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Congress was in session this week and the House considered a broad package of legislation focused on government efficiency, fraud prevention, national security, and labor policy.

Among the most significant actions was House consideration of the reconciliation package, commonly referred to as “Reconciliation 2.0” (S. 2), along with several measures designed to strengthen oversight of federal payments and reduce fraud across government programs.

The House also advanced numerous fraud-prevention initiatives, including legislation to:

  • Establish additional verification requirements before federal agencies certify or issue payments.
  • Prohibit certain individuals convicted of specified felonies from receiving federal contracts or grants.
  • Require agencies to conduct regular fraud-risk assessments of federal payment programs.
  • Direct the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue government-wide guidance on fraud prevention.
  • Create a coordinated anti-fraud and improper payment prevention framework led by the Treasury Department and OMB.

On foreign policy and national security matters, the House considered several measures originating from the Foreign Affairs Committee, including legislation aimed at preventing the illegal export of drone components to Iran, imposing sanctions on individuals advocating violence against U.S. and allied leaders, and encouraging U.S. allies to procure American-made defense equipment.

The House also remained prepared to act on an extension of Section 702 surveillance authorities under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) should the Senate complete action on the measure.

In labor policy, members continued discussions surrounding legislation that would accelerate collective bargaining negotiations following union recognition and establish a pathway to binding arbitration if an initial labor agreement is not reached within specified timeframes.

The Senate returned to session this week with a primary focus on extending Section 702 FISA surveillance authorities, a key national security priority. Senators also devoted floor time to advancing nominations for positions throughout the Trump Administration.

As Congress moves forward, attention remains focused on reconciliation legislation, federal payment integrity initiatives, national security authorities, and confirmation activity, all of which are expected to remain prominent items on the congressional agenda in the weeks ahead.

Finally, last week Republican James Gallagher won a special election in California to fill the seat previously held by Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA). Once Gallagher is sworn in, party ratios in the House will be 219 Republicans to 212 Democrats, improving Republicans to a three-vote majority.