Sen. Roger F. Wicker

Maddy summaryThe Kids Online Safety Act (S 1748) requires major social media platforms, online video games, and other "covered platforms" to implement specific safety features for minors (under 17). These features include default privacy settings that limit harmful design features like infinite scrolling and auto-play, parental controls for managing minors' accounts, and restrictions on advertising illegal products to minors. The bill also mandates annual transparency reports about how platforms are used by minors and requires platforms to provide clear notices about their content algorithms. It creates a Kids Online Safety Council to advise Congress on online safety issues for children. The law applies to platforms with more than 10 million monthly users in the U.S. and takes effect 18 months after enactment.

Maddy summaryThe Runway SAFE-T Act establishes a task force to study and recommend improvements for driver training programs at airports, ensuring that ground vehicle operators receive consistent and modern safety instruction. Additionally, the bill authorizes federal grants from 2027 to 2031 to help airports purchase advanced technologies, such as sensors and simulation systems, that enhance situational awareness and reduce vehicle-related safety incidents on airport runways and taxiways. These grants are intended to assist airport sponsors in overcoming barriers like cost and workforce availability while prioritizing projects tailored to specific airport layouts and safety needs.

Maddy summaryThe SMASH 2.0 Act reauthorizes and updates the federal Mosquito Abatement for Safety and Health program, which provides funding to state and local health departments to control mosquito populations. Key provisions allow the use of innovative technologies for prevention, allocate funds for technical training and education for public health workers, and increase the program's funding level to $100 million annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2031. Additionally, the bill requires the creation of a strategic plan to stockpile emergency supplies for controlling vector-borne diseases and establishes a mechanism for coordination with the Strategic National Stockpile. These changes aim to enhance the capacity of health agencies to manage mosquito-related health risks through better planning, training, and resource availability.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally commends Mississippi Christian University for its 200 years of service to Mississippi and the United States. It recognizes the institution's historical milestones, including its founding in 1826, its status as the first U.S. college to grant degrees to women, and its recent renaming in 2026. The document highlights the university's contributions to education, athletics, and the local economy while requesting that copies be sent to the university's president and interim provost.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates August 1, 2026, as Gold Star Children's Day to honor the sacrifices and hardships faced by children of fallen members of the U.S. Armed Forces. The bill does not create new laws or change government operations; instead, it serves as a formal expression of gratitude from the Senate and encourages the public to observe this day in support of these families. By establishing this specific date, the measure aims to raise awareness about the legacy carried by children who lost a parent in military service.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates July 30, 2026, as "National Whistleblower Appreciation Day" to honor individuals who report misconduct, fraud, or abuse within the government. It requires federal agencies to inform employees, contractors, and the public about the legal protections available for reporting wrongdoing and to acknowledge the contributions whistleblowers make to saving taxpayer money. The bill does not create new laws or penalties but serves as a commemorative measure to encourage ethical reporting and recognize the role of whistleblowers in maintaining an ethical government.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes funding and sets policy guidelines for the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Energy for fiscal year 2027, directly affecting military personnel, defense contractors, and federal agencies. Key provisions include authorizing specific appropriations for procurement, research, operations, and military construction, while establishing end-strength limits for active and reserve forces across all military branches. The legislation also mandates various strategic plans and reports on topics such as Arctic readiness, supply chain resilience, artificial intelligence integration, and environmental remediation at military installations. Additionally, the bill modifies personnel policies regarding promotions, retirements, and service obligations, and includes restrictions on the use of certain foreign-made equipment and connected vehicles on military bases.

Maddy summaryThe CORE Pacific Act directs the Secretary of State to submit a report within 120 days analyzing the feasibility of assigning consular officers to Coast Guard and Navy missions in Pacific Island countries. This report will assess the current demand for consular services, potential cost savings, and logistical challenges such as space, security, and technology needed to provide these services aboard military vessels. The analysis will also evaluate how often these missions occur and the impact on existing naval operations to determine if this approach can better serve citizens of nations that do not host U.S. embassies.

Maddy summaryThe Tire Safety Modernization Act of 2026 directs the Department of Transportation to update federal regulations governing passenger car and light truck tires. The bill requires the removal of outdated testing requirements for tire strength and the revision of definitions regarding "chunking" to better reflect modern tire technology. Additionally, it mandates the creation of new high-speed performance testing protocols aligned with international standards and establishes a future review to assess the impact of these changes on tire safety and market availability.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians and Historic Jefferson College in Natchez, Mississippi, as "affiliated areas" within the National Park System. It establishes these sites under cooperative management with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History (the designated management entity), consistent with National Park Service policies. The bill does not involve federal property acquisition or operational funding; instead, it creates a formal agreement for the Secretary of the Interior to provide technical assistance and support preservation efforts while maintaining the sites' local management.