Rep. Darisha Parker

Maddy summaryThis bill requires health insurance policies and government programs in Pennsylvania to cover semiannual maintenance and safety checks for complex wheelchairs. It defines complex wheelchairs as custom-designed medical devices that need regular adjustments to meet a user's specific physical needs. The law mandates that these coverage plans pay for the labor and travel costs associated with these evaluations, which can be conducted either in person or via telehealth. By imposing these duties on the Department of Human Services and the Insurance Department, the act ensures that individuals relying on specialized mobility equipment receive consistent care to maintain the device's functionality.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates the week of March 9 through 13, 2026, as "Civic Learning Week" throughout Pennsylvania to highlight the importance of civic education. The measure is a symbolic recognition that does not create new laws, funding, or mandatory requirements for schools or government agencies. It acknowledges the role of civic education in preparing students for democratic participation and notes that Philadelphia will host a national forum on civic learning during that week. The resolution is introduced by multiple legislators and referred to the Committee on Education for consideration.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new crime called aggravated assault of an insured, which applies specifically to the chief executive officers of health insurers. Under the law, a CEO would be guilty of this offense if they deny a medically necessary benefit to a patient, and that denial directly causes serious bodily injury or death to the patient. The legislation defines "health insurer" to include various types of medical coverage providers while excluding policies like dental, vision, and workers' compensation plans. If passed, the bill would take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Commission for Career and Technical Education Excellence to oversee and report on vocational training programs across Pennsylvania. The commission will consist of state officials and representatives from industry groups, tasked with setting guidelines for credit transfer between schools and assessing workforce needs. Additionally, the legislation establishes a grant program to provide equipment for building and construction trades pre-apprenticeship initiatives at community colleges. It also mandates that community colleges offer annual youth camps in construction and building trades to seventh and eighth-grade students to introduce them to these career paths.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally recognizes June 2026 as "National Immigrant Heritage Month" within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It directly affects the state government and its residents by officially designating the month to honor the contributions of immigrants and their descendants to Pennsylvania's economy, culture, and society. The resolution cites various statistics regarding immigrant participation in the workforce, healthcare, and business ownership to justify the recognition. As a commemorative measure, the bill does not create new laws or change existing policies but serves to celebrate diversity and acknowledge the historical and ongoing impact of immigrants in the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to receive a minimum of $19 million in state funding for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The money is designated for the Agriculture Innovation Grant Program, which supports projects aimed at advancing agricultural practices and technologies. By amending the state's Fiscal Code, the legislation ensures this specific funding source is established and available to the department.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally recognizes May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. It does not change laws or allocate funding, but instead encourages government agencies, schools, businesses, and residents to increase awareness and understanding of mental illness. The resolution calls for communities to promote accessible mental health services and reduce stigma around mental health conditions. It is a symbolic measure intended to highlight the importance of mental health without implementing new policy requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 1611 revises Pennsylvania's Older Adults Protective Services Act to create a uniform statewide system for reporting and investigating abuse, neglect, exploitation, or abandonment of older adults. It directly affects vulnerable elderly Pennsylvanians and their caregivers by establishing mandatory reporting protocols and prohibiting financial exploitation. Key provisions include requiring local agencies to use a standardized reporting system, clarifying definitions of abuse and exploitation, and ensuring protective services are available to those at risk. The bill also updates funding mechanisms and penalties for violations, aiming to improve coordination and response across all counties.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the RECLAIM Program in Pennsylvania to help juvenile courts improve care and services for young people involved in the justice system. It requires the Department of Human Services to set up an application process where courts can request funding for operational costs related to diagnosis, treatment, and alternative placement facilities. The legislation also mandates that each county establish its own delinquent youth care and custody fund to support these initiatives. Additionally, the bill establishes a RECLAIM Advisory Committee and requires that funded programs ensure equal access for minority youth.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to allow students with asthma or severe allergies to possess and self-administer their prescribed asthma medications (including inhalers) and epinephrine auto-injectors at school. Schools must create written policies requiring students to demonstrate self-administration capability and notify the school nurse after use, while ensuring medications are stored safely and accessible only to authorized students. The bill also permits trained school staff, including bus drivers and crossing guards, to administer epinephrine auto-injectors in emergencies for students experiencing allergic reactions or asthma attacks. These changes aim to improve student safety by ensuring timely access to life-saving medications during school hours.