Rep. Joe Hamm

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the week of June 22 through 28, 2026, as "Amateur Radio Week" in Pennsylvania to honor the contributions of licensed amateur radio operators, known as "hams." The measure highlights the community's role in providing free communications for public events and emergency services, including weather spotting and disaster response. It specifically acknowledges the upcoming "Amateur Radio Field Day" exercise, which demonstrates the group's ability to maintain independent communications during emergencies. The bill is a symbolic gesture with no changes to laws or regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 538 requires colleges and private licensed schools to implement education, prevention, and response programs addressing sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking for students and staff. It updates the 1949 Public School Code by adding specific definitions, mandating annual training, and requiring follow-up procedures after incidents. The bill expands existing requirements to cover all institutions of higher education, ensuring consistent policies across affected schools. This is a substantive policy change focused on improving safety protocols, not a procedural or commemorative measure.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands fee exemptions in Pennsylvania for volunteers serving in fire companies or nonprofit emergency medical services agencies. Under the new provisions, these individuals would no longer pay the standard vehicle registration fee, though they would still be required to pay a $11 processing fee to cover administrative costs. The legislation also clarifies that such exemptions are limited to one passenger car or truck per volunteer, ensuring the benefit applies only to a single vehicle per person.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates the week of May 17 through 23, 2026, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" to honor the work of emergency medical personnel. The measure directly affects first responders, EMTs, paramedics, and other healthcare providers who deliver critical care across the state. By officially recognizing this specific time period, the resolution aims to highlight the importance of emergency medical services without altering any laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that officially recognizes July 4, 2026, as Independence Day in Pennsylvania to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States. It highlights Pennsylvania's historical significance in the nation's founding, including its role in the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The resolution serves as a formal acknowledgment of these events rather than creating new laws or funding.

Maddy summaryHB 1941 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code to clarify that drivers must obey authorized personnel directing traffic, such as police officers or emergency responders. This directly affects all drivers operating vehicles in Pennsylvania when encountering such personnel. The key provision specifies that drivers must comply with directions given by these authorized individuals to ensure traffic safety during emergencies or traffic control. The bill aims to strengthen existing traffic laws by making the requirement for obedience explicit and enforceable.

Maddy summaryHB 2233 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle registration law to exempt specific all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) used by emergency services from registration requirements. It directly affects police, fire, and emergency medical services agencies that operate ATVs as emergency vehicles during off-highway response or on closed streets for special events. The bill adds two key exemptions: ATVs used primarily off-highways (traveling ≤10 miles on public roads incidentally) and those operating on restricted streets for events, both exempt from the audible warning system requirement normally applied to emergency vehicles. Operators acting within official duties receive identical liability protections as standard emergency vehicle operators under Pennsylvania law.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution designates October 10, 2026, as "National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan)" within Pennsylvania. The bill does not alter laws or create new regulations but serves as a symbolic gesture to acknowledge Taiwan's democratic milestones and economic ties with the state. It highlights the Commonwealth's existing trade relationships and educational partnerships with Taiwan while celebrating shared values of freedom and stability.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution honors the life of Pennsylvania State Police Corporal Timothy J. O'Connor, Jr., who died in the line of duty in March 2026, and extends condolences to his family. The document details his 15-year career, numerous awards, and community service, while formally recognizing his sacrifice as the 105th state police officer to die in service. It directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to his wife, Casey O'Connor, as a gesture of respect and support.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates June 10, 2026, as "National Guard and Veterans Day" to honor the history and service of Pennsylvania's National Guard and veterans. The bill recognizes the unit's lineage dating back to 1747 and highlights its extensive contributions to both military operations and domestic emergencies. It serves as a commemorative measure rather than a law that changes funding or policy, aiming to acknowledge the state's military heritage and the roles played by its members.