Rep. Kyle Donahue

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Local Tax Enabling Act to improve the notification process for taxpayers with overdue taxes. It requires tax collectors to send at least one notice via registered or certified mail to taxpayers at least fifteen days before sending a demand to their employers. For delinquent earned income and net profits taxes, the bill mandates sending no fewer than two such notices. The costs associated with this certified or registered mail service will be added to the taxpayer's collection fees.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill creates a new tax credit for active-duty military personnel, National Guard members, and reservists to encourage fitness spending. It allows these service members to claim up to $600 per year against their state income tax for costs related to sports and fitness activities, such as gym memberships or exercise equipment. The legislation also adds specific rules to the tax code that permit businesses to deduct the cost of providing free or discounted gym memberships to qualified military individuals, provided the discount does not exceed the standard membership price paid by others. These changes apply to tax years beginning after December 31, 2023, and are administered by the Department of Revenue.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution formally recognizes September 2024 as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and designates September 10, 2024, as World Suicide Prevention Day within the state. The measure is sponsored by a group of representatives and addresses the issue by officially highlighting these dates to raise public awareness about suicide prevention. It encourages residents of Pennsylvania to offer support to those struggling with mental health challenges, aiming to reduce the stigma that often prevents people from seeking help.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates November 2024 as "Veterans and Military Families Month" to honor the state's large veteran population and their families. The measure serves as a symbolic gesture to acknowledge the sacrifices made by service members and to highlight the support provided by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. It does not create new laws or funding but directs a copy of the resolution to the relevant state department for record-keeping.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the state court system's financial stability and its reliance on fines and fees. The study will examine how different states fund their courts, analyze the impact of fee dependence on various socioeconomic groups, and quantify the costs associated with collecting these fees and enforcing related penalties. The committee is required to consult with other states and relevant organizations before submitting a report with findings and recommendations to legislative leadership within 18 months.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania law to require the state commission overseeing disabled veterans' real estate tax exemptions to review applicants' financial situations at least once every ten years. The change aims to ensure that tax relief continues to be granted only to those who still demonstrate a financial need based on their current economic status. By adjusting the review frequency, the legislation seeks to maintain the integrity of the tax exemption program for eligible veterans. The law will become effective 60 days after it is signed into force.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the membership rules for Pennsylvania's State Veterans' Commission to ensure broader representation of different veteran groups. It mandates that the commission include representatives from sixteen specific national veterans' organizations, such as the American Legion and VFW, along with four members appointed by the Governor who must be female or Vietnam-era veterans. The legislation also clarifies the roles of state-level leaders from the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and Veterans of Foreign Wars as nonvoting members. These changes aim to modernize the commission's composition while maintaining its existing structure under Pennsylvania law.

Maddy summaryHB 1742 amends Pennsylvania's personal income tax code to create special provisions for taxpayers living in poverty. The bill allows individuals with an income of $6,500 to $10,000, or married couples with a combined income of $13,000 to $20,000, to receive a refund or forgiveness of any taxes they have overpaid. Eligible taxpayers also receive an additional $9,500 income allowance for each dependent they claim. The poverty income thresholds are set to increase annually based on the Consumer Price Index, ensuring they do not decrease even if inflation rates are negative.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill prohibits the intentional addition of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, to a wide range of consumer products including cookware, cosmetics, food packaging, and artificial turf. While the law generally bans these chemicals, it allows for their use in specific items if the Department of Environmental Protection determines that no safer alternative exists and the chemical is critical for the product's function. The Department of Environmental Protection is tasked with enforcing these restrictions, managing a public database of PFAS information, and imposing penalties for violations.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new grant program to help Pennsylvania school districts provide annual mental health screenings for students in grades six through twelve. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, eligible school entities can apply for funding to hire staff, purchase materials, or partner with outside organizations to conduct these evidence-based screenings. The program requires applicants to submit detailed plans outlining how they will screen students, protect privacy, and connect those who need help with licensed mental health professionals or community resources. Additionally, the Department of Education will consult with national mental health experts and maintain a list of qualified vendors to assist participating schools.