Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's parole laws to establish specific rules for denying release to inmates who commit new crimes while already in prison. It defines "violent offenses" and "obstruction of justice offenses" by listing specific crimes such as murder, rape, and witness intimidation. Under the new provisions, the Board of Probation and Parole cannot grant parole to individuals convicted of a violent crime committed while incarcerated until they have served at least 24 months after their original minimum sentence ends or after the new conviction, whichever is longer. Similarly, parole is barred for those convicted of obstruction of justice offenses committed while incarcerated until they have served at least 12 months after their original minimum sentence ends or after the new conviction, whichever is longer. These restrictions apply only to crimes committed on or after the bill's effective date.
Rep. Brian Smith
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill allows minors who are family members of active-duty military personnel to receive credit for driving experience gained in other states when applying for a Pennsylvania driver's license. Specifically, it permits these minors to count the time they held a learner's permit and the hours of practical driving completed elsewhere toward the state's requirements, provided they now live with the service member in Pennsylvania. The law applies to minors under 18 seeking a junior driver's license, including those wanting to operate a motorcycle. The changes take effect 60 days after the bill is passed.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates the membership rules for Pennsylvania's State Veterans' Commission to ensure broader representation of different veteran groups. It mandates that the commission include representatives from sixteen specific national veterans' organizations, such as the American Legion and VFW, along with four members appointed by the Governor who must be female or Vietnam-era veterans. The legislation also clarifies the roles of state-level leaders from the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and Veterans of Foreign Wars as nonvoting members. These changes aim to modernize the commission's composition while maintaining its existing structure under Pennsylvania law.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania laws to allow online messengers to issue and renew motor carrier road tax identification markers, temporary permits, and related registration cards. To operate under these new rules, online messengers must post a financial bond and follow specific regulations set by the Department of Revenue. The legislation also establishes a $100 fine for online messengers who violate these provisions and clarifies the definition of an online messenger. Additionally, the bill expands tax refund eligibility for truck refrigeration units by increasing the allowable fuel purchase limit from 75 to 100 gallons per transaction.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's emergency medical services laws to update definitions for qualified applicants and establish new committees for regional oversight. It allows regional councils to request waivers from standard staffing rules for ambulances if they can prove their quality control systems are sufficient. Upon approval, local councils would manage compliance on behalf of the state, enabling agencies to operate with slightly different crew requirements while maintaining safety standards. The changes take effect 60 days after the bill is passed.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new Independent Energy Office within Pennsylvania's Independent Regulatory Review Commission to oversee the state's electricity grid. The office will be led by an Energy Advocate appointed by the Consumer Advocate, who has the authority to review actions by state agencies to ensure they do not harm energy reliability or affordability. If the Energy Advocate determines an agency action is harmful, they can first request the agency to reverse it, and if that fails, the office has the power to block or reverse the action itself. The office is also tasked with promoting the use of energy produced within Pennsylvania and operates subject to funding decisions by the state legislature.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Fiscal Code to create a permanent funding account for the Department of Human Services, specifically targeting support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The new account will be funded by the net proceeds from the sale of former state centers for these individuals, as well as annual transfers from the General Fund based on budget cuts or estimated operational costs of closed facilities. These funds are designated to provide home and community-based supports, including housing assistance, for people on the emergency waiting list as of the start of each fiscal year. The legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring that money in the account does not lapse and remains available for these specific services.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Regulatory Review Act to require agencies to submit a specific analysis alongside any proposed regulations related to fuel, energy, or electricity. The new provision mandates that these agencies explain how their rules might increase electricity costs and discuss the potential negative impacts on low-income residents. By adding this requirement, the legislation ensures that the Independent Regulatory Review Commission and relevant legislative committees receive more detailed information during the review process. The changes take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.
Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's fishing and hunting laws to provide special license benefits for state corrections officers and law enforcement officers. It allows these eligible residents to purchase an annual fishing license for just one dollar and grants them a resident hunting license with a one-dollar fee. To qualify, officers must provide employment documentation proving they work in these roles within the Commonwealth. The legislation also sets the specific costs for these discounted licenses and allows the state commission to create regulations to implement the changes.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes adding a new crime in Pennsylvania that makes it illegal to use social media platforms to commit, encourage, or help others commit a felony. It defines social media sites as online spaces where users primarily post their own content, while excluding traditional news websites and email services. If someone is convicted of using these platforms to facilitate a felony, they could face a fine of up to $15,000, imprisonment for up to seven years, or both. The law treats each separate instance of using social media for this purpose as a distinct crime.