Sen. Brian Schatz

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 909 designates September 2026 as "Hawaiian History Month" to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native Hawaiians. The resolution reaffirms the federal government's trust responsibility to support the well-being of the Native Hawaiian community. It encourages federal agencies, educational institutions, and civil society to observe the month through programs, ceremonies, and educational activities. Additionally, it calls on federal agencies to promote existing programs that implement the special political relationship with Native Hawaiians.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of September 20 through September 26, 2026, as Telehealth Awareness Week to recognize the growing role of remote medical services in the United States. The bill highlights how telehealth helps patients access care despite workforce shortages, geographic distance, or mobility challenges, noting that a significant portion of Medicare beneficiaries now use these services. It urges stakeholders to raise public awareness about the benefits of telehealth and to highlight available resources for both providers and patients. Additionally, the resolution calls for the collection and analysis of data on telehealth impacts to promote continuous access across all communities.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution expresses support for designating the second Monday in October 2026 as "Indigenous Peoples' Day" to honor the history and culture of Native Americans. It notes that many states and municipalities already observe this day, while Columbus Day remains a federal holiday. The bill encourages citizens to participate in ceremonies that promote awareness of Indigenous contributions and explicitly supports making Indigenous Peoples' Day an official federal holiday.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires federal agencies to develop a standardized chemical analysis method for identifying the country of origin of red snapper and tuna seafood, primarily to support enforcement against illegal fishing. Key agencies (NOAA, Customs, Coast Guard) must create a portable field kit that can test seafood like sushi or ceviche within practical timeframes. The bill mandates a report to Congress within two years detailing this methodology and a plan for its use. It also authorizes Defense Department funds to provide technical assistance to international partners combating illegal fishing (IUU), including sharing Coast Guard personnel and data. The bill directly affects seafood importers, federal enforcement agencies, and international fishing partners through these new identification and cooperation mechanisms.

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.