Rep. Bob Freeman

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the ability for various organizations in Pennsylvania, such as colleges, sports leagues, restaurants, and law enforcement agencies, to legally obtain and use epinephrine auto-injectors for people experiencing severe allergic reactions. It allows health care providers to prescribe these devices to these entities and designates specific staff members who have completed required training to store and administer them. The legislation also provides legal protection from liability for these organizations and trained individuals who use the devices in good faith, while clarifying that administering the medication does not constitute the practice of medicine. Additionally, the bill mandates that day-care facilities provide informational materials to parents about allergy symptoms and the new rules regarding auto-injectors.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's consumer protection laws to strictly regulate automatic renewal clauses and negative option plans in consumer transactions. It requires sellers to clearly disclose renewal terms in bold, twelve-point text and mandates that consumers receive advance notice via their chosen communication method before any charges are applied. Additionally, the law prohibits charging a customer's financial account unless the seller obtains explicit, affirmative consent for the renewal, while also setting limits on the length of introductory trial periods. These changes directly affect businesses offering subscription services and consumers who sign up for recurring payments, aiming to increase transparency and prevent unauthorized charges.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Vital Statistics Law to clarify the fees charged for certified copies of vital records. It ensures that no fees are required for these copies when requested by active-duty military personnel, their dependents, or the families of service members who died or were honorably discharged. The change specifically applies to members of the armed forces, including the National Guard, and their eligible family members. The new fee exemption takes effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new state program to provide insurance and financial assistance for property damage caused by landslides and subsidence resulting from coal and clay mining. It creates a dedicated insurance board and fund to administer coverage for homeowners and businesses in affected areas, particularly in southwestern Pennsylvania. The legislation outlines how premiums will be set, how claims will be processed, and how the program will be funded through an insurance fund and a separate assistance fund. Additionally, the bill assigns oversight duties to the Auditor General and allows insurance companies to offer coverage for these specific risks.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code to create a new program offering tax credits for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of specific factory and mill buildings. To qualify, a building must be at least 75% vacant for two years, have been constructed before 1973, and undergo substantial repairs costing at least 20% of its market value. The Department of Community and Economic Development will oversee the certification process, working with municipalities to identify eligible structures and verifying that owners spend the funds strictly on approved improvements. Once a building is certified, businesses operating there can receive a business tax credit if they meet certain criteria, such as maintaining a workforce larger than the previous year. The legislation aims to revitalize older industrial sites by providing financial incentives for their repair and reuse.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the composition of the State Planning Board by replacing the previous appointment structure with a new system involving legislative leadership. Under the proposed changes, the board would include fifteen members appointed by the Governor, six ex officio members from various state departments, and four members appointed by the Senate and House leaders. The four legislative appointees would be selected by the Majority and Minority Leaders of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, ensuring representation from different political parties. This amendment aims to reorganize how the board is formed to better reflect the interests of the state's legislative branches.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution designates the week of October 13 through 19, 2024, as "Credit Union Week" to recognize the role of credit unions in the state. The measure highlights how these financial cooperatives provide low-cost services and financial education to over 5.3 million members across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. By officially naming this time period, the resolution aims to raise awareness about credit unions' commitment to community service and member advancement. The text is a ceremonial designation that does not alter laws or create new regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that designates December 14, 2024, as "Wreaths Across America Day" in Pennsylvania. It honors the organization's mission of placing wreaths on the graves of military veterans and fallen service members at cemeteries nationwide. The resolution calls on residents to reflect on the sacrifices of these individuals and their families during the holiday season. As a commemorative measure, the bill does not alter laws or create new programs but serves to recognize a specific date for remembrance.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Health Insurance Access Protection Act to prevent insurance companies from discriminating against people based on their health status, medical history, or preexisting conditions. It requires insurers to allow individuals and their dependents to enroll in or renew health plans without denying coverage or charging higher premiums due to these health factors. The law also limits how much insurance rates can vary based on age and tobacco use while giving the Insurance Department authority to set specific rating rules and enforce penalties for violations.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's insurance laws to expand health coverage for adult children of policyholders. It requires health insurance policies to keep covering children up to age 26 without denying them based on factors like marital status, residency, or employment. Additionally, the law allows insurers to offer continued coverage until age 29 for unmarried adult children who are full-time students or residents, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements. These changes primarily affect individuals purchasing or renewing health insurance plans and the insurance companies that issue them.