Sen. Jeff Merkley

Maddy summaryThe Environmental Health Restoration Act of 2026 mandates that the Environmental Protection Agency reinstate specific air quality and emissions regulations that were weakened or repealed in early 2025, including standards for power plants, vehicles, and oil and gas operations. The bill prohibits federal officials from delaying or suspending these rules without explicit congressional approval and requires the agency to base decisions on peer-reviewed science while restoring the use of a specific social cost of carbon value. Additionally, it directs the reinstatement of environmental justice programs, requires public health impact assessments for new regulations, and authorizes approximately $11 billion in annual funding to support enforcement efforts. The legislation also creates a private right of action, allowing individuals to sue the agency in federal court if it fails to comply with these requirements.

Maddy summaryThe Jimmy Lai Hong Kong Political Prisoner Accountability Act of 2026 mandates that the Secretary of State impose financial sanctions on Chinese or Hong Kong officials if a political prisoner dies in custody due to abuse, neglect, or poor conditions. The bill defines "political prisoners" as individuals detained for exercising protected rights or under specific national security laws, with a legal presumption that those charged under these statutes qualify unless proven otherwise. In addition to mandatory sanctions, the legislation requires the U.S. government to coordinate with international allies, restrict visas for family members of sanctioned officials, and submit annual reports on the health and treatment of detainees like Jimmy Lai.

Maddy summaryThe Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act of 2026 amends the Clean Air Act to officially recognize prescribed fires and cultural burning as "exceptional events," meaning air quality issues caused by these deliberate, managed burns will no longer be counted as violations of pollution standards. The bill requires the EPA to update its regulations within a year to clarify how these fires are defined and to streamline the process for states to petition for exemptions when wildfires or prescribed fires impact air quality. Additionally, the legislation establishes a new "Smoke Ready Communities" grant program that provides up to 90 percent federal funding to states, tribes, and local entities to help communities prepare for and mitigate wildfire smoke hazards in public buildings like schools.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Federal Aviation Administration to install certified airborne position reference tools at certain air traffic control towers within one year of enactment. It specifically targets contract-operated towers that currently lack Standard Terminal Automation Replacement Systems or similar situational awareness tools. The legislation also mandates the FAA to fund and maintain these systems while establishing training programs for air traffic controllers to ensure proper use of the new technology. Additionally, the bill provides reimbursement for towers that independently purchase these systems before the FAA installs them.

Maddy summaryThis joint resolution proposes an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would explicitly prohibit using slavery or involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime. The bill seeks to remove the exception in the 13th Amendment that currently allows such practices within the criminal justice system. If ratified by three-fourths of state legislatures, this change would directly affect incarcerated individuals by banning forced labor as a sentence. The text clarifies that the amendment does not prevent voluntary work programs or community service alternatives for those in correctional institutions.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates September 2026 as National Voting Rights Month to highlight the importance of voting access and the history of voter suppression in the United States. The bill encourages Congress to pass legislation that strengthens protections under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 while opposing measures that could restrict voter eligibility. It also recommends that schools develop curricula on voting rights history and invites the government to fund public service announcements to remind citizens of election dates and registration deadlines.

Maddy summaryThis bill extends two existing public health programs focused on tick-borne diseases through 2030. It updates the funding timeline for national vector-borne disease centers and health department support from 2021-2025 to 2026-2030. The bill does not change program content or eligibility but ensures continued funding for efforts addressing tick-related illnesses. It directly affects public health agencies administering these programs, not specific individuals.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution requests that the Secretary of State submit a detailed report to congressional committees within 30 days regarding human rights practices in Israel, specifically focusing on the West Bank. The report must include all credible information on the killings of nine U.S. citizens by Israeli forces or settlers since January 2022, along with an assessment of ongoing investigations and potential accountability measures. Additionally, the resolution requires a description of the conditions and legal status of U.S. citizens currently held in Israeli prisons and an evaluation of the treatment of Palestinian children in military detention. The statement must also outline specific steps taken by the U.S. government to promote human rights observance and mitigate violence against both American and Palestinian residents in the region.