Sen. Thomas R. Carper

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the online distribution of digital instructions (like 3D printer files) that can automatically create firearms or complete firearm frames/receivers. It directly affects individuals or entities sharing such code online, not those using 3D printers to make guns. The key mechanism bans sharing this code via the internet or World Wide Web, aiming to prevent untraceable firearms that lack serial numbers. This addresses a safety concern where 3D-printed guns evade detection and background checks, undermining firearm tracing used in crime investigations.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial Senate resolution designates May 21-27, 2023, as "National Public Works Week" to honor public works professionals. It recognizes their daily work maintaining infrastructure like roads, water systems, and emergency services that support community health, safety, and resilience. The resolution urges communities to celebrate these professionals' contributions to public infrastructure and community well-being through local activities. It has no legal effect or funding provisions - it is purely a symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThe KIDS Health Act of 2023 establishes a federal demonstration project to help states create "whole child health models" in specific communities. It provides up to $125 million in federal funding to support states in designing and implementing integrated health services for children under 21 who are eligible for Medicaid or similar programs. The models must address physical, mental, emotional, behavioral, developmental, social, relational, and substance use disorder needs through coordinated care, partnerships with schools and community organizations, and strategies to reduce health disparities. States must submit detailed plans for federal approval, implement the models for 48-72 months, and report on outcomes, with the federal government covering 80% of costs for eligible services. The program aims to improve child health outcomes by integrating services that go beyond traditional healthcare silos.

Maddy summaryThe Stop Fentanyl Overdoses Act of 2023 aims to reduce fentanyl-related overdoses through enhanced data collection, improved detection technologies, and expanded access to treatment services. It requires the CDC to improve surveillance of fentanyl overdoses and establishes grants for states to enhance their data collection systems. The bill also expands access to naloxone (an opioid overdose reversal medication) by exempting certain distributions from supply chain requirements and creates Good Samaritan immunity for people who administer overdose reversal drugs in good faith. Additionally, it funds training for law enforcement on fentanyl detection and supports research into better detection technologies for fentanyl and related substances.

Maddy summaryThe Comprehensive National Mercury Monitoring Act establishes a federal program to track mercury pollution across the United States. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will set up monitoring sites in national parks, wildlife refuges, and communities with high mercury exposure risks to measure mercury levels in air, water, soil, and wildlife like fish and birds. Data collected will be stored in a public online database and used to produce biennial reports for Congress, including assessments of mercury levels and needed emission reductions. The program is funded with $37 million for 2024 and $29 million annually for 2025-2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill (S 1774, the ASSIST Act) increases federal funding for mental health and substance use disorder services provided in schools and school-based health centers. It raises the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) to 90% for eligible state expenditures on these services starting 12 months after enactment, directly benefiting public schools, school-based health centers, and students needing these services. The bill also creates a new grant program through the HHS Secretary to fund eligible entities (like school districts, universities, or tribal schools) to hire more licensed mental health providers, with requirements for cultural competence, reporting on provider numbers and retention, and a ban on using funds for threat assessment teams. These provisions aim to expand access to school-based mental health care without reducing funding for other Medicaid services.

Maddy summarySRES 222 is a Senate resolution expressing Congress's approval for the 50th anniversary celebration of the homecoming of U.S. prisoners of war (POWs) from Vietnam, held in 2023. It recognizes the extraordinary service and sacrifices of these POWs during the Vietnam War, including their experiences of brutal captivity, torture, and forced labor while held by North Vietnam and its allies. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic gesture of honor from Congress. It was introduced by Senators Carper and Moran and passed by the Senate on May 18, 2023, to commemorate the POWs' resilience and patriotism.

Maddy summarySRES 220 is a Senate resolution recognizing the 30th anniversary of the Department of Defense State Partnership Program. The resolution acknowledges the program's 30-year history of building security partnerships with 100 nations and expresses gratitude to National Guard members for their service in fostering these international relationships. It does not create new policy but formally honors the program's role in strengthening global security cooperation.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SRES 209) is a symbolic Senate measure recognizing May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. It formally celebrates the historical contributions of these communities to the United States, highlighting their diverse cultural impact and achievements. The resolution does not create new laws or policies - it simply encourages the Senate to observe the month with recognition of these communities' roles in U.S. history. It follows longstanding tradition, as May was chosen to honor key milestones including the arrival of Japanese immigrants and Chinese laborers on the transcontinental railroad.

Maddy summaryThis bill would create a federal paid family and medical leave insurance program, providing wage replacement benefits for workers who need time off for family or medical reasons. Eligible workers would receive up to $4,000 per month (with a minimum of $580), calculated as 85% of the first $1,257 in monthly earnings, 69% of the next $2,243, and 50% of any amount above that. The program would be funded through 0.2% payroll taxes on both employees and employers, administered by the Social Security Administration. It would directly affect workers who meet income requirements, with benefits available for up to 60 caregiving days per benefit period.