Sen. Jeff Merkley

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to update regulations to encourage pilots and air traffic controllers to seek and disclose mental health care without fear of losing their medical certification. It mandates an annual review of the "special issuance" process (for medical certification) to consider new treatments, improve examiner training, and reduce backlogs, while allocating $15 million annually (2026-2029) to recruit more medical examiners and provide mental health training. Additionally, it funds a $1.5 million annual public campaign to destigmatize mental health care in aviation, improve trust with workers, and make resources easily accessible at aviation medical offices and training facilities. The FAA must consult with industry stakeholders and report progress to Congress on implementation.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally honors the life, service, and legacy of Jon Llewellyn Kyl, a former U.S. Senator from Arizona who passed away at age 84. It details his career highlights, including his time in the House of Representatives, his long tenure in the Senate, and his work on issues such as water policy, national security, and crime victims' rights. The bill directs the Secretary of the Senate to share this tribute with the House of Representatives and Kyl's family, while also ordering the Senate to adjourn for the day as a mark of respect.

Maddy summarySRES 870 is a congressional resolution that officially recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, 2026. The bill highlights the demographic, economic, and military contributions of Latino Americans, noting their significant role in population growth, workforce participation, and national defense. It urges the public to observe the holiday with programs that celebrate the heritage and culture of Latinos in the United States.

Maddy summaryThe FAIR Fees Act of 2026 requires the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations within 270 days that prohibit airlines from charging fees for flight changes, cancellations, baggage, seat selection, or priority boarding if those charges are unreasonable or disproportionate to the actual costs incurred. The bill directs regulators to evaluate specific factors, such as the ability to resell seats and electronic processing costs, when determining if a fee is justified. It also mandates that parents traveling with children age 13 or younger be allowed to sit next to them without paying an extra charge. Airlines holding federal certificates for passenger transport would be subject to these new standards, which must be reviewed and updated at least every three years.

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.