Monday, July 20th, 2026
Prohibit Firearm Retailer Classification Codes: The House passed (221-201) H.R.1181, which would prohibit payment card networks and covered entities from using merchant category codes that distinguish a firearms retailer from a general-merchandise retailer or a sporting-goods retailer. It also would clarify that nothing in the bill would preempt state or local law that requires such codes.
Permanent Daylight Saving Time: The House passed (308-117) H.R.139, that would make daylight saving time permanent year-round and nationwide. It would permit states that have otherwise exempted themselves from DST to determine whether they will adopt the new DST established by the bill or maintain their existing policies.
Fiscal 2027 National Security-State Appropriations: The House passed (217-209) H.R.8595, to provide $47.3 billion in fiscal 2027 discretionary funding for the State Dept. and other foreign operations and aid initiatives. It includes $15.1 billion for the operational costs of the State Dept. and related agencies in 190 countries, as well as diplomatic efforts. It would provide $3.3 billion in direct aid for Israel, $2.1 billion for Jordan, $1.4 billion for Egypt, $300 million to counter Russian aggression, and $1.8 billion to counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Fiscal 2027 Defense Authorization: Both Chambers failed to advance their versions of the NDAA to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2027 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year.
Both bills contain a controversial section that directs the Pentagon to fast-track joint ventures, licensing agreements, and co-production of Israeli defense innovations for U.S. military systems.
The inclusion of the section has sparked significant bipartisan pushback. Critics argue the provision permanently embeds Israeli defense contractors into U.S. supply chains and limits future congressional oversight. Conversely, supporters maintain the measure will help both allies innovate faster against mutual security threats.
