Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz

Maddy summaryHB 2163 updates Pennsylvania's Dental Law by clarifying definitions and licensing rules. It specifically revises the definition of "restricted faculty license" to allow licensed dental school faculty to teach in non-profit clinical facilities or accredited advanced education programs, while explicitly excluding profit-driven operations. The bill also amends licensing provisions to require a 10-year waiting period for applicants convicted under drug laws (like the Controlled Substance Act), unless they demonstrate rehabilitation and pose no risk to public safety. These changes directly affect dental schools, faculty members, and applicants with prior drug-related convictions seeking licensure. The bill focuses on modernizing scope-of-practice definitions and refining the review process for certain applicants, without altering general licensing requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 1251 amends the existing Physical Therapy Practice Act (1975) to update definitions and clarify the scope of physical therapy practice. It directly affects licensed physical therapists and the state licensing board by modifying how practice standards are defined and applied. The bill focuses on revising specific terms and practice rules within the current legal framework, without specifying new restrictions or expansions. As a practice act amendment, it aims to ensure the law aligns with current professional standards and operational needs. (Note: Specific provisions are not detailed in the provided context.)

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally recognizes April 2026 as "National Poetry Month" within Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or change existing policies, but rather serves as an official statement of support for poetry and the literary arts. The resolution acknowledges the cultural and educational value of poetry, noting its role in education and community engagement. Sponsored by multiple legislators, it aims to honor the tradition of celebrating poetry during this designated month.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 13 through 19, 2026, as "National Osteopathic Medicine Week" in Pennsylvania. The resolution recognizes the contributions of osteopathic physicians in the state, noting that Pennsylvania has over 12,000 DOs and ranks third nationally in the number of practitioners. It highlights the presence of three osteopathic medical colleges in Pennsylvania and encourages the public to learn more about osteopathic medicine during this observance period. The measure is symbolic and does not create new laws or funding, but rather serves to raise awareness about the profession.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a law with policy changes. It formally recognizes May 9, 2026, as "National Train Day" in Pennsylvania. The resolution acknowledges the historical significance of rail travel in Pennsylvania and the nation, referencing the 1869 completion of the transcontinental railroad. It encourages Pennsylvanians to learn about rail history and its benefits but creates no new requirements or funding.

Maddy summaryThis resolution symbolically recognizes April 11-17, 2026, as "Week of the Young Child" in Pennsylvania, aligning with a national observance organized by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). It has no legal effect or funding provisions - it is a formal acknowledgment to support awareness of early childhood education. The resolution encourages Pennsylvanians to recognize the importance of early learning opportunities for children birth through age eight. It does not create new policies or directly affect any individuals or programs.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic resolution (not a law) passed by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. It formally recognizes January 2026 as "Human Trafficking Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. The resolution does not create new laws, impose requirements, or directly affect any specific group. It serves only to raise public awareness about human trafficking, referencing existing federal definitions and statistics on the issue.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates April 18, 2025, as "Lineworker Appreciation Day" in Pennsylvania. It symbolically recognizes Pennsylvania's electrical lineworkers for their critical role in maintaining the state's power grid, without creating new laws or affecting regulations. The resolution honors their work in ensuring reliable electricity delivery, acknowledging their safety-focused efforts in hazardous conditions.

Maddy summaryHR 203 is a House Resolution directing Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to study medication errors and patient safety. The Commission must form an advisory committee including health officials and stakeholder representatives (like pharmacists, nurses, and hospital associations) to examine how errors occur in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and pharmacies. The study will review current state laws, other states' policies, and best practices, with a report containing recommendations due to the House within 18 months. This resolution does not change laws but aims to inform future policy through a comprehensive review.

Maddy summaryHR 259 is a Pennsylvania House resolution designating August 24, 2025, as "Ukrainian Independence Day" in the state. It commemorates Ukraine's 1991 declaration of independence from the Soviet Union and acknowledges Pennsylvania's defense contributions, including munitions support for Ukraine. The resolution urges the U.S. President and Congress to maintain support for Ukraine amid Russia's ongoing invasion. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or directly affect individuals.