Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester

Maddy summaryHRES 177 is a non-binding resolution supporting National Engineers Week (February 19-25, 2023). It expresses the House's recognition of engineers' contributions to public health, safety, and technological innovation, and emphasizes the importance of engineering education and diversity in STEM fields. The resolution does not create new laws, funding, or obligations - it solely affirms support for the week's goals of promoting engineering careers and STEM literacy. It was introduced by 12 representatives and referred to relevant committees for consideration.

Maddy summaryThis is a non-binding resolution expressing the House of Representatives' symbolic support for designating February 27-March 3, 2023, as "Public Schools Week." It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or directly affect any individuals or institutions. The resolution highlights the importance of public schools to democracy, equity, and student success through a series of supporting statements. As a procedural resolution, it has no legal effect beyond acknowledging the significance of public education.

Maddy summaryHR 1222, the Buffalo Soldiers Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2023, authorizes a single Congressional Gold Medal to honor the six all-Black cavalry and infantry regiments established in 1866 (later consolidated into four regiments). The medal recognizes their service from the post-Civil War era through World War II, including roles in frontier protection, national park preservation, and combat during major conflicts. After awarding the medal, it will be permanently displayed at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture, with bronze duplicates available for sale to cover costs. This bill is purely commemorative, with no new policies or direct impacts on current laws or individuals.

Maddy summaryThe Justice for Black Farmers Act of 2023 addresses historical discrimination against Black farmers by the USDA through several key provisions. It establishes an Equity Commission to study discrimination and recommend solutions, creates an independent Civil Rights Oversight Board to review discrimination complaints, and provides land grants of up to 160 acres to eligible Black farmers at no cost. The bill also improves access to credit for socially disadvantaged farmers, requires the USDA to collect and publish data on racial disparities in its programs, and includes protections against discriminatory practices in the livestock industry. These measures aim to increase land ownership and economic opportunity for Black farmers while addressing systemic barriers they've faced for decades.

Collecting and Analyzing Resources Integral and Necessary for Guidance for Social Determinants Act of 2023 or the CARING for Social Determinants Act of 2023 This bill requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to periodically update specified guidance to help states address social determinants of health (e.g., socioeconomic factors) under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Maddy summaryHRES 150 is a ceremonial House resolution honoring the late civil rights leader John Robert Lewis (1940-2020). It formally recognizes his lifelong commitment to nonviolent activism, including his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement, the 1965 Selma voting rights march ("Bloody Sunday"), and his 30+ years serving as a U.S. Representative from Georgia. The resolution specifically commends his "towering achievements in the nonviolent struggle for civil rights" and his dedication to building the "Beloved Community" through justice and equality. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy impact but serves as an official tribute to Lewis's legacy for the public and Congress.

This resolution expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Marcus Garvey should be recognized as a leader in the struggle for human rights and that the President should take measures to exonerate him of charges brought against him.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HRES 99) is a non-binding statement supporting National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, observed annually on February 7. It directly addresses the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on Black communities in the U.S., citing data showing Black Americans face higher diagnosis rates, later care access, and greater mortality compared to other groups. The resolution encourages state/local governments and health agencies to promote HIV testing and awareness, supports the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, and advocates for culturally competent care and the "U=U" (Undetectable equals Untransmittable) messaging. It does not create new laws or allocate funding but urges recognition of existing disparities and community-led solutions.

Maddy summaryHR 1088, the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act, authorizes a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to honor Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first African-American woman elected to Congress (1968) and the first Black candidate for a major party's presidential nomination (1972). The bill directs the Treasury Secretary to design and strike a gold medal featuring Chisholm's image, which will be presented by Congress and then permanently displayed at the Smithsonian Institution. Duplicate bronze medals may be sold to the public to cover production costs, with proceeds deposited into the U.S. Mint fund. This bill commemorates Chisholm's legacy and achievements without creating new laws or affecting any current policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes a posthumous Congressional gold medal for Constance Baker Motley, a pioneering civil rights attorney and federal judge. It directs the Treasury to strike a gold medal featuring her image and name, to be presented to her son, Joel Motley III, and niece, Constance Royster. The medal is a commemorative tribute recognizing her historic contributions to civil rights and her service as the first African-American woman appointed to a federal judgeship. No new policies or programs are created; the bill solely honors her legacy through a commemorative medal.