Sen. Cory A. Booker

Emmett Till Antilynching Act This bill makes lynching a federal hate crime offense. Specifically, the bill imposes criminal penalties—a fine, a prison term of up to 30 years, or both—on an individual who conspires to commit a hate crime offense that results in death or serious bodily injury or that includes kidnapping or an attempt to kidnap, aggravated sexual abuse or an attempt to commit aggravated sexual abuse, or an attempt to kill.

Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act This bill updates policies and procedures related to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and benefits for veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances. Specifically, the bill extends the eligibility period for VA hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for combat veterans who served after September 11, 2001, and were exposed to toxic substances, radiation, or other conditions, including those who did not enroll to receive VA care during the eligibility period. The VA must incorporate into its existing health care screening a screening to help determine potential exposures to toxic substances during military service. Among other requirements, the VA must also provide annual training to health care and benefits personnel with respect to veterans who were exposed to toxic substances; analyze total and respiratory disease mortality in veterans who served in specified locations on specified dates; conduct an epidemiological study on the health trends of veterans who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001; conduct a study to determine trends in the rates of the incidence of cancer in veterans; publish a list of VA resources for veterans who were exposed to toxic substances, families and caregivers of such veterans, and survivors of such veterans who are receiving death benefits; and report on the data quality of the Individual Longitudinal Exposure Record and its usefulness in supporting veterans in receiving VA health care and benefits.

Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act This bill directs the Department of the Treasury to mint and issue 50,000 $5 gold coins, 400,000 $1 silver coins, and 750,000 half-dollar clad coins emblematic of the legacy of Harriet Tubman as an abolitionist. The Secretary may issue coins under this bill only during the period of January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. All surcharges received by Treasury from the sale of such coins must be paid equally to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, and The Harriet Tubman Home, Inc. in Auburn, New York, for the purpose of accomplishing and advancing their missions.

This resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that investments in mental health care and substance use disorder care are necessary to address the high prevalence of those suffering from behavioral health conditions.

This resolution supports the designation of February 19-February 26, 2022, as National FFA Week. It also (1) recognizes the important role of the National FFA Organization (Future Farmers of America) in developing the next generation of leaders who will change the world, and (2) celebrates 70 years of the National FFA Organization's membership magazine.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution (SRES 526) formally condemns the antisemitic terrorist attack at Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue in Colleyville, Texas, on January 15, 2022, where hostages were held at gunpoint. It expresses gratitude that no lives were lost, applauds law enforcement and emergency responders for their actions, and condemns antisemitism in the United States. The resolution does not create new policies or allocate funds; it is a symbolic expression of support for the Jewish community and law enforcement. It directly affects the congregation and local community by affirming their safety and the importance of religious freedom.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 28, 2022, as "Rare Disease Day" in the U.S. Senate. It symbolically recognizes the importance of raising awareness about rare diseases (affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S.), improving early diagnosis, and supporting global efforts to develop treatments for these conditions. The resolution does not create new policies or funding but aligns with the annual global observance of Rare Disease Day, first recognized in the U.S. in 2009 and observed in over 100 countries. It acknowledges the challenges faced by the estimated 7,000+ rare diseases affecting roughly 1 in 10 Americans.

This resolution recognizes Black History Month as an opportunity to reflect on U.S. history and to commemorate the contributions of African Americans. It calls for the United States to (1) honor the contribution of pioneers who helped to ensure its legacy; and (2) move forward as a nation "indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

Maddy summarySRES 520 is a ceremonial Senate resolution designating the week of February 21-25, 2022, as "Public Schools Week." It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or directly affect any individuals or institutions. The resolution uses symbolic language to highlight the importance of public education in the U.S. but contains no policy changes or actionable provisions. As a procedural resolution, it serves only to recognize public schools during that specific week.

United States Colored Troops Congressional Gold Medal Act This bill provides for the award of a Congressional Gold Medal to the African Americans who served with Union forces in recognition of their bravery and outstanding service during the Civil War.