Sen. Susan M. Collins

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates September 25, 2026, as National Lobster Day to recognize the cultural and economic significance of the lobster industry in the United States. The bill highlights how lobstering has served as a family tradition and source of livelihood for thousands of people, particularly in New England, while also noting the species' role in sustainability efforts and its popularity in American cuisine. It encourages citizens to observe the day through appropriate ceremonies and activities that celebrate the history and versatility of lobster.

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 summarySenate Resolution 863 expresses support for designating the week of September 13 through 19, 2026, as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. The resolution aims to raise public awareness about the importance of adult education in improving workforce skills, economic mobility, and family well-being. It encourages partnerships among educational providers, employers, and community organizations to expand access to literacy, numeracy, English-language, and digital skills training.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution supports the goals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day, which is designated for August 7. It encourages all Americans to learn about the history of the Purple Heart Medal and honor its recipients. The bill also promotes the organization of ceremonies and programs to show support for military members who have been awarded this decoration.

Maddy summaryThe Connected Vehicle Security Act of 2026 restricts the importation, sale, and use of connected vehicles and related technology from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea to protect national security. Starting in 2027, the bill generally bans these vehicles if they originate from or are controlled by these countries, with separate restrictions on software and hardware taking effect in 2030. The Secretary of Commerce is authorized to issue specific exemptions for items that do not pose a security risk and must publish a list of approved products. The law also requires companies to submit declarations confirming their vehicles comply with the rules and imposes heavy fines for violations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally honors the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. The bill recognizes her significant contributions to American music, as well as her extensive philanthropy in areas such as childhood literacy, education, healthcare, disaster relief, and wildlife conservation. It specifically highlights her establishment of Dollywood, The Dollywood Foundation, and the Imagination Library program, which provided free books to millions of children. The resolution also acknowledges her financial support for medical research and her efforts to aid families affected by natural disasters in Tennessee and North Carolina.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally acknowledges that supporting democratic actors within Russia aligns with U.S. national interests and commends Russian civil society and independent media for exposing government crimes. It directs the Department of State to renew and strengthen efforts, in coordination with the National Endowment for Democracy, to engage with and support pro-democracy Russian individuals and organizations. The bill also condemns the Russian government's crackdown on dissent and its war against Ukraine, while committing the U.S. Senate to standing with Russians who oppose the conflict and those living in exile.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the America's Living Library Project, a pilot program within the Department of the Interior to collect and analyze genomic data from species found in National Park System units. The program will create a publicly available genomic database while protecting sensitive location information and requires coordination with multiple federal agencies including the National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution, and Department of Agriculture. It authorizes funding through fiscal year 2031 to support genome sequencing, sample storage, and data management, with initial implementation at five selected parks and potential expansion to twenty additional units within two years. The bill also mandates tribal consultation, establishes cybersecurity safeguards for genomic data, and includes provisions for long-term sample storage in U.S. facilities only.