Maddy summaryThe HALT Fentanyl Act (S 1141) creates a new, broader definition for "fentanyl-related substances" under the Controlled Substances Act, making many chemical variations subject to Schedule I restrictions without needing individual listing. It establishes streamlined research registration procedures for scientists studying these substances, allowing single registrations for multi-site research within institutions and creating expedited processes for new research applications. The bill also includes provisions to allow ongoing research on substances newly added to Schedule I, with specific timelines for researchers to transition to full registration. These changes aim to balance strict controls on fentanyl-related substances with the need for medical research on these compounds.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill repeals two specific legal authorizations for U.S. military force against Iraq: the 1991 authorization (Public Law 102-1) and the 2002 authorization (Public Law 107-243). If enacted, it would end the legal basis for military operations in Iraq under these two resolutions. The repeal directly affects the executive branch’s authority to use military force against Iraq under these specific laws. It does not create new policy but removes existing legal permissions.
Maddy summaryThis bill (SJRES 22) seeks to block a specific rule issued by the Department of Education regarding federal student loan modifications. It targets the rule titled "Waivers and Modifications of Federal Student Loans," which included a one-time debt relief program announced in October 2022. The resolution requests Congress disapprove the rule under the Congressional Review Act, preventing the Department from implementing it. If approved, the rule would have no legal effect, directly affecting how student loan borrowers could access modifications or debt relief under that specific policy.
Maddy summaryS 976, the After Hours Child Care Act, creates a new federal grant program to improve child care access for parents working nontraditional hours (evenings, nights, weekends). It directly affects working parents with young children and eligible child care providers who serve them. The bill authorizes $10 million over five years to fund competitive grants (ranging from $25,000 to $500,000) for providers or partnerships to expand existing care, establish workplace programs, or support quality improvements. Grantees must cover 25% of costs, and the Secretary must report biennially on children served and program impacts.
Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (SCONRES 8) expresses Congress's formal opinion that tax-exempt fraternal benefit societies - mutual aid organizations operating under IRS Section 501(c)(8) - have long provided essential community benefits. It highlights that these societies, with approximately 7 million members nationwide, contribute over $3.8 billion annually through charitable work, volunteerism, and financial security programs. The resolution affirms that their tax-exempt status continues to support their mission and relieve pressure on government safety net programs. As a non-binding statement of congressional sentiment, it does not change tax law or create new obligations.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends the National Quantum Initiative Act to explicitly include "quantum molecular modeling or simulation" within the definition of quantum information science and as a specific research focus for federal programs. It directly affects the federal quantum research agenda by directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to prioritize this specific application area. The key change is adding "modeling, simulation" to the definition and creating a new research category (H) under the program, ensuring federal funding and coordination target this emerging field.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to require the U.S. Supreme Court to have exactly nine justices. Currently, Congress sets the Court's size through legislation, but this amendment would make the nine-justice structure a permanent requirement in the Constitution. It would need ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures within seven years to become part of the Constitution. If adopted, it would prevent Congress from changing the Court's size via ordinary legislation.
Maddy summaryS 942 is a procedural Senate rule that would prevent consideration of any bill or amendment attempting to change the number of justices on the U.S. Supreme Court. It creates a "point of order" (a procedural objection) that, if sustained by the Senate chair, would automatically remove such provisions from legislation. This rule applies to all Senate consideration stages, including amendments and conference reports, and requires a two-thirds vote to override. The bill directly affects any legislation proposing to alter the Supreme Court's size, blocking it from advancing through Senate procedures.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program, a workplace safety initiative allowing employers to voluntarily participate in a recognized safety system. Employers must apply, demonstrate comprehensive hazard assessment and prevention programs, ensure employee participation and training, and undergo periodic onsite evaluations (without enforcement citations during visits). Participating worksites receive exemption from routine safety inspections while maintaining their safety standards. The program replaces existing voluntary programs with no cost to employers and requires the Labor Secretary to issue implementing regulations within two years.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new competitive grant program to help farmers and ranchers adopt climate-smart conservation practices. It provides $13 million annually for grants to eligible land-grant universities (1862, 1890, and 1994 institutions) to fund outreach, workshops, and technical assistance. Grants require a 25% increase in farmer engagement and partnerships with entities like the Natural Resources Conservation Service, focusing on practices that improve soil health, reduce emissions, and sequester carbon. Each grant is capped at $400,000 for up to 4 years, with no more than 30% of funds used for administrative costs. The program directly supports agricultural producers seeking to voluntarily implement climate-friendly farming methods.