Rep. Keith Harris

Maddy summaryHB 363 designates Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha as official observances within the Commonwealth. The bill requires state agencies to recognize these dates annually for purposes of ceremonial observance, such as public acknowledgments or non-binding acknowledgments in government communications. It directly affects state government operations by mandating this recognition but does not create new legal holidays or alter work schedules. The bill is procedural in nature, focusing solely on formal acknowledgment of these religious observances.

Maddy summaryHB 1859 proposed changes to Pennsylvania's firearm laws, targeting individuals prohibited from possessing firearms (such as those under extreme risk protection orders) and establishing rules for safely surrendering firearms. It added provisions for "extreme risk protection orders" (court orders to temporarily remove firearms from high-risk individuals), clarified restrictions on firearm possession, and required the Attorney General to create a system for reporting firearm abandonment. The bill also updated procedures for community courts and imposed penalties for violations, but it was defeated in final passage on September 30, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates September 4, 2025, as "Taekwondo Grandmasters Appreciation Day" in Pennsylvania. It symbolically recognizes taekwondo grandmasters - highly experienced practitioners - and their contributions to promoting the martial art's physical, mental, and cultural benefits across the state. The bill contains no new laws, funding, or obligations; it is purely a ceremonial acknowledgment. The resolution was adopted by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on September 29, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1888 establishes a Statewide Advisory Council on Playground Safety to develop safety guidelines and make recommendations for public playgrounds across Pennsylvania. The council will consist of appointed experts in child safety and recreation, with duties including annual reporting to the Governor and legislature on safety improvements. This bill directly affects state agencies responsible for playground oversight and public playground operators by creating a formal process for enhancing safety standards. It amends Pennsylvania’s Health and Safety statutes to implement this advisory structure, focusing on concrete policy changes without altering existing safety requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 1887 creates a new Safe Communities Grant Program and a dedicated fund under Pennsylvania law to support community safety initiatives. The bill establishes the program within Title 35 (Health and Safety) statutes and assigns responsibilities to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) for administering the grants. Local governments, community organizations, or other eligible entities would directly receive funding through this program to address specific safety needs. The key mechanism is the creation of a state-administered grant program with dedicated funding, rather than changing existing laws or policies. The bill is currently in the Judiciary committee for review.

Maddy summaryHB 1886 (An Act amending Title 12 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in miscellaneous provisions, providing for bag usage) proposes changes to regulations governing retail bag use in Pennsylvania. The bill would directly affect retailers and consumers by modifying requirements or fees related to plastic, paper, or reusable bags. It is currently referred to the Environmental & Natural Resource Protection committee, indicating its focus on waste reduction or environmental impact. Specific provisions like bag fees, material restrictions, or retailer obligations are not detailed in the provided context. This summary is based solely on the bill's title and referral, without additional legislative details.

Maddy summaryHB 1883 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to address student chronic absence (missing many school days) by requiring school districts to implement prevention and support programs instead of solely focusing on punishment. It directly affects school districts, students with chronic absence, and their families by shifting the approach to attendance. The key provision mandates districts to develop and maintain evidence-based strategies to help students attend regularly, such as family outreach, counseling, or academic support. This replaces punitive measures with proactive support systems for students struggling with attendance. The bill focuses on practical, supportive interventions rather than disciplinary actions for absenteeism.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 3, 2025, as "Manufacturing Day" within Pennsylvania. It is a symbolic recognition effort, not a law with legal requirements or direct impact on individuals or businesses. The resolution aims to highlight the importance of the manufacturing sector in Pennsylvania's economy. It has been referred to the Labor & Industry committee for further consideration.

Maddy summaryHB 1865 increases Pennsylvania's tax rate on insurance premiums from 2.8% to 8% for insurance companies operating within the state. The change applies to calendar years beginning in 2026, directly affecting all insurance companies collecting premiums in Pennsylvania. The bill amends Section 902(a) of the Tax Reform Code of 1971 to implement this rate increase without additional provisions. This policy change raises the tax obligation for insurers but does not alter the scope of businesses subject to the tax.

Maddy summaryHB 1868 amends Pennsylvania laws governing transportation network services (like ride-hailing apps) and highway funding. It sets rules for the rates these companies charge riders and how they compensate drivers. The bill also changes how taxes collected for highway maintenance and construction are allocated to local road projects. This directly affects transportation network companies, drivers, and local governments managing road infrastructure. The legislation aims to clarify operational standards and funding distribution within the state's transportation framework.