Rep. Pat Harkins

Maddy summaryHB 102 amends Pennsylvania's criminal code to clarify and update the legal definition of harassment within the assault offense category under Title 18. It directly affects individuals accused of harassment by specifying how such conduct qualifies as a criminal assault. The bill's key provision changes how harassment is legally categorized and prosecuted under assault laws, providing clearer standards for law enforcement and courts. This amendment is currently pending final action after passing third consideration in the legislature. (Note: Specific policy details beyond the scope of the title are not provided in the context.)

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 3, 2025, as "Kids Music Day" in Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes the importance of music education for children through a symbolic gesture. The resolution does not create new laws, alter funding, or impose obligations on any individuals or entities. It serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment by the Pennsylvania legislature.

Maddy summaryHB 1898 amends Pennsylvania's Election Code to change the number of signatures required on nomination petitions for candidates running in primary elections. This bill directly affects candidates seeking their party's nomination for office through primary elections. The key provision modifies the specific signature count needed to qualify for the primary ballot, though the exact new number isn't specified in the provided context. As a procedural election code adjustment, it focuses on the administrative process for candidate eligibility rather than substantive policy changes. The bill was referred to the State Government committee on September 30, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1899 amends the Right-to-Know Law to update the procedures for when government records can be withheld from public access. It adds new specific categories of records that may be kept private, such as certain sensitive operational details or security-related information. This directly affects citizens requesting public records and government agencies handling those requests by clarifying which documents can be exempted. The bill focuses on refining the legal process for exceptions without changing the core public access principles of the existing law.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a constitutional amendment proposal concerning election procedures for Pennsylvania state government positions. It aims to establish rules for filling vacancies in elected offices, though the specific provisions are not detailed in the provided context. As a procedural resolution, it does not directly affect voters or officials but would require voter approval if passed by the legislature. The bill was recently referred to the State Government committee for consideration.

Maddy summaryHB 1892 amends Pennsylvania's 1968 Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law to update definitions, clarify unlawful acts or practices, and adjust exclusions. It directly affects businesses operating in Pennsylvania and consumers who may encounter unfair trade practices. The bill focuses on refining the legal framework for consumer protection without specifying new penalties or enforcement mechanisms. The bill was recently referred to the Consumer Protection, Technology & Utilities committee for review. (Note: Specific new provisions are not detailed in the provided context.)

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 3, 2025, as "Manufacturing Day" within Pennsylvania. It is a symbolic recognition effort, not a law with legal requirements or direct impact on individuals or businesses. The resolution aims to highlight the importance of the manufacturing sector in Pennsylvania's economy. It has been referred to the Labor & Industry committee for further consideration.

Maddy summaryHB 1870 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle fee statutes to expand exemptions for certain persons, entities, and vehicles from registration or licensing fees. The bill specifically addresses fee exemptions under Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes but does not detail the exact exemptions, affected groups, or specific fee types in the provided context. As a procedural bill focused on fee exemption rules, it does not outline new implementation mechanisms or direct financial impacts. The bill was recently referred to the Transportation committee on September 22, 2025, but lacks sufficient detail in the given context to describe concrete policy changes or who would be affected.

Maddy summaryHB 1655 requires background checks for individuals seeking gaming-related licenses, permits, or employment in Pennsylvania. It mandates that applicants, employees, and contractors submit fingerprints to the Pennsylvania State Police for criminal history checks, which are then verified through the FBI. The results are shared solely with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to determine eligibility and cannot be disclosed to other entities. This bill directly affects anyone working in or applying for gaming industry roles, including fantasy contest operators and video gaming businesses, by strengthening background verification processes under existing gaming laws.

Maddy summaryHB 1145 creates a new Public Transit Security Grant Program in Pennsylvania, providing funding to public transit agencies for security improvements like cameras, patrols, or emergency response systems. The bill establishes a dedicated fund to finance these grants and requires the Department of Transportation (DOT) to manage the program, including setting eligibility rules and distributing funds. It directly affects public transit operators across the state by offering financial support for safety upgrades. The legislation amends transportation laws to formalize this funding mechanism, ensuring transit security needs are addressed through state resources.