Rep. Melissa Shusterman

Maddy summaryHB 2067 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to clarify emergency powers for school boards during unforeseen crises. It allows boards to temporarily adjust school schedules (reducing daily hours or total days), shift to virtual learning, or furlough nonessential staff - subject to approval by the Secretary of Education and a maximum 4-year duration. The bill specifically enables districts to declare emergencies if the state budget isn't enacted within 60 days of a new fiscal year. This directly affects all Pennsylvania public school districts facing unexpected disruptions to normal operations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution condemns any threats of political violence against elected officials, specifically referencing recent public statements interpreted as threatening lawmakers who uphold constitutional duties. It reaffirms that military personnel must refuse unlawful orders under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), citing Articles 90-92 and the Nuremberg Principles. The resolution has no legal effect but symbolically urges compliance with the UCMJ and rejects intimidation tactics targeting representatives. It directs copies to the President, Defense Secretary, and Pennsylvania's congressional delegation. As a symbolic statement, it does not alter laws or directly affect any group beyond expressing legislative concern.

Maddy summaryHB 439 amends Pennsylvania's Human Relations Act to explicitly define "race" as including hair texture and protective hairstyles (such as locs, braids, or afros), and "religious creed" as including head coverings or hairstyles tied to religious practice. Employers cannot prohibit these features unless they prove the rule is necessary for health/safety, non-discriminatory, job-specific, and applied equally. The law does not prevent employers from enforcing general safety rules or anti-harassment policies that apply fairly across all employees. This directly affects employers and employees in Pennsylvania workplaces by clarifying protections against discrimination related to appearance.

Maddy summaryHB 1894 amends Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to update the LIFE Program, which supports aging residents. The bill specifically addresses provisions related to the "aged" (seniors) and includes a repeal provision, though the exact nature of the repeal is not detailed in the provided context. It directly affects seniors enrolled in or eligible for the LIFE Program under Pennsylvania's human services system. The bill passed final passage on November 17, 2025, and was referred to the Aging & Youth committee for further consideration. (Note: Specific mechanisms or policy changes beyond the title's reference to "further providing for LIFE Program" are not described in the provided context.)

Maddy summaryHB 1176 amends Pennsylvania's intestate succession laws (when someone dies without a will) to adjust how assets are distributed to non-spouse relatives, such as children or parents. It specifically modifies the shares allocated to these individuals beyond the surviving spouse's portion. The bill also updates procedures for payments to family members and funeral directors during estate administration. These changes directly affect Pennsylvania residents who die without a will and their non-spouse heirs. The law became effective upon the Governor's approval on November 24, 2025 (Act No. 50 of 2025).

Maddy summaryHB 1528 establishes the Grand-family Assistance Program to provide financial support to grandparents and other relatives raising grandchildren. It creates a dedicated fund to make regular payments to local area agencies on aging, which will administer the program and assist eligible families. The bill requires the Department of Aging to manage the program and oversee fund distribution, ensuring direct support reaches affected relatives caring for children. This policy change directly affects grandfamilies and local aging services agencies through structured financial aid and administrative responsibilities.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates December 3, 2025, as "10th Anniversary of Women In Combat Day" within Pennsylvania. It commemorates the 10th anniversary of the policy change allowing women to serve in combat roles, specifically referencing the 2015 Department of Defense decision. The resolution does not create new laws or allocate funding; it is a ceremonial designation for Pennsylvania residents and state institutions. It was adopted by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on November 19, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 2058 would amend Pennsylvania's Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act to establish a regulatory framework for kratom. This bill would directly affect businesses selling kratom products and consumers who use it by subjecting kratom to new state regulations. Key provisions would include setting product safety standards, labeling requirements, and distribution rules for kratom under the existing drug regulation system. The bill aims to bring kratom under the state's formal regulatory structure without banning its use.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates November 2025 as "Care at Home Month" in Pennsylvania. It symbolically recognizes home care services and providers supporting Pennsylvania residents, particularly older adults and individuals needing in-home assistance. As a commemorative resolution (not a law with new requirements or funding), it has no direct regulatory or financial impact but aims to raise awareness of home care. The resolution was adopted by the Pennsylvania legislature on November 19, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 2034 creates the Mushroom Farming and Composting Fund within Pennsylvania's Department of Agriculture to support mushroom farmers and composting businesses. The bill requires the Department to manage the fund, which will provide financial assistance for mushroom farming operations and composting initiatives. It directly affects mushroom growers and composting businesses by establishing a dedicated funding source for their industry. The key policy change is the creation of this new fund, replacing any existing mechanisms for supporting these specific agricultural activities.