Rep. Steve Samuelson

Maddy summaryHB 1032 establishes a new grant program called Solar for Schools to fund solar energy projects at educational institutions. The bill also creates a legal framework requiring owners of solar facilities on leased land to provide financial guarantees that cover the cost of removing the equipment when it stops producing electricity. These financial assurances must remain in place even if the facility is sold to a new owner, ensuring that the original landowner is protected. Additionally, the legislation authorizes the Department of Community and Economic Development to manage these grants and outlines specific rules for solar agreements to prevent future cleanup costs from falling on property owners.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Fair Contracting for Health Care Practitioners Act, prohibits employers from enforcing noncompete agreements that restrict health care practitioners from working in Pennsylvania. It declares such contracts void if signed on or after the law takes effect, and invalidates older agreements when a practitioner renews their license or certification. While the law bans restrictions on where doctors can work, it still allows employers to recover certain relocation and training costs over a five-year period. Additionally, the bill requires employers to notify patients within 90 days of a doctor's departure, explaining whether the practitioner will remain in the area or be replaced. The legislation also mandates a study by the Health Care Cost Containment Council to further examine these issues.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the existing Pharmacy Audit Integrity and Transparency Act to refine how pharmacy audits and fees are handled. It clarifies that certain insurance supplements are excluded from specific terms and changes the notice period for additional fees from the time of claim adjudication to thirty days before the fees are applied. The legislation also updates definitions to refer to "generic" drugs instead of "general" ones and expands the scope of federal employee benefit protections. Additionally, it adjusts reporting requirements for pharmacy benefit managers and the state agency overseeing these audits.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill establishes a new program to manage the collection and recycling of portable batteries, directly affecting manufacturers and retailers who sell these products in the state. It requires producers to create Battery Stewardship Plans that outline how they will collect used batteries, fund recycling efforts, and educate the public on proper disposal methods. The legislation defines specific battery types that must be included in the program, such as small rechargeable and primary batteries, while excluding larger batteries used in electric vehicles or solar power systems. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Environmental Protection oversee the program, enforce performance standards, and impose penalties on those who fail to comply with the new rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's historic preservation tax credit program by increasing the annual funding limit from $5 million to $20 million. It allows the Department of Community and Economic Development to award these tax credits on a first-come, first-served basis if the full amount is not claimed during the initial application window. The changes apply to fiscal years starting after June 30, 2025, and take effect immediately, providing more financial incentives for property owners and developers to restore historic buildings.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill creates a new Alzheimer's, Dementia and Related Disorders Office within the Department of Aging to coordinate state efforts for people affected by these conditions. The office will oversee existing programs, identify service gaps, manage grants, and update the state's strategic plan every five years based on expert advice. To support this work, the law also establishes a large advisory committee made up of government officials, healthcare providers, researchers, and individuals with personal experience caring for those with dementia. This committee will guide the office's activities, review progress, and ensure that the state's approach remains current and effective.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Keystone Fresh Program to increase the amount of locally grown food served in Pennsylvania school meals. It establishes a grant system administered by the Departments of Education and Agriculture to reimburse school districts for purchasing local fruits, vegetables, grains, and other minimally processed foods. The program prioritizes funding for schools that source from veteran farmers, socially disadvantaged groups, new farmers, or those using sustainable agriculture techniques. A separate fund is also created to support the administration of these initiatives, aiming to improve child nutrition and provide economic benefits to local producers.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania resolution designates July 19, 2024, as "Parks and Recreation Professionals Day" to honor the workers who maintain local parks and recreation facilities. The bill does not create new laws or change funding; instead, it serves as a symbolic gesture to recognize the contributions of these professionals to community health and environmental well-being. By adopting this designation, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives acknowledges the role of parks in promoting physical activity, mental wellness, and economic prosperity for residents.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Pennsylvania colleges and universities to clearly explain all mandatory fees students must pay, such as enrollment or incidental charges. Institutions must list these fees, along with their purpose and how the money will be spent, on their public websites and student portals before the fees are charged. Additionally, schools must report the total amount collected and how those funds were used to the state Department of Education by November 15 each year. The law applies to both public state schools and private accredited institutions operating in Pennsylvania.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs Pennsylvania's Human Services department to apply for a federal waiver that would allow SNAP and WIC benefit recipients to use their funds to buy diapers or menstrual hygiene products. The legislation authorizes the department to adopt necessary rules once the USDA approves the waiver, ensuring the state can participate in this potential program change. It does not immediately change how benefits are used but establishes the legal framework to implement such a waiver if federal approval is granted.