Maddy summarySenate Joint Resolution 49 seeks congressional disapproval of a National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) rule that would have established a new standard for determining when two or more companies are considered "joint employers" under labor law. The rule, published in October 2023, would have affected businesses with complex employment structures, such as franchisors and contractors, by altering how joint employer liability is assessed for wage, hour, and union representation matters. If passed, the resolution would block the rule from taking effect, preserving the previous standard for joint employer determinations. The bill was introduced by Senators Cassidy, Manchin, Braun, McConnell, Marshall, Cramer, Capito, and Paul and referred to the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySRES 459 is a ceremonial Senate resolution recognizing November 2023 as National Native American Heritage Month and the Friday after Thanksgiving as Native American Heritage Day, as specified in the 2009 Native American Heritage Day Act. It does not create new laws or funding but formally acknowledges Native Americans' contributions to U.S. history, culture, and society through "appropriate programs and activities." The resolution highlights historical context, including Native American cultural preservation, military service, and influences on U.S. governance, without imposing obligations on any entity. It directly affects the general public by encouraging observance during November 2023. This is a symbolic gesture, not a policy change.
Maddy summaryS 3274, the Hire Student Veterans Act, expands the Work Opportunity Tax Credit to include veterans using VA education benefits (like the GI Bill) while attending school. It directly affects employers who hire veterans enrolled in educational programs funded through specific VA or military education laws (titles 38 U.S.C. or 10 U.S.C.). The key change amends the tax code to add these veterans as eligible for the credit, modifying the definition of "qualified veteran" to include those receiving educational assistance under certain VA programs. The bill takes effect for veterans beginning work after its enactment.
Maddy summarySRES 451 permits Senators, Senate officers, and employees to collect non-monetary donations (clothing, toys, food, and housewares) from fellow Senate staff during the holiday season for charitable purposes. The donations must support organizations helping people in need or military families, and must comply with Senate rules and federal law. This resolution, which expires at the end of the 118th Congress, does not create new policies but facilitates existing charitable efforts within Senate buildings. It is a procedural measure, not a substantive legislative change.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires all federal agencies to adopt the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Artificial Intelligence Risk Management Framework for their use and procurement of AI systems. It mandates agencies to implement specific risk-reduction standards, cybersecurity measures, and supplier attestations before procuring AI, while providing guidance for small businesses. Agencies must report annually to Congress on compliance, and the NIST must develop voluntary testing standards for AI acquisitions within 90 days. The law excludes national security systems but directly affects all non-exempt federal agencies and AI suppliers working with them.
Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes $100 million annually (2025-2029) for U.S. humanitarian assistance to clear unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. It directly affects communities in these countries still threatened by UXO - responsible for over 105,000 casualties in Vietnam since 1975 - and supports survivors through medical aid and prosthetics. Key mechanisms include funding for UXO clearance, national survey updates, capacity building, and collaboration with host governments. The bill requires annual reports to Congress detailing fund usage, clearance progress, and efforts to support Hmong and other refugee communities in Laos. It also formally recognizes historical support from Southeast Asian allies during the Vietnam War era.
Maddy summarySRES 435 is a Senate resolution designating October 30 through November 4, 2023, as "National Veterans Small Business Week." It formally recognizes the contributions of veterans who own small businesses, highlighting their role in the economy (over 1.7 million veteran-owned businesses employing 2.9 million people). The resolution expresses support for veterans' entrepreneurship, encourages policies reducing regulatory burdens for small businesses, and thanks veterans for their service through business ownership. This is a symbolic recognition with no new legal requirements or funding.
Maddy summarySRES 426 is a Senate resolution designating November 4, 2023 (the first Saturday of November), as "National Bison Day." It directly recognizes the cultural, historical, and economic significance of bison to Native American tribes, rural communities, and the U.S. ecosystem. The resolution encourages the American public to observe the day with ceremonies and activities, but it does not create new laws, funding, or obligations. This is a symbolic gesture acknowledging bison's role as the national mammal and its importance to tribal heritage and conservation efforts.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates October 16, 2023, and October 16, 2024, as "World Food Day" in the United States. It encourages Americans to observe these dates through appropriate ceremonies and activities to raise awareness about global hunger and malnutrition. The resolution aligns with the United Nations' longstanding observance of October 16 as World Food Day, which focuses on addressing food insecurity worldwide. It does not create new policies or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to highlight ongoing global food challenges.
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.