Maddy summaryThe Smarter Sentencing Act of 2023 reduces mandatory minimum prison sentences for certain non-violent drug offenses under federal law. It redefines "courier" as someone whose role is limited to transporting drugs or money, setting lower sentencing ranges for couriers (5-10 years for first offenses, 10-20 years for repeat offenses) compared to other drug traffickers. The bill allows courts to reduce sentences for people already convicted of covered drug offenses, and directs the Sentencing Commission to update federal sentencing guidelines to align with these changes. It also requires reports on federal criminal offenses and their penalties to improve transparency. This primarily affects individuals convicted of federal drug crimes, particularly those acting as couriers or facing mandatory minimums.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a "Bill of Rights" for older adults (60+) and people with disabilities in guardianship or protective arrangements. It requires courts to provide independent legal representation for these individuals, mandates annual reviews of protective arrangements with legal representation, and promotes less restrictive alternatives like supported decision-making. The bill creates a Council to develop standards for guardianships and protective arrangements, and includes enforcement mechanisms such as potential reductions in federal funding for states that violate the rights established. The goal is to ensure these individuals maintain significant input into decisions about their lives while protecting their civil rights.
Maddy summaryThis bill removes the requirement that background checks for gun sales must be completed within 10 business days. It directly affects federally licensed gun sellers who conduct these checks, eliminating the specific deadline they previously had to finalize the process. The key provision amends existing law (18 U.S.C. § 922(t)(1)) to eliminate the 10-day timeframe, allowing sellers to complete checks without that strict deadline. The bill also includes minor technical corrections to related laws like the Brady Act and Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes minimum registered nurse-to-patient staffing ratios for hospitals across different units, directly affecting hospitals, registered nurses, and patients. It requires hospitals to implement staffing plans with specific ratios (e.g., 1:1 in trauma units, 2:1 in critical care, 4:1 in medical-surgical units) that must be publicly posted and maintained in detailed records. The bill includes enforcement through Medicare and Medicaid programs, with penalties for noncompliance up to $50,000 for subsequent violations. It also protects nurses who refuse unsafe assignments from retaliation and requires hospitals to provide transparency about staffing levels. The legislation aims to improve patient safety and nurse retention through concrete staffing standards rather than general guidelines.
Maddy summaryThis bill increases the age limit for children to receive CHAMPVA medical benefits from 21 to 26 years old, regardless of marital status. It directly affects children of veterans who rely on the CHAMPVA program for healthcare coverage. The key provision amends Section 1781 of Title 38, U.S. Code, to extend eligibility until the child's 26th birthday. The change applies to medical care provided on or after the bill's enactment date.
Maddy summaryS 1138, the Fossil Free Finance Act of 2023, requires large banks (with over $50 billion in assets) and certain financial firms to reduce emissions tied to their investments. It mandates these institutions to eliminate all new fossil fuel projects immediately, end thermal coal financing by 2025, and cut financed emissions by 50% by 2030, aiming for net-zero by 2050. The bill prohibits using carbon offsets in emissions plans and requires annual reporting to Congress on progress toward climate targets. This directly affects major financial institutions, compelling them to divest from fossil fuels and align their lending with science-based climate goals.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a formal reward program for whistleblowers who provide original information leading to successful enforcement actions by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against violations of federal consumer financial laws. Whistleblowers who report new, non-public details about violations (e.g., bank fraud or deceptive practices) may receive 10-30% of civil penalties collected in cases exceeding $1 million, with a minimum $50,000 award if penalties are below that threshold. The law includes strong confidentiality protections to prevent disclosure of whistleblower identities and excludes current employees of violators or those convicted of related crimes from receiving awards. It directly affects individuals who report consumer financial law violations, aiming to incentivize insider reporting while ensuring CFPB enforcement actions generate revenue for these rewards.
Maddy summaryThis bill repeals two specific legal authorizations for U.S. military force against Iraq: the 1991 authorization (Public Law 102-1) and the 2002 authorization (Public Law 107-243). If enacted, it would end the legal basis for military operations in Iraq under these two resolutions. The repeal directly affects the executive branch’s authority to use military force against Iraq under these specific laws. It does not create new policy but removes existing legal permissions.
Maddy summaryThe REAADI for Disasters Act improves disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation for individuals with disabilities and older adults (age 50+), who face higher risks during disasters. It requires accessible communications (including American Sign Language, captions, and plain language), inclusive advisory committees in disaster planning, and accessible shelters and facilities. The bill also mandates that crisis standards of care during disasters comply with civil rights laws and funds training centers to support disability-inclusive disaster management practices.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 1036, the Senior Hunger Prevention Act of 2023, aims to improve nutrition assistance access for seniors (60+) and people with disabilities by amending the Food and Nutrition Act. Key provisions include extending SNAP certification periods from 24 to 36 months, establishing a standardized medical expense deduction starting at $155 for fiscal year 2024 (adjusted annually), and creating simplified application programs (ESAP and CAP) to reduce administrative barriers for eligible households. The bill also funds a pilot program for outreach and enrollment targeting older adults, kinship families, and adults with disabilities, and expands food delivery services for eligible participants. Additional provisions increase funding for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program and Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program.