Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a federal "National Parkinson’s Project" under the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate efforts across agencies in preventing, treating, and curing Parkinson’s disease and related conditions. It requires an integrated national plan, annual progress assessments, and a public Advisory Council - including patient advocates, researchers, and healthcare providers - to guide strategy and recommend actions. The project mandates data sharing among federal agencies and biannual reports to Congress evaluating federally funded Parkinson’s programs, aiming to improve care coordination, reduce financial burdens on Medicare and families, and advance research on environmental triggers. The law directly affects people living with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, and federal health agencies involved in research and patient services. The initiative is scheduled to sunset in 2035.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the use of federal funds to close or realign the Marine Corps Recruit Depot at Parris Island, South Carolina, or to plan such actions. It directly affects the Parris Island facility and the Marine Corps Eastern Recruiting Region, which relies on it as its permanent location. The bill cites the site’s historical significance - including being the first Marine Corps base to integrate women in boot camp (since 1949) and host the first fully integrated recruit company (2019) - to justify its protection. The key provision is a funding ban on closure-related activities, ensuring the facility remains operational without altering existing programs or adding new requirements.
Maddy summaryThe National Labor Relations Board Reform Act increases the NLRB's membership from 5 to 6 members, requiring 3 members to represent each of the two major political parties and establishing staggered terms for appointments starting in 2028. It changes the required Board majority for decisions from 3 to 4 members and adds a 30-day window for employers or employees to seek federal court review of General Counsel complaints if they lack substantial evidence. The bill also mandates that the NLRB issue final orders within one year of a case filing or the case is automatically discharged, becoming final without further action. These changes directly affect NLRB operations, employers, and employees involved in labor disputes under the National Labor Relations Act.
Maddy summaryThe Sickle Cell Disease Comprehensive Care Act establishes a 5-year Medicaid demonstration project to improve outpatient care for people with sickle cell disease, with a focus on young adults and pregnant women. It authorizes $25 million for planning grants to at least 10 states and up to $50 million for implementation, providing participating states with 100% federal funding for sickle cell disease treatment costs. Key provisions include creating multi-disciplinary care teams, addressing barriers to care through assessments, developing individualized care plans, and expanding access to specialized services including pain management, mental health, and specialist care. States must report on outcomes including reduced emergency department visits, hospital stays, and overall cost savings compared to pre-project levels.
Maddy summaryThis bill (SJRES 22) seeks to block a specific rule issued by the Department of Education regarding federal student loan modifications. It targets the rule titled "Waivers and Modifications of Federal Student Loans," which included a one-time debt relief program announced in October 2022. The resolution requests Congress disapprove the rule under the Congressional Review Act, preventing the Department from implementing it. If approved, the rule would have no legal effect, directly affecting how student loan borrowers could access modifications or debt relief under that specific policy.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates March 19-25, 2023, as "National Poison Prevention Week" and encourages communities nationwide to raise awareness about poisoning dangers and promote prevention. It does not create new laws or directly affect specific groups, but formally recognizes the annual observance established since 1961. The resolution highlights the role of poison control centers in addressing emergencies, including opioid misuse, pediatric poisonings, and overdose cases, while urging public education on safety. It expresses gratitude for poison control workers and supports existing resources like the 1-800-222-1222 hotline. The focus is purely on awareness, not policy changes.
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits public colleges and universities from denying religious student groups access to campus facilities or official recognition that is available to other student organizations. It directly affects public institutions of higher education and religious student organizations by requiring equal treatment based on the institution's policies for non-religious groups. The key provision states that no federal funds can be withheld from an institution that denies a religious group access to facilities or recognition due to its religious beliefs, practices, speech, leadership standards, or conduct codes. The law applies to all public colleges receiving funds under the Higher Education Act of 1965.
Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (SCONRES 8) expresses Congress's formal opinion that tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies - mutual aid organizations operating under IRS Section 501(c)(8) - have long provided essential community benefits. It highlights that these societies, with approximately 7 million members nationwide, contribute over $3.8 billion annually through charitable work, volunteerism, and financial security programs. The resolution affirms that their tax-exempt status continues to support their mission and relieve pressure on government safety net programs. As a non-binding statement of congressional sentiment, it does not change tax law or create new obligations.
Maddy summaryThe Kids in Classes Act (S 952) requires federal education funds (Title I) to go directly to parents or guardians of low-income students when public schools cannot offer in-person instruction due to health emergencies or labor disputes. It mandates that these funds cover specific educational expenses like tutoring, online materials, curriculum, or private school tuition to ensure learning continues. The bill directly affects students in Title I schools (serving high-poverty communities) who face school closures, aiming to reduce learning gaps by shifting funding from schools to families for approved educational needs.
Maddy summaryThis joint resolution (SJRES 20) seeks to block a 2023 rule from the Department of Justice and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) that classified certain firearms with stabilizing braces as rifles under federal law. If passed, it would nullify the rule, meaning firearms equipped with these braces would no longer be subject to the rule’s classification requirements. The resolution uses the congressional disapproval process under Title 5, U.S. Code, to stop the rule from taking effect, directly affecting firearm manufacturers and owners who use stabilizing braces on weapons.