Sen. John R. Curtis

Maddy summaryThe Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act expands hazard pay eligibility to include firefighters who conduct prescribed burns and smokejumpers performing training or operational parachute jumps. This legislation amends federal law to equate the pay differential for these specific duties with the rate paid for fighting forest and range fires on the fireline. The Office of Personnel Management is required to issue regulations within 90 days to implement these changes, which will apply to pay periods beginning after that deadline or after the regulations are finalized.

Maddy summaryThe FIRE SMART Act of 2026 directs the Environmental Protection Agency to update its regulations regarding rural water infrastructure projects. Specifically, the bill requires the EPA to define "communities at high risk from fire or wildfire" and to prioritize funding for water system improvements that aid in fire suppression within these areas. Additionally, the legislation mandates that projects benefiting both drinking water and fire suppression receive priority if the community has adopted a wildfire protection plan or taken steps to reduce private property fire risks. These regulatory changes aim to ensure that federal funding for rural water systems explicitly supports wildfire prevention efforts.

Maddy summaryThe Stopping Harmful and Outrageous Torts Act expands legal protections for firearm manufacturers and sellers by immediately dismissing any lawsuits currently pending against them that allege harm caused by the criminal or unlawful misuse of their products. The bill defines these protected cases as those where the injury resulted from a third party's illegal actions rather than a defect in the product itself, while explicitly excluding claims involving negligent entrustment, specific federal violations, or design defects. To enforce these protections, the law allows defendants to remove such cases from state courts to federal court and grants them the right to appeal dismissal orders immediately. Additionally, the legislation preempts state and local laws that attempt to hold these companies liable for product misuse and provides for attorney's fees for defendants who successfully assert their immunity.

North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act This bill provides for the award of a Congressional Gold Medal to recognize the individuals and communities that provided financial and other support for the North Platte Canteen in North Platte, Nebraska, during World War II.

Maddy summaryThe Federal Firearms Licensee Protection Act of 2026 increases penalties for individuals who knowingly violate federal laws regarding the possession of firearms by licensed dealers. Specifically, it raises the maximum prison sentence for such violations to 20 years and mandates a minimum of three years in prison if the offense occurs during a burglary of a licensed business. The law also sets a five-year minimum sentence if the violation happens during a robbery. These changes directly affect federal firearms licensees and anyone attempting to illegally possess firearms from them.

Maddy summaryThe Safer Choice Program Authorization Act of 2026 authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency to continue its voluntary Safer Choice program, which helps consumers and businesses identify products containing safer chemical ingredients. The bill establishes specific criteria for certification, requiring that products be safe for human health and the environment while maintaining performance, and mandates full disclosure of intentionally added ingredients. To support these evaluations, the legislation creates a framework for using independent third-party experts to review complex products while protecting confidential business information. Additionally, the act requires the EPA to publish annual reports on program progress and maintain a public database of certified products, with funding authorized through fiscal year 2034.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life and legacy of Donald W. Riegle, Jr., a former U.S. Senator from Michigan who passed away in April 2026. The bill formally acknowledges his nearly three decades of public service, including his roles as a Representative and Senator, and highlights his significant contributions to legislation on banking, housing, and veterans' health. It also expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and directs officials to share the resolution with the House of Representatives and send a copy to Riegle's family. Finally, the Senate will stand in adjournment as a mark of respect for the former senator when the session concludes.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes National Public Works Week, which runs from May 17 to May 23, 2026, to honor the work of public works professionals. The bill highlights the essential services these workers provide, including the construction and maintenance of transportation systems, water infrastructure, and facilities used for emergency response. By issuing a commendation, the resolution aims to increase public awareness of the importance of infrastructure and the dedicated workforce that keeps communities safe and functional. This measure does not change laws or allocate funding but serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of the contributions made by these employees.

Maddy summaryThe Strategy for Crisis Management Act of 2026 requires the Secretary of Defense to create a detailed plan for managing potential conflicts in the South China Sea. This strategy must identify specific flashpoints where tensions could escalate and develop "crisis playbooks" that outline sequenced response options for various scenarios. These playbooks will include diplomatic and economic measures alongside military actions, each accompanied by an analysis of costs, risks, and potential humanitarian impacts. The plan is designed to coordinate efforts with foreign partners and other government agencies while being reviewed and updated at least twice a year.

Maddy summaryThe Dietary Supplements Access Act allows individuals to use pre-tax funds from Health Savings Accounts, Archer Medical Savings Accounts, and health flexible spending arrangements to purchase dietary supplements. This change permits up to $500 per year, or $250 for married individuals filing separately, to be spent on these items without incurring taxes. The law specifically defines dietary supplements according to federal food and drug standards while excluding energy drinks, soft drinks, and sodas. These tax benefits will only become available for expenses incurred after December 31, 2026.