Rep. Missy Cerrato

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution officially designates September 2024 as Alopecia Areata Awareness Month to highlight the condition affecting millions of people with autoimmune-related hair loss. The measure does not alter laws or funding but serves to raise public awareness about the disease's various forms, its impact on patients' emotional well-being, and ongoing research efforts. By encouraging Pennsylvanians to learn more about the condition, the bill aims to reduce stigma and support community events dedicated to the cause.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania laws to clarify how public utilities value water and wastewater systems they purchase from other companies. It allows the buying utility to include the system's depreciated original cost in its rate calculations immediately after the deal closes or in its first rate filing. The law also requires that any difference between the new system's value and the seller's previous rate base be spread evenly over the next three rate cases. These changes directly affect public utility companies in Pennsylvania and the rates they charge customers for water and wastewater services.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania laws to set a strict six-month deadline for the Public Utility Commission to issue final decisions on applications regarding the valuation of water and wastewater systems acquired by public utilities. The change directly affects utility companies seeking to determine the value of these assets and the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the process. By removing the previous language that allowed for extensions, the legislation ensures a faster timeline for resolving these specific valuation cases. The act takes effect immediately upon passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new rules for how Pennsylvania municipalities must sell their water and sewer systems to other public utilities. It requires the selling municipality to issue a formal request for proposals, advertise the sale in local newspapers, and provide residents with rate estimates from approved actuaries before a final decision is made. The acquiring utility must also notify its customers about the deal and any potential rate increases, while the state commission is mandated to hold at least two public hearings to review the transaction. These procedures aim to ensure transparency and protect consumers during the acquisition of public water and wastewater infrastructure.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's child custody laws by refining the specific factors judges must consider when deciding custody arrangements. It places a strong emphasis on evaluating the safety of the child, particularly regarding past abuse, the risk of future harm, and any attempts by a parent to turn the child against the other parent. The legislation also clarifies how courts should weigh a child's own preferences based on their maturity and assesses practical issues like parental work schedules, proximity of homes, and the ability to meet the child's daily needs. These changes aim to provide clearer guidance for courts in determining the best interests of the child during custody disputes.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act to update definitions regarding construction work. Specifically, it adds "rebar system assembly" to the list of covered activities while removing the phrase "or smaller prefabricated components" from the definition of prefabricated components. These changes clarify which specific tasks and materials are subject to prevailing wage requirements for public projects. The bill also outlines updated duties for the Secretary of Labor and Industry in enforcing these provisions.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill creates a new verification system to ensure construction contractors are properly vetted before working on projects. It requires all contractors to apply for a verification number from the Attorney General's office, which must be displayed on their advertisements and contracts. The law establishes a dedicated account to fund this process and sets up a public online list where consumers can check a contractor's status and expiration date. While most contractors must undergo this new verification, those already registered under the existing Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act are exempt. The bill also defines specific rules for penalties and outlines the detailed information businesses must provide during the application process.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates the week of September 23 through 29, 2024, as "Diaper Need Awareness Week" to highlight the shortage of disposable diapers for children and incontinent adults. The measure aims to draw public attention to the financial burden families face, noting that many must cut back on essentials like food to afford these necessities. Additionally, the resolution formally recognizes the work of Pennsylvania's 10 diaper banks and encourages residents to support community organizations through donations and participation in diaper drives.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a five-year pilot program to provide funding for restoring school libraries in Pennsylvania's low-achieving schools. Eligible schools can receive grants of up to $170,000 to purchase books, digital resources, and technology, as well as to hire or train certified school librarians. The Department of Education will select at least 12 schools representing diverse student demographics to participate, and the program requires annual reporting and an independent evaluation to assess its impact on student performance.

Maddy summaryThis bill allocates money from the State Lottery Fund to the Department of Aging in Pennsylvania for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The specific funding supports programs like PennCARE, which provide services such as community care, protective services, and counseling for older adults and other seniors. It adds to existing state appropriations and takes effect immediately to cover expenses starting July 1, 2024.