Rep. Lee James

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution formally designates the week of October 4 through 10, 2026, as "Fire Prevention Week" in the state. The bill highlights specific fire risks associated with electronic devices, such as overheating power banks and damaged chargers, while emphasizing the importance of proper battery disposal and working smoke alarms. It urges residents, landlords, and businesses to adopt safety practices recommended by the National Fire Protection Association to reduce home fire hazards. Additionally, the resolution commends firefighters and other first responders for their ongoing efforts in fire prevention and emergency response.

Maddy summaryPennsylvania House Bill 2731 directs the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs to work with the Department of General Services to procure opioid antagonists through a competitive process. The bill mandates that cost-effectiveness must account for at least 90% of the decision-making weight, while also considering product efficacy, availability, brand type, and shelf life. Additionally, it requires the department to submit an annual report on the procurement strategy and vendor selection to legislative committee leaders starting in 2028.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates December 7, 2026, as "Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day" to honor the service members and civilians affected by the 1941 attack. The bill highlights a specific connection between the state and the event by noting that the USS Pennsylvania was present at Pearl Harbor and sustained casualties. It encourages residents to pause in remembrance, honor World War II veterans, and recognize the resilience of the people of Hawaii.

Maddy summaryPennsylvania House Bill 2724 modifies state vehicle laws to exempt motorized pedalcycles from the mandatory requirement of a certificate of title. The bill allows owners to voluntarily request a title for these vehicles if they choose, but it is not required for legal ownership. To register a motorized pedalcycle without a title, the Department of Transportation may require a bill of sale that includes the vehicle identification number instead. These changes take effect 60 days after the act is signed into law.

Maddy summaryPennsylvania House Bill 2727 authorizes local governments to offer a voluntary property tax freeze for seniors who are at least 65 years old, have lived in the state for five or more years, and meet specific income limits. Eligible homeowners can keep their real estate taxes fixed at the amount paid during a designated base year, provided they continue to meet financial criteria that are adjusted annually for inflation. The tax freeze applies only to a primary residence and transfers if the owner moves within the same local jurisdiction, but it ends when the property is sold or transferred. The state Department of Community and Economic Development will oversee the program by creating a standardized application form and publishing annual reports on its performance and cost savings.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania laws regarding borough and town governance to address financial management when auditor positions are empty. It allows a borough council to temporarily appoint one or two individuals to fill vacancies in the auditor's office, granting them the same powers as elected auditors until the next election. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that the council must adopt the town budget by December 31 and ensures total spending cannot exceed available estimated revenues. The council retains full discretion to set the qualifications for these temporary appointments.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the annual funding cap for Pennsylvania's Entertainment Economic Enhancement Program from $24 million to $26 million. The change directly affects the state's entertainment industry by allowing a larger pool of tax credits to be distributed each fiscal year. These credits are designed to help businesses in the entertainment sector by reducing their tax liability. The new limit will apply to fiscal years starting on or after July 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution that designates June 12, 2026, as "Women Veterans Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the contributions of female military service members. The measure does not create new laws or change any government policies; instead, it serves to formally acknowledge the state's approximately 70,000 women veterans and highlight their growing presence in the armed forces. The text includes background information on the history of women in the military and notes specific challenges they face, such as higher rates of military sexual trauma and lower utilization of veteran benefits. Ultimately, the resolution aims to raise awareness about these issues rather than implementing concrete programs or funding changes.