Rep. Jill Cooper

Maddy summaryHB 482 authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, enabling licensed occupational therapists and assistants from Pennsylvania to practice in other participating states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill establishes mechanisms for mutual recognition of licenses, sharing of disciplinary and investigative data between states, and accountability for practitioners providing services across state lines. It directly affects occupational therapists, assistants, and patients seeking services in multiple states, particularly supporting military spouses relocating and expanding telehealth access. Key provisions include requiring states to participate in a shared data system, defining terms like "Compact Privilege," and preserving each state’s regulatory authority over local practice standards. This is a procedural bill enabling Pennsylvania’s participation in an existing interstate framework, not creating new licensing requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania vehicle laws to formally define "pedalcycles with electric assist" and sets specific rules for how local authorities can regulate them. It establishes that these vehicles must weigh no more than 100 pounds, have operable pedals, and be limited to speeds of 20 or 28 miles per hour, while explicitly excluding devices designed for people with disabilities. The legislation also creates a new category of fines for violations, increasing penalties for operating these e-bikes compared to standard bicycles, and grants local governments the power to restrict where these vehicles can be ridden on roads or sidewalks. However, the bill explicitly prohibits state or local officials from requiring owners to register, insure, or license these specific electric bicycles.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that officially recognizes September 2026 as 'International Underground Railroad Month' within Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or change how the state operates, but rather serves as a formal acknowledgment of the state's historical role in the Underground Railroad network. The resolution honors the individuals who helped enslaved people escape to freedom and highlights the significance of related historical sites across the Commonwealth.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law to ban government agencies from signing nondisclosure agreements related to data centers. The law prohibits any contract that restricts the public from accessing information about the construction, development, or location of these facilities. If an agency signs such an agreement, the contract is considered void and unenforceable. The bill defines a data center as a facility used to process, store, or transmit data using computers and software.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Fiscal Code to create a disaster recovery grant program for fruit and vegetable growers affected by freeze events between April 1 and April 21, 2026. It allocates up to $20 million from previously set-aside funds for highly pathogenic avian influenza to assist growers of specialty crops, including pome and stone fruits, grapes, berries, and vegetables, who suffered production losses exceeding 30%. The legislation explicitly excludes costs already covered by federal funding, insurance, or other contracts from receiving these state grants and requires the Department of Agriculture to publish implementation guidelines within 90 days of the bill's effective date.

Maddy summaryHB 158, the "Fairness in Women's Sports Act," requires public schools and colleges in Pennsylvania to explicitly designate athletic teams as male, female, or coed based on biological sex. It prohibits teams designated for females from allowing male students to participate and allows students who face denied opportunities or harm due to violations to sue for damages. Schools can also sue entities that punish them for following the law. The bill applies directly to all public school districts, colleges, and athletic programs covered under Pennsylvania's Public School Code.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates the week of August 19 through 30, 2026, as "Little League World Series Week" throughout Pennsylvania. The bill directly affects the state's residents and officials by formally recognizing the annual youth baseball tournament held in South Williamsport. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to celebrate the event's impact on the local economy and community spirit. The resolution encourages Pennsylvanians to attend games and support the volunteers who help run the program.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution designates September 18, 2026, as "U.S. Air Force Birthday" within the state. The measure is a symbolic gesture that formally recognizes the anniversary of the Air Force's establishment as an independent military branch in 1947. It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or change any existing policies. The bill directly affects the Pennsylvania House of Representatives by adding a commemorative designation to the state record.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, known as "America 250," specifically highlighting the state's historical role in the American Revolution. The document encourages residents to reflect on themes of freedom and democracy while participating in local celebrations and the nationwide "America's Block Party" event. It formally directs a copy of the resolution to the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial to facilitate these observances.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates rye whiskey as the official state spirit of Pennsylvania to honor its historical significance and support the local distilling industry. The legislation formally recognizes the beverage's role in the state's heritage and its contribution to agriculture and small businesses. It takes effect immediately upon passage without requiring additional regulatory changes.