Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz

Maddy summaryHB 1677 prohibits Pennsylvania government entities from taking action against parents, legal custodians, or guardians who provide minors with medically accurate and medically appropriate information or evidence-based medical services. It specifically protects these adults from being deemed to have committed child abuse when acting in this manner. The bill defines key terms like "medically accurate" (supported by peer-reviewed research or major medical organizations) and "evidence-based" (using current best medical practices). This law applies broadly to all minors' healthcare decisions, not limited to specific identities, and takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 615 expands legal protection for individuals and organizations donating food to charities by strengthening the existing Donated Food Limited Liability Act. It directly affects food donors (like grocery stores, farms, and businesses) and food banks/receiving organizations by shielding them from liability claims if donated food causes harm - unless the donor acted with gross negligence. The key provision clarifies that donors cannot be sued for injuries related to donated food, provided they followed safety standards. This policy change aims to encourage more food donations by reducing legal risks for donors.

Maddy summaryHB 261 amends Pennsylvania's 1921 Insurance Company Law to update coverage rules for dependents and clarify community health definitions. It requires insurers to continue health coverage for unmarried children with intellectual or physical disabilities (who became disabled before age 19 and remain dependent) past age 19, provided policyholders submit proof within 31 days of the child's 19th birthday. The bill also revises "community health reinvestment activity" to explicitly include programs for preventing/treating intellectual disabilities and mental health services. These changes apply to policies issued after January 1, 1968, affecting insurers, employers offering group plans, and policyholders with disabled dependents. The law took effect immediately upon signing in June 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1103 updates Pennsylvania's mortgage lending rules under Title 7, focusing on licensing requirements and consumer protections for mortgage lenders. It clarifies definitions for mortgage loan industry terms and specifies the powers that licensed mortgage businesses can exercise. The bill directly affects mortgage lenders (who must comply with revised licensing standards) and borrowers (who gain clearer protections under the updated rules). Key changes include streamlining licensing procedures and strengthening safeguards against predatory lending practices.

Maddy summaryHB 378 amends Pennsylvania's child custody laws by adding new factors judges must consider when determining custody arrangements. The bill explicitly requires courts to weigh specific elements, such as the child's adjustment to home, school, and community, alongside existing considerations. This change directly affects judges presiding over custody cases and parents involved in those proceedings. The law became effective immediately upon the governor's approval on June 30, 2025 (Act No. 11 of 2025).

Maddy summaryHB 304 amends Pennsylvania's military affairs statutes (Title 51) to add specific provisions for veterans who served in the Korean War. The bill directly affects Korean War veterans by formally including them under state military affairs codes, ensuring they are covered by relevant statutes. It updates existing law through a new statutory provision within Title 51, creating a clear legal framework for their recognition or benefits. The bill was enacted as Act No. 10 of 2025 on June 30, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 211 amends the 1996 Medical Foods Insurance Coverage Act to clarify and update the policy statement regarding insurance coverage for medical foods. It does not change coverage requirements but refines the legislative declaration of policy for insurers. This procedural amendment affects health insurance providers and patients relying on medical food coverage under existing law. The bill was enacted as Act No. 8 of 2025 after passing both chambers and receiving gubernatorial approval.

Maddy summaryHB 209 amends the Second Class Township Code (specifically provisions related to ordinances) for second-class townships in Pennsylvania. It updates how these local governments may create, adopt, or manage ordinances. The bill directly affects second-class townships and their governing bodies. The bill was enacted as Act No. 3 of 2025 after receiving final approval from the governor on June 27, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 355 amends Pennsylvania's criminal code to strengthen protections for minors by updating the offenses of "corruption of minors" and "unlawful contact with minor." The bill specifically targets adults who exploit or sexually exploit minors through interactions like grooming or inappropriate contact, making these acts clearer and more severe under state law. It directly affects minors (ages 12-17) and adults who engage in prohibited conduct with them, including online interactions. The law increases penalties for these offenses by clarifying prohibited behaviors and strengthening sentencing guidelines, now effective as Act No. 5 of 2025.

Maddy summaryHR 173 is a non-binding resolution urging Congress to establish a National Infrastructure Bank. It does not create new laws or funding but formally requests Congress take action to create this bank, which would provide financing for infrastructure projects. The resolution directly affects Congress itself, as it calls on the legislative body to initiate this specific action. This is a procedural measure with no immediate policy impact, as it only expresses a recommendation.