Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2026 This bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to increase the amounts payable for wartime disability compensation, additional compensation for dependents, the clothing allowance for certain disabled veterans, and dependency and indemnity compensation for surviving spouses and children. Specifically, the VA must increase the amounts by the same percentage as the cost-of-living increase in benefits for Social Security recipients that is effective on December 1, 2026. The act requires the VA to publish the amounts payable, as increased, in the Federal Register. The VA is authorized to make a similar adjustment to the rates of disability compensation payable to persons who have not received compensation for service-connected disability or death.
Sponsored bills
Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act This bill imposes certain new requirements on infant formula manufacturers and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) following the discovery of contaminated, adulterated, or misbranded infant formula. Specifically, the bill requires infant formula manufacturers to report to the FDA within one business day of learning that formula that was processed by the manufacturer but that is no longer within the manufacturer’s control may not provide required nutrients or may be otherwise adulterated or misbranded. Further, if any testing of finished infant formula reveals the presence of specified microorganisms (e.g., salmonella), the manufacturer must notify the FDA within one business day. (Under current law, manufacturers are only required to report contamination to the FDA if the affected formula has left the manufacturer’s control.) The manufacturer must also promptly provide the test results to the FDA and consult with the FDA on proper isolation and disposal of the affected product. The FDA must respond to such a notification and begin discussing proper investigative and corrective action with the manufacturer within one business day. Within 90 days of a report of adulterated, misbranded, or contaminated infant formula, the FDA must determine whether the manufacturer that reported the problem has performed, or is performing, appropriate investigative and corrective action. Finally, the FDA is required to periodically report on the infant formula supply chain and efforts to improve the safety and supply of infant formula, and must consult with other federal agencies and infant formula stakeholders on these issues.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to honor the contributions of these communities to United States history. The document highlights the diversity of the population, cites historical milestones such as the completion of the transcontinental railroad and the passage of immigration laws, and acknowledges specific achievements of individuals like Daniel K. Inouye and Patsy Mink. It also notes the ongoing challenges faced by these groups, including a rise in hate crimes, while celebrating their growing presence in government and society. Ultimately, the bill serves as a symbolic statement of appreciation rather than establishing new legal requirements or funding.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses the Senate's view that the United States should prioritize countering the People's Republic of China as its main strategic competitor. The document outlines specific policy directions, including strengthening military deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, protecting American economic interests from Chinese trade practices, and leading in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. It also calls for maintaining strong alliances with nations such as Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines, while supporting democratic values and human rights globally.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes the week of May 3 through May 9, 2026, as National Small Business Week to honor the contributions of small business owners and entrepreneurs across the United States. The measure expresses appreciation for the economic role these businesses play and acknowledges the resilience of their owners and employees. By adopting this designation, the Senate aims to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit within every community without imposing any new laws or regulations.
Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Protecting Human Rights and Public Health in Foreign Assistance Act, directs federal agencies to ignore three specific final rules issued by the Department of State. It explicitly prohibits any government department from implementing, enforcing, or creating new policies similar to these existing rules, effectively treating them as if they never existed. The targeted regulations concern protecting life, combating discriminatory equity ideology, and addressing gender ideology within foreign aid programs. By nullifying these rules, the legislation removes the current administrative requirements related to these topics from U.S. foreign assistance activities.
Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Carlton H. Ingram Veterans' Benefits Protection Act, amends the Department of Veterans Affairs' disability rating system to ensure that a veteran's disability level is assessed without considering the positive effects of medication or treatment. The key provision requires the VA to establish a baseline disability rating that reflects the veteran's condition before treatment, ensuring compensation is based on the underlying disability rather than improvements from medical care. Veterans seeking compensation for additional disabilities caused by or worsened by their treatment for service-connected conditions remain eligible for benefits under this change. The legislation aims to provide a more accurate reflection of a veteran's true disability status when determining compensation levels.
Maddy summaryThis resolution asks the Senate to recognize April 2026 as the 'Month of the Military Child' to honor the over 1.6 million children connected to the military. It encourages the public to observe this month with ceremonies and activities that show appreciation for these families. The bill does not create any new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to acknowledge the contributions of military children.
Maddy summaryThe Protecting America's Workers Act expands workplace safety protections by including public employees and voluntary emergency responders under federal safety laws, while also strengthening whistleblower safeguards against retaliation. Key provisions require employers to report serious work-related injuries and deaths, mandate the posting of employee rights, and establish a process for victims and families to participate in enforcement proceedings. The bill also increases civil and criminal penalties for safety violations, improves oversight of state safety plans, and authorizes additional funding for training and hazard evaluations.
Maddy summaryThe Investing in the American Dream Act expands eligibility for Small Business Administration loans to include businesses owned by certain immigrants, such as refugees, asylees, and individuals with deferred action. To qualify, these businesses must be located in the United States and at least 51 percent owned and controlled by U.S. citizens or nationals of the United States. The law explicitly states that businesses meeting these ownership and location requirements cannot be denied loans solely because they are owned by eligible immigrants. Additionally, the bill clarifies that it does not grant the SBA authority to increase the 51 percent ownership threshold for any type of loan.