Rep. Jim Haddock

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Paid Rest Period for Workers Act, requires employers in Pennsylvania to give employees at least 30 consecutive minutes for a meal break or rest period after working five or more consecutive hours. These breaks must be paid and counted as work time, though the law allows for exceptions during workplace emergencies or if a union contract already offers equal or better protections. The Secretary of Labor and Industry is authorized to investigate violations by inspecting worksites and reviewing records, and employers who fail to comply face fines of up to $500 per affected employee per missed break. Additionally, the law provides a mechanism for the state to recover lost wages on behalf of employees who were denied these required paid breaks.

Maddy summaryHB 2353 establishes civil liability for entities that use artificial intelligence or other automated systems to create deceptive campaign advertisements featuring current or former candidates. The bill defines "covered persons" as firms, political committees, foreign governments, and individuals acting on their behalf, while also clarifying that generative AI and synthetic content like deepfakes fall under these regulations. To avoid liability, covered persons must provide clear and conspicuous disclosures stating that an advertisement contains manipulated or generated content, with specific formatting requirements for text, video, and audio formats. If a covered person fails to provide such a disclosure and is found liable, the law requires the immediate removal of the advertisement and imposes financial penalties based on the jurisdiction where the candidate filed with election officials.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Cancer Drug Repository Program Act to clarify definitions and expand the program's scope. It adds specific legal definitions for manufacturers and wholesale distributors and allows approved pharmacies to accept unused prescription drugs from state medical assistance programs for dispensing to patients. The legislation also updates the list of eligible entities that can return or donate drugs to the repository and requires the creation of a list of participating pharmacies. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for program fees, storage regulations, and immunity for participants.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill establishes an Independent Congressional Redistricting Commission to draw the state's congressional district maps, directly affecting voters by changing how their representatives are selected. The commission would consist of 15 members: five from the largest political party, five from the second-largest party, and five unaffiliated individuals, with a focus on reflecting the state's geographic and demographic diversity. The process includes a public application period, transparent meetings for community input, and the use of specific criteria to guide map drawing, with judicial review available if the commission fails to produce a final map.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Microfiber Filtration Protection Act to require all washing machines sold or installed in Pennsylvania to include a built-in or in-line filter capable of capturing microfibers. The Environmental Quality Board must create regulations mandating these filters have a mesh size of 100 micrometers or smaller and display a consumer notice about checking and disposing of captured lint. Starting in 2030, manufacturers cannot sell non-compliant machines, and by 2031, installers cannot fit them unless they meet the new standards. The Department of Environmental Protection will enforce these rules through testing, inspections, and complaints, while charging manufacturers for any testing costs related to non-compliance.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows teachers in Pennsylvania who have voluntarily placed their teaching certificates on inactive status for at least seven years to take college courses for free or at a 50% discount. The State Board of Education will create and update a list of approved colleges offering these specific tuition-reduced credits every three years. To fund this program, the state will reimburse colleges annually for the waived tuition costs, with reports on enrollment numbers submitted to the General Assembly each June.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates September 2024 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month within the state of Pennsylvania. The measure highlights the importance of early detection and screening for men, noting that the disease primarily affects older males and can be asymptomatic for years. While the primary function is symbolic, the bill also includes a provision urging the U.S. Congress to pass legislation that would mandate health insurance coverage for prostate cancer screenings.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires correctional officers in Pennsylvania to use safety seat belts when transporting detained individuals or inmates in vehicles. It allows for exceptions if using a seat belt would endanger the officer or others, or if the person is being transported on a bus. The Department of Corrections must create specific regulations for seat belt use within 120 days, including rules for transporting pregnant individuals. The law applies to all peace officers and other authorized personnel who transport detainees under official detention.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits employers in Pennsylvania from punishing, disciplining, or retaliating against employees for refusing to attend meetings or listen to communications about religious or political topics. It defines "voluntary" participation as attendance that is not incentivized by benefits or threatened with negative employment consequences, ensuring employees can opt out without fear of reprisal. To enforce these protections, the law allows aggrieved workers to sue for remedies like reinstatement and back pay, while also requiring employers to post a notice explaining these rights. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Labor and Industry investigate complaints and provides a framework for interested parties to report violations.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates September of each year as "International Underground Railroad Month" throughout Pennsylvania. It aims to honor the courage of freedom seekers and the individuals who assisted them in escaping slavery through a clandestine network. The legislation includes a list of historical findings that highlight the significance of the Underground Railroad and its role in the state's history. Importantly, the bill clarifies that this designation does not require employers to treat September as a paid holiday or provide special leave for employees.