Paris Climate Accords — January 20, 2021
On President Joe Biden’s first day as president, he brings the US back into the Paris Agreement. This agreement consists of 196 countries, all with the shared goal of a greener future. Members of the covenant legally agree to reduce carbon emissions and provide mutual support, aiming to stop global warming.
American Rescue Plan — March 21, 2021
Congress gives $3 billion to the U.S. Economic Development Administration $3 billion to stimulate the U.S. economy. This legislation increases job opportunities, business infrastructure, and support for the tourism sector.
Russia invades Ukraine — February 24, 2022.
On Feb. 24, 2022, the Russian Federation launches a “special military operation” in Ukraine, capturing the cities of Kherson, Mariupol, and Bakhmut. As of 2024, hundreds of thousands of soldiers have died with tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilian casualties. Russia occupies about 20% of Ukraine and war has reduced Ukraine’s population with over 8 million Ukrainians internally displaced and more than 8.2 million fleeing the country by April 2023, the largest refugee crisis since World War II. Under the Biden administration, the US provides $175 billion in military aid to Ukraine.
Justice Ketanji Brown — April 7, 2022
On April 7, 2022, Congress appoints Ketanji Brown to the Supreme Court. In Equal Rights Center v. Uber Technologies (2021), she sides with the Equal Rights Center over their claims that Uber should provide accessible transportation and be equal to those with disabilities.
Abortion — June 2022
The Supreme Court makes the critical decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, giving states the power to legislate abortion. Thus far, abortion is banned or restricted in 19 states.
CHIPS Act — August 9, 2022
Biden signs The CHIPS and Science Act, bringing back semiconductor manufacturing to the U.S. The act strengthens the U.S. workforce and supply chain. It adds 642,000 manufacturing jobs and provides $52.7 billion in aid and tax relief for U.S. semiconductor research and manufacturing companies.
Marijuana legalization — October 2022
In Oct. 2022, Biden calls for a review of the legality of marijuana. At that same time, he pardons felons convicted of marijuana possession. As of 2024, recreational marijuana use remains legal in 24 states.
Student Debt Relief — 2022–2024
Beginning in 2022, the Biden administration announces a $400 billion student debt relief program, which the Supreme Court rejects. Since the start of the program, $132 billion of debt has been relieved.
Debt Ceiling — May 31, 2023
Because of politicking between the Democratic and Republican parties, the United Sates quickly approaches its debt ceiling. Congress convenes and raises the debt ceiling to $31.4 trillion.
Hamas Attacks Israel — October 7, 2023
On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas and several other Palestinian militant groups launch coordinated incursions from the Gaza Strip into southern Israel, killing 1,180 Israelis. Since the start of the war, the U.S. has given Israel $12.5 billion in aid. On July 31, 2024, Israel assassinates Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. As of 2024, Israel controls nearly 75% of the Gaza Strip.
Expansion of Veteran Healthcare — March 2024
The Biden administration issues an executive order allowing veterans to apply directly for Veteran Affairs healthcare. It provides millions of veterans to receive healthcare eight years earlier than before. All veterans who served after the 9/11 attacks will receive benefits under the bill.