NASBP Focal Point – July 14, 2026

Federal Report

Federal: Congress is back in session this week with a host of legislative priorities to consider. The sudden passing of Republican South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham leaves a huge void in the U.S. Senate and the recent hospitalization of Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell heavily impacts key policy negotiations. In the Senate, Republicans are expected to bring the annual defense spending bill (NDAA) to the floor this week. Senate Democrats are expected to block the bill opposing funding for the Iran war without congressional authorization. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) continues to receive pushback from hardliners for this unwillingness to bring the SAVE America Act (voter registration bill) to the House floor. Because of this, hardliners are refusing to support the NDAA and other government reconciliation bills. The House has eight working days scheduled prior to the August recess leaving a total of 23 days before the end of the fiscal year to pass major spending bills such as the reauthorization of the 5-year Surface Transportation bill which expires on September 30. The Senate, meanwhile, is set to be in session for 32 days before the fiscal year ends.

WRDA Markup: This morning the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held a markup on H.R. 9497 the Water Resources Development Act of 2026 (WRDA). Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) had originally filed amendment 035, language identical to H.R. 1285, the “Water Infrastructure Subcontractor and Taxpayer Protection Act,” which requires performance and payment guarantees for P3s and other projects receiving funding through the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA). The Congressman decided to withdraw his Amendment with a commitment from the Committee it would schedule a second markup to address performance protections for water infrastructure projects. The Committee agreed to Rep. Bost’s request. We will keep you apprised on this issue.

CIPC hosts a reception on Capitol Hill: On Monday the Construction Industry Procurement Coalition (CIPC) hosted its annual reception for members of Congress and their staff in the House Small Business Committee Room. CIPC hosts this event to connect with Congressional Offices, to address matters pertaining to federal procurement, and to serve as a valuable resource in the federal contracting space.

Dates are set for the 2027 Fly-in: The 2027 Fly-in will take place once again at the Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill on Tuesday, February 23, 2027, for the afternoon “Washington Program” and the evening welcome reception. Congressional visits will take place on Wednesday, February 24, 2027. Additional information will be provided later this fall. In the meantime, please save the date!

State Report

NASBP will continue to monitor state activity throughout the remainder of the year. As we go to press, there are currently 9 states in session. Please contact NASBP if you are aware of legislation and/or proposed regulations in your state that may impact the surety industry.

If you are aware of any bills impacting the industry, please reach out to Larry LeClair, NASBP’s Director of Government Relations, and let us know.