Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse

Commercial Advertisement Loudness Mitigation Modernization Act of 2022 or the CALM Modernization Act of 2022 This bill applies certain requirements concerning the volume of commercials to video streaming services that are supported by advertisements (e.g., Hulu). It also modifies enforcement related to those requirements. Current law requires commercials transmitted via broadcast, cable, and satellite television to have the same average volume as the underlying programming. Under this bill, the Federal Communications Commission must apply through rulemaking similar requirements to ad-supported video streaming services. The bill also modifies enforcement of requirements for moderating the volume of commercials. The commission currently uses a complaint-driven enforcement process. Under this bill, the commission must treat violations of the requirements as violations of the Communications Act of 1934. Additionally, the bill makes rebuttable a presumption that deems a broadcast television station, cable operator, or other multichannel video programming distributor in compliance with the requirements if it appropriately installs and uses certain equipment and software to moderate the volume of commercials. The Government Accountability Office must report on the effectiveness of the requirements, and the commission's enforcement of them, in moderating the volume of commercials.

This resolution designates May 10, 2022, as National Fentanyl Awareness Day to bring attention to the impact of fake or counterfeit fentanyl pills. (Fentanyl is a potent prescription opioid for treating severe pain that is also made and used illegally.)

This resolution expresses that the Senate has heard of the death of the Honorable Orrin G. Hatch, former U.S. Senator for the state of Utah. The resolution also expresses that the Senate honors the life and legacy of the late Senator Hatch for his unwavering dedication to Utah as a Senator and a public servant and accomplishments in legislating with principle and dedication for the good of the people of the United States. The resolution states when the Senate adjourns today, it stands adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of Senator Hatch.

This resolution thanks the teachers of the United States and promotes the teaching profession by encouraging students, parents, school administrators, and public officials to recognize National Teacher Appreciation Week.

Heating Efficiency and Affordability through Tax Relief Act or the HEATR Act This bill allows a new tax credit through 2031 for energy efficient consumer and commercial heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.

This resolution supports efforts to combat illicit economies, illicit trade, and trade-based money laundering through risk assessments, strategies, and coordination with international partners.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SRES 603) recognizes April 2022 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. It expresses the Senate's support for efforts to educate the public about sexual violence, improve treatment for survivors, and prosecute perpetrators. The resolution acknowledges the work of organizations like RAINN and the Department of Defense's Safe Helpline, but does not create new laws or funding. As a symbolic gesture, it has no direct policy impact on affected individuals or services.

Chronic Wasting Disease Research and Management Act of 2022 This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to address chronic wasting disease afflicting deer, elk, and moose populations. Specifically, the bill directs USDA to establish a program to research and manage the disease. Under the program, USDA must offer to enter into agreements with state or tribal wildlife agencies and departments of agriculture, institutions of higher education, and research centers to support research on the transmission of, resistance to, and diagnosis of the disease. In addition, USDA must offer to enter into agreements with such agencies and departments to support state and tribal efforts to develop and implement management strategies that address the disease. USDA must also develop and maintain materials to inform the public on chronic wasting disease and techniques to help prevent the spread of the disease. In addition, USDA must solicit public feedback on potential updates and improvements to standards of the chronic wasting disease herd certification program.

Maddy summarySRES 588 is a symbolic Senate resolution designating April 2022 as "Financial Literacy Month." It does not create new laws or policies but calls for public awareness about the importance of personal financial education. The resolution urges federal, state, local, school, nonprofit, and business entities to observe the month with activities highlighting financial education's role in helping individuals manage debt, build wealth, and make informed money decisions. It references statistics on financial challenges (like high credit card debt and low high school financial literacy requirements) but does not mandate any specific actions or funding. This is a procedural designation with no direct effect on individuals or new legislative requirements.

Overdose Review Team Act This bill provides funding to the Department of Health and Human Services for grants that support drug overdose fatality review teams in states, Indian tribes, territories, and localities. These multidisciplinary teams track fatal and nonfatal drug overdoses that occur in the jurisdiction to identify relevant trends and patterns and recommend policies and practices for preventing and reducing drug overdoses.