Sen. Richard J. Durbin

Maddy summaryThe Keep STEM Talent Act of 2025 (S 1233) changes visa and immigration rules for foreign students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in STEM fields at U.S. universities. It requires these students to apply for admission *before* starting their program and adds stronger background checks for their student visas. The bill also creates a new pathway to a green card for STEM graduates who secure a job in their field paying at least the median wage for that role, with approved labor certification. This allows students on F-1 visas to pursue permanent residency without violating current visa rules (dual intent), while requiring annual reports on implementation and impacts.

Maddy summaryThe Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 establishes a framework for imposing comprehensive sanctions on Russia if the President determines Russia is engaging in actions that undermine peace with Ukraine, such as refusing to negotiate a peace agreement, violating peace agreements, or planning another military invasion. If such a determination is made, the bill mandates blocking property of Russian officials and entities, prohibiting transactions with Russian financial institutions, increasing tariffs on Russian goods to at least 500% ad valorem, banning energy exports to Russia, and prohibiting purchases of Russian sovereign debt. It also imposes sanctions on countries that purchase Russian oil, uranium, or petroleum products, with duties of at least 500% on such goods. The bill requires the President to make determinations every 90 days and allows for termination of sanctions if Russia ceases harmful actions and enters a peace agreement with Ukraine, with immediate reimposition if Russia resumes those actions.

Maddy summaryS 1243 (Paying a Fair Share Act of 2025) would impose an additional tax on high-income individuals, specifically those with adjusted gross income exceeding $1 million annually (adjusted for inflation), effective for taxable years after 2024. The tax equals 30% of income above the $1 million threshold, after accounting for certain deductions like charitable contributions and other existing taxes. This provision directly affects individuals earning over $1 million per year, with the income threshold automatically rising with inflation each year. The bill does not apply to corporations or estates/trusts under the defined rules.

Maddy summarySCONRES 11 is a non-binding concurrent resolution supporting International Transgender Day of Visibility. It encourages the American public to observe the day with ceremonies and activities, celebrates transgender achievements and leadership, and recognizes the community's efforts in advocating for equal dignity and respect. The resolution highlights ongoing challenges transgender people face, including discrimination in employment, healthcare, and public spaces, while affirming the importance of visibility and inclusion. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic expression of congressional support.

Maddy summarySRES 148 is a ceremonial resolution passed by the U.S. Senate to honor the late Senator Alan K. Simpson of Wyoming, who died in 2022. The resolution expresses the Senate's "profound sorrow and deep regret" over his passing and formally requests the Secretary of the Senate to transmit an enrolled copy to his family. It also directs the Senate to adjourn as a mark of respect during its final session following the resolution's adoption. This resolution has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents - it solely serves as a formal tribute to Simpson's legacy.

Maddy summaryS 1210, the HERO for Youth Act of 2025, expands tax credits for employers hiring qualifying youth. It modifies the Work Opportunity Tax Credit to cover year-round employment (September 16-April 30) for students attending secondary school part-time (≤20 hours/week), not just summer jobs. The bill also creates a new credit for employers hiring "disconnected youth" - individuals aged 16-25 who haven’t attended school or worked regularly for six months, or foster youth aged 16-21. The credit amount is increased, and the changes apply to hires after the bill's enactment. This directly affects employers in states with designated local agencies administering the program.

Maddy summaryThe AID Youth Employment Act creates new federal grant programs to provide subsidized summer and year-round employment opportunities for eligible youth aged 14-24 who are in-school, out-of-school, or unemployed. The bill allocates $1.8 billion for summer employment programs and $2.4 billion for year-round programs, with specific requirements to serve marginalized youth (including those who are homeless, in foster care, involved in justice systems, or living in underserved communities). It requires eligible entities to form partnerships with schools, workforce agencies, and community organizations to develop programs that provide work readiness skills, mentorship, and support services like transportation and child care. The program includes performance metrics to track outcomes like employment rates and educational progress after program completion, with annual reports to Congress on program effectiveness.

Maddy summarySJRES 43 proposes a constitutional amendment allowing Congress and state governments to set reasonable limits on campaign contributions and expenditures intended to influence elections. It would permit distinctions between individuals and corporations, including the potential prohibition of corporate spending in political campaigns. The amendment explicitly protects the freedom of the press from being restricted by these regulations. If ratified by three-fourths of state legislatures, this change would directly affect candidates, political committees, and organizations that spend money to influence elections.

Maddy summarySRES 144 is a non-binding Senate resolution recognizing the heritage, culture, and contributions of Latinas in the United States. It highlights their impact across diverse fields - including science, arts, military service, and the economy - while noting ongoing challenges like the 58-cent pay gap for Latinas compared to White, non-Hispanic men. The resolution honors their historical and contemporary achievements without creating new policies or funding. It was introduced by 28 Senators and serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of Latinas' role in shaping U.S. society.

Maddy summaryS 1172, the Honor Farmer Contracts Act of 2025, requires the Department of Agriculture to immediately reinstate funding for all pre-enactment contracts with farmers and agricultural service providers. It mandates rapid payment of all overdue amounts owed under these agreements and prohibits canceling signed contracts unless a farmer or provider violates terms. The bill also prevents the closure of key local offices (like Farm Service Agency or NRCS offices) without 60 days' written notice to Congress. This directly affects farmers, agricultural businesses, and rural service offices by securing existing financial commitments and operational access.