Sen. John Fetterman

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits schools using federal broadband subsidies (E-Rate program or Emergency Connectivity Fund) from allowing student access to social media platforms on supported networks. It requires schools to certify annual compliance with this ban and adopt grade-specific screen time policies for digital learning. Schools must submit these policies to the FCC, which will create a public database of all school internet safety and screen time policies. The law directly affects all K-12 schools receiving these specific federal broadband funds for educational technology.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends federal transportation law to establish a dedicated "Transit Emergency Relief Program" for public transportation agencies. It extends funding availability for emergency relief grants - making allocated funds last until spent rather than expiring annually - and adds $50 million yearly from 2024 through 2027 for this specific program. The changes adjust prior funding levels slightly (e.g., raising the 2024 allocation from $14.04 billion to $14.04 billion in the text) while requiring grants to follow existing labor standards. This directly affects state and local transit agencies receiving federal grants under Title 49, providing more flexible and predictable funding for emergency relief needs.

Maddy summaryThe Air America Act of 2023 authorizes a one-time $40,000 payment to individuals who served for at least five years with Air America or its affiliated companies (1950-1976) or to their survivors, including widows, widowers, children, or dependents. Additional payments of $8,000 per full year beyond five years of service are provided for longer service periods. The total funding for these awards is capped at $60 million, with claims required to be filed within two years of implementing regulations. The Director of the Central Intelligence Agency administers the program, processing claims and issuing lump-sum payments to eligible individuals or their survivors.

Maddy summaryThe Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2023 requires the federal government to provide legal counsel at no cost to unaccompanied children (defined as children under 18 not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian) in immigration removal proceedings. It mandates that the Secretary of Health and Human Services appoint or provide counsel as soon as possible after a Notice to Appear is issued or when the child is placed in custody, and ensures children receive their immigration file within 7 days with at least 10 days to review it before court. The bill also requires the development of model guidelines for legal representation and annual reports tracking the number of children represented, including details on the stage of proceedings and demographics. These provisions apply to all unaccompanied children in immigration cases, including those in detention facilities.

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 concurrent resolution (SCONRES 21) is a symbolic statement recognizing the persistent wage gap affecting Latina women in the U.S. labor force. It highlights that Latina women earn just 57 cents for every dollar earned by White, non-Hispanic men working full-time, year-round - a disparity that would take until 2206 to close at current rates. The resolution cites data showing Latina women face compounded economic challenges, including lower median pay ($31,600 annually in 2022) and barriers like limited access to childcare and paid leave. As a non-binding resolution, it does not enact new laws but formally acknowledges the issue and reaffirms support for closing the gender wage gap.

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 increases the tax deduction rate for volunteer drivers who transport people or goods for qualifying nonprofits. It changes the standard mileage rate from 14 cents per mile to a rate set by the Treasury Secretary (minimum: the standard business mileage rate), effective for 2023 tax returns. The change directly affects volunteer drivers for organizations described in tax code section 170(c), such as food banks or community service groups. This provides a higher tax benefit for their mileage expenses compared to the previous fixed rate.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires federal agencies to adjust contract prices for contractors who suspended work due to government shutdowns (lapses in appropriations). It mandates that contractors receive reimbursement for reasonable costs incurred to pay furloughed or laid-off employees their standard wages during the shutdown, or to restore paid leave used during the shutdown. The reimbursement is capped at $1,442 per week (pro-rated for part-time work) and must be documented by contractors. It directly affects federal contractors and their employees who experienced pay disruptions during the 2023-2024 government shutdowns.

Maddy summarySRES 382 is a Senate resolution designating October 2023 as Filipino American History Month. It celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of Filipino Americans to the United States, including their roles in military service, healthcare, labor movements, and other fields. The resolution encourages public observance through educational programs and activities to honor their legacy. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new legal obligations or benefits.