Rep. Bob Merski

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates September 2026 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to highlight the importance of early detection and screening for men. The bill includes background information on prostate cancer statistics, symptoms, and recommended screening ages based on risk factors, but it does not create new laws or require specific actions from individuals or organizations. Its primary effect is symbolic, aiming to raise public awareness rather than implementing concrete policy changes or funding programs.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates September 11, 2026, as "25th Anniversary of the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001, Day" in the state. The measure formally recognizes the victims of the 2001 attacks, including civilians, military personnel, and first responders who lost their lives. It serves as a commemorative acknowledgment rather than establishing new laws or funding. The resolution aims to honor the memory of those affected and reaffirm the state's commitment to remembering the events and their legacy.

Maddy summaryHB 2377 requires Pennsylvania retail food facilities to clearly label any beverage containing 80 milligrams or more of caffeine per serving as 'high caffeine' on their menus. This labeling must appear directly next to the drink's name and can use approved text, icons, or symbols. If a business fails to comply after receiving a written warning, it may face penalties under existing food protection laws. The bill applies to both permanent and temporary menu items offered for sale.

Maddy summaryHB 1213 requires municipal water authorities and public utilities to notify residential customers when their water usage increases by 200% above the property's average for a single month. The notice must be sent via phone or email, and the utility must help customers identify potential leaks or inefficiencies. This applies to both municipal systems (under Title 53) and public utilities (under Title 66). The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis resolution directs Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to study how private equity ownership affects child care services. The study will examine impacts on costs, quality, and access for families, then propose recommendations to limit negative effects. It directly affects child care providers operating under private equity ownership and families using these services. The Commission must complete this work and report findings to the legislature.

Maddy summaryThis bill would allow Pennsylvania to regulate virtual currency kiosks by requiring most businesses to obtain a license from the Department of Banking and Securities, while exempting existing banks and credit unions. To operate legally, applicants must meet specific financial standards and use a centralized online system for registration, and the kiosks must provide clear information to customers about the exchange process. The legislation also creates a dedicated fund to support public education efforts regarding virtual currency and establishes penalties for operating without a license or violating other rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a regulatory framework for the sale of kratom products in Pennsylvania, requiring businesses to register with the Department of Health and prohibiting the sale of synthetic kratom varieties. It mandates that retailers verify customers are at least 21 years old using electronic ID scanners and strictly forbids sharing this data, while also enforcing specific labeling and child-resistant packaging requirements. Additionally, the legislation imposes a tax on natural kratom products and outlines penalties for violations, aiming to standardize oversight and protect public health.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Municipalities Planning Code to update definitions and requirements for local zoning, subdivision, and land development. It specifically establishes new definitions for renewable energy facilities, including solar and wind systems with a minimum capacity of two megawatts, as well as energy storage and combined generation facilities. The legislation requires local comprehensive plans to include protections for natural resources and agricultural operations while allowing local ordinances to set specific rules for reviewing and processing renewable energy projects. Additionally, the bill mandates that review fees for renewable energy facilities be handled according to a separate section of the code, ensuring a structured approach to siting and permitting these developments.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates the week of May 17 through 23, 2026, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" to honor the work of emergency medical personnel. The measure directly affects first responders, EMTs, paramedics, and other healthcare providers who deliver critical care across the state. By officially recognizing this specific time period, the resolution aims to highlight the importance of emergency medical services without altering any laws or policies.

Maddy summaryHB 95 amends Pennsylvania's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law to require clear disclosure when AI-generated content (like text, images, or videos) is created, distributed, or published. It directly affects businesses, creators, and platforms using AI tools to produce content for consumers in Pennsylvania. The bill adds new definitions, including that "artificial intelligence" means technology creating new content via predictive algorithms, and specifies that disclosures must be "clear and conspicuous" - meaning they must be visible upfront, easy to understand, and match the content's medium (e.g., visible text, audible audio). This change updates existing consumer protection rules to address AI-generated content transparency.