Maddy summaryThe Don’t DO IT Act would require the federal government to deny right-of-way applications for solar and wind energy projects on federal land if a state legislature has passed specific legislation disapproving that project. The Secretary of the Interior must deny the application upon receiving notice from the state Governor that the state legislature enacted disapproval legislation. This directly affects renewable energy developers seeking federal land permits and grants states authority to block such projects within their borders. The bill does not change federal approval standards for other projects or mandate state disapproval - it only triggers a federal denial when a state specifically disapproves a project.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThe FIRESHEDS Act establishes a new framework for managing wildfire risk on federal lands by creating "fireshed management areas" through agreements between federal agencies and state governors. These areas, designated in the top 10% of wildfire exposure risk, allow faster implementation of projects like fuel reduction, prescribed burns, and fire breaks without full environmental reviews under NEPA. The law prioritizes protecting communities, infrastructure, and watersheds while requiring annual progress reports to Congress. It applies to National Forest System lands and public lands, with specific exclusions for wilderness areas and roadless zones.
Maddy summaryS. RES. 420 designates Betty K. Koed as Historian Emerita of the U.S. Senate, effective October 21, 2023, honoring her 25-year career as the Senate's first female Historian (serving from 2015-2023 after roles as Assistant and Associate Historian). The resolution recognizes her work preserving Senate archives, producing historical publications, and supporting educational programs about Senate history. It is a ceremonial honor with no policy changes or direct impact on legislation or constituents.
This resolution states that the Senate stands with Israel as it defends itself, reaffirms Israel's right to self-defense, and calls on all countries to unequivocally condemn Hamas' war on Israel. The resolution also reaffirms the United States' commitment to Israel's security, supports emergency resupply and certain other types of assistance to Israel, and calls on the United States to lead an international effort to deprive Hamas of Iranian and other sources of funding and lethal assistance. Furthermore, the resolution states that nothing in it may be construed as a declaration of war or an authorization for the use of military force.
Maddy summaryThis bill blocks the EPA from implementing new vehicle emissions rules for model years 2027 and later, specifically targeting the "Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards" rule. It amends the Clean Air Act to prevent future regulations from mandating specific technology (like electric components) or limiting the availability of new vehicles based on engine type (e.g., gasoline vs. electric). The bill directly affects the EPA’s authority to set emissions standards and the auto industry’s ability to sell certain vehicle types. It ensures emissions rules cannot restrict consumer choices among new vehicle models.
Maddy summaryS. Res. 406 is a Senate resolution honoring the late Richard Clarence Clark, a former U.S. Senator from Iowa (served 1973-1979), who died in 2023. The resolution expresses the Senate’s sorrow at his passing, requests that the House of Representatives and Clark’s family be informed, and directs the Senate to adjourn for the day as a mark of respect. This is a purely commemorative measure with no policy or legal effect, reflecting the Senate’s collective tribute to a former member.
Maddy summaryThis bill expands the scope of national security reviews for real estate transactions involving foreign investors. It requires the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to treat intelligence community sites and National Laboratories (as defined in the Energy Policy Act of 2005) as sensitive U.S. government property for review purposes. The bill mandates annual reports to Congress on CFIUS activities related to these sensitive sites and requires yearly reviews of the official list of such sites to ensure it remains current. These changes directly affect foreign buyers of real estate near national security facilities and streamline oversight for the government.
Maddy summaryThe Jobs in the Woods Act (S 3063) creates a federal grant program to fund forestry career training in qualifying rural communities. It provides competitive grants of $500,000-$2 million to eligible entities (like nonprofits, tribes, states, or schools) serving areas with populations under 20,000, low-income status, and adequate broadband access. Grants support sustainable workforce development programs targeting forestry operations, with priority given to projects addressing aging workforces, youth engagement through secondary schools, and job placement. The program is authorized for $10 million annually from 2024-2028, with grants lasting up to 4 years.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires the U.S. representative at the United Nations to actively work toward expelling Iran from the UN General Assembly and to encourage investigations into Iran's potential violations of the Genocide Convention. It also blocks U.S. funding to the UN agency aiding Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) until two conditions are met: Iran is expelled from the UN and under investigation for genocide. The bill directly affects Iran's international standing and U.S. financial commitments to the UN, tying funding to specific diplomatic outcomes. It does not alter existing U.S. law regarding genocide investigations but mandates specific diplomatic actions and funding restrictions.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution honoring the late Senator Dianne Feinstein of California. It expresses the Senate's respect for her legacy through a formal statement and calls for the chamber to adjourn as a mark of tribute following her passing. The resolution details her historic milestones, including being the first woman to represent California in the Senate, chair multiple key committees, and advocate on issues like gun safety and conservation. It has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents, as it is purely commemorative.