Rep. Mike Bost

Maddy summaryHR 6734 prohibits the use of federal funds to finalize, implement, or enforce the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives' (ATF) proposed rule (2022R-17) defining "engaged in the business as a dealer in firearms." This bill directly affects the ATF by blocking funding for this specific regulatory rule, which was proposed in August 2023. The legislation does not create new requirements but prevents federal resources from being used to advance this particular ATF regulation.

Maddy summaryHJRES 88 is a resolution seeking to block a Department of Education rule that would have improved income-driven repayment options for federal student loan borrowers. The rule, published in the Federal Register on July 10, 2023, targeted the William D. Ford Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program. This resolution uses the Congressional Review Act process to disapprove the rule, preventing it from taking effect and preserving the current repayment structure. If enacted, it would stop the proposed changes to repayment terms without altering existing loan policies.

Maddy summaryThe Innovative FEED Act of 2023 defines and regulates "zootechnical animal food substances" - substances added to animal feed to affect digestion, reduce foodborne pathogens, or alter gut microbiome without providing nutrition. It requires these substances to be approved as food additives by the FDA under existing rules, with specific data on intended effects and mandatory labeling stating "Not for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease in animals." The bill excludes drugs, hormones, ionophores, and other substances from this category. This directly affects animal feed manufacturers, the FDA’s regulatory process, and the labeling requirements for these products.

Maddy summaryThe HOME Act of 2023 increases daily payments for services provided to homeless veterans and allows temporary waivers to higher rates (up to 200% of standard rates) in rural areas or regions with high veteran homelessness or suicide rates, limited to 10% of recipients annually. It temporarily authorizes the VA to use funds for direct assistance to homeless veterans, including food, shelter, transportation, and communication devices like smartphones to maintain contact with providers. The VA must submit detailed annual reports to Congress on fund usage and expires on September 30, 2024. This bill directly affects homeless veterans and those in specific housing programs by expanding flexible support services.

Maddy summaryThis bill reauthorizes the Never Again Education program, which funds Holocaust education initiatives in schools. It extends the program's funding authorization period from ending after four fiscal years to continuing annually through fiscal year 2030. The bill modifies the existing law (Public Law 116-141) by updating the funding timeline without changing program requirements or eligibility. It directly affects the existing grant program supporting educational materials and teacher training on the Holocaust. The change ensures continued federal funding for these specific educational efforts until 2030.

Maddy summaryThis bill changes how the Department of Veterans Affairs handles supplemental claims filed by veterans. It requires the VA to readjudicate claims when veterans submit new evidence after the initial one-year deadline, including within 90 days after a case is remanded by the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. This directly affects veterans seeking to add new evidence to their claims after initial decisions. The key change ensures veterans can submit relevant evidence later in the process, expanding their options without automatic denial due to timing.

Maddy summaryHRES 793 is a resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives calling on Hamas to immediately release all 199 hostages taken during Hamas' October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. The resolution condemns Hamas for the attack, the taking of hostages, and threats against hostages, while stating that holding hostages violates international humanitarian law under the Geneva Conventions. It demands the immediate release of all hostages and expresses sympathy for victims and their families. As a symbolic resolution, it does not create legal obligations but formally expresses the House's position.

Maddy summaryHR 6375, the MARINA Act, standardizes fees and lease terms for marinas operating under commercial concessions at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facilities. It limits rental fees to 1% of specific marina receipts (like fuel and boat sales) and establishes a tiered fee system: up to $50,000 for major land-disturbance projects, $5,000 for moderate reviews, and $1,000 for routine activities, while banning fees for standard renewals. The bill requires 50-year initial leases (25 years for renewals) and mandates a public fee schedule. It directly affects marina operators leasing space at Corps sites, ensuring consistent fee structures across all districts without altering existing leases.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $14.3 billion in supplemental security funding to Israel following the October 7, 2023 attacks. The funding includes $4 billion for Iron Dome and David's Sling defense systems, $1.35 billion for the Iron Beam defense system development, and $3.5 billion for foreign military financing. The bill requires regular reporting to Congress on security assistance provided to Israel and designates all funds as "emergency requirements" under federal budget law. It also modifies existing laws to facilitate the transfer of defense articles and services to Israel, aiming to strengthen Israel's defense capabilities against rocket threats.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the week beginning November 13, 2023, as "National Apprenticeship Week" through symbolic congressional support. It does not create new laws or programs but formally recognizes the value of registered apprenticeships in providing paid on-the-job training, industry credentials, and career pathways. The resolution highlights apprenticeships' role in developing skilled workers, supporting high-wage sectors like healthcare and green energy, and promoting diversity in training opportunities. It aims to increase public awareness of apprenticeships as an effective "earn-and-learn" model for workers and employers.