Sen. Robert P. Casey, Jr.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Medicaid program specifically for disaster survivors, creating a 2-year "relief coverage period" starting from when a major disaster is declared by the President. It simplifies enrollment by removing documentation requirements, allowing survivors to self-attest to eligibility based on income (up to 133% of poverty line or home state standard), and providing continuous coverage without redeterminations during the relief period. The program includes special provisions for mental health services, home and community-based care, and retroactive coverage for medical services provided during the disaster. It also provides 100% federal funding for this coverage, with states required to provide medical assistance equal to what would be available under their regular Medicaid program.

Maddy summaryS. RES. 420 designates Betty K. Koed as Historian Emerita of the U.S. Senate, effective October 21, 2023, honoring her 25-year career as the Senate's first female Historian (serving from 2015-2023 after roles as Assistant and Associate Historian). The resolution recognizes her work preserving Senate archives, producing historical publications, and supporting educational programs about Senate history. It is a ceremonial honor with no policy changes or direct impact on legislation or constituents.

This resolution states that the Senate stands with Israel as it defends itself, reaffirms Israel's right to self-defense, and calls on all countries to unequivocally condemn Hamas' war on Israel. The resolution also reaffirms the United States' commitment to Israel's security, supports emergency resupply and certain other types of assistance to Israel, and calls on the United States to lead an international effort to deprive Hamas of Iranian and other sources of funding and lethal assistance. Furthermore, the resolution states that nothing in it may be construed as a declaration of war or an authorization for the use of military force.

Maddy summaryThe PACE Act creates a federal grant program to prevent adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) - such as abuse, neglect, or household instability - and promote positive childhood experiences (PCEs), like supportive relationships and safe environments, for children under 18. It requires states, tribes, and local governments receiving grants to use data to target high-burden communities and implement evidence-based strategies through multi-sector partnerships, while funding research on ACEs and PCEs, including historical trauma’s impact. The bill authorizes funding for fiscal years 2024-2028 and mandates annual reports to Congress on program effectiveness.

Maddy summaryThe MOMMIES Act (S 3090) extends continuous Medicaid and CHIP coverage for pregnant and postpartum individuals from 60 days to one year after pregnancy (with states able to choose longer periods), requiring states to maintain or improve benefits during this period. It mandates coverage of oral health services for pregnant and postpartum individuals and establishes a 5-year demonstration project to test coordinated maternity care models that aim to improve health outcomes, reduce disparities, and address factors like racism and discrimination in maternity care. The bill also includes provisions for enhanced federal funding, requirements for states to maintain eligibility standards, and mandates reports on coverage gaps, doula services, and telehealth use in maternity care.

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 summaryThis bill expands tax incentives for employers hiring people receiving Social Security disability benefits (SSDI or SSI). It adds a 20% credit on second-year wages (up to $12,500 annually) for these workers and extends similar benefits to tax-exempt organizations with special certificates. The bill also increases the disabled access credit limit and the deduction for removing physical barriers to accessibility. These changes apply to hires starting after December 31, 2023.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires school leaders (like principals) who supervise pre-kindergarten programs to complete training in early childhood education. Specifically, it amends the Higher Education Act to mandate that training include understanding child development, social-emotional growth, and effective instructional leadership for children from birth through age 8. The policy directly affects school leaders managing early childhood programs, ensuring they have the knowledge to support teachers in providing age-appropriate instruction. The key mechanism is adding this new training requirement to existing federal law governing school leader preparation programs.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SRES 407) expresses the U.S. Senate’s support for designating October 2023 as "National Down Syndrome Awareness Month." It does not create new laws or allocate funds but formally recognizes the contributions of people with Down syndrome and their families. The resolution highlights the community’s achievements, increased life expectancy, and the Senate’s longstanding commitment to supporting Down syndrome research and quality-of-life initiatives. It serves as a symbolic gesture to celebrate inclusion and encourage public awareness, without implementing any concrete policy changes.