Sen. Josh Hawley

Maddy summaryThe Open App Markets Act restricts major app store owners (with over 50 million U.S. monthly active users) from forcing developers to use their payment systems or favoring their own apps in search results. It requires these stores to allow users to choose third-party app stores as defaults, install apps from outside the store, and hide preinstalled apps. The law applies to companies controlling both app stores and operating systems (like Apple or Google), with enforcement by the FTC and private lawsuits by affected developers. It prohibits self-preferencing, mandates equal access to app store interfaces, and allows developers to recover triple damages for violations.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the death gratuity payment for federal employees killed in the line of duty from $800 to $100,000 (with annual inflation adjustments), significantly raising financial support for survivors. It establishes a clear order of precedence for recipients, prioritizing designated beneficiaries, then surviving spouses, children, parents, and finally estate representatives. The legislation also increases funeral expense coverage from $800 to $8,800 with annual inflation adjustments and requires agencies to report death gratuity payments to the Comptroller General.

Maddy summaryThis bill adds a new provision to federal law increasing penalties for using open flames or incendiary devices (including burning the U.S. flag) while committing certain federal crimes like property damage or public endangerment. It mandates an additional minimum 1-year prison term for offenders who intentionally use fire-starting methods during these crimes, beyond any existing penalties. The law specifically targets flag burning only when connected to other criminal acts involving property or public safety risks, not standalone flag desecration. It explicitly excludes First Amendment-protected expressive conduct not involving criminal acts or threats to public safety.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates June 11, 2025, as "World Franchise Day" to recognize the franchise business model. It acknowledges franchising's historical roots (tracing to Benjamin Franklin and Isaac Singer) and its current role in supporting 830,876 U.S. franchise establishments, 8.8 million jobs, and 3% of GDP. The Senate resolution is purely commemorative - it does not create new laws or policies but formally honors franchising's contributions to entrepreneurship and economic activity. It directly affects no specific individuals or entities beyond symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution (SRES 268) condemns former FBI Director James B. Comey for a May 15, 2025 Instagram post featuring numbers "86 47" with the caption "cool shell formation," which the resolution claims incited violence against President Donald Trump. The resolution urges federal agencies to bar Comey from future government employment and requests the Justice and Homeland Security Departments investigate his social media activity, releasing findings publicly. As a non-binding resolution, it does not change laws but formally expresses the Senate's disapproval of Comey's actions as described in the resolution.

Maddy summaryThis bill raises the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour, effective January 1 of the first year after enactment. It then automatically adjusts the minimum wage annually on January 1 based on the previous year's inflation rate (using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners), rounding to the nearest $0.05. The policy directly affects most hourly workers covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act, including those in retail, hospitality, and other service sectors. The changes take effect on the first January 1 following the bill's enactment date.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates June as "Life Month" each year, recognizing the inherent dignity of all human life. It urges Congress to acknowledge that every life is a sacred gift and to commend organizations and individuals supporting pregnant mothers and families. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic statement affirming life as a fundamental right.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Natalie and Davy Lloyd, who were killed while serving as missionaries in Haiti with Missions in Haiti, and expresses condolences to their family. It recognizes their work caring for Haitian children through an orphanage, their marriage in Missouri, and their dedication to missionary service before their deaths in May 2024. The Senate formally extends heartfelt condolences and commemorates their legacy of service.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new federal tax deduction for cash tips received by workers in occupations that traditionally accept tips (like servers, barbers, and nail technicians) on or before December 31, 2023. It allows a deduction of up to $25,000 per year for tips reported to employers, excluding employees earning over $250,000 from the same employer in the prior year. The Treasury must publish a list of qualifying occupations within 90 days, and the deduction applies to all taxpayers (not just itemizers). The changes take effect for tax years beginning after December 31, 2024.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SRES 255) is a ceremonial Senate measure honoring former U.S. Senator Christopher "Kit" Bond of Missouri, who died on May 13, 2025. It recognizes his 40+ years of public service, including his roles as Missouri Governor (1973-1977, 1981-1985) and U.S. Senator (1987-2011). The resolution directs the Senate to adjourn briefly as a mark of respect and transmit a copy to his family. It has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents, as it is purely commemorative.