Rep. Emily Kinkead

Maddy summaryThis resolution directs Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to study current diversion programs and recommend improvements or new programs. It requires the commission to examine barriers to existing programs, analyze successful models from other states, and provide a report to the House within one year. Diversion programs - which offer alternatives to incarceration for low-level offenses, mental health crises, or substance use issues - would be the focus of this review. The resolution does not create new law but aims to inform future policy changes.

Maddy summaryHB 1945 amends Pennsylvania's Controlled Substance Act to expand legal immunity for individuals who call 911 during a drug overdose. It directly affects bystanders and overdose victims who seek emergency help, protecting them from drug possession charges when reporting an overdose. The bill strengthens existing immunity by broadening the circumstances under which calling for assistance won't lead to criminal penalties. This policy change aims to encourage prompt emergency response without fear of legal repercussions for drug-related offenses.

Maddy summaryHB 99 amends Pennsylvania criminal law to change sentencing for murder (including murder of an unborn child or law enforcement officer), clarify arson and property destruction offenses, and update appellate procedures. It establishes direct appeals from common pleas courts for certain cases, adds requirements for postconviction DNA testing, and removes outdated procedures for execution warrants. The bill directly affects courts, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and individuals convicted of crimes covered under the amended statutes. These changes aim to standardize sentencing and legal processes without altering current penalties or introducing new criminal charges.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the enforcement powers of Pennsylvania's Pharmacy Audit Integrity and Transparency Act to address how Pharmacy Benefit Managers handle Medicaid prescriptions. It directly affects PBMs, pharmacies, and pharmacists by requiring PBMs to accept and process prescriptions from any pharmacy or pharmacist that is in good standing with state regulators. The law prohibits PBMs from limiting patient access to specific pharmacies based on the PBM's own private contracting choices. These changes are designed to ensure that Medicaid patients can use any qualified pharmacy without facing artificial restrictions imposed by their benefit manager.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 2026 as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to highlight the importance of road safety for all drivers. The resolution encourages motorists to be more alert when sharing the road with motorcyclists and supports existing safety programs. It does not change any laws or regulations but serves as a symbolic reminder to promote awareness and safe riding practices.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates April 2026 as "Donate Life Month" and April 10, 2026, as "Blue and Green Day" in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. The resolution does not change laws or create new programs but serves as a symbolic gesture to encourage public support for donation efforts. It highlights Pennsylvania's existing donation statistics and the work of state health agencies and organ procurement organizations in promoting donor registration. The measure is intended to increase visibility for organ donation awareness campaigns during the designated month and day.

Maddy summaryHR 390 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing March 2026 as "Women's History Month" in Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or policies but formally acknowledges women's historical contributions to Pennsylvania and the nation through symbolic recognition. The resolution invites all Pennsylvanians to reflect on women's economic, cultural, and social roles, as detailed in the preamble's historical context. This is a non-binding gesture with no direct impact on specific groups or funding.

Maddy summaryHB 728 establishes Pennsylvania's Identification Upon Reentry Program, requiring prisons to provide newly released inmates with essential identification documents (like state ID cards) before their release. This directly affects individuals transitioning from incarceration back into the community, who often face barriers to accessing services without valid ID. The key provision mandates that correctional facilities coordinate with state agencies to issue these documents during the reentry process, replacing the current inconsistent practice. This policy change aims to streamline access to housing, employment, and government services for returning citizens.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows individuals in Pennsylvania to request the expungement of their criminal history records once they turn 65 years old, provided they have not been arrested or prosecuted for ten years after being released from confinement or supervision. The change lowers the previous age requirement of 70, making it easier for older adults to clear their records under specific conditions. If passed, the law would take effect 60 days after signing, directly affecting the eligibility criteria for expungement in the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Pennsylvania health care facilities, including emergency departments and urgent care centers, to adopt standardized protocols for identifying and assisting patients who may be victims of human trafficking. The Department of Health is tasked with creating these guidelines within 180 days, which will include trauma-informed screening questions, private interview procedures, and specific steps for referring individuals to support services even if they do not wish to involve law enforcement. To ensure staff are prepared, the law mandates that all clinical and patient-facing employees complete initial training upon hiring and undergo continuing education every two years. Additionally, facilities must annually report de-identified data on screenings and referrals to the Department of Health, which will then submit a summary report to the General Assembly.