Rep. Nikki Budzinski

Maddy summaryHCONRES 99 is a symbolic congressional resolution honoring Wadee Alfayoumi, a 6-year-old Palestinian-American boy murdered in a hate crime on October 14, 2023, after being stabbed 26 times by a perpetrator who made anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian remarks. The resolution recognizes Congress's condemnation of hate crimes, Islamophobia, and anti-Palestinian discrimination, while affirming the United States' "zero tolerance" for such violence. As a procedural resolution (not a law), it does not create new policies but formally honors Wadee and his family, emphasizing the need to reject dehumanizing rhetoric targeting religious or ethnic groups.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (HCONRES 97) recognizes the gender wage gap, noting that women working full-time earn 84 cents for every dollar earned by men. It highlights racial disparities (e.g., Latinas earn 57 cents, Black women 69 cents) and the economic impact of the gap, including $965 billion in annual lost wages for women. As a symbolic resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but formally acknowledges the issue and reaffirms Congress’s commitment to addressing wage inequality.

Maddy summaryHRES 1074 is a symbolic House resolution reaffirming congressional support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. It explicitly states the House supports Israel's right to exist as a Jewish, democratic state and recognizes Palestinians' right to sovereignty through a separate state. The resolution identifies a two-state solution as the best path to lasting peace and condemns efforts opposing this approach. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new law or policy but formally expresses the House's position on this issue. It was introduced by multiple House members on March 12, 2024.

Maddy summaryHR 7629, the Protect Our Letter Carriers Act of 2024, allocates $1.4 billion annually (2025-2029) to the U.S. Postal Service for high-security collection boxes and replacing physical universal mailbox keys with electronic versions, directly affecting USPS operations and letter carriers. It requires the Attorney General to appoint specialized prosecutors in each district to coordinate investigations and prosecutions of postal-related crimes, such as assaults on carriers or mail theft. The bill also mandates the U.S. Sentencing Commission to adjust guidelines so that assaults or robberies against postal employees are treated with the same severity as assaults against law enforcement officers. These provisions aim to enhance safety through infrastructure upgrades, improved prosecution, and stricter sentencing for crimes targeting postal workers.

Maddy summaryHR 7577, the CHEERS Act, creates a new tax deduction for restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues by expanding eligibility under the energy efficiency tax code (Section 179D). It defines "qualified energy-efficient draft property" as stainless steel or aluminum containers and tap equipment used for alcohol distribution in these businesses, treating them as eligible for the existing energy efficiency tax deduction. This change applies to equipment placed in service after the bill's enactment date, directly benefiting hospitality businesses that own or lease such equipment. The provision modifies existing tax code language without creating new tax rates or altering other regulations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HRES 1050) designates March 2024 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It symbolically supports existing public awareness efforts around colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and early detection, without creating new requirements or funding. The resolution encourages the public to observe the month with educational activities, aligning with ongoing annual campaigns. It directly affects public awareness efforts but has no binding policy impact.

Maddy summaryThe Farm to Fly Act of 2023 amends USDA programs to include sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a qualifying product for financial assistance, directly affecting farmers, biorefineries, and agricultural producers. It defines SAF as liquid fuel meeting strict environmental standards - requiring at least a 50% reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to jet fuel and excluding sources like palm oil or petroleum. The bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to lead a cross-agency initiative focused on advancing SAF development, leveraging agricultural resources, and fostering public-private partnerships to expand the domestic SAF market. This aims to support rural economic growth, strengthen U.S. energy security, and align with national clean energy goals in aviation.

This concurrent resolution honors the lives and work of Mary and John Meachum and recognizes the importance of the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing, which is part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

Maddy summaryHRES 1032 is a symbolic resolution designating the week of February 26-March 1, 2024, as "Public Schools Week" in the U.S. House of Representatives. It expresses congressional support for public education, highlighting its role in preparing students and communities. The resolution has no legal effect or funding provisions - it solely serves as a formal expression of backing for public schools. It directly affects no individuals or entities but aims to raise awareness about public education. This is a non-binding gesture, not a policy change.

Maddy summaryThe PATH Act establishes a federal grant program to fund pre-apprenticeship programs in the building and construction trades. It provides 75% federal funding (up to $20 million annually) for nonprofit partnerships that develop training programs preparing underrepresented groups - including racial minorities, women, veterans, tribal members, and low-income individuals - from entering registered apprenticeships. Key requirements include curriculum aligned with industry standards, documented partnerships with apprenticeship sponsors, and activities like career exploration and skill assessments. Programs must track outcomes, such as participants entering registered apprenticeships, using performance metrics aligned with existing workforce laws.