Rep. Dan Frankel

Maddy summaryHB 64 prohibits Pennsylvania employers from punishing employees (including firing, discipline, or threatening adverse actions) for refusing to attend or participate in employer-sponsored meetings about political matters (like elections or party support) or religious matters (like religious affiliation). Employers must post a notice of these rights within 30 days of the law taking effect, and employees can sue for violations like lost wages or retaliation within one year. The bill does not apply to required legal communications, job-related meetings, or voluntary participation in such matters. It allows employees to report violations without fear of retaliation and provides remedies like reinstatement, back pay, or attorney fees.

Maddy summaryHB 501 amends Pennsylvania's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act to update definitions and clarify requirements for renewable energy compliance. It specifically adds "advanced reactor" (including small modular reactors) to eligible energy sources, refines criteria for low-impact hydropower, and updates definitions for biomass, biogas, and alternative energy credits. The bill affects electric utilities required to meet portfolio standards by specifying which energy sources count toward compliance and how credits are calculated. These changes aim to modernize the framework for renewable energy reporting and incentives without altering current percentage targets. The bill is currently in committee review (Environmental & Natural Resource Protection).

Maddy summaryHR 329 is a non-binding resolution designating October 2025 as "Arts and Culture Month" in Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or directly affect any individuals or organizations. The resolution serves solely to recognize and promote arts and cultural activities during that month through official state acknowledgment. As a procedural resolution, it has no legal effect beyond the symbolic gesture of recognition.

Maddy summaryHR 348 is a resolution designating November 2025 as "Native American Heritage Month" in Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes and honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities within the state. The resolution does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic acknowledgment by the Pennsylvania legislature. It directly affects Pennsylvania residents through this official state-level observance.

Maddy summaryHB 1315 (Pennsylvania House Bill 1315) amends Pennsylvania's name change procedures under Title 54 of the Consolidated Statutes. It requires individuals seeking a name change to file a petition in court detailing their reason, current and past residences, and proof of notice publication (unless exempt). The bill specifically creates two automatic exemptions: courts must waive public notice and seal records if the change relates to gender identity (Section 701(a.1)(3)(iv)) or if notice would endanger the petitioner or their child (Section 701(a.1)(3)(iii)). These sealed records remain confidential unless unsealed by court order for "good cause" or at the petitioner's request. The changes apply to petitions filed after the law's effective date.

Maddy summaryHB 554 would authorize Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement that allows social workers licensed in one member state to practice in others without additional exams. The bill provides Pennsylvania with the legal framework to adopt the compact's standard terms, directly affecting licensed social workers seeking to practice across state lines. Key provisions include aligning Pennsylvania's licensing requirements with the compact's uniform standards, simplifying the process for social workers to obtain reciprocal licenses in participating states. This change would streamline professional mobility for social workers while maintaining consistent regulatory oversight.

Maddy summaryHB 80 would authorize Pennsylvania to join the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact. This compact allows licensed audiologists and speech-language pathologists to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses for each state. The bill directly affects these healthcare professionals and their patients, streamlining cross-state practice for providers. It creates a standardized process for reciprocity among member states, eliminating redundant licensing requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a fee system for Pennsylvania municipalities that receive patrol services from the State Police, requiring towns without their own full-time police forces to pay for those services. The legislation creates new definitions for different types of patrol services and sets fee amounts based on the difference between 2021-2022 and current Motor License Fund appropriations to the State Police. Small municipalities with limited local police hours and those that have existing patrol agreements with the State Police are exempt from paying fees. The bill also requires the State Police to submit annual reports on these services and includes provisions for penalties and intermunicipal police response coordination.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility in Pennsylvania to honor the contributions and lives of transgender individuals. The measure does not change laws or policies but serves as a symbolic recognition of the date, which is already observed nationally to celebrate transgender accomplishments and raise awareness about challenges the community faces. It is sponsored by multiple representatives and referred to the Committee on State Government for consideration. The resolution highlights the importance of transgender visibility and acknowledges the ongoing discrimination and violence the community experiences.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution formally recognizes June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Pennsylvania to honor the state's LGBTQ+ history and community contributions. The bill does not create new laws or change government operations, but instead serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of Pride Month within the Commonwealth. Sponsored by multiple representatives, the resolution highlights Pennsylvania's historical role in LGBTQ+ civil rights, including early Pride demonstrations and legislative actions. This measure is a commemorative gesture that affirms support for LGBTQ+ inclusion without altering any existing policies or programs.