Rep. Daniel S. Goldman

Maddy summaryThe EQUAL Act (HR 1062) eliminates the unequal sentencing disparity between crack cocaine (cocaine base) and powder cocaine offenses under federal law. It repeals specific provisions in the Controlled Substances Act and Import/Export Act that previously imposed harsher penalties for cocaine base, directly affecting individuals convicted of federal cocaine offenses involving cocaine base. The bill applies to all future cases and allows courts to reduce sentences for people already convicted of such offenses before the law's enactment. This change removes a key legal distinction that historically led to significantly longer sentences for crack cocaine offenses compared to powder cocaine.

Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Testing Sciences Act of 2022 [ sic ] or the HEARTS Act of 2022 [ sic ] This bill establishes a center within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and requires other activities to promote alternatives to using animals in research and testing. The duties of the center include developing nonanimal research models (e.g., advanced cell cultures and advanced imaging systems) and training scientists about the methods. Additionally, if a federal department or agency or federally funded research entity uses animals for research and testing, it must develop and update plans for reducing such uses and periodically report on the number and types of animals that they use to the center. The center must establish a standard process for entities to submit and update their plans and reports and for making the plans and reports publicly available. The NIH must also provide incentives for the use of nonanimal research and generally ensure that nonanimal alternatives are considered when reviewing and approving research applications and proposals. Further, NIH applications for research grants must include an assurance that nonanimal methods for carrying out the research are unavailable.

Maddy summaryHRES 148 is a non-binding resolution supporting International Mother Language Day (observed February 21) to highlight the global importance of preserving linguistic and cultural heritage. It recognizes that thousands of languages are endangered worldwide - including over 150 Native American languages in the U.S., with more than 115 already extinct - and encourages Americans to participate in events celebrating language diversity. The resolution does not create new laws or obligations but serves as a symbolic endorsement of UNESCO’s language preservation efforts. Introduced in the 118th Congress (2023), it aligns with UNESCO’s Decade of Indigenous Languages initiative.

Maddy summaryHRES 150 is a ceremonial House resolution honoring the late civil rights leader John Robert Lewis (1940-2020). It formally recognizes his lifelong commitment to nonviolent activism, including his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement, the 1965 Selma voting rights march ("Bloody Sunday"), and his 30+ years serving as a U.S. Representative from Georgia. The resolution specifically commends his "towering achievements in the nonviolent struggle for civil rights" and his dedication to building the "Beloved Community" through justice and equality. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy impact but serves as an official tribute to Lewis's legacy for the public and Congress.

Safe and Quiet Skies Act of 2023 This bill sets forth requirements for commercial air tour flights. Among other requirements, the bill prohibits tour flights within a half mile of military installations, national cemeteries, national wilderness areas, national parks, and national wildlife refuges; prohibits tour flights from operating at an altitude of less than 1,500 feet; requires tour flights over occupied areas (e.g., residential, commercial, and recreational areas) to be no louder than 55dbA; and allows states and localities to impose additional requirements that are stricter than the minimum federal requirements.

Maddy summaryThe RISEE Act of 2023 creates a National Oceans and Coastal Security Fund to support coastal communities and ecosystems. It allocates 37.5% of offshore wind revenue directly to eligible coastal states using a formula based on tidal shoreline length, coastal population density, and distance from offshore wind projects. States must use these funds for coastal protection, habitat restoration, infrastructure, or fisheries research, with strict annual reporting requirements to the Department of the Interior. The bill prohibits using these funds for litigation or creating marine monuments, ensuring resources directly support coastal community needs.

Maddy summaryHR 724, the Arctic Refuge Protection Act, repeals the existing oil and gas program for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska and designates approximately 1.56 million acres of the refuge's coastal plain as federal wilderness. This bill directly affects the Arctic Refuge by permanently prohibiting oil and gas leasing and development in that specific area. The key mechanism is adding the designated land to the National Wilderness Preservation System under the Wilderness Act, requiring it to be managed for its natural conditions. This change legally protects the area from future fossil fuel extraction activities.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Ralph David Abernathy, Sr. National Historic Site in Georgia as part of the National Park System. It specifically preserves the West Hunter Street Baptist Church (where Abernathy served as pastor during the civil rights movement) and honors his leadership role. The site cannot be formally established until the National Park Service acquires sufficient land (through donation or purchase), and requires a management plan within 3 years of funding. The bill directly affects the National Park Service, the State of Georgia, and local communities by designating this location for preservation and public interpretation.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library to obtain a statue of Shirley Chisholm and place it permanently in the U.S. Capitol within two years of enactment. It authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to handle the agreement for the statue under the Committee's terms, with necessary funding approved as needed. The bill does not change laws or affect specific people or groups; it is a procedural measure to honor Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress, through a permanent Capitol display.

Maddy summaryHR 1088, the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act, authorizes a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to honor Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first African-American woman elected to Congress (1968) and the first Black candidate for a major party's presidential nomination (1972). The bill directs the Treasury Secretary to design and strike a gold medal featuring Chisholm's image, which will be presented by Congress and then permanently displayed at the Smithsonian Institution. Duplicate bronze medals may be sold to the public to cover production costs, with proceeds deposited into the U.S. Mint fund. This bill commemorates Chisholm's legacy and achievements without creating new laws or affecting any current policies.