Sen. Tom Cotton

Maddy summaryThe Biosecurity Smuggling Deterrence Act of 2026 strengthens federal penalties for the illegal transport of biological agents or toxins into the United States. It directly affects individuals convicted of conspiring to smuggle these materials, making false statements related to their importation, and attempting to smuggle them. Under the new provisions, anyone found guilty of conspiring to smuggle biological agents faces a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 20 years, while those who make false statements in connection with such activities face a mandatory minimum of 5 years. The bill also updates existing smuggling laws to explicitly include biological agents and ensures that forfeiture rules apply to these specific offenses. These changes take effect immediately upon the bill's enactment.

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 summaryThe Warfighter Artificial Intelligence Readiness and Preparedness Act of 2026 requires the Department of Defense to study how adopting artificial intelligence affects soldiers' ability to keep essential skills and perform effectively without technology. Starting in 2027, the Secretary of Defense must lead a comprehensive assessment and research program to identify which military roles are most at risk of losing critical abilities due to over-reliance on AI systems. This study will examine performance in both normal and emergency situations where AI tools fail, using simulations and data to determine how long it takes personnel to regain lost skills. The bill mandates that the Defense Department submit detailed reports to Congress every year and provide briefings on its findings to ensure training and policies adapt to maintain human proficiency alongside new technologies.

Maddy summaryThe SUSTAIN Act prevents the Air Force from reducing the number of MQ-9 unmanned aircraft or cutting staff levels for these units during the period from enactment until September 30, 2032. This restriction applies to both the active Air Force and the Air National Guard, ensuring that existing mission capabilities and personnel assignments remain at current levels unless specific exceptions are met. Exceptions allow for removing individual aircraft that are unsafe or obsolete, or for converting entire units to new missions if approved by the relevant governor and supported by a detailed plan. Additionally, the bill requires the Air Force to consult with National Guard leaders before making any changes to these units and mandates a report within 180 days outlining a long-term plan to modernize the MQ-9 fleet.

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 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 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 Government Bailout Prevention Act prohibits the use of federal funds, Treasury resources, or Federal Reserve assistance to support state, local, or school district governments facing financial distress starting January 1, 2026. Specifically, the bill bars the government from purchasing or guaranteeing debt for entities that have filed for bankruptcy, defaulted on obligations, or are at risk of defaulting without such help. This restriction also covers debt restructuring activities but includes an exception for financial aid provided in response to declared disasters.

Maddy summaryThe Mandatory E-Verify Act of 2026 makes the E-Verify employment eligibility verification system permanent and mandatory for all employers in the United States, including those who hire, recruit, or refer individuals for jobs. The bill requires employers to use the system within a phased timeline based on company size, ranging from six months for large businesses with 10,000 or more employees to 18 months for smaller businesses with fewer than 20 employees, while exempting agricultural labor verification until 18 months after enactment. Key provisions include increased civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance, the ability for the government to debar repeat violators from federal contracts, and a requirement that states sharing driver's license data with the system remain eligible for certain federal funding. Additionally, the act establishes a self-check feature for individuals to verify their own status, expands data sharing between federal and state agencies to prevent fraud, and creates a good-faith defense for employers who rely on the system's results.

Maddy summaryThe Blocking CCP Spy Tech Act of 2026 directs U.S. national security agencies to evaluate whether specific communications equipment and services from seven Chinese companies pose a risk to national security. If these agencies fail to make a determination within a year or find the technology risky, the Federal Communications Commission must add the equipment to a banned list that prevents U.S. telecom providers from using it. The law also requires the Secretary of Defense to decide if these same entities should be classified as Chinese military companies operating in the United States. This process directly affects telecommunications companies and federal agencies responsible for maintaining secure communication networks.