Sen. Richard J. Durbin

Maddy summarySRES 105 is a non-binding Senate resolution designating March 6-10, 2023, as "National Social and Emotional Learning Week." It recognizes the role of social and emotional learning (SEL) in supporting students' academic success, mental wellness, and long-term well-being, as well as educators' and families' health. The resolution encourages expanding access to SEL programs and urges federal agencies to advance SEL initiatives to benefit students, parents, and communities. It does not create new laws or funding but symbolically highlights SEL's proven benefits, such as improved academic performance and stress management, based on research cited in the resolution's preamble.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Clean Air Act to modify how the EPA grants waivers for fuel formulations. It creates a new pathway allowing fuels to enter commerce if they meet Reid Vapor Pressure standards (a measure of fuel volatility) either by matching certified vehicle fuels or by complying with existing waiver conditions. The changes directly affect fuel retailers and manufacturers seeking EPA approval for fuel blends. Key provisions update waiver procedures and clarify Reid Vapor Pressure requirements, specifically adjusting percentage thresholds and notification timelines for certain fuel types. The bill does not create new regulations but adjusts existing processes for fuel approval under the Clean Air Act.

Maddy summaryThe PHIT Act of 2023 would allow taxpayers to deduct certain fitness expenses as medical costs on federal tax returns. It defines "qualified sports and fitness expenses" to include gym memberships, exercise classes, and equipment used exclusively for physical activity, with a yearly limit of $1,000 ($2,000 for joint filers). To qualify, fitness facilities must focus on health (not offer golf or hunting) and comply with anti-discrimination laws, while equipment costs are capped at $250 per item. This change would take effect for tax years beginning after the bill's enactment.

Maddy summarySRES 104 is a symbolic Senate resolution recognizing the heritage, culture, and contributions of Latinas in the United States. It highlights that nearly 30 million Latinas live in the U.S. (1 in 6 women), emphasizing their roles across diverse fields like business (over 2 million Latina-owned businesses), military service (45,710 active-duty Latinas), arts (Selena, Rita Moreno), and essential work during the pandemic. The resolution notes ongoing challenges, including Latinas earning only 57 cents for every dollar earned by White, non-Hispanic men. It formally celebrates Latinas' achievements while acknowledging the need for further progress toward equality. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or allocate funds.

Maddy summaryThe Data Care Act of 2023 requires online service providers (like social media apps, streaming platforms, and websites) to protect users' personal data. It mandates that companies securely store data, promptly notify users of breaches involving sensitive information, and avoid using data in ways that harm users or cause financial/physical harm. The law also restricts selling or sharing user data without strict contracts ensuring third parties follow the same security and privacy rules. These requirements apply to most major digital services collecting personal data, with enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general. The law does not override existing privacy laws but adds new standards for data handling.

Maddy summaryS 737, the No Tax Breaks for Union Busting (NTBUB) Act, denies tax deductions for employers who spend money to influence employees about union activities or collective bargaining. It amends the tax code to make non-deductible expenses related to swaying union elections, labor disputes, or collective actions - such as anti-union consulting fees, captive audience meetings, or legal settlements over unfair labor practices. Employers must report such spending on tax returns (using new Form 6720D) and face penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to $100,000. The bill directly affects businesses that engage in union-avoidance tactics, aiming to remove tax incentives for undermining workers’ rights under labor laws.

Maddy summaryThe MINDS Act establishes a dedicated Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Coordinator at USAID to oversee the integration of mental health services across all U.S. international development and humanitarian assistance programs. It mandates that all such programs must be evidence-based, culturally competent, trauma-informed, and prioritize vulnerable groups like conflict-affected children, displaced populations, and those impacted by diseases like Ebola or COVID-19. The bill requires annual reports to Congress detailing funding, program integration progress, and barriers to implementation, with a 5-year sunset provision. This legislation directly affects USAID and State Department programming worldwide, aiming to systematically address mental health needs in global aid efforts.

Maddy summaryThis bill reauthorizes the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFI) through specific annual funding levels for fiscal years 2024-2028. It directs the USDA to use Commodity Credit Corporation funds, setting $25 million for 2024, $30 million for 2025, $35 million for 2026, $40 million for 2027, and $50 million annually starting in 2028. The initiative provides grants and loans to support grocery stores and food retailers in underserved communities, particularly in low-income areas lacking access to healthy food. This reauthorization ensures continued federal funding for programs that expand access to affordable, nutritious food options.

Maddy summaryS 753, the "Good Jobs for Good Airports Act," requires airports receiving federal funding to pay covered airport service workers a minimum wage of $15 per hour or higher (based on local standards, the Service Contract Act, or state/local laws), plus minimum fringe benefits. It directly affects workers in roles like baggage handling, security, concessions, cleaning, and ticketing at airports classified as "small," "medium," or "large hub" airports. Key mechanisms include annual certification by airport operators that all covered workers meet these standards, with compliance tied to eligibility for federal airport grants. The law does not override stricter state or local wage laws but sets a baseline for federally funded airport projects.

Maddy summaryThe Tax Fairness for Workers Act (S 738) allows employees to deduct certain work-related expenses from their taxable income. It creates an above-the-line deduction for union dues and adds a new exception permitting miscellaneous itemized deductions for other employee expenses, such as uniforms or tools, that were previously limited. This directly affects wage-earning workers who pay union dues or have unreimbursed job costs. The changes apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2022, and remove prior restrictions on these deductions.