As the 117th Congress is now in full swing, legislation is being reintroduced and work is under way on needed policy changes. Following is a brief overview of important legislation I am working with fellow senators to reintroduce this Congress.
Energy ⢠Work continues with a bipartisan group of senators to update and reintroduce the American Nuclear Infrastructure Act (ANIA). This legislation further facilitates our nuclear competitiveness. ANIA ensures the research conducted at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) continues to contribute to and empower the long-term viability of diverse domestic energy resources and keeps us at the nuclear innovation forefront.
⢠Advancement of the bipartisan Department of Energy National Labs Jobs ACCESS (Apprenticeships for Complete and Committed Employment for Specialized Skills) Act to address looming personnel shortages due to a rapid retirement-eligible work force within the energy sector, like at INL, is important. This legislation
Luján Votes For COVID Funding, Spending Package
From the Office of U.S. House Assistant Speaker Ben Ray Luján:
…Package Includes Direct Checks, Unemployment Benefits, Rental Assistance, Small Business Relief, and Funding for Vaccine Deployment
Washington, D.C. – U.S. House Assistant Speaker Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) voted for the House passage of a bipartisan omnibus appropriations package that includes COVID-19 funding. The legislation funds the government through September and extends COVID-19 relief programs like federal enhanced unemployment benefits, economic impact payments, emergency rental assistance, and the Paycheck Protection Program. It also includes billions of dollars to support mass vaccination efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. The legislation now advances to the Senate, where it is expected to pass later tonight.