Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Congress to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and its member Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in recognition of the UNCF's 80th anniversary. It directs the Treasury Secretary to design and strike the medal, with proceeds from bronze duplicates covering costs. The bill is purely ceremonial - no new policies or funding are created - and honors the UNCF's role in raising over $7 billion for HBCUs and awarding $100 million in annual scholarships.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThe Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act of 2023 requires financial regulatory agencies (like the Federal Reserve and FDIC) to report on their use of AI in regulated institutions, including gaps in oversight and needed resources. It directs the Department of Defense to develop bug bounty programs for foundational AI models in military systems and conduct a study on vulnerabilities in AI-enabled military applications, covering privacy, security, and testing needs. The bill also mandates a DoD report on improving data sharing and interoperability across its agencies to support AI development. These provisions primarily affect federal agencies and the financial sector they regulate, focusing on internal oversight and risk assessment without imposing new direct regulations on businesses.
Maddy summaryThis bill strengthens child labor protections by allowing children harmed by violations to sue employers for compensatory and punitive damages up to $250,000. It increases civil penalties for violations (minimum $5,000, maximum $132,270 annually adjusted for inflation) and adds criminal penalties for repeated violations, including fines up to $50,000 or 1 year in jail. The bill also creates federal grants to fund prevention programs through nonprofits, trade groups, or labor partnerships, focusing on education and systems to avoid child labor violations. These changes apply to all employers violating current child labor rules under the Fair Labor Standards Act, directly affecting harmed children and businesses that exploit underage workers.
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.
Maddy summaryThis bill reinstates U.S. sanctions on Iran that were previously waived under an agreement between the U.S. and Iran, including a specific waiver related to funds from South Korea to Qatar (documented in a September 11, 2023, congressional transmission). It blocks any U.S. government action to release funds or assets to Iran under that agreement and prohibits future waivers, suspensions, or relief for these sanctions. The bill directly affects Iran's access to certain financial assets tied to the agreement. It targets concrete policy changes by reversing prior relief without altering broader sanctions frameworks.
Maddy summaryThis bill strengthens health care and benefits for children of Vietnam veterans born with spina bifida. It defines "covered children" as those eligible for these benefits and "covered veterans" as Vietnam veterans with such children. The bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish an advisory council to gather feedback from affected families and create care teams that must contact covered children at least once every 180 days. It also ensures health care benefits continue for the child's entire life, regardless of whether a parent dies before the child. Additionally, the Department must submit biennial reports to Congress on the number of children receiving benefits, social workers provided, and outreach efforts.
This resolution supports the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as National 4–H Week and recognizes the important role of 4–H in youth development and education.
Maddy summarySRES 394 is a Senate resolution introduced on October 3, 2023, honoring the late James L. Buckley, a former U.S. Senator from New York (1971-1977) who died in 2023. The resolution expresses the Senate's sorrow at his passing and directs the Senate to communicate the resolution to the House of Representatives and Buckley's family, while calling for an immediate adjournment in his memory. This ceremonial resolution does not create new laws or affect any policies, as it solely serves to commemorate Buckley's life and legacy.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to complete specific studies before finalizing or enforcing its proposed Motor Vehicle Dealers Trade Regulation Rule (the 2022 rule and similar future rules). It mandates a quantitative study on automotive retailing, consumer testing on new mandates, and an economic analysis of costs/benefits - each open to 30 days of public comment and peer-reviewed - before the FTC can proceed. These requirements must be submitted to Congress, and the rule must apply equally to all auto sellers (franchised, independent, and direct). The bill directly affects the FTC’s rulemaking process and motor vehicle dealers, delaying implementation until these steps are completed.
Maddy summaryThe PREEMIE Reauthorization Act of 2023 extends federal funding for research and care related to preterm births and low birthweight infants through fiscal years 2024-2028, replacing previous funding periods. It updates existing programs to include screening for and treatment of chronic conditions in infant care and requires the Health and Human Services Secretary to establish an interagency working group within 18 months. The bill mandates a National Academies study to assess financial costs of preterm birth (including neonatal ICU stays and long-term family expenses), factors influencing birth rates, gaps in public health support, and research strategies for prevention, with a final report due within 24 months. This legislation directly affects federal health agencies, healthcare providers, and families caring for preterm infants by advancing evidence-based improvements in care.