Rep. Kelly Armstrong

Maddy summaryHR 9274, the SHAWL Act, establishes two new Smithsonian museums: the National Museum of the American Latino and the American Women’s History Museum. It authorizes both museums to be located within the National Mall’s "Reserve" area, overriding prior restrictions, and requires federal agencies managing potential sites to transfer jurisdiction to the Smithsonian after notifying congressional committees. The bill mandates that both museums accurately represent diverse cultures, histories, and viewpoints within Latino and women’s communities through exhibits and programs, requiring input from a broad range of community experts. It also requires the Smithsonian to submit biennial reports to Congress detailing compliance with these representation requirements.

Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act of 2024 This bill prohibits states or localities from imposing a levy or collecting an excise tax on the sale of a firearm, ammunition, or any part or component thereof, by a manufacture or retailer.

Maddy summaryThe Federal Prison Oversight Act establishes a new inspections regime for federal prisons, requiring the Justice Department's Inspector General to conduct regular assessments of Bureau of Prisons facilities. These inspections will evaluate conditions of confinement, medical care, staffing levels, safety protocols, and policies related to visitation and programming. The bill also creates a new Ombudsman position within the Department of Justice to receive and address complaints from incarcerated people, their families, and staff about health, safety, and rights concerns. The Inspector General must submit public reports with recommendations, and the Bureau must respond with corrective action plans within 60 days. The law includes protections against retaliation for those filing complaints and requires the Bureau to provide multiple confidential channels for submitting complaints.

Maddy summaryHRES 1381 is a symbolic resolution that commemorates the United States Olympic and Paralympic Teams' historical achievements, including over 5,300 total medals across past Games. It expresses congressional support for U.S. athletes competing in the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, France, and commends the Government of France for hosting the events. The resolution also commits to ensuring a safe environment for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games. As a non-binding expression of support, it does not create new laws or allocate funds.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes North Dakota to relinquish state-owned land within Indian reservations (granted under the 1889 North Dakota Enabling Act) and select equivalent Federal land in its place. The State would transfer its claim to reservation land to the federal government, which would then place that land into trust for the respective tribes. The Secretary of the Interior must approve the land selection, and the process includes specific valuation requirements to ensure equivalent value between the land relinquished and the land selected. This would fulfill the state's land grant promise while increasing tribal sovereignty over reservation lands. The bill also includes provisions for handling mineral leases, grazing permits, and hazardous materials on the land being conveyed.

Maddy summaryHRES 1378 is a symbolic resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives expressing the chamber's stance on the July 13, 2024, attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. It condemns the attack as an "abhorrent act of cowardice" that must be universally rejected and asserts that political disputes should only be resolved through elections, not violence. The resolution does not create new laws or affect any specific group; it is a non-binding statement intended to promote civility in political discourse. It was introduced by Republican members of Congress and passed without amendment.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (HRES 1369) honoring Corey Comperatore, a volunteer firefighter, U.S. Army Reserves veteran, and community leader from Sarver, Pennsylvania, who died on July 13, 2024. The resolution formally mourns his passing and celebrates his life, noting he left behind his wife, Helen, and two daughters, Allyson and Kaylee. It recognizes his service to the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Department, his military service, and his role as a devoted member of Cabot Methodist Church. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy impact or direct effect on legislation or constituents beyond this formal acknowledgment.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Public Participation Division within the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to better coordinate assistance for the public during regulatory proceedings. The Division would be led by a Director who provides technical and logistical support to individuals and groups participating in Commission processes, but cannot offer financial compensation for legal or expert witness fees. The legislation also requires the new Director to submit a report to Congress within one year detailing how the Division operates and how its functions overlap with existing Commission authorities. This structure aims to streamline public engagement in energy regulation while maintaining clear boundaries on the type of assistance provided.

Maddy summaryHJRES 148 is a joint resolution seeking to block a Treasury Department rule that would have modified clean vehicle tax credits. The rule, published in the Federal Register on May 6, 2024, aimed to restrict credits for vehicles using critical minerals or battery components sourced from "Foreign Entities of Concern" and to limit credit transfers. This resolution would nullify that rule, preventing it from taking effect and preserving the existing structure of the clean vehicle credit program under Sections 25E and 30D of the tax code. It directly affects electric vehicle buyers, manufacturers, and dealers participating in the federal tax credit program.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors Corey Comperatore, a former Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Department chief from Pennsylvania, who was killed shielding his family during the July 13, 2024, attempted assassination of former President Donald J. Trump at a rally in Butler. It recognizes his service and sacrifice, specifically noting he died protecting his wife and two daughters. The resolution also condemns the assassination attempt and political violence in all forms. As a commemorative resolution, it has no binding policy effect.