Sen. Ted Budd

Maddy summaryThe SILVER Act requires major financial organizations that clear precious metals contracts to expand their storage networks beyond the current concentration near New York City. To achieve this, the law mandates that these organizations develop transparent rules for selecting new storage facilities and must approve at least two depositories in each of the four U.S. time zones. These new facilities must meet strict security standards while offering benefits such as lower costs, increased competition, and improved market access for investors. Additionally, the bill requires these organizations to regularly evaluate how easily market participants can access physical metals regardless of location.

Maddy summaryThe Mandatory E-Verify Act of 2026 makes the E-Verify employment eligibility verification system permanent and mandatory for all employers in the United States, including those who hire, recruit, or refer individuals for jobs. The bill requires employers to use the system within a phased timeline based on company size, ranging from six months for large businesses with 10,000 or more employees to 18 months for smaller businesses with fewer than 20 employees, while exempting agricultural labor verification until 18 months after enactment. Key provisions include increased civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance, the ability for the government to debar repeat violators from federal contracts, and a requirement that states sharing driver's license data with the system remain eligible for certain federal funding. Additionally, the act establishes a self-check feature for individuals to verify their own status, expands data sharing between federal and state agencies to prevent fraud, and creates a good-faith defense for employers who rely on the system's results.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a formal partnership between the Department of Defense and the Department of Agriculture to conduct joint research on protecting the nation's food supply and agricultural systems. The legislation requires these agencies to sign an agreement that mandates competitive funding processes, mandates matching private funds for grants, and focuses on technologies like artificial intelligence, biosecurity, and supply chain resilience. Key provisions include authorizing the use of existing funds for these projects, ensuring secure data sharing with partners, and requiring annual reports to Congress on the initiative's progress and security measures.

Maddy summaryThe Detention Authority Clarification Act amends immigration laws to change the term 'alien seeking admission' to 'applicant for admission' in specific sections. It also updates the list of individuals subject to mandatory detention by adding a new category for applicants seeking entry. These changes aim to clarify the terminology and scope of who can be detained under current immigration statutes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors the life and legacy of John Seymour, a late U.S. Senator from California, by formally acknowledging his public service and contributions. The document details his career highlights, including his roles as Mayor of Anaheim, his work in securing the relocation of the Los Angeles Rams, and his legislative achievements such as passing a major transportation bill. It also lists his committee assignments and advocacy for issues like special education, women's rights, and environmental protection. Finally, the resolution requests that the Senate Secretary communicate this tribute to the House of Representatives and send a copy to Seymour's family.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of May 10 through May 16, 2026, as "National Police Week" to honor law enforcement officers across the United States. The measure formally recognizes the service and sacrifices of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers, including those who have died in the line of duty during 2025 and early 2026. By invoking existing federal authority, the bill encourages the public and government agencies to observe this week by acknowledging the essential mission of police work and supporting officer safety. The resolution also expresses condolences to the families of officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and reaffirms support for communities served by law enforcement.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution asks the President to make the release of five specific individuals detained in China a priority during future meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The bill focuses on Pastor Jin Mingri, Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, Jimmy Lai, Dr. Gulshan Abbas, and Ekpar Asat, who are described as being held without fair trials or access to medical care. It urges the President to seek proof that these detainees are alive and have access to legal counsel, family contact, and necessary medical treatment. The measure reflects a bipartisan commitment to defending political and religious freedoms and addresses these cases as part of broader U.S. diplomatic relations with China.

Maddy summaryThe BLUE Act amends federal law to prohibit sharing information that could help obstruct or retaliate against federal law enforcement officers. Specifically, it expands the existing ban on sharing information to include cases where the intent is to physically interfere with an officer's official duties or to aid others in doing so. The law also clarifies that protections extend to physical locations where officers are or are expected to be, whether on or off duty. These changes directly affect individuals who might otherwise share sensitive details about law enforcement operations, aiming to safeguard officers from targeted interference.

Maddy summaryThe BACK OFF Act establishes new grounds for denying entry and deporting individuals who attempt to enter the United States specifically to give birth and secure citizenship for their children. It mandates that immigration officers and consular officials require medical examinations for women of childbearing age to assess the likelihood of childbirth during their stay, with potential visa denials based on these findings. The legislation also creates a specialized taskforce within the Department of Homeland Security to investigate and prosecute those who facilitate birth tourism, while imposing severe criminal penalties, including up to 25 years in prison, on individuals who assist in these activities. Additionally, the bill restricts judicial review of birth tourism cases and authorizes the suspension of visas from countries that refuse to accept their citizens for removal.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors the life and legacy of Dirk Kempthorne, a former U.S. Senator, Governor of Idaho, and Secretary of the Interior. It formally acknowledges his public service across various roles, including his work on environmental conservation, veterans' support, and economic development in Idaho. The Senate expresses its sorrow over his death and directs that a copy of the resolution be sent to his family. Additionally, the Senate stands in adjournment as a final mark of respect to his memory.