Do You Know: 5 Policy Accomplishments Under Biden’s Presidency
Joe Biden's presidency has quietly brought about significant changes that might have escaped public attention. Let's delve into five noteworthy developments that have unfolded during his three years in office.
1. Expanded Overtime Guarantees
President Biden's Department of Labor is proposing a rule that could significantly impact workers' wages. The plan aims to raise the overtime pay threshold to $55,000, potentially benefiting around 3.6 million additional workers. As the administration works towards finalizing the rule in April, potential legal challenges and delays remain on the horizon.
2. Over-the-Counter Birth Control
In response to the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, the FDA approved the first over-the-counter birth control pill, named Opill. Expected to hit stores in early 2024, Opill has the potential to enhance birth control access, especially for those facing financial or logistical barriers.
3. Gun Violence Prevention
The tragic Uvalde school massacre prompted the Biden administration to take action against gun violence. The establishment of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention and the allocation of $286 million to schools for student wellness reflect ongoing efforts to address this critical issue.
4. Renewable Power Surge
Biden's commitment to combating climate change has led to a surge in renewable energy. The U.S. now sees renewable power as the second-largest source of electricity, surpassing coal and narrowing the gap with natural gas. The Inflation Reduction Act has been instrumental in driving this transition, with private sector investments on the rise.
5. Preventing Discriminatory Mortgage Lending
Efforts to combat discriminatory mortgage lending have evolved with a new anti-redlining framework. Starting in January 2026, this framework will require banks to lend to lower-income communities based on their mortgage and small-business loan concentration, rather than physical branch presence.
As we reflect on these changes, it's clear that the Biden administration is addressing a range of issues, from workers' rights to healthcare access, school safety, environmental concerns, and housing equality. Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving landscape under President Biden's leadership.