Rep. Mandy Steele

Maddy summaryHB 1724 creates a new framework for Pennsylvania government agencies to partner with private companies on sustainable facility projects. It establishes "sustainable capital improvement project contracts" for upgrades like energy-efficient buildings, water systems, and renewable energy installations, directly affecting state agencies, counties, and municipalities. The bill requires competitive sealed proposals for these contracts, mandates public notice of awards, and defines key terms like "qualified provider" (businesses capable of improving energy efficiency) and "key performance indicators" to measure project success. Projects covered include repairs, installations, and maintenance focused on reducing energy use and enhancing resilience. The law aims to streamline procurement while ensuring transparency and measurable outcomes for public infrastructure improvements.

Maddy summaryHB 1599 requires Pennsylvania electric distribution companies to join regional electricity grid operators (regional transmission organizations, or RTOs). It mandates that these companies submit annual reports by February 1st detailing all votes they cast or had affiliates cast at RTO meetings during the previous year. The reports must include a 20-100 word explanation of how each vote serves the public interest. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment, aiming to increase transparency in utility decision-making within regional grid management.

Maddy summaryHB 1711 creates a program that pays vendors who supply concrete with at least 20% lower carbon emissions than the regional average for state-funded construction projects. The concrete must be verified through an environmental product declaration, and vendors must deliver at least 50 cubic yards (or equivalent precast) for qualifying projects. The Pennsylvania Department of General Services will manage the payments, which are intended to incentivize lower-carbon concrete use. This bill directly affects state procurement agencies and concrete suppliers working on Commonwealth-funded projects.

Maddy summaryHB 1712 updates Pennsylvania's emergency communication rules under Title 35 (Health and Safety). It requires the state emergency management agency to maintain a single integrated system for weather advisories, disaster warnings, and coordination with local agencies, police, and the National Weather Service. The bill mandates two new statewide phone numbers: one for the public and emergency personnel to report hazardous materials or disasters, and another for the legislative branch to directly communicate with the agency during weather emergencies. These changes directly affect county/municipal emergency responders, state agencies (including the State Police), and legislative offices. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 1431 repeals Pennsylvania’s prohibition on hunting on Sundays without written permission, making Sunday hunting legal statewide for those with proper authorization. The bill directly affects hunters by removing a longstanding restriction on Sunday hunting activities. Key provisions include eliminating the requirement for written permission to hunt on Sundays and updating regulations related to unlawful hunting devices, trespass on private property during hunting, and wildlife protection. This amendment became law on July 9, 2025 (Act No. 36 of 2025), modifying existing hunting rules under Title 34 of Pennsylvania’s statutes.

Maddy summaryHB 1507 allows college students enrolled at Pennsylvania institutions to qualify for a resident hunting license. To be eligible, students must provide valid college ID showing enrollment, apply through an issuing agent, and pay standard resident license fees (though they avoid non-resident fees). The exemption applies only for up to four consecutive years of enrollment. This bill directly affects undergraduate and graduate students attending Pennsylvania colleges or universities.

Maddy summaryHB 1234 amends Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to require public assistance programs to cover the cost of blood pressure monitors for eligible recipients. This change directly affects individuals enrolled in state public assistance programs who need blood pressure monitoring for health management. The bill adds blood pressure monitors to the list of covered medical equipment under the public assistance program, ensuring these devices are provided without cost to recipients. It does not change eligibility requirements but expands existing coverage to include this specific monitoring tool. The bill passed final passage on July 1, 2025, and was referred to the Health & Human Services committee.

Maddy summaryHB 799 requires businesses with more than 50 full-time employees (working 40+ hours weekly) in Pennsylvania to display or provide online a standardized workplace posting about veteran resources. The posting must include contact information for state and federal veteran benefits, the VA Crisis Line, and local county veterans affairs offices. Employers can meet this requirement by placing the posting in a visible location or on an employee-accessible company website. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry will create and maintain this standardized posting on its public website. The law took effect on July 7, 2025, with specific provisions requiring the posting to be implemented within 180 days.

Maddy summaryHB 865 amends Pennsylvania's military education benefit programs to clarify definitions, eligibility rules, and procedures for recovering funds. It directly affects Pennsylvania military service members and their families who use the Educational Assistance Program and Military Family Education Program for education expenses. Key changes include updating eligibility criteria and establishing clearer processes for recouping grant payments if recipients no longer meet requirements. The bill, now Act No. 32 of 2025, was signed into law on July 7, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 354 requires Pennsylvania school entities to implement "What Is Your Pennsylvania Story" guidelines, a program designed to collect and share student and community narratives about Pennsylvania's history and culture. The bill directly affects all public and nonpublic schools, including charter schools, by mandating participation in this storytelling initiative. The Department of Education must develop and enforce these guidelines, including standards for content and submission processes. The bill became law on July 7, 2025, after receiving final approval from the governor.