Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz

Maddy summaryHB 1731, the Consumer Debt Collection Fairness Act, requires debt collectors and debt buyers to provide detailed documentation before suing consumers for unpaid debt. It mandates that lawsuits include the original creditor’s name, a clear debt breakdown (including fees and payments), proof of debt ownership, and the original contract. The bill also sets a 3-year statute of limitations for debt collection lawsuits and prohibits default judgments without verified documentation or proper consumer notice. This directly affects consumers facing debt lawsuits and debt collectors in Pennsylvania, aiming to prevent abusive practices by ensuring transparency and fair legal process.

Maddy summaryHB 2033 would amend Pennsylvania's food protection laws under Title 3 (Agriculture) to establish new requirements for correctional institutions. It would require the Department of Agriculture to create specific regulations and carry out new duties related to food safety standards in prisons and detention facilities. This bill directly affects correctional facilities by mandating updated food safety protocols and the Department of Agriculture through new regulatory responsibilities. The bill was referred to the Judiciary committee on November 17, 2025, for further review.

Maddy summaryHB 2035 extends the deadline for validating property transfers that were not properly notarized or signed under Pennsylvania's 1967 law. It directly affects property owners and sellers who have documents with defective acknowledgments, giving them more time to correct these issues. The bill modifies the original 1967 statute by setting a new cutoff date for submitting such corrections. This change provides a concrete administrative extension without altering property rights or introducing new requirements.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates the week of March 16 through 20, 2026, as "Pennsylvania Ag Literacy Week" in Pennsylvania. The bill directly affects schools, educators, and the agricultural community by formally recognizing a program that connects volunteers from the farming sector to local classrooms. It highlights the Pennsylvania Friends of Agriculture Foundation and the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau as the originators of the initiative, which aims to educate students about agriculture through volunteer storytelling and educational materials. The resolution also acknowledges the economic significance of agriculture in Pennsylvania, noting its contribution to jobs and state revenue.

Maddy summaryHB 2193 creates a $100 tax credit per deer processed for Pennsylvania deer processors who donate all consumable venison from a single deer to an approved food charity (like those meeting requirements under the Institutions of Purely Public Charity Act). Processors must retain Pennsylvania Game Commission ear tags as proof and submit applications by September 15 for the prior year. The credit is limited to $5,000 per taxpayer annually and $200,000 total statewide each year, with unused credits potentially carried over for up to 15 years. This directly affects deer processors who donate meat to qualifying charities, providing a financial incentive for their donation services.

Maddy summaryHB 2233 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle registration law to exempt specific all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) used by emergency services from registration requirements. It directly affects police, fire, and emergency medical services agencies that operate ATVs as emergency vehicles during off-highway response or on closed streets for special events. The bill adds two key exemptions: ATVs used primarily off-highways (traveling ≤10 miles on public roads incidentally) and those operating on restricted streets for events, both exempt from the audible warning system requirement normally applied to emergency vehicles. Operators acting within official duties receive identical liability protections as standard emergency vehicle operators under Pennsylvania law.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution honors the life of Pennsylvania State Police Corporal Timothy J. O'Connor, Jr., who died in the line of duty in March 2026, and extends condolences to his family. The document details his 15-year career, numerous awards, and community service, while formally recognizing his sacrifice as the 105th state police officer to die in service. It directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to his wife, Casey O'Connor, as a gesture of respect and support.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates June 2026 as "Gun Violence Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania to highlight the public safety issue of firearm-related harm. It does not create new laws or change regulations but serves as a symbolic resolution to acknowledge the impact of gun violence and honor those who have died from it. The measure affects the state legislature and the public by officially recognizing the month for awareness purposes.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution formally recognizes June 15, 2026, as "World Elder Abuse Awareness Day" within the state. The measure directly affects the House of Representatives and serves to raise public awareness about elder abuse issues. It does not change laws or allocate funding, but rather expresses support for protecting older adults and encourages community vigilance and education against abuse.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates June 15, 2026, as 'Elora Joyce Khan Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day' in Pennsylvania to honor a young resident and raise public attention to pediatric brain cancer. The resolution aims to promote education, compassion, and research into the disease while recognizing the Elora J. Khan Foundation's work supporting affected families. It does not change laws or allocate funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to highlight the importance of awareness and advocacy for children battling brain tumors.