Rep. Brenda Pugh

Maddy summaryThis bill allows Pennsylvania municipalities to voluntarily pause the review of new applications for high-impact data centers for up to 18 months. The measure is designed to give local governments time to assess infrastructure needs, such as water and electrical grid capacity, and to draft updated zoning rules before approving such facilities. While the moratorium blocks new filings and variances, it does not affect existing data centers or their routine maintenance, and it includes a process for applicants to request waivers if they face unique hardships. Municipalities must hold public hearings and make reasonable progress on planning studies during the pause, and the law clarifies that this temporary measure does not constitute a legal taking of property.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill repeals the existing tax incentive program for computer data center equipment and replaces it with a new system that transfers taxes collected from the sale of such equipment into a restricted account within the Motor License Fund. The legislation defines specific equipment and facilities that qualify for the transfer, including servers, cooling systems, and power management infrastructure used in data centers. By redirecting these funds, the bill aims to support the Motor License Fund without providing direct tax breaks to businesses or individuals.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code to temporarily exempt sales and use tax on items related to homecoming and prom events. The exemption applies to individuals purchasing formal attire, shoes, flowers, and accessories for nonbusiness use during a six-month window starting July 1, 2026. The law defines specific terms like "homecoming" and "prom" to clarify which events qualify, and it states that the tax exclusion remains in effect even if the purchased items are delivered after the six-month period ends.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code to temporarily exempt specific school supplies from sales tax. The exemption applies only to individual buyers purchasing items for educational purposes during a defined three-month window each year, running from July 1 to September 30. Eligible items include common classroom materials like pens, notebooks, and art supplies, provided each item costs $50 or less. The Department of Revenue will be required to publish online guidance to help clarify how the new exclusion will be implemented.

Maddy summaryThis resolution directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a financial study of all municipal storm sewer systems in Pennsylvania for the years 2023 and 2024. The study will examine how these systems are funded, their operating costs, employee numbers, debt levels, and the fees charged to residents and businesses. To ensure accuracy, the analysis must be performed by an independent university professor selected by the committee. The final report, which includes findings and recommendations, is scheduled to be posted online within one year.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a temporary sales tax exemption for personal hygiene products in Pennsylvania, effective for six months starting July 1, 2026. The measure directly affects individual consumers by removing the sales tax on items such as soap, toothpaste, razors, and feminine hygiene products when purchased during the specified period. To implement this change, the Department of Revenue must publish online guidance defining eligible products and clarifying that the tax exclusion applies to the purchase date rather than the delivery date. The legislation amends the existing Tax Reform Code to add these specific exclusions without altering other parts of the tax system.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs Pennsylvania municipalities to update their planning and zoning laws to specifically regulate large commercial data centers, which are defined as facilities with a peak power demand of 25 megawatts or more. It requires local comprehensive plans to identify suitable sites near existing infrastructure while explicitly protecting prime agricultural land and areas under conservation easements from such development. Additionally, the legislation establishes minimum standards for any data center zoning, including mandatory setbacks of 2,500 feet from residential areas and 300 feet from public roads, along with rules for noise, lighting, water usage, and site restoration. Local governments retain the authority to adopt stricter regulations but must follow these baseline requirements if they choose to permit these facilities.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Commercial Data Center Transparency Act, requires large data centers in Pennsylvania to publicly disclose their energy, water, and noise impacts. It specifically targets facilities with a peak power demand of 25 megawatts or more, mandating that applicants reveal details in their permit applications regarding water usage, wastewater, air quality, and transportation needs. The law also obligates these facilities to report specific water consumption data to the Department of Environmental Protection if they use more than 100,000 gallons per day or consume 20,000 gallons daily. To ensure compliance, the bill imposes civil penalties on entities that knowingly fail to make required disclosures or submit false information.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the Monday after Thanksgiving as Pennsylvania Sportsmen's Day to honor hunters, anglers, boaters, and trappers. The resolution recognizes the contributions of these groups to wildlife conservation, habitat management, and local businesses. It also highlights the importance of family traditions and mentorship in passing outdoor skills to younger generations. The bill is a symbolic gesture with no operational changes or new funding requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Clean Streams Law to allow specific residential construction sites to request a waiver for certain stormwater discharge permits. It directly affects developers building on land between one and three acres that causes significant ground disturbance. Under the new provision, these sites could apply to bypass standard National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit requirements if they meet specific federal criteria. The change aims to streamline regulatory processes for medium-sized construction projects while maintaining oversight through a formal waiver application process. The law will become effective 60 days after its passage.