Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto

Maddy summaryThe Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act of 2023 reauthorizes and updates federal programs to address maternal mortality. It requires the CDC to annually share evidence-based best practices for preventing maternal deaths and complications with hospitals, state medical groups, and perinatal quality collaboratives. The bill also improves maternal mortality review committees by requiring them to include obstetricians/gynecologists and better coordinate with death certifiers to enhance death record accuracy. This reauthorization extends funding and program operations through 2028, directly affecting healthcare providers and public health agencies working on maternal health.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires federal agencies to adjust contract prices for contractors who suspended work due to government shutdowns (lapses in appropriations). It mandates that contractors receive reimbursement for reasonable costs incurred to pay furloughed or laid-off employees their standard wages during the shutdown, or to restore paid leave used during the shutdown. The reimbursement is capped at $1,442 per week (pro-rated for part-time work) and must be documented by contractors. It directly affects federal contractors and their employees who experienced pay disruptions during the 2023-2024 government shutdowns.

Maddy summarySRES 382 is a Senate resolution designating October 2023 as Filipino American History Month. It celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of Filipino Americans to the United States, including their roles in military service, healthcare, labor movements, and other fields. The resolution encourages public observance through educational programs and activities to honor their legacy. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new legal obligations or benefits.

Maddy summarySRES 377 is a non-binding Senate resolution recognizing Hispanic Restaurant Week (September 22-October 3, 2023) and honoring Hispanic restaurant owners and employees. It highlights that Hispanic individuals own 41,817 food service businesses (2020 Census) and represent 25.1% of restaurant workers, noting the industry’s role as a major economic driver and "training ground" for diverse workers. The resolution celebrates their contributions to the U.S. economy and acknowledges how the restaurant sector enables Hispanic workers to support families and pursue opportunity. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new policies, funding, or obligations.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a federal program to help rural water and wastewater systems prepare for and respond to disasters. It authorizes $20 million annually (2024-2028) to provide grants to qualified nonprofit organizations with disaster response expertise. These nonprofits will offer on-site technical assistance during emergencies, develop disaster plans, conduct vulnerability assessments, repair critical infrastructure (like pumps and pipes), and support disadvantaged communities lacking resources. The program specifically targets rural water systems and requires grantees to coordinate with federal, state, and local emergency agencies.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires states to allow eligible voters to register or update their registration at polling places on election day for federal elections, starting with the November 2024 general election. It mandates that polling places provide the necessary forms for registration or changes, directly affecting voters and state election systems. States already without voter registration requirements for federal elections are exempt. The law includes a phased implementation for states needing time, requiring at least one compliant location per 15,000 voters in each jurisdiction before November 2026.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the week beginning September 11, 2023, as "National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week" to recognize institutions that enroll at least 25% Hispanic students. It directly affects Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), which serve over 5 million students across 28 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The resolution calls for public observance through ceremonies and activities during that week to honor HSIs' role in advancing educational access, economic mobility, and Hispanic Heritage Month. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no binding policy impact but formally acknowledges these institutions' contributions.

Maddy summaryThis proposed constitutional amendment would give Congress and states the authority to regulate campaign contributions and spending, including setting limits and prohibiting corporations from spending money to influence elections. It explicitly protects freedom of the press by stating the amendment cannot be used to abridge it. If ratified by three-fourths of state legislatures, it would establish a new constitutional standard for campaign finance regulation.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates grants to fund partnerships between Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs) and local schools with high Hispanic/Latino student enrollment. It directly affects Hispanic and Latino students in K-12 schools where 25%+ of students are Hispanic/Latino and 50%+ meet poverty measures, aiming to improve their college readiness and success. Key mechanisms include funding for activities like aligning high school courses with college requirements, providing college application support, addressing non-academic barriers (childcare, housing), and developing teacher pipeline programs. The bill authorizes $150 million for fiscal year 2024 and subsequent years to support these collaborations and track outcomes by student demographics.

Maddy summaryThis bill provides $16 billion in federal funding over five years (2024-2028) to stabilize the child care sector. It directly affects child care providers by offering grants to offset operating costs, support higher wages for early childhood educators without increasing fees for families, and expand access to high-quality care. Key provisions include funding for providers in underserved areas (like rural communities, infant/toddler care, and inclusive services for children with disabilities) and a requirement that 99% of funds go directly to providers. The funds are administered through the existing framework of the American Rescue Plan Act's child care program.