Rep. Ted Lieu

Maddy summaryThe IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act authorizes federal grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to fund long-term improvements to their campus facilities and infrastructure. These grants are awarded competitively to eligible HBCUs based on criteria such as the age of their facilities, deferred maintenance needs, financial capacity, and student enrollment levels. Recipients may use the funds to construct or renovate buildings, upgrade technology and broadband systems, improve safety measures, and develop workforce training hubs, while being prohibited from using the money for routine maintenance or athletic facilities. The legislation also includes provisions for reporting on project outcomes and requires institutions to create comprehensive master plans that involve consultation with diverse campus and community stakeholders.

Maddy summaryHRES 64 is a non-binding House resolution affirming the U.S.-South Korea alliance. It highlights historical ties (dating to 1882), economic partnerships (including 2023 trade data), and security cooperation (like the 1953 Mutual Defense Treaty), while celebrating Korean American contributions to U.S. society. The resolution formally supports strengthening security, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations and notes the 2025 anniversary of Korean liberation. It does not create new laws or funding, but serves as a symbolic statement of congressional support for the alliance.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally designates May 10, 2026, as National Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Mental Health Day to raise awareness about mental health within these communities. The text highlights that many individuals in this diverse group face barriers to care, including high costs, language differences, and cultural stigma, which result in low rates of treatment utilization. While the measure itself is symbolic and does not create new laws or funding, it encourages federal, state, and local agencies to develop policies that improve access to culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the U.S. government from spending money on military actions against Iran between its enactment and December 31, 2026, unless Congress explicitly approves the use of force. It allows for military action only if Congress declares war, passes a specific authorization, or if the action is necessary to defend the United States or its allies from an imminent attack while following reporting requirements. The law directly restricts the President's ability to deploy troops without legislative approval during the specified timeframe.

Maddy summaryThis bill officially designates the Russian Federation as a state sponsor of terrorism, a status that triggers existing U.S. laws allowing for sanctions and restrictions on foreign aid and arms exports. The legislation is based on findings that the Russian government has supported international terrorism through actions in Chechnya, Ukraine, and Syria, as well as by utilizing mercenary groups like the Wagner Group. While the designation enables broader accountability measures, the bill includes specific protections to ensure that sanctions do not block the export of Ukrainian agricultural products or the provision of humanitarian assistance. The designation will remain in effect for five years or until the U.S. Secretary of State determines that negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine have begun.

Maddy summaryThe Vote by Mail Protection Act of 2026 directly affects the federal government by nullifying Executive Order 14399, which previously required citizenship verification in federal elections. This legislation prohibits any federal agency from enforcing the order or using taxpayer funds to carry out its activities. By repealing the executive order, the bill removes the mandate for agencies to verify citizenship as a condition for voting in federal elections.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes the week of May 4 through May 8, 2026, as "Teacher Appreciation Week" to honor the work of public school educators. It highlights the importance of teachers in the education system and notes that a majority of them support various policies, including protections for students and funding for public schools. The document also expresses the view that teachers should have a direct role in education policymaking at federal, state, and local levels. By issuing this designation, the House of Representatives aims to acknowledge the value of teachers and encourage government leaders to engage with them on issues affecting the classroom.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a non-binding resolution that expresses the House of Representatives' sentiment to honor public servants for their dedication to the United States. It specifically acknowledges the work of federal, state, and local government employees, as well as uniformed service members, who deliver essential services and support the economy. The resolution calls on the American public to observe Public Service Recognition Week with ceremonies and activities that recognize these contributions. Because it is a symbolic expression of the House's feelings rather than a law with enforceable rules, it does not create new policies or mandate specific actions.

Maddy summaryH.R. 1243 is a House resolution that formally recognizes May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate the contributions of these communities to U.S. history. The bill highlights the diverse populations, historical milestones, and significant achievements of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in government, the military, and society. It also acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by these groups, including a rise in hate crimes and historical discrimination. As a commemorative resolution, the measure does not create new laws or funding but serves to express official congressional appreciation and awareness.

Maddy summaryH.R. 1242 is a resolution that officially designates the first Friday of May as National Space Day to honor the contributions of the aerospace community. It recognizes the achievements of government agencies like NASA and the Space Force, as well as private industry and educational partners, in advancing space exploration and technology. The bill highlights specific milestones such as the Apollo moon landing, the Artemis program, and the development of the James Webb Space Telescope. By supporting this observance, the House aims to celebrate past innovations and encourage STEM education for future generations.