House Resolution 256

Date: July 11, 2018

This bill reaffirms the United States' commitment to supporting countries that were once part of the Soviet Union and the communist bloc in their efforts towards independence, democracy, and integration into European and Euro-Atlantic institutions like NATO.

It condemns Russia's actions that violate international agreements and pledges to maintain sanctions until certain conditions are met. The bill also calls for increased support for Central and Eastern European countries, encourages defense spending in line with NATO guidelines, and recognizes the contributions of countries in the region to peacekeeping efforts.

The bill emphasizes the importance of democratic aspirations, electoral security, and continued investment in defense. It also honors the sacrifices made by those who have served under NATO and calls for ongoing support to the European Deterrence Initiative.

Signed by the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

Financial CHOICE Act of 2017 (H.R. 10) - Plain Language Summary

This Act is designed to create hope and opportunity by making significant changes to financial regulations. Its goal is to end government bailouts of big banks ("Too Big to Fail"), hold Wall Street and Washington accountable, reduce excessive rules, and improve economic freedom and access to credit and capital for investors, consumers, and small businesses.

Summary

In simple terms, this bill rolls back many parts of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act to reduce government intervention in the financial sector. It ends taxpayer-funded bailouts and makes big financial firms face bankruptcy like other businesses would. It holds Wall Street more accountable by increasing penalties and making enforcement more transparent. It requires federal financial regulators to do thorough cost-benefit analyses and submit important rules to Congress for approval.

It also helps small businesses and start-ups by relaxing regulations that make it hard to raise money, simplifies crowdfunding, and eases requirements on community banks and credit unions. Financially strong banks get regulatory relief. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau becomes an independent agency with reformed powers and greater transparency. Lastly, the bill enhances Fed transparency and creates an independent insurance advocate to improve U.S. insurance oversight and international cooperation.

Overall, the Act aims to promote economic growth, protect taxpayers and consumers, increase regulatory accountability, and restore freedom and fairness in financial markets.