Rep. Robert E. Latta

Maddy summaryThe HALT Fentanyl Act expands the definition of fentanyl-related substances in the Controlled Substances Act to include many structurally similar compounds, making it easier to regulate new fentanyl analogs without individual listing. It defines these substances based on specific chemical modifications to fentanyl, with limited exceptions for substances already controlled or listed elsewhere. The bill also streamlines research procedures for schedule I substances by creating expedited registration processes and allowing multiple studies under one registration, while requiring the Attorney General to publish a list of substances meeting the new definition.

Maddy summaryHR 3703, the HEALING Response Act of 2023, requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) efforts to rapidly produce medical supplies like vaccines during public health emergencies. The GAO must examine HHS's progress in transitioning programs (such as the Centers for Innovation and Advanced Drug Manufacturing) and assess risks in manufacturing these countermeasures. Within one year of the bill’s enactment, the GAO must submit a report to Congress detailing its findings and recommendations for improving emergency preparedness. This bill does not create new policies but mandates an independent evaluation to strengthen federal readiness for health crises.

Maddy summaryHJRES 39 is a joint resolution disapproving a specific rule issued by the Department of Commerce. The rule (87 Fed. Reg. 56868) outlined procedures for suspending import duties and estimated duties under Presidential Proclamation 10414, which related to certain imported goods. This resolution blocks the rule from taking effect, meaning the Department of Commerce’s procedures for suspending duties under that proclamation will not be enforced. The action directly affects importers and customs operations that would have relied on the suspended duty procedures. As a disapproval resolution, it does not create new policy but formally rejects an existing agency rule.

Winning the International Race for Economic Leadership and Expanding Service to Support Leadership Act or the WIRELESS Leadership Act This bill limits the authority of a state or locality to regulate the placement, construction, or modification of personal wireless service facilities. The bill revises the prohibition on states or localities discriminating among providers of a personal wireless service to state that providing exclusive or preferential use of facilities to a particular class of providers is prohibited. However, states or localities may establish reasonable and nondiscriminatory requirements for engineering standards, safety, and aesthetics. They may also charge reasonable, cost-based fees for (1) reviewing requests to place, construct, or modify personal wireless service facilities; or (2) using property owned or managed by the state or locality for placing, constructing, or modifying a facility. Additionally, states and localities must respond to requests to place, construct, or modify facilities by specified deadlines. If a decision is not made by the deadline, the request is deemed to be approved.

Maddy summaryHR 3392, the Fighter Force Preservation and Recapitalization Act of 2023, requires the Air National Guard to maintain at least 25 fighter squadrons (each with a minimum of 18 aircraft) by mandating one-for-one replacement of existing squadrons by 2034. The bill directs the Air Force Secretary to develop and submit a recapitalization plan to Congress within 120 days of enactment, including modernizing squadrons and fielding new "Next Generation Air Dominance" systems. This directly affects the Air National Guard's fighter force structure, setting specific numerical requirements for aircraft and squadrons. The law allows limited waivers for extraordinary circumstances but maintains the core 2034 deadline for full recapitalization.

Maddy summaryHRES 363 is a resolution expressing support for recognizing National Police Week, an annual observance established by law to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. The resolution acknowledges 556 officers killed in the line of duty during 2022 and calls for ensuring law enforcement officers have necessary equipment, training, and resources to protect both themselves and the public. It encourages the American public to observe National Police Week by honoring law enforcement personnel and recognizing their essential mission in serving communities across the United States. This resolution does not create new law but formally expresses congressional support for an existing observance.

This resolution supports the designation of National American Birding Week and encourages the public to attend events to (1) learn about bird migration; and (2) support efforts by governments, conservation organizations, and businesses to preserve migratory bird populations.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates new federal crimes for killing or assaulting law enforcement officers and public safety personnel while they're on duty or because of their status as officers. It establishes mandatory minimum sentences of 10 years for murder of officers, with higher penalties for assaults causing serious injury or using deadly weapons. The bill also creates a new offense for fleeing to avoid prosecution for killing officers and limits federal habeas corpus relief for those convicted of killing officers. Additionally, it expands law enforcement officers' authority to carry firearms in certain locations. The bill directly affects law enforcement officers, public safety personnel, and individuals who commit violent acts against them.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to review its satellite communication rules to identify potential changes that could better support precision agriculture. It specifically requires the FCC, with input from a designated agricultural technology task force, to examine rules for fixed, mobile, and earth exploration satellite services. The FCC must then submit a report within 15 months to Congress with recommendations for implementing any rule changes. This bill does not enact new rules itself but initiates a review process to improve satellite connectivity for farmers using precision agriculture technology.

This resolution expresses U.S. support for Israel and its efforts to defend its right to existence. The resolution also declares that the United States and international community must prevent Iran from acquiring or building nuclear weapons.