Maddy summaryThis bill requires electric utilities in Pennsylvania to include specific information about their energy storage plans in their annual reports to the state commission. Specifically, the law mandates that these companies provide an assessment of how they use energy storage, including data on how quickly they can charge and discharge power under different economic conditions. The definitions clarify that energy storage refers to equipment that absorbs, holds, and releases electricity, while charge and discharge times measure the duration of these processes. This requirement is designed to give regulators better insight into how utilities plan to manage future electricity demand using storage technology. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.
Rep. Joe Hohenstein
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution that formally recognizes June 2026 as Caribbean-American Heritage Month in Pennsylvania. It directly affects state residents and officials by encouraging them to honor the contributions of Caribbean Americans during that month. The resolution cites the historical significance of Caribbean heritage and the positive impact of Caribbean Americans on the nation and the Commonwealth. As a commemorative measure, it does not create new laws or change policies, but rather serves to acknowledge and celebrate cultural contributions.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that officially recognizes September 2026 as 'International Underground Railroad Month' within Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or change how the state operates, but rather serves as a formal acknowledgment of the state's historical role in the Underground Railroad network. The resolution honors the individuals who helped enslaved people escape to freedom and highlights the significance of related historical sites across the Commonwealth.
Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates July 20, 2026, as Colombian Independence Day within the state. The measure honors Colombia's 1810 struggle for freedom from Spanish rule and highlights historical connections between Philadelphia and the Colombian independence movement, including the city's role in spreading revolutionary ideas and hosting diplomatic representatives. By officially recognizing the date, the resolution acknowledges the sacrifices made during the independence wars and celebrates the contributions of the Colombian community living in Pennsylvania today.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that designates July 5, 2026, as "Venezuelan Independence Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the nation's 1811 declaration of independence from Spain. The text highlights historical connections between Philadelphia and the Venezuelan independence movement, noting that the city has long served as a hub for revolutionary ideas and hosts a statue gifted by Venezuela. Additionally, the resolution acknowledges the current Venezuelan community in the state, which numbers over 6,500 residents. As a symbolic measure, the bill does not alter laws or policies but serves to recognize historical ties and celebrate cultural heritage.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates September 25, 2026, as "Chuseok Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the Korean harvest festival. The resolution acknowledges the cultural significance of Chuseok, which celebrates family, gratitude, and heritage, while recognizing the contributions of Korean Americans to the state. By officially recognizing this date, the measure aims to promote cultural diversity and civic engagement within the Commonwealth. This action serves as a commemorative gesture rather than establishing a new public holiday or altering existing laws.
Maddy summaryThis bill allows local governments in Pennsylvania to automatically permit battery storage systems as accessory uses on land already approved for commercial solar projects. Under the new rules, these storage units must be located within the same property boundaries and have a capacity that does not exceed the solar facility's generating capacity. Once approved, the storage systems do not require additional special permits or land use approvals, though they must still follow all existing safety and fire codes. The legislation also clarifies that adding battery storage does not change any financial terms or tax exemptions associated with the original solar facility.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires individuals receiving state assistance to appear in court to establish paternity and secure child support payments when a responsible relative is absent or a potential father is involved. It creates an exception to this requirement for nonparent relatives, such as grandparents, who can choose not to cooperate if the child's parent has specific issues like addiction, incarceration, or death. The legislation defines these nonparent relatives as blood relatives within a certain degree of kinship and allows them to verify their situation through a self-attestation form. If a recipient fails to cooperate without valid reasons, the department may withhold assistance until they comply with the support enforcement process.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania vehicle laws to clarify how the Department of Transportation handles personal documents submitted for identity or residency verification. It establishes that these specific documents are exempt from public inspection under the state's Right-to-Know Law, with exceptions only for criminal subpoenas, court orders, or certified law enforcement requests addressing immediate emergencies. The legislation explicitly states that immigration enforcement does not qualify as an exigent circumstance, thereby preventing the department from sharing such private records for immigration purposes.
Maddy summaryHB 1961 authorizes Pennsylvania to join the PA Licensure Compact, a mutual recognition agreement with other states. This would allow licensed professionals (like nurses, teachers, and contractors) in participating states to practice across state lines without obtaining separate licenses in each state. The bill establishes the legal framework for Pennsylvania’s participation and outlines responsibilities for the Governor and Secretary of the Commonwealth. The bill passed the House on November 17, 2025, and is now under review by the Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure committee.