Rep. Dave Madsen

Maddy summaryThis bill requires school directors in Pennsylvania to complete mandatory training programs to improve their ability to lead school boards. New directors must finish at least five hours of instruction covering topics like academics, personnel, finances, and ethics within their first year, while those seeking reappointment must complete an additional three hours of advanced training annually. The Department of Education will provide these courses for free, either directly or through a designated statewide organization that represents school directors. The training specifically includes at least one hour dedicated to trauma-informed approaches, and the law ensures that the statewide organization remains independent from the state government.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code to allow businesses to claim a tax deduction for money they contribute toward their employees' child care costs. To qualify, employers must make payments to licensed child care centers, group homes, or family homes to help workers cover eligible care expenses while they work. The law permits a deduction equal to 110% of the total contributions made, with a separate provision that allows up to $5,000 of these costs to be excluded from the employer's taxable income. Employers claiming this benefit must file a specific form that details the names and contact information of participating employees and the child care providers they used. The changes apply to tax years starting after December 31, 2023, and will take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law to allow casualty insurance policies to cover blood pressure monitors. The change specifically requires that such coverage be provided only when the device is deemed medically necessary. By adding this language, the legislation clarifies the conditions under which insurance companies must offer this specific medical equipment. The bill directly affects individuals with casualty insurance policies who require blood pressure monitoring for health reasons.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes minimum energy and water efficiency standards for a specific list of products sold or installed in Pennsylvania, including commercial kitchen equipment, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. It requires that these items meet performance benchmarks to reduce utility waste, lower costs for consumers and businesses, and decrease strain on energy and water infrastructure. The legislation mandates testing, certification, and labeling for compliance while imposing penalties for violations, though it excludes products manufactured in-state for out-of-state sale and those designed for recreational vehicles.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to require employers to create and maintain written policies preventing harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. Under the new rules, companies must explain these protections to employees, outline clear reporting procedures that allow complaints to be filed outside of direct supervision, and detail supervisor responsibilities. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission will develop standard policy templates for employers to use and will enforce compliance by issuing citations and fines for violations, with collected fines funding a new Human Relations Training Fund for education and outreach.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new chapter in Pennsylvania law dedicated to storm water management, aiming to address issues like flooding, erosion, and strain on public infrastructure caused by increased runoff from development. It defines key terms such as "impervious surface" and "storm water" to clarify what areas and water sources are covered under the new regulations. A significant provision allows municipal authorities to charge a reasonable storm water management fee to property owners, including those who own land for the Commonwealth, ensuring that tax-exempt entities also contribute to these costs. The legislation empowers local governments to better plan and mitigate the impacts of storm water while requiring coordination with state instrumentalities.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Rural Population Revitalization Commission to study and address population decline in Pennsylvania's rural areas, which are defined as counties with fewer than 291 people per square mile. The commission will gather input from various stakeholders, hold public hearings, and produce biennial reports offering recommendations on issues such as healthcare access, affordable housing, education, and job opportunities. Its membership includes representatives from government agencies, higher education, business, and community organizations, all serving without pay for two-year terms. Additionally, the legislation establishes a Rural Population Revitalization Fund to support the commission's operations and initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining residents in rural communities.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 28, 2024, as "Jim Thorpe Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the legacy of the multi-sport athlete. The bill recognizes Thorpe's achievements in football, baseball, and basketball, as well as his historic Olympic performances and his role in founding the National Football League. It serves as a commemorative measure that celebrates his life and contributions to sports without altering any laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to highlight the importance of mental well-being. It calls on government agencies, schools, businesses, and residents to increase understanding of mental illnesses and promote access to appropriate services. The text emphasizes that mental health issues affect people of all backgrounds and are biological disorders requiring proper treatment rather than willpower. By designating this month for awareness, the bill aims to foster a supportive environment for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act by clarifying who counts as an "employer" and "employee" under state anti-discrimination laws. It expands the definition of employer to include religious, charitable, and sectarian organizations when they discriminate based on race, color, age, sex, national origin, or disability, provided they have at least two employees. Additionally, the legislation removes exemptions for family members working for their parents, spouses, or children, while keeping protections for casual domestic workers and agricultural laborers. These changes aim to ensure that more types of workplaces are covered by the state's existing protections against discrimination.