Rep. Donald S. Beyer, Jr.

Maddy summaryThe Southeastern Rail Technologies Mapping Act of 2026 directs the Federal Railroad Administration to study how to improve rail performance and integrate new power technologies in the southeastern United States. This study will examine rail segments between Florida and Washington, DC to identify areas suitable for electrification or battery and fuel cell systems while noting any implementation challenges. If certain segments are found unsuitable for these technologies, the report must explain the reasoning and suggest specific infrastructure updates with estimated costs to make them viable. The Administrator is required to submit the findings of this study to Congress within 18 months of the bill's enactment.

Maddy summaryThe Rail Motive Power Source Integration Act of 2026 directs the Federal Railroad Administration to launch a pilot program exploring how trains can switch between different power sources like batteries, electricity, hydrogen, and diesel. The bill requires the agency to research these technologies, design rail cars that allow for easy power source changes, and test these designs through demonstration projects. Additionally, the Administrator must study locations where trains currently need to change power sources due to limitations and report the findings to Congress within one year of the law's enactment.

Maddy summaryThis resolution expresses support for designating May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month to highlight the importance of mental well-being and reduce stigma. It does not create new laws or allocate funding but serves as a formal statement acknowledging the rising rates of mental illness, suicide, and disparities in care across the United States. The text cites various statistics regarding anxiety, depression, and access to treatment to underscore the need for public awareness and continued efforts by medical and community organizations. Ultimately, the bill encourages citizens and institutions to use this month to promote mental health resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Arlington National Cemetery Viewshed Protection Act, restricts the construction of large triumphal arches in the Washington, D.C. area to preserve visual sightlines. It specifically bans the building of any such arches within Lady Bird Johnson Park and prohibits the use of federal funds for these structures there. Additionally, the law prevents the erection of triumphal arches taller than 50 feet on any land managed by the National Park Service unless Congress explicitly approves them. These measures aim to limit new monumental structures that could obstruct views of the Arlington National Cemetery from the capital region.

Maddy summaryThe American High-Speed Rail Act expands federal funding and streamlines regulations to support the development of high-speed and higher-speed rail projects across the United States. It authorizes billions of dollars in grants for corridor planning, technology improvements, and construction, while allowing the federal government to cover up to 100% of project costs under specific conditions. The bill also introduces new provisions to facilitate land acquisition, prioritize border projects, and extend labor protections to workers involved in federally funded rail infrastructure. Additionally, the legislation defines higher-speed rail as trains traveling between 110 and 186 miles per hour and includes tax incentives for rail carriers that sell or lease property to support these projects.

Maddy summaryThe Coal Cleanup Taxpayer Protection Act of 2026 aims to strengthen financial guarantees for coal mine reclamation to protect taxpayers from unpaid cleanup costs. It prohibits mining companies from using their own assets as security for these bonds and bans the use of coal-related property, such as mines or equipment, as collateral. Additionally, the bill requires states to submit detailed financial reports and forecasts before adopting alternative bonding systems and mandates new rules to limit the risk associated with corporate surety bonds. These measures are designed to ensure that funds are available to restore mined lands even if mining operations fail or go bankrupt.

Maddy summaryThe CLEAN UP Mines Act of 2026 modifies existing federal laws to tighten environmental and reclamation requirements for coal mining operations. It mandates that mines complete specific cleanup tasks, such as backfilling and grading, within 180 days after production stops and requires operators to submit plans to resume mining within a year if operations remain inactive for over six months. The bill also increases the frequency of government oversight by requiring quarterly water monitoring and annual biological assessments of streams. Additionally, it shortens the time allowed for releasing performance bonds from 60 days to 40 days, ensuring funds remain available to cover reclamation costs until work is fully completed. These changes directly affect coal mine operators and the regulatory agencies responsible for enforcing mining standards.

Maddy summaryThis resolution expresses support for designating May 2026 as Awareness Month for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Corticobasal Degeneration, two rare and complex neurodegenerative diseases. The measure highlights the challenges faced by the approximately 32,000 Americans living with these conditions, including difficulties with diagnosis, limited treatment options, and the significant impact on families and caregivers. By officially recognizing this month, the House aims to encourage increased public awareness, promote research into better treatments and cures, and honor the resilience of the affected community.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the U.S. Mint to produce commemorative $5 gold and $1 silver coins marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The coins must feature designs honoring victims and first responders (including the inscription "Never Forget") and will be sold only during 2027-2028. All surcharges ($35 per gold coin, $10 per silver coin) collected from sales will fund the National September 11 Memorial and Museum at the World Trade Center, with no net cost to the federal government. The coins are legal tender but primarily intended for collectors, not circulation.

Maddy summaryThis bill nullifies a specific decision made by the Endangered Species Committee regarding oil and gas operations in the Gulf of America. It immediately cancels any exemptions previously granted to these activities under the Endangered Species Act and bars federal agencies from using funds to enforce the canceled order. For a three-year period starting when the bill is enacted, the committee is prohibited from issuing any new exemptions for Gulf oil and gas projects. Consequently, all standard environmental protections required by the Endangered Species Act will continue to apply fully to these activities.