Rep. Mark B. Messmer

Maddy summaryThe Shutdown Fairness Act ensures that certain federal employees performing essential work during government funding gaps receive their regular pay. It applies directly to "excepted employees" (such as border security personnel, air traffic controllers, and military members on active duty) who must work when appropriations lapse. The bill appropriates funds from the Treasury to cover their standard pay, benefits, and allowances during these periods, without requiring new annual appropriations. These payments are later charged to the agency’s regular budget when funding is restored, ensuring no additional costs to Congress. The law takes effect retroactively from September 30, 2025.

Maddy summaryThe Black Vulture Relief Act authorizes livestock producers and their employees to remove or kill black vultures (Coragyps atratus) that are causing or likely to cause harm to livestock, bypassing standard protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It prohibits using poison for this purpose and requires annual reports to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service about such actions, using a simplified form. The law specifically targets vultures threatening livestock as defined in existing federal agriculture law, with reporting deadlines starting after a form is developed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.

Maddy summaryThis bill adds Medicare coverage for multi-cancer early detection screening tests (blood or biological tests analyzing cell-free DNA) starting January 1, 2028. It directly affects Medicare beneficiaries aged 68 and older (starting in 2028, with the age limit increasing by 1 year annually), requiring tests to be FDA-cleared and deemed reasonable/necessary by the Secretary for early cancer detection across multiple organ sites. Payment will initially match current stool DNA test rates before 2031, then shift to a lower rate or new payment system after 2031, with limits preventing more than one test per year. The bill explicitly states it does not alter coverage for existing cancer screenings like breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer tests.

Maddy summaryThis bill would require all states to recognize valid concealed carry permits issued by other states, allowing permit holders to carry concealed handguns (excluding machine guns) in any state that either issues such permits or doesn't prohibit concealed carry. It directly affects law-abiding gun owners with valid permits from their home state, ensuring they can carry in states with similar permit systems or no prohibitions. Key provisions include treating valid permit documents as proof of legal carry (reducing officer stops), shifting the burden of proof to prosecutors if challenged, and allowing civil lawsuits for violations with attorney's fee awards. The bill does not override state laws restricting firearms on private property or government land, nor does it affect federal gun restrictions like those in section 922(q).

Maddy summaryHRES 719 is a House resolution honoring Charles "Charlie" James Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA who was assassinated on September 10, 2025. The resolution condemns his assassination and all political violence, extends condolences to his family, and calls on Americans to reject violence while promoting civil discourse. It specifically recognizes Kirk's legacy as a defender of constitutional principles and his role in inspiring youth through free speech and faith-based civic engagement. As a commemorative resolution, it does not enact policy changes but formally expresses the House's stance on honoring his life and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits U.S. courts from enforcing judgments based on Shari'a or any foreign law if they conflict with constitutional rights, particularly in family law cases like divorce, child custody, or inheritance. It requires courts to apply only U.S. law when foreign legal systems would violate fundamental rights such as due process, equal protection, or freedom from coercion. Contracts may still reference foreign law, but enforcement is blocked if it infringes constitutional protections. The law aims to ensure all court decisions comply with U.S. constitutional standards nationwide.

Maddy summaryThis federal bill requires abortion providers to inform patients about potential reversal of mifepristone-based chemical abortions (the two-drug process) at least 24 hours before the procedure. After the first drug is dispensed, providers must give written instructions stating that reversal may be possible if the second pill hasn't been taken. Facilities must post visible signs about reversal options, and the government must maintain a website with reversal resources. Violations allow affected patients or family members to sue for damages.

Maddy summaryHR 5483, the Chloe Cole Act, prohibits health care professionals, hospitals, or clinics from providing certain gender-affirming treatments to minors under 18 that aim to alter their body to align with a gender identity different from their sex assigned at birth. This includes puberty blockers, sex hormones, and specific surgeries, unless the treatment falls under narrow exceptions like medically necessary care for disorders of sexual development, injuries, or detransition. The bill creates a private right for affected minors or their guardians to sue providers for damages in federal court, with strict liability for violations. It applies when interstate commerce is involved (e.g., payments, travel, communications) and sets a 25-year statute of limitations from the minor’s 18th birthday.

Maddy summaryHR 5401, the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026, ensures military personnel, civilian Defense workers, and supporting contractors receive pay during government funding gaps in fiscal year 2026. It appropriates emergency funds for active-duty service members, reserves, and their supporting personnel (including Coast Guard staff under DHS) if regular appropriations aren't enacted by the end of the fiscal year. The bill provides necessary pay and allowances during any period when full-year funding is unavailable, covering both active service and support roles. Funding expires when regular appropriations are passed, a funding resolution is enacted, or January 1, 2027, whichever comes first. This is a procedural measure to prevent pay delays for military and support staff during fiscal year 2026 funding lapses.

Maddy summaryHRES 695 is a commemorative resolution honoring Charlie Kirk, a conservative speaker and Turning Point USA leader, following his assassination on September 10, 2025, in Orem, Utah. The resolution condemns the attack, offers condolences to his family, and recognizes first responders. It reaffirms the First Amendment right to peaceful assembly and emphasizes that violence cannot silence democratic participation. This non-binding resolution does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic tribute to Kirk's memory and the principles of democratic engagement.