Sen. Kirsten E. Gillibrand

Maddy summaryThe Cash Refunds for Flight Cancellations Act requires airlines and ticket agents to provide full cash refunds when a flight is cancelled, significantly delayed, or changed if the passenger declines rebooking or other compensation. A significant delay is defined as arriving at least three hours late on domestic flights or six hours late on international flights. Airlines must issue these refunds within seven business days for credit card purchases and twenty days for other payment methods, while passengers who cancel their own tickets at least 48 hours before departure are also entitled to a full refund within 30 days. The bill allows carriers to offer vouchers or credits as an alternative only if they clearly disclose the passenger's right to choose cash instead and ensure the voucher never expires. Violations of these requirements subject airlines and ticket agents to civil penalties, with specific rules applying to larger carriers based on annual operating revenue thresholds that are adjusted for inflation starting in 2028.

Maddy summaryThe Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2026 extends the federal terrorism insurance program through 2034, ensuring continued government support for insurance companies facing large losses from terrorist attacks. The bill also updates the schedule for recouping federal funds, shifting the timeline for when insurers must repay taxpayer money to later dates ranging from 2029 to 2036. These changes directly affect insurance carriers and policyholders by maintaining the program's availability for a longer period and adjusting the financial obligations tied to it.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates September 20, 2026, as National LGBTQ+ Servicemembers and Veterans Day to honor the service of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals in the U.S. Armed Forces. The text acknowledges historical discrimination, including the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy and bans on transgender service, which resulted in thousands of discharges and denied benefits. It urges the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense to end the current ban on transgender military service and restore access to gender-affirming health care for veterans and active duty personnel. Additionally, the resolution calls for these agencies to improve outreach so that individuals discharged based on their sexual orientation or gender identity can receive the benefits they are owed.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally honors the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. The bill recognizes her significant contributions to American music, as well as her extensive philanthropy in areas such as childhood literacy, education, healthcare, disaster relief, and wildlife conservation. It specifically highlights her establishment of Dollywood, The Dollywood Foundation, and the Imagination Library program, which provided free books to millions of children. The resolution also acknowledges her financial support for medical research and her efforts to aid families affected by natural disasters in Tennessee and North Carolina.

Maddy summaryThe Stop the Wait Act of 2026 eliminates the five-month waiting period required before individuals can receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, with a phased reduction starting in 2026 and full elimination by 2031. The bill directly affects people who are newly disabled and seeking federal financial support by allowing them to access these payments immediately upon approval rather than after a delay. Additionally, the legislation provides immediate Medicare coverage for eligible individuals under age 65 who lack other health insurance during this transition period. This change ensures that those without minimum essential coverage can enroll in Medicare Part A from the first month of their disability entitlement instead of waiting twenty-four months.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the Finger Lakes region in 14 New York counties (Cayuga, Chemung, Cortland, Livingston, Monroe, Onondaga, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, and Yates) as a National Heritage Area. It names the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance as the local coordinating entity responsible for managing the area and requires them to submit a management plan to the Interior Secretary within 3 years. Federal assistance for the area will end 15 years after the bill's enactment, per standard National Heritage Area provisions. The bill creates no new taxes or regulations but formalizes a framework for preserving the region's cultural and natural resources.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks by honoring the memory of the nearly 3,000 victims and recognizing the sacrifices made by first responders, military personnel, and volunteers. It highlights the ongoing health challenges faced by survivors and acknowledges the role of charitable organizations in providing long-term support to affected families. The text also references recent legislative efforts to ensure the financial stability of the World Trade Center Health Program and calls for public observance of the anniversary through ceremonies and acts of unity.