution reflects disagreement between some lawmakers and the Trump administration over the proposed name change announced in early 2025.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incineration Units: Temporary-Use Incinerators and Air Curtain Incinerators Used in Disaster Recovery.
# Summary of SJRES 85 **What the Bill Does:** This bill would reject a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule regarding temporary incinerators and air curtain incinerators used during disaster recovery. If passed, the rule would be disapproved and would not go into effect. This is a "Congressional Review Act" resolution, which allows Congress to overturn federal agency regulations. **Who It Affects:** The rule applies to companies and organizations that burn commercial and industrial waste using temporary or portable incinerators during disaster recovery situations. The bill could affect disaster response operations, waste management, and potentially air quality in areas recovering from disasters. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (the early stage of the legislative process) and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate or House. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced it. The specific details of what the EPA rule contains and why it's being challenged are not provided in the available information.
Quantifying Uncertainty and Action to Help Optimize Growth of Shellfish Act of 2025
# Summary of S. 2883: Quantifying Uncertainty and Action to Help Optimize Growth of Shellfish Act of 2025 ## What the Bill Would Do This bill, currently in committee, aims to support the shellfish industry by improving how the government measures and manages shellfish resources. Based on its title, the legislation would likely establish better methods for understanding shellfish populations and growth conditions, and would help optimize conditions for shellfish farming and harvesting. The specific mechanisms and provisions are not detailed in the available information. ## Who It Affects The bill would primarily affect the shellfish industry, including commercial and recreational shellfish harvesters, aquaculture farmers, and coastal communities that depend on shellfish fishing. It could also impact fishing regulations and environmental management practices in shellfish-producing regions, particularly affecting states like Rhode Island where the sponsor is located. ## Current Status S. 2883 is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet advanced to a full Senate vote. The bill was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). For detailed information about specific provisions and what actions the bill would require, you would need to review the full legislative text, which may be available on Congress.gov.
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Environmental Protection Agency relating to "Emissions Budget and Allowance Allocations for Indiana Under the Revised Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Update".
# Summary of SJRES 60 **What the Bill Does** This bill is a "disapproval resolution" that would reject an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule issued in May 2025. The EPA rule allows Indiana power plants to emit more nitrogen oxides (a pollutant that contributes to smog and air quality problems) during the summer months (May-September) compared to previous limits. If passed, this resolution would cancel that EPA rule and keep the stricter emissions limits in place. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily impacts Indiana's electricity-generating power plants, which would face stricter pollution controls if the resolution passes. It could also affect Indiana residents' air quality and electricity costs, depending on how power plants adjust to meet tighter emissions standards. More broadly, it relates to interstate air pollution policy, since the original EPA rule stems from the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule, which regulates how pollution from one state affects neighboring states. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee (as of the 119th Congress). It was sponsored by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a Democrat from Rhode Island. For the bill to become law, it would need to pass both chambers of Congress and potentially overcome a presidential veto, depending on the administration's position on the EPA rule.
A bill to exempt Medicare from any sequestration under Statutory PAYGO that is caused by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
# Bill Summary: S 2749 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would protect Medicare from automatic budget cuts that might otherwise be triggered by the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." Under a rule called "Statutory PAYGO" (Pay-As-You-Go), Congress must offset the cost of new spending by either cutting other programs or raising revenue. If these targets aren't met, automatic cuts—called "sequestration"—kick in across various federal programs. This bill would specifically shield Medicare from those automatic cuts if they result from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. **Who It Affects and Current Status** The bill would primarily affect Medicare beneficiaries and the program's funding, as well as federal budget mechanics more broadly. It's currently in committee, meaning it hasn't advanced to a floor vote in the Senate. The bill was introduced by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). Note: The actual "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" referenced here does not appear to exist as of now, suggesting this may be a preemptive measure or the bill title may reference proposed legislation.