Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse

Maddy summaryThe Fraudulent Artificial Intelligence Regulations (FAIR) Elections Act of 2026 prohibits individuals from knowingly distributing false AI-generated media about federal elections or election officials if the intent is to impede voting or harass officials, while allowing news organizations to report on such content as long as they clearly label it as false. The bill also restricts states from removing voters from official registration lists unless the data comes from government sources approved by the Attorney General and updated at least monthly. Additionally, it bars the federal government from comparing its own databases with state or local records to determine voter eligibility and establishes a private right of action for citizens to sue if the government violates this rule. To further ensure accuracy, the Act requires the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study on the impact of using federal databases like SAVE for voter removals and submit its findings to Congress within 180 days.

Maddy summaryThe American Innovation and Choice Online Act targets large online platforms that dominate the U.S. market by prohibiting them from unfairly favoring their own products, restricting competitors' access to platform features, or using competitor data to compete against them. Specifically, the bill defines "systemically important platforms" as those with over $175 billion in annual revenue and at least 34 percent of U.S. users or households, placing them under strict rules against practices like tying services, manipulating search rankings, or forcing users to stay on the platform. The Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice are authorized to enforce these rules through civil penalties and injunctions, with a requirement that legal cases against these major platforms be resolved within one year. Additionally, the law includes specific exemptions to protect national security interests and intellectual property rights, ensuring that platforms are not required to share trade secrets or assist foreign adversaries.

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 formally recognizes June 8, 2026, as World Oceans Day to honor the ocean's historical and economic importance to the United States. It celebrates the contributions of fishermen, maritime workers, scientists, and coastal communities while acknowledging key milestones such as the 50th anniversary of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act and the 20th anniversary of the Marine Debris Program. The measure serves as a commemorative statement that reaffirms national commitment to ocean stewardship and maritime leadership without altering existing laws or creating new regulations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses support for designating June 5, 2026, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day and June 2026 as National Gun Violence Awareness Month. The bill calls on people across the United States to promote awareness of gun violence and safety, wear orange on the designated day to honor victims, and encourage community leaders to discuss ways to make neighborhoods safer. While the resolution highlights statistics on gun-related deaths and injuries, it does not create new laws or change existing policies. Instead, it serves as a symbolic gesture to raise public attention about the issue during a specific time period.

Maddy summaryThe Freedom to Travel for Health Care Act of 2026 prohibits any person or government entity from restricting, sanctioning, or discriminating against individuals who travel to another state to receive reproductive health care that is legal there. It also protects those who assist travelers and reproductive health care providers from facing penalties for offering services to out-of-state patients, effectively overriding any conflicting state laws. The bill establishes a private right of action allowing affected individuals, organizations, and providers to sue in federal or state court for violations, with provisions for damages and attorney's fees. Additionally, it removes state sovereign immunity defenses for officials enforcing laws that interfere with this travel right, ensuring federal courts can hear such cases directly.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month to highlight amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The measure directly impacts the U.S. Senate by formally recognizing the month and affirming the body's dedication to improving treatments, identifying causes, and supporting patients and caregivers. It also commends the efforts of families, volunteers, and researchers working to enhance the quality of life for those living with the condition.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution seeks to officially disapprove a specific rule issued by the Environmental Protection Agency regarding emissions from coal- and oil-fired power plants. If passed, the measure would prevent the EPA's proposed repeal of existing national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants from taking effect. The legislation directly impacts the EPA and the electric utility industry by maintaining current regulatory requirements for these power generation units. It operates as a legislative veto, allowing Congress to reject a federal agency's rule without passing new laws.

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 SAFEGUARD Veterans Act of 2026 strengthens protections for veterans by increasing penalties for unauthorized fees and requiring that only recognized agents or attorneys assist with benefit claims. It mandates that the Department of Veterans Affairs provide clear online tools for veterans to search for accredited representatives and report unaccredited individuals who charge fees. The bill also requires the department to update its website warnings to explicitly discourage veterans from sharing login credentials and to include questions on claim forms about any coaching or assistance received. Additionally, the legislation expands restrictions on automated telephone equipment to prevent unsolicited calls from automated systems to federal agencies. Finally, the act directs the VA to conduct a review of its current recognition processes and establish a more accessible digital system for managing agent accreditation and complaints.