Maddy summaryThe PFAS Alternatives Act directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create grant programs that help develop and train firefighters on using protective gear free from PFAS chemicals. Under this law, eligible nonprofit and educational organizations can receive funding to research next-generation turnout gear that maintains safety standards without relying on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The legislation allocates up to $25 million between 2027 and 2031 for research grants and $2 million between 2028 and 2032 for training initiatives, ensuring that new gear designs are tested and that first responders learn proper care and decontamination methods. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary to submit a progress report to Congress within two years of enactment to track the implementation of these safety improvements.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThe Tribal Conservation Priorities Inclusion Act amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to formally include tribal lands alongside state and local areas in federal conservation programs. Specifically, it updates provisions for environmental quality incentives, conservation stewardship, stewardship contracts, and critical conservation areas to ensure tribal regions are eligible for these initiatives. By adding the phrase "or on tribal land" to existing definitions, the bill ensures that tribal territories are treated with the same priority as other regions when determining conservation needs and funding. This legislative change directly affects Indian Tribes by expanding their access to federal resources aimed at protecting natural resources.
Stop Secret Spending Act of 2025 This bill expands a requirement for federal agencies to report expenditures on the USAspending.gov website to include other transaction agreement expenditures. (Other transaction agreements, or OTAs, are contractual instruments other than standard procurement contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements; they are exempt from many federal procurement laws and regulations). Under current law, federal agencies must report expenditures on federal awards to USAspending.gov with the term federal award defined as federal grants, loans, cooperative agreements, contracts, and certain other types of expenditures. This bill expands the definition of federal award to include expenditures under OTAs, and therefore such expenditures must be included on the USAspending.gov website. The Department of the Treasury must ensure that data relating to OTAs are automatically transmitted to the website and a centralized view of this data is available on the website. Treasury must also annually post on the USAspending.gov website a report that includes (1) the total amount of federal spending on federal awards for which data has not been posted on the website, and (2) the reason why such spending data was not posted. For 10 years after enactment, the Office of Inspector General of specified federal agencies must periodically submit to Congress and make publicly available a report assessing the agency's spending data and use of data standards.
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 summaryThis bill exempts stinger-steered combinations transporting assembled highway vehicles from the requirement to display warning flags on projecting loads. It achieves this by removing the relevant regulation from the Code of Federal Regulations and directing the Secretary of Transportation to update the rules without a formal public comment period. The change directly affects trucking companies that use this specific type of vehicle to move complete highway vehicles, such as buses or semi-trailers.
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 bill expands whistleblower protections for contractors, subcontractors, and grant recipients working with the Department of Defense, NASA, and the broader Federal Government. It allows these individuals to report evidence of gross mismanagement, waste of funds, abuse of authority, or dangers to public health and safety without fear of retaliation. The legislation also prohibits government officials from demanding that contractors take retaliatory actions and bans the waiver of these rights through arbitration agreements or other employment contracts. Additionally, it broadens the definition of who is protected to include personal service workers and employees of state, tribal, and territorial governments.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses support for designating May 2026 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. It recognizes the role of motorcycles in transportation and encourages all road users to be more aware of motorcyclists to help prevent accidents. The measure promotes rider safety by highlighting the importance of proper licensing, training, and the use of protective equipment. Ultimately, the bill serves as a formal acknowledgment of the need for shared road safety rather than enacting new laws or regulations.
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.