Maddy summaryThe Universal School Meals Program Act of 2026 mandates that all children enrolled in participating schools receive free breakfast and free lunch, eliminating previous income-based eligibility requirements. The bill establishes specific funding rates for these meals, adjusts them annually for inflation, and requires states to disburse funds directly to selected schools. Additionally, the legislation prohibits schools from collecting unpaid meal debts from parents and forbids practices like segregating students or publicly identifying those who cannot pay. The act also expands summer food programs to include all children, updates poverty measurement standards for federal data, and extends free lunch eligibility to incarcerated juveniles in eligible detention centers.
Sponsored bills
Baby Changing on Board Act This bill requires Amtrak passenger rail trains to have a baby changing table in at least one restroom in each car, including in an Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990-compliant restroom. The bill applies to passenger rail trains that are (1) owned and operated by Amtrak, and (2) solicited for purchase after the bill's enactment for use by Amtrak.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally acknowledges the contributions of teachers to the United States and thanks them for their dedication. It encourages students, parents, and public officials to recognize National Teacher Appreciation Week.
Maddy summaryThis resolution honors the life and legacy of Dirk Kempthorne, a former U.S. Senator, Governor of Idaho, and Secretary of the Interior. It formally acknowledges his public service across various roles, including his work on environmental conservation, veterans' support, and economic development in Idaho. The Senate expresses its sorrow over his death and directs that a copy of the resolution be sent to his family. Additionally, the Senate stands in adjournment as a final mark of respect to his memory.
Maddy summaryThe GUARD Act requires companies providing AI chatbots to verify users' ages using reliable methods (like government IDs, not just self-reported birth dates) and prohibits minors under 18 from accessing "AI companions" designed for emotional interaction. It mandates clear disclosures that chatbots are not human and cannot falsely claim to be licensed professionals (e.g., therapists), while banning features that solicit minors for explicit content or promote violence. Covered entities must implement secure age verification processes for all accounts, including periodic checks, and face civil penalties up to $100,000 per violation for noncompliance. The law directly affects tech companies operating AI chatbots in the U.S. and aims to reduce minors' exposure to harmful AI interactions.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates World Press Freedom Day by formally recognizing the growing global dangers journalists face, including attacks in conflict zones and under repressive regimes. The bill highlights the essential role of a free press in supporting democracy and human rights while citing specific instances where American and international reporters have been killed, detained, or injured. It calls on the President and Secretary of State to investigate attacks against journalists, ensure the release of wrongfully detained media workers, and maintain U.S. leadership in protecting press freedom worldwide.
Firearm Safety Act of 2026 This bill allows the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to issue safety standards for firearms and firearm components. Under current law, firearms, shells, cartridges, and components thereof are excluded from the CPSC's rulemaking authority.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes the week of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as National Small Business Week to honor the contributions of small business owners and entrepreneurs across the United States. The measure expresses appreciation for the economic role these businesses play and acknowledges the resilience of their owners and employees. By adopting this designation, the Senate aims to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit within every community without imposing any new laws or regulations.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses support for designating April 2026 as "Fair Chance Jobs Month" to raise awareness about employment barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. While the bill itself does not change laws, it encourages the removal of obstacles like licensing restrictions and promotes fair-chance hiring practices. The resolution also calls for expanded workforce development programs, better access to housing and healthcare, and increased collaboration between government agencies and community groups to help returning citizens secure stable employment.
Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Protecting Human Rights and Public Health in Foreign Assistance Act, directs federal agencies to ignore three specific final rules issued by the Department of State. It explicitly prohibits any government department from implementing, enforcing, or creating new policies similar to these existing rules, effectively treating them as if they never existed. The targeted regulations concern protecting life, combating discriminatory equity ideology, and addressing gender ideology within foreign aid programs. By nullifying these rules, the legislation removes the current administrative requirements related to these topics from U.S. foreign assistance activities.