Sen. Ashley Moody

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes the week of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as National Small Business Week to honor the contributions of small business owners and entrepreneurs across the United States. The measure expresses appreciation for the economic role these businesses play and acknowledges the resilience of their owners and employees. By adopting this designation, the Senate aims to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit within every community without imposing any new laws or regulations.

Maddy summaryThe No Aid for Ghost Students Act of 2026 requires the Department of Education to use a new identity fraud detection system to review federal student aid applications starting October 1, 2026. If an application triggers a reasonable suspicion of identity fraud, the applicant will be notified and informed that their designated colleges must verify their identity before releasing any financial aid. To prevent payment, schools must confirm the applicant's identity through in-person meetings or live video calls unless the fraud suspicion is cleared. The Department of Education will also be required to report details about the system's design and its effectiveness to Congress annually.

Maddy summaryThe Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs to help state veterans agencies expand access to structured outdoor recreation programs. These grants, with a minimum of $200,000 per state, can be used to develop outdoor activities, partner with local providers, reduce costs for veterans, and coordinate with federal land management agencies. States must submit applications outlining their plans and report annually on participation numbers, veteran demographics, and observed well-being outcomes. The legislation authorizes $10 million annually in funding to support these initiatives aimed at improving physical and mental health through nature-based activities.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to clearly inform veterans about their rights regarding healthcare, benefits, and services. It directly affects veterans using VA services and VA employees, mandating that the VA integrate 10 specific rights into all policies, training, and communications. Key provisions include ensuring veterans receive respectful treatment, transparent claim updates, access to community care, protection from retaliation for seeking care, and clear grievance processes. The VA must display these rights prominently at facilities, in its mobile app, and during military transition programs, with annual staff training and facility audits. The bill does not create new legal rights but codifies existing expectations for VA accountability and veteran communication.

Maddy summaryThe Protecting American Taxpayers Act aims to reduce government waste and fraud by requiring stricter oversight of federal programs and extending legal deadlines for prosecuting pandemic-related violations. It mandates that child care payments be based on recorded attendance rather than enrollment alone and requires agencies to report when health care spending or provider numbers spike by more than 100 percent in specific areas. The bill also prohibits small businesses from receiving federal loans or grants if an owner or key employee has been convicted of financial misconduct, while simultaneously banning foreign entities controlled by agents from certain listed countries from receiving U.S. financial assistance. Additionally, the legislation seeks to increase transparency by requiring agencies to publicly report on improper payments and other transaction agreements, and it expands whistleblower protections for employees of defense and non-defense contractors who report waste or misconduct.

Maddy summaryThe FAFSA Verification Efficiency Act requires the U.S. Department of Education to verify the Social Security numbers and citizenship status of all applicants providing this information for federal student aid. This change mandates that the Department of Education work directly with the Social Security Administration to confirm these details before processing financial aid applications. The bill directly affects current and prospective college students who must submit their FAFSA forms to receive government funding for education. By centralizing this verification process, the legislation aims to streamline how student eligibility is determined and ensure that only eligible individuals receive federal aid.

Maddy summaryThis resolution prohibits U.S. Senators from using official funds for certain travel during government shutdowns. Specifically, it prevents Senators from using money from their Official Personnel and Office Expense Account. These funds cannot be used to pay for or reimburse a Senator for travel between Washington D.C. and their primary residence. This restriction applies only when there is a lapse in appropriations for one or more federal agencies.

Maddy summaryThe FLEX Act amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to increase federal funding and flexibility for high-quality charter schools. It requires that at least 15 percent of Title IV funds go to charter schools, raising the previous requirement of 12.5 percent, and expands allowable uses of these funds to include new academic programs, personalized learning, and facility improvements. The bill also introduces advance payment options for grant recipients to help with planning and program design, while allowing states to use existing charter authorization applications to streamline the grant process. Additionally, the legislation directs the Secretary of Education to consult with charter school operators before issuing new rules and limits the number of non-essential regulations imposed on these schools.

Maddy summaryThe Breast Cancer Stamp Reauthorization Act extends the sale of a special postage stamp dedicated to breast cancer research until the year 2037. This change directly affects the United States Postal Service and the public by allowing the continued availability of this specific stamp for purchase. The bill achieves this by amending federal law to update the expiration date for the stamp's authorized sale period. No other policy changes or funding mechanisms are introduced by this legislation.

Maddy summaryThis resolution prohibits U.S. Senators from using their official office funds to pay for or be reimbursed for official travel expenses. Specifically, it prevents funds from a Senator's Official Personnel and Office Expense Account from being obligated or expended for travel. This restriction applies during any period when there is a lapse in appropriations for one or more federal agencies, commonly known as a government shutdown.