On Tuesday night, President Joe Biden signed a historic batch of 50 bills into law, capping off the legislative year with a flurry of activity. Among the new laws, two standouts include officially designating the bald eagle as the national bird and passing the “Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act,” a bill championed by Paris Hilton to safeguard children in treatment and care centers. The extensive legislative action follows Biden’s decision to veto a bipartisan bill on Monday that sought to create dozens of new federal judge posts, citing unresolved issues in the proposal.
The bald eagle, long regarded as a national symbol, finally gained official recognition under U.S. law. While the majestic bird has been synonymous with American identity since the Second Continental Congress placed it on the Great Seal in 1782, its designation as the national bird had never been codified. The new law passed unanimously in the Senate earlier this year and was approved by the House last week through a voice vote. This act now places the bald eagle under the same chapter of U.S. law that recognizes “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the national anthem, “In God We Trust” as the national motto, and “The Stars and Stripes Forever” as the national march.
Another significant piece of legislation signed into law is the “Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act,” a cause spearheaded by Paris Hilton. This bill aims to protect children in youth residential programs by creating a Federal Work Group tasked with ensuring that facilities adhere to best practices for patient care. The group is also responsible for providing recommendations to strengthen federal oversight of these institutions in the future. Hilton, who has publicly shared her experiences of abuse at such facilities, has been a vocal advocate for this cause, bringing national attention to the issue.
Biden also approved a bill requiring public colleges and universities to include campus hazing incidents in their annual security reports. This measure is intended to bolster transparency and accountability, ensuring that institutions take a proactive approach to addressing and preventing hazing-related harm.
In addition to these high-profile laws, several bills focused on renaming federal buildings were signed. One such designation honors the late California Senator Dianne Feinstein, with a San Francisco post office now bearing her name. Feinstein, a trailblazer in American politics, was celebrated for her decades of service, and this renaming is seen as a fitting tribute to her legacy.
The sheer volume of legislation signed in one evening reflects the administration’s commitment to advancing a broad array of priorities. While some bills address symbolic issues, such as the national bird designation, others tackle pressing societal concerns, including child welfare, campus safety, and institutional accountability.
President Biden’s legislative spree comes as Congress prepares to adjourn for the year, leaving behind a mixed legacy of bipartisan achievements and unresolved disputes. Notably, the president’s veto of a separate bipartisan bill on Monday added a layer of controversy to the week’s events. The rejected legislation, aimed at creating new federal judge posts, was criticized by Biden for failing to address key questions, though no further details were provided on the specific shortcomings.
The bald eagle legislation, in particular, has drawn widespread public attention for its symbolic importance. Although the bird has been a fixture of American iconography for centuries, formalizing its status underscores a renewed appreciation for national traditions and heritage.
Meanwhile, Hilton’s advocacy for the “Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act” highlights the growing focus on safeguarding vulnerable populations. Her personal connection to the issue has resonated with many, driving bipartisan support for reforms that prioritize the well-being of children in care facilities.
The legislation targeting hazing incidents reflects a broader societal shift toward addressing harmful practices in educational institutions. By mandating transparency in reporting, lawmakers hope to create safer campus environments and deter future misconduct.
In addition to the bills signed into law, a full list of the newly enacted legislation has been made available for public review. This transparency ensures that citizens can stay informed about the government’s actions and the implications for their communities.
As the year comes to a close, Biden’s actions this week underscore the administration’s dedication to addressing both symbolic and substantive issues. From preserving national symbols to protecting the nation’s most vulnerable, the new laws reflect a wide-ranging approach to governance.
For continued coverage of these developments, reporter Misty Severi of Just the News provides updates and insights. You can follow her reporting on X for the latest news and analysis.