This Week in Congress – Senate Faces Limited Agenda Before Election

With the House in recess until November 9, the Senate has a limited window to complete legislative business before the November elections. This week, the Senate continued work on the Protect College Sports Act (S. 4668), which addresses federal standards for college athletics and NIL agreements. Additionally, the Senate voted on one of the President’s judicial nominees and the nomination of the next Secretary of Labor.

The Senate also debated the House-passed Ratepayer Protection Act (H.R. 9340) for a preliminary procedural vote. The legislation would address the costs of electricity-grid upgrades associated with data center demand. Republicans are expected to force votes on H.J. Res. 210 and H.J. Res. 213, Congressional Review Act resolutions that would disapprove of EPA waivers allowing California to implement stricter vehicle emissions standards. The House passed both resolutions last week.

Finally, Democrats are expected to push another Iran War Powers resolution, continuing congressional debate over the President’s authority to conduct military operations involving Iran.

With the House already out of session, the Senate’s remaining legislative days before the election will be limited, making the timing of these votes increasingly important.