Rep. Joe Hohenstein

Maddy summaryHB 75 amends Pennsylvania's Osteopathic Medical Practice Act to update the definition of "primary supervising physician" to include medical doctors (MDs) licensed by the State Board of Medicine, alongside osteopathic physicians (DOs). This change allows physician assistants to have either an MD or a DO as their primary supervising physician under a written agreement, expanding oversight options beyond current restrictions. The amendment takes effect 60 days after enactment and does not alter other provisions of the law.

Maddy summaryHB 76 amends Pennsylvania's Medical Practice Act of 1985 to update two key definitions: it revises the term "doctor of osteopathy" to reference the State Board of Osteopathic Medicine (replacing outdated language) and clarifies that a "primary supervising physician" for physician assistants must be licensed by either the State Board of Medicine or the State Board of Osteopathic Medicine. This change directly affects osteopathic doctors, physician assistants, and the licensing boards by aligning the law with current regulatory structures. The bill makes no substantive changes to medical practice rules but ensures definitions accurately reflect the oversight bodies responsible for licensing. It takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 426, the Native Habitats at Commonwealth Facilities Act, requires Pennsylvania state agencies to prioritize native plants (untreated with systemic insecticides) in landscape projects at state facilities. Agencies must consider environmental benefits like supporting pollinators, reducing soil erosion, and conserving water when planning such projects. The bill defines a "pollinator meadow" as an area with at least 50% native wildflowers, including milkweed seed, and protected from insecticides. This applies to Commonwealth agencies (e.g., state departments and offices) but excludes judicial and legislative bodies, and also sets duties for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources regarding pollinator habitats.

Maddy summaryHB 138 amends Pennsylvania laws governing adoption proceedings and juvenile cases. It changes the legal grounds for ending parental rights before an adoption petition is filed and updates how courts handle children deemed dependent (in need of care). The bill specifically targets procedures in domestic relations (Title 23) and court processes (Title 42) related to these cases. No specific new provisions or changes are detailed in the provided context beyond the title's description of its scope. The bill is currently under review by the Children & Youth committee.

Maddy summaryHB 133 amends Pennsylvania's adoption laws to change how birth parents can legally give up parental rights before an adoption petition is filed. It creates an alternative process for relinquishment to adoptive adults and clarifies procedures for terminating parental rights involuntarily. The bill also adds a specific mechanism for parents to seek reinstatement of their rights after relinquishment. This directly affects birth parents, prospective adoptive parents, and children involved in adoption proceedings under Pennsylvania law.

Maddy summaryHB 1117 amends Pennsylvania's 1929 Administrative Code to redefine the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs' responsibilities for addressing substance use disorders. The department must now develop a comprehensive State plan coordinating prevention, treatment, research, and education across all state agencies and local communities - including health, law enforcement, education, and workforce sectors - to avoid duplication. The plan requires annual review and updates, and mandates the department to provide assistance to local governments while collaborating with medical professionals on drug use guidelines. This change formalizes existing coordination efforts under a unified framework, directly affecting state agencies and local entities managing substance use disorder services.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates September 2026 as "Baby Safety Month" in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about infant safety. The measure encourages parents to follow safety guidelines, such as properly assembling cribs, checking product age ratings, and maintaining constant supervision. As a symbolic resolution, it does not create new laws or alter existing regulations but serves to highlight the importance of creating safe environments for children.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates September 2026 as "Newborn Screening Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania to highlight the importance of early health testing for infants. The bill does not alter any laws or change how screening is conducted; instead, it serves as a symbolic gesture to encourage public awareness among parents, healthcare providers, and the community. By recognizing this month, the House of Representatives aims to promote education about newborn screening programs that detect rare but serious conditions.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance plans in Pennsylvania to credit money that policyholders spend on prescription drugs toward their annual out-of-pocket maximums. The law applies to anyone enrolled in a health benefit plan who pays directly for medications at a pharmacy or through a discount program, regardless of whether the pharmacy has a contract with the insurer. To receive this credit, individuals must submit proof of purchase, and the credit counts toward deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for the year the expense was incurred. The legislation also establishes a process for insurers to submit regulations and outlines penalties for failing to comply with these new requirements.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the week of August 2 through 8, 2026, as "National Health Center Week" throughout Pennsylvania to honor the work of community health centers. These facilities provide low-cost primary care to uninsured and underinsured residents, particularly in rural areas and health care deserts. The bill serves as a commemorative measure to raise awareness about the essential role these centers play in delivering affordable health services and supporting local economies. It does not alter any laws or funding but aims to celebrate the contributions of health professionals and staff at these clinics.