Maddy summaryThis bill allows the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to hire a private company to design, market, and sell custom vehicle license plates. Under the new rules, the state would sign a multi-year contract with a vendor who manages online sales, handles plate manufacturing, and collects fees for both the plates and any personalized text added to them. The law specifies that these custom plates are only available for motorcycles and standard passenger vehicles weighing 14,000 pounds or less, while also requiring the vendor to pay a guaranteed minimum amount of revenue to the state. All money collected from these sales and fees would be deposited into the state's Motor License Fund, and the vendor would be prohibited from unreasonably limiting their marketing plans or the variety of designs offered.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 977 amends Pennsylvania's Controlled Substance Act to increase penalties for specific drug-related offenses. The bill classifies the possession or distribution of phencyclidine, methamphetamine, coca leaves, tianeptine, and large quantities of marijuana as felonies punishable by up to ten years in prison or a fine of $100,000. This change directly affects individuals involved in the manufacture, sale, or possession of these substances by ensuring they face stricter legal consequences. The legislation takes effect 60 days after its passage.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania laws to strengthen protections for local ecosystems and wildlife by clarifying penalties for illegal activities. It specifically addresses the transport, sale, and release of nonnative fish that harm the environment, as well as the unauthorized importation of game animals and birds. Under the new rules, violating these restrictions generally results in a third-degree misdemeanor, though intentional or negligent violations involving endangered species could lead to a more serious first-degree misdemeanor charge. The legislation applies to individuals who import, sell, or release these animals and establishes that each animal involved in a violation counts as a separate offense. These changes are designed to deter the introduction of invasive species and the illegal trade of wildlife while taking effect 60 days after passage.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 18, 2024, as "Lineworker Appreciation Day" to honor the electrical workers in Pennsylvania who maintain the state's power grid. The resolution acknowledges the dangerous and essential work these lineworkers perform to ensure electricity is delivered reliably to homes and businesses. It does not create new laws or change regulations but serves as a formal expression of gratitude from the House of Representatives.
Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates October 5, 2024, as Ostomy Awareness Day in Pennsylvania to honor individuals living with ostomies. The bill aims to increase public understanding of the surgery and reduce stigma by highlighting the importance of education and support for patients and their families. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to recognize the medical procedure and promote awareness within the state.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act to update definitions regarding construction work. Specifically, it adds "rebar system assembly" to the list of covered activities while removing the phrase "or smaller prefabricated components" from the definition of prefabricated components. These changes clarify which specific tasks and materials are subject to prevailing wage requirements for public projects. The bill also outlines updated duties for the Secretary of Labor and Industry in enforcing these provisions.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a five-year pilot program to provide funding for restoring school libraries in Pennsylvania's low-achieving schools. Eligible schools can receive grants of up to $170,000 to purchase books, digital resources, and technology, as well as to hire or train certified school librarians. The Department of Education will select at least 12 schools representing diverse student demographics to participate, and the program requires annual reporting and an independent evaluation to assess its impact on student performance.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to authorize the creation of school-based health centers within public and private schools. These centers must remain open during school hours and cannot refuse care based on a student's ability to pay, insurance status, or existing primary care provider. Services are determined by school boards based on student demographics and needs, with strict requirements for parental consent and data confidentiality. The legislation also mandates the establishment of a statewide advisory council to oversee program operations and requires the Department of Health to collect usage and demographic data once funding is available.
Maddy summaryThis bill restricts public access to eviction records in Pennsylvania by automatically placing such files under limited access seven years after the case is filed or once a judgment is satisfied. It prohibits courts, landlords, and consumer reporting agencies from sharing these records with the public or using them in tenant screening reports, while still allowing access to the parties involved, their attorneys, and specific entities like nonprofit researchers. Landlords are required to notify the court within 30 days if a tenant pays a money judgment in full or vacates the property by the agreed date. The legislation also creates a private right of action for tenants, allowing them to seek damages of up to two months' rent or $5,000, whichever is greater, along with attorney fees, if their eviction records are improperly disclosed.
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Municipal and Emergency Responder Solar Grant Program to provide financial assistance for solar energy projects at government facilities and emergency service locations such as fire stations and police departments. The Department of Environmental Protection will administer the program on a competitive basis, offering grants to cover costs like equipment purchase, installation, and energy storage. To receive funding, applicants must submit a detailed proposal that includes a site assessment and an affidavit confirming that all construction contractors meet specific licensing, insurance, and safety training requirements. The Department is also tasked with developing application guidelines, providing technical assistance, and creating educational materials to help eligible entities navigate the process.