Maddy summaryThe SHINE Act establishes a voluntary program to simplify local permitting for residential renewable energy systems like solar panels, home battery storage (minimum 2 kWh), and EV charging stations. It directs the Energy Secretary to create an online permitting platform and provide technical assistance to local governments to standardize and speed up approvals. The program includes developing streamlined inspection protocols, such as remote or sample-based inspections, and offers certification and prizes to encourage local adoption. Local authorities (cities, counties, tribes) with permitting authority for these systems can choose to implement the streamlined process. The bill authorizes $20 million annually to fund these activities through 2027.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThe Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act of 2023 increases federal funding for school meals by raising reimbursement rates for school food authorities. Starting July 1, 2024, schools serving lunches will receive an additional 45 cents per meal, and schools serving breakfasts will receive an additional 28 cents per meal (for free, reduced-price, and standard meals). These increased rates will adjust annually for inflation beginning July 1, 2025, as specified in the bill. The bill directly affects public school districts and other school food authorities participating in federal meal programs under the National School Lunch Act and Child Nutrition Act.
Maddy summarySRES 412 is a symbolic Senate resolution supporting approximately 150,000 United Auto Workers (UAW) members negotiating new contracts with General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis (the "Big Three" automakers"). It expresses the Senate's backing for UAW demands for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions, citing corporate profits and stagnant worker pay. The resolution specifically calls on the automakers to negotiate in good faith and offer a fair contract, without creating new legal requirements or funding. As a non-binding resolution, it serves as a statement of support rather than a policy change.
Maddy summaryS. Res. 406 is a Senate resolution honoring the late Richard Clarence Clark, a former U.S. Senator from Iowa (served 1973-1979), who died in 2023. The resolution expresses the Senate’s sorrow at his passing, requests that the House of Representatives and Clark’s family be informed, and directs the Senate to adjourn for the day as a mark of respect. This is a purely commemorative measure with no policy or legal effect, reflecting the Senate’s collective tribute to a former member.
Maddy summaryThe Artificial Intelligence Advancement Act of 2023 requires financial regulatory agencies (like the Federal Reserve and FDIC) to report on their use of AI in regulated institutions, including gaps in oversight and needed resources. It directs the Department of Defense to develop bug bounty programs for foundational AI models in military systems and conduct a study on vulnerabilities in AI-enabled military applications, covering privacy, security, and testing needs. The bill also mandates a DoD report on improving data sharing and interoperability across its agencies to support AI development. These provisions primarily affect federal agencies and the financial sector they regulate, focusing on internal oversight and risk assessment without imposing new direct regulations on businesses.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution honoring the late Senator Dianne Feinstein of California. It expresses the Senate's respect for her legacy through a formal statement and calls for the chamber to adjourn as a mark of tribute following her passing. The resolution details her historic milestones, including being the first woman to represent California in the Senate, chair multiple key committees, and advocate on issues like gun safety and conservation. It has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents, as it is purely commemorative.
Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (SCONRES 21) is a symbolic statement recognizing the persistent wage gap affecting Latina women in the U.S. labor force. It highlights that Latina women earn just 57 cents for every dollar earned by White, non-Hispanic men working full-time, year-round - a disparity that would take until 2206 to close at current rates. The resolution cites data showing Latina women face compounded economic challenges, including lower median pay ($31,600 annually in 2022) and barriers like limited access to childcare and paid leave. As a non-binding resolution, it does not enact new laws but formally acknowledges the issue and reaffirms support for closing the gender wage gap.
This resolution supports the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as National 4–H Week and recognizes the important role of 4–H in youth development and education.
Maddy summarySRES 394 is a Senate resolution introduced on October 3, 2023, honoring the late James L. Buckley, a former U.S. Senator from New York (1971-1977) who died in 2023. The resolution expresses the Senate's sorrow at his passing and directs the Senate to communicate the resolution to the House of Representatives and Buckley's family, while calling for an immediate adjournment in his memory. This ceremonial resolution does not create new laws or affect any policies, as it solely serves to commemorate Buckley's life and legacy.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act to specifically include the Cerro Pelado Fire (a 2022 wildfire in Sandoval County, New Mexico that reemerged from a prescribed burn). It establishes a dedicated "Office of Cerro Pelado Fire Claims" within FEMA to process and pay compensation claims for victims of this fire. The bill sets specific deadlines for claim processing (e.g., December 31, 2027 for initial actions, December 31, 2028 for final deadlines) and directs existing appropriations to fund these claims. It ensures victims of the Cerro Pelado Fire receive assistance through the existing federal program without creating new funding.