Rep. Nancy Guenst

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the Municipal Code and Ordinance Compliance Act by removing language that previously allowed landlords to withhold rent. The change directly affects tenants and landlords by eliminating the specific provision that authorized rent withholding as a remedy. Consequently, the bill alters the legal framework for tenant protections without adding new rights or obligations.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies in Pennsylvania to create violence prevention committees to address workplace violence against employees. These committees must include a mix of management, union or elected non-union staff, and direct care workers who will conduct annual risk assessments, track incidents, and develop safety plans. The legislation also mandates that employees report violence within 24 hours, protects reporters from retaliation, and requires facilities to make risk reports public while maintaining records for at least three years. Health facilities that fail to comply with these new reporting and prevention duties face administrative fines of up to $10,000 per violation.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 18, 2024, as "Lineworker Appreciation Day" to honor the electrical workers in Pennsylvania who maintain the state's power grid. The resolution acknowledges the dangerous and essential work these lineworkers perform to ensure electricity is delivered reliably to homes and businesses. It does not create new laws or change regulations but serves as a formal expression of gratitude from the House of Representatives.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution designates October 10, 2024, as the "National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan)" within the state. The measure formally acknowledges Taiwan's cultural diversity, democratic values, and economic significance, particularly its role in global semiconductor supply chains. By citing the Taiwan Relations Act and existing state-level trade partnerships, the bill highlights the long-standing relationship between Pennsylvania and Taiwan. Ultimately, this is a commemorative action that recognizes the date as a celebration of Taiwan's societal achievements and its contribution to peace and stability.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates September 28, 2024, as National Hunting and Fishing Day within Pennsylvania. It serves as a ceremonial acknowledgment of the state's long history of hunting and fishing traditions and highlights the economic contributions of outdoor recreation to the local economy. The document does not alter any laws or regulations but instead celebrates the role of hunters and anglers in wildlife conservation and funding management agencies.

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 bill requires manufacturers of digital electronic equipment to provide owners and independent repair shops with the necessary documentation, parts, and tools for maintenance and repair on fair and reasonable terms. The legislation specifically expands the definition of covered equipment to include security and life safety systems such as fire alarms, medical alert devices, intrusion detection systems, and access control tools. Additionally, the bill prohibits individuals from replacing batteries in residential smoke detectors, likely to ensure safety standards are maintained. These changes aim to facilitate independent repair options while addressing specific safety concerns related to critical home systems.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to authorize the creation of school-based health centers within public and private schools. These centers must remain open during school hours and cannot refuse care based on a student's ability to pay, insurance status, or existing primary care provider. Services are determined by school boards based on student demographics and needs, with strict requirements for parental consent and data confidentiality. The legislation also mandates the establishment of a statewide advisory council to oversee program operations and requires the Department of Health to collect usage and demographic data once funding is available.

Maddy summaryAlina's Law establishes a new Domestic Violence Prevention and Services Program administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to provide grants to county district attorneys' offices. These funds are intended to support the creation and distribution of educational materials, crisis hotlines, safe shelters, and other resources for victims of domestic violence. The bill also introduces a specific type of electronic monitoring device that allows authorities to track a defendant's location via GPS while enforcing protection orders, ensuring the device cannot be removed without alerting police. Additionally, the legislation creates a dedicated fund to finance these initiatives and requires the commission to develop application processes and report on the program's activities.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania real property laws to prevent homeowners and condominium owners from being blocked by deed restrictions or community rules from installing solar energy systems on their detached roofs or townhouse units. It establishes clear definitions for "solar energy systems" and "detached roofs" to ensure these protections apply to the correct types of residential properties. While the law prohibits outright bans, it allows homeowners' associations to set reasonable regulations regarding safety, aesthetics, and certification to maintain community standards. The changes take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted, giving communities time to update their governing documents.