Rep. Arvind Venkat

Maddy summaryHB 755 requires health insurers in Pennsylvania (excluding grandfathered plans) to cover all preventive health services listed by the Insurance Department without cost-sharing, such as copays or deductibles. This directly affects insurers who must comply with the coverage rules and enrollees who gain access to preventive care like vaccinations and screenings at no extra cost. The bill empowers the Insurance Department to create and update the preventive services list through a public comment process (15+ business days) and enforce compliance with penalties for violations. It aligns with federal preventive care standards but allows Pennsylvania to adjust the list based on public input and evidence-based guidelines.

Maddy summaryHB 404 amends Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law to extend health insurance coverage for children under family policies. It requires policies to cover dependent children up to age 26 (previously 19) and prohibits insurers from denying or restricting coverage based on a child's financial dependency, residency, marital status, school enrollment, or employment. The bill also allows group health plans to extend coverage for adult children up to age 29 if they meet specific conditions, such as not being married, having no dependents, and residing in Pennsylvania or attending school full-time. This affects all health insurance policies sold in Pennsylvania that provide dependent child coverage.

Maddy summaryHB 1009 requires auto insurers to notify Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation within 10 days of issuing new insurance policies specifically used as proof of financial responsibility. This directly affects insurers and drivers who need to meet the state's minimum coverage requirements for vehicle operation. The bill adds a new provision to vehicle law mandating this reporting, effective 60 days after enactment. It focuses on streamlining proof of financial responsibility verification without changing coverage requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 1008 updates Pennsylvania's vehicle registration renewal process by requiring the state Department of Motor Vehicles to send renewal notices 60 days before expiration, plus weekly text or email reminders (if contact info is on file) until renewal is completed. It applies to all vehicle owners in Pennsylvania, with commercial vehicles additionally requiring self-certification of safety inspections during renewal. The bill specifies that failing to receive a notice does not excuse the owner from renewing registration on time. This procedural change aims to reduce expired registrations through clearer communication, effective 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates April 13-19, 2025, as "National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week" in Pennsylvania. It honors 911 dispatchers (also called public safety telecommunicators) who serve as the first point of contact during emergencies and support emergency responders. The resolution recognizes their critical role in ensuring community safety through their professionalism and dedication during high-pressure situations. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment allowing counties (of first and second class) to create special property tax exemptions for longtime owner-occupants in neighborhoods where home values have risen significantly due to renovations or new construction nearby. It would let local governments establish uniform tax rules for these homeowners without increasing overall property tax rates to fund the exemptions. The amendment requires approval by the General Assembly and then a vote by Pennsylvania voters before taking effect.

Maddy summaryHB 1029 amends Pennsylvania's 1937 Labor Relations Act to clarify worker protections and union election processes. It defines "employe" more broadly (excluding independent contractors) and bans agreements that prevent workers from joining class or collective lawsuits. Employers must post notices about labor rights and provide detailed voter lists for union elections within two business days of a board order. The bill also adds new unfair labor practices, including coercing workers to sign agreements that limit their right to pursue collective claims. These changes directly affect Pennsylvania workers, employers, and labor organizations involved in union representation efforts.

Maddy summaryHB 1034 amends Pennsylvania's 1951 Landlord and Tenant Act to clarify utility payment rules for renters. It requires landlords who collect water, sewer, gas, or electricity payments directly from tenants to include a written notice in the lease about this obligation and provide a copy of the utility bill to the tenant within five days of a written request. The bill directly affects residential tenants and landlords in Pennsylvania rental agreements. Key provisions ensure transparency by mandating written notice and timely access to billing information, with the law taking effect 90 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 984 requires write-in candidates for state, county, or local office in Pennsylvania to file a financial disclosure statement within 30 days of the election board certifying them as the winner, unless they decline the nomination within that period. If a candidate fails to file within the 30-day window, they are barred from appearing on the ballot. The statement must be submitted to the appropriate authority: the state election commission for state offices or the local governing body for county and local offices. This amendment extends Pennsylvania’s existing financial disclosure requirements to cover write-in candidates, who were previously not subject to this timeline.

Maddy summaryHB 969, the Responsible Outdoor Lighting Control Act, requires Pennsylvania state buildings and properties to adopt outdoor lighting that minimizes light pollution and glare. It mandates new outdoor lighting must be fully shielded (directing light downward to prevent upward scatter), limit color temperature to warmer tones (reducing blue light that disrupts ecosystems), and incorporate features like motion sensors or dimming controls. The Department of General Services must manage and enforce these standards for all state-owned facilities. The bill sets a model for private businesses and residents to follow in adopting responsible lighting practices.