Maddy summaryThis resolution directs Pennsylvania's Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study wild native terrestrial invertebrate management - including bees, butterflies, worms, and beetles - and issue a report. The study will evaluate existing state laws (like the Conservation and Natural Resources Act of 1995), compare other states' conservation approaches, and assess the ecological and economic value of these species (noting their $250+ million annual contribution to agriculture through pollination). It does not create new laws but aims to clarify agency responsibilities and identify gaps in conservation efforts. The report will inform future policy decisions affecting state agencies like DCNR, the Department of Agriculture, and wildlife commissions.
Rep. Joe Hohenstein
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 72 amends Pennsylvania's 1951 Landlord and Tenant Act to create new protections for tenants facing domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking. It defines "eligible tenants" as those who are victims themselves or have an immediate family/household member (living with them or within 1,000 feet) who is a victim of these specific violent acts. The bill requires landlords to provide safety options like changing locks or relocating tenants without penalty upon verification from an "attesting third party" (such as a police officer or victim advocate). This directly affects renters in these situations by ensuring they aren't unfairly evicted or penalized for seeking safety due to violence.
Maddy summaryThis resolution formally designates May 2025 as Guillain-Barré Syndrome Awareness Month within the state of Pennsylvania. The measure aims to increase public understanding of this rare autoimmune condition, which causes the immune system to attack peripheral nerves and can lead to muscle paralysis. By highlighting the disease's symptoms, causes, and treatment options, the bill encourages greater attention to research and care for those affected. This action does not change laws or allocate funding but serves to promote awareness through official state recognition.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance policies and government programs in Pennsylvania to cover behavioral health services for children involved in the juvenile justice system. It mandates that insurers provide funding for screenings, assessments, and treatments related to mental health conditions and substance use disorders during specific legal proceedings, such as mandatory intake conferences and informal adjustments. The legislation also establishes clear definitions for terms like "behavioral health provider" and "screening" to ensure consistent application of these coverage requirements. By integrating mental health support into the juvenile justice process, the bill aims to address the needs of youth facing delinquency charges while maintaining a neutral focus on policy implementation.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 2026 as "Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month" in Pennsylvania to increase public understanding of the Sikh faith and honor the community's contributions. The resolution aims to reduce anti-Sikh prejudice and bullying by highlighting Sikh history, values, and charitable work within the state. By officially recognizing the month, the bill seeks to foster a more inclusive environment and educate residents about Sikh culture and practices.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 6, 2026, as "German American Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the state's historical German heritage and its ongoing relationship with Germany. The measure highlights key milestones, such as the founding of Germantown in 1683 and the significant role German immigrants played in the state's early development and economy. By officially recognizing this date, the House of Representatives aims to celebrate the contributions of the 2.6 million Pennsylvanians with German ancestry and the strong trade ties between the two nations.
Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates October 2026 as "Polish American Heritage Month" to honor the state's Polish American community. The bill highlights historical milestones, such as the arrival of Polish settlers in Jamestown, and celebrates notable figures like General Casimir Pulaski and Marie Curie. It serves as a commemorative measure to recognize cultural contributions and does not create new laws or funding.
Maddy summaryThis resolution directs Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to study current diversion programs and recommend improvements or new programs. It requires the commission to examine barriers to existing programs, analyze successful models from other states, and provide a report to the House within one year. Diversion programs - which offer alternatives to incarceration for low-level offenses, mental health crises, or substance use issues - would be the focus of this review. The resolution does not create new law but aims to inform future policy changes.
Maddy summaryHB 99 amends Pennsylvania criminal law to change sentencing for murder (including murder of an unborn child or law enforcement officer), clarify arson and property destruction offenses, and update appellate procedures. It establishes direct appeals from common pleas courts for certain cases, adds requirements for postconviction DNA testing, and removes outdated procedures for execution warrants. The bill directly affects courts, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and individuals convicted of crimes covered under the amended statutes. These changes aim to standardize sentencing and legal processes without altering current penalties or introducing new criminal charges.
Maddy summaryHB 1278 amends Pennsylvania's Election Code to require candidates for state, local, and federal offices (including U.S. Congress) to submit a written statement (replacing the prior "affidavit" requirement) instead of an affidavit. This statement must include specific details like the candidate's residence, election district, office sought, eligibility confirmation, commitment to election laws, and awareness of campaign finance reporting rules. The bill updates penalties for false statements to reference Pennsylvania's unsworn falsification statute (18 Pa.C.S. § 4904), applying to all candidates filing nomination documents. It directly affects every candidate submitting paperwork for election in Pennsylvania, including those running for county, city, school board, or federal positions.