Maddy summaryThe Stopping Harmful and Outrageous Torts Act expands legal protections for firearm manufacturers and sellers by immediately dismissing any lawsuits currently pending against them that allege harm caused by the criminal or unlawful misuse of their products. The bill defines these protected cases as those where the injury resulted from a third party's illegal actions rather than a defect in the product itself, while explicitly excluding claims involving negligent entrustment, specific federal violations, or design defects. To enforce these protections, the law allows defendants to remove such cases from state courts to federal court and grants them the right to appeal dismissal orders immediately. Additionally, the legislation preempts state and local laws that attempt to hold these companies liable for product misuse and provides for attorney's fees for defendants who successfully assert their immunity.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThe Take Care of America's Veterans Act is a comprehensive legislative bill designed to improve benefits, healthcare access, and administrative efficiency for veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill directly affects veterans, their families, healthcare providers, and VA employees by amending federal laws to expand compensation rates, simplify claims processes, and enhance medical services. Key mechanisms include increasing disability compensation for wartime veterans and survivors, revising disability rating schedules for conditions like sleep apnea and tinnitus, and establishing new grant programs for mental health and traumatic brain injury research. Additionally, the legislation mandates the creation of a Veterans Health Administration Policy Advisory Commission, requires the development of a prosthetic and rehabilitative items formulary, and expands access to care through pilot programs involving critical access hospitals and coordination with Medicare. The act also introduces stricter oversight for claims adjudication, requires timely reporting of veteran deaths, and authorizes funding for various infrastructure and technology improvements within the VA.
Maddy summaryThis resolution congratulates students, families, educators, and leaders of public charter schools across the United States for their contributions to education and support of National Charter Schools Week in May 2026. It recognizes the growth of the charter school sector, noting that approximately 8,000 such schools serve over 3.7 million children and operate under specific accountability measures similar to traditional public schools. The Senate formally supports the ideals of the annual celebration and encourages communities to hold events to demonstrate backing for these institutions.
Maddy summaryThis resolution supports designating the second Friday in June as National Service and Conservation Corps Day to honor the work of over 140 organizations that engage young adults and veterans in community service projects. These programs, which are descendants of the historic Civilian Conservation Corps, help participants gain skills, earn education awards, and contribute to conservation, disaster response, and infrastructure improvements. The Senate's action calls on citizens to recognize the value of national service and encourages the continued expansion of these existing nonprofit and government-run initiatives.
North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act This bill provides for the award of a Congressional Gold Medal to recognize the individuals and communities that provided financial and other support for the North Platte Canteen in North Platte, Nebraska, during World War II.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates specific dates in 2026 to honor seersucker, a lightweight cotton fabric traditionally worn during hot summer weather. It officially names June 11, 2026, as National Seersucker Day, designates every Thursday from that date through the end of August 2026 as Seersucker Thursday, and declares the entire month of June 2026 as Seersucker Appreciation Month. The bill aims to recognize the historical significance of the fabric and encourage people to wear it while supporting cotton producers and local clothing industries.
Maddy summaryThe SIMS Act prohibits companies from creating or operating chatbots that simulate minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct or conversations. This law applies to any person offering such software in the United States and defines a minor as anyone under 18 years old. While the ban covers simulations of real or fictional minors, it includes specific exemptions for law enforcement agencies investigating child sexual exploitation. Violations can result in criminal fines of up to $100,000 or civil penalties, and the Attorney General is required to submit annual reports on enforcement actions and investigations related to the new rules.
Maddy summaryThe Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act of 2026 increases penalties for individuals who knowingly violate federal laws regarding the possession of firearms by licensed dealers. Specifically, it raises the maximum prison sentence for such violations to 20 years and mandates a minimum of three years in prison if the offense occurs during a burglary of a licensed business. The law also sets a five-year minimum sentence if the violation happens during a robbery. These changes directly affect federal firearms licensees and anyone attempting to illegally possess firearms from them.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life and legacy of Donald W. Riegle, Jr., a former U.S. Senator from Michigan who passed away in April 2026. The bill formally acknowledges his nearly three decades of public service, including his roles as a Representative and Senator, and highlights his significant contributions to legislation on banking, housing, and veterans' health. It also expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and directs officials to share the resolution with the House of Representatives and send a copy to Riegle's family. Finally, the Senate will stand in adjournment as a mark of respect for the former senator when the session concludes.
Maddy summaryThe Protecting America's Small Oil and Gas Producers and Rural Jobs Act modifies federal tax rules to provide financial incentives for small oil and gas producers. It increases the percentage of income that can be deducted for taxes on marginal oil properties and removes a specific income limit that restricts these deductions. Additionally, the bill raises the threshold for counting oil as depletable from 1,000 to 2,000 barrels per well. These tax changes are designed to take effect for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2026.