Rep. Jim Costa

Maddy summaryHRES 762 is a non-binding House resolution expressing congressional support for increasing Latino representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. It highlights that Latinos make up 18% of the U.S. workforce but only 8% of STEM workers, despite growing population and interest in STEM fields. The resolution cites challenges like unmet financial needs (70% of Latino students) and notes STEM job growth (10.8%) outpaces non-STEM sectors. It formally acknowledges the underrepresentation in STEM, encourages federal support for initiatives targeting Latino students, and recognizes Hispanic-serving institutions' role - without creating new programs or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes a one-time $40,000 payment to former Air America employees who served at least five years during 1950-1976, or to their survivors (widows/widowers, dependents, or children). Additional $8,000 payments are provided for each full year of service beyond five years. The total funding is capped at $60 million, with claims due within two years of regulations being finalized. It does not create ongoing benefits or change Air America’s legal status, and payments are issued as a single lump sum.

Maddy summaryThe Safe Schools Improvement Act (HR 6031) requires public elementary and secondary schools to implement comprehensive anti-bullying policies that specifically prohibit harassment based on protected characteristics like race, gender identity, disability, religion, and sexual orientation. It mandates schools to collect and publicly report annual data on bullying incidents while establishing clear grievance procedures for students and parents. The bill also requires states to submit biennial reports on school compliance and supports evidence-based interventions, such as restorative practices, to reduce exclusionary discipline. This legislation directly affects all public K-12 schools and students in the U.S., aiming to create safer learning environments through standardized policy requirements and data transparency.

Maddy summaryThis bill removes a previous exclusion that prevented temporary federal employees (including U.S. Postal Service staff and Members of Congress) from counting service after January 1, 1988, toward their retirement benefits. It allows these workers to have their post-1988 temporary service counted toward retirement eligibility if they pay a deposit to the retirement system. The change applies to anyone employed by the federal government on or after the bill's enactment date. The Office of Personnel Management must notify affected employees and create rules to implement this change.

Supporting Early-childhood Educators' Deductions Act of 2023 or the SEED Act of 2023 This bill expands the tax deduction for the expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers to include early childhood educators.

Maddy summaryHR 5929, the Permanently Authorizing PILT Act, makes the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program permanent by changing federal law to require annual payments to local governments for every fiscal year, rather than limiting it to fiscal year 2019. This program compensates counties and local areas with significant federal land (like national forests or parks) for lost tax revenue they cannot collect from federal property. The bill directly affects local governments in 39 states that receive PILT payments, ensuring consistent funding without annual legislative renewals. It does not alter payment amounts or eligibility but removes the need for repeated annual authorizations.

Maddy summaryHR 5907, the Stop Transnational Repression Act, creates a new federal crime for foreign governments or their agents to coerce, harass, threaten, or target U.S. persons (including activists, journalists, and dissidents) through physical or digital means, such as hacking, stalking, or intimidation, both within the U.S. and abroad. It establishes penalties of up to 10 years in prison for the offense, with enhanced penalties for violent acts or when committed under foreign government direction. The bill requires the Justice Department to centralize investigations and prosecutions of such cases and mandates annual reports to Congress detailing incidents, tactics used by foreign governments, and government efforts to disrupt transnational repression. This law directly affects U.S. citizens and residents targeted by foreign governments seeking to silence criticism or opposition.

Maddy summaryThe Sinkhole Mapping Act of 2023 directs the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to study causes of sinkholes - such as extreme weather, drought, and water management changes - and create maps identifying areas at high risk of sinkhole formation. These maps will be updated every five years and made publicly available on a dedicated USGS website for use by community planners and emergency managers. The bill authorizes $40 million annually (2024-2028) to fund this mapping program and related research. It directly affects local governments and emergency response teams by providing data to inform land-use decisions and disaster preparedness.

Maddy summaryHRES 754 is a symbolic House resolution recognizing the heritage, culture, and contributions of Latinas in the United States. It highlights Latinas' roles in business (owning over 2 million businesses), military service (45,710 active duty), arts (Oscar-winning artists like Rita Moreno), and public service, while noting persistent challenges like the 57-cent pay gap. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but formally honors these contributions and acknowledges the need for further progress toward equality. It was introduced by multiple representatives and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

Maddy summaryHRES 751 is a non-binding resolution designating October 1, 2023, as "National Animal Rescue Day" to raise public awareness about animal adoption and spaying/neutering. It directly supports animal shelters, rescue organizations, and the public by encouraging adoption events, educational activities, and charitable support on that date. The resolution aims to reduce shelter overcrowding and euthanasia rates by promoting adoption and responsible pet ownership through nationwide observance. It does not create new laws or funding but expresses congressional support for existing animal rescue efforts.