Rep. Wesley Bell

Maddy summaryThis bill, titled the Renewing the African American Civil Rights Network Act, extends federal funding for the African American Civil Rights Network by three years. The legislation directly affects the network's operations by amending the United States Code to change the authorization period from seven years to ten years. By updating this timeline, the bill ensures continued financial support for the organization's mission to promote civil rights and historical preservation. No new programs or policy changes are introduced; the measure solely focuses on renewing the existing funding authorization.

Maddy summaryThe Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act of 2025 establishes the Urban Bird Treaty Program, which provides grants and technical assistance to local groups - including cities, nonprofits, community organizations, and academic institutions - to protect and restore urban bird habitats. Key provisions include funding for habitat restoration (e.g., removing invasive species and planting native plants), reducing urban bird hazards, and engaging communities in monitoring and education. The program, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, authorizes $1 million annually from 2026 to 2032 for projects focused on conserving urban bird populations through collaborative local efforts. It directly affects communities seeking to enhance green spaces and support bird conservation in populated areas.

National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support and Community Outreach Act. [ sic ] This bill temporarily directs the Department of the Interior to award a grant to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund for the expenses associated with operating and enhancing the community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness programs of the National Law Enforcement Museum.

Maddy summaryThe Safeguarding Taxpayer Investment for Executive Airlift Act of 2026 prohibits the Department of Defense from using fiscal year 2027 funds to sell, donate, or transfer ownership of any aircraft from the VC-25B Bridge program. This restriction prevents these specific planes from being moved to individuals or entities outside the Department of the Air Force. The bill directly affects federal budgeting processes by limiting how appropriated defense money can be spent on executive airlift assets during that fiscal year.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution formally recognizes suicide as a serious public health problem in the United States and expresses support for designating September 2026 as National Suicide Prevention Month and September 10, 2026, as World Suicide Prevention Day. The bill cites data from the CDC, SAMHSA, and the VA to highlight that suicide is a leading cause of death among young people, veterans, and during the postpartum period, while also noting the significant economic costs associated with it. It declares suicide prevention a national priority and emphasizes that mental health is as important as physical health. The resolution supports the development of strategies to improve access to quality mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention services for all communities.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution commemorates the 30th anniversary of the State Partnership Program between Missouri and Panama, which was established in 1996 to foster military cooperation. The bill highlights how this partnership has expanded beyond security to include joint training exercises, disaster response, cybersecurity efforts, and educational exchanges between institutions in both regions. It also notes the economic ties between the two, citing significant trade flows and the strategic importance of the Panama Canal for Missouri businesses. By formally recognizing these achievements, the resolution encourages continued collaboration and reaffirms U.S. support for partnerships that promote regional stability and mutual prosperity.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution formally recognizes suicide as a significant public health issue in the United States and highlights the impact of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on individuals and communities. It commends the establishment of the 988 number as a nationwide three-digit dialing code for crisis support, noting its role in connecting people to mental health resources. The bill supports the designation of September 8, 2026, as "988 Day" to raise awareness about the service and promote access to mental health care. Additionally, it encourages continued public education and federal, state, and local efforts to expand crisis intervention programs for high-risk populations.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks by formally honoring the memory of the nearly 3,000 victims and recognizing the sacrifices made by first responders, military personnel, and the passengers of United Airlines Flight 93. The bill acknowledges the ongoing health challenges faced by survivors and responders, highlighting the role of the World Trade Center Health Program in providing long-term medical support. It also credits charitable organizations and community groups that have continued to assist victims' families and veterans over the past two decades. Finally, the resolution urges the American public to observe the anniversary with ceremonies and reaffirms Congress's commitment to remembering the events and lessons of that day.

Maddy summaryThe Access to School Supplies Act of 2026 establishes a five-year pilot program that provides competitive grants to up to ten local school districts serving high-poverty schools. These funds are intended to help districts purchase books, supplies, and other materials for students and instructional staff at no cost. The legislation authorizes $100 million annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031 and requires recipients to submit annual reports detailing how the money was spent and which schools benefited. A small portion of the total funding is reserved for outlying areas and Bureau of Indian Education schools, while the program sunsets on September 30, 2031.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the Route 66 National Historic Trail, covering approximately 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, along all historical alignments of U.S. Highway 66 (1926-1985). It directs the National Park Service to administer the trail while respecting its unique character, requiring tribal consultation for significant impacts on Native American tribes, and explicitly prohibiting land acquisition beyond 1/4 mile on either side of the trail. The bill clarifies it does not create buffer zones, disrupt energy infrastructure (including pipelines or renewable projects), or designate the trail as part of the National Park System, while affirming existing authority for easements and rights-of-way.