Rep. Chad Reichard

Maddy summaryHB 1687 amends Pennsylvania's Unemployment Compensation Law to change how the maximum number of weeks an unemployed worker can receive benefits is calculated. It bases the maximum weeks (ranging from 12 to 20) on the seasonal adjusted statewide unemployment rate from the six months preceding the claim application date, using the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This directly affects Pennsylvania workers filing for unemployment benefits on or after the effective date, as their benefit duration will now adjust based on current statewide unemployment rates. The bill specifies that total benefits in a single year cannot exceed the weekly benefit amount multiplied by the weeks determined under this new formula. The change takes effect six months after enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 1692 amends Pennsylvania's unemployment compensation law to protect workers facing domestic violence and clarify employer cost relief. It adds a new provision (Section 402.7) stating workers who leave jobs due to domestic violence safety risks cannot be disqualified for unemployment benefits. The bill also revises existing rules to provide employers relief from extra charges when workers are separated for reasons like willful misconduct or certain discharges. These changes directly affect Pennsylvania workers seeking unemployment benefits and employers paying into the unemployment fund.

Maddy summaryHB 1688 updates Pennsylvania's unemployment compensation law to adjust the calculation method for weekly benefit amounts. It sets a minimum weekly benefit of $68 (previously lower) and revises the wage-to-benefit table, linking higher average quarterly wages to increased weekly payments (e.g., wages of $1,688-$1,712 now yield $68 weekly). This directly affects unemployed Pennsylvania workers who qualify for state unemployment benefits, ensuring their payments align with current wage levels. The bill modifies specific sections of the 1936 law governing benefit rates without changing eligibility rules or employer contributions.

Maddy summaryHB 1691 amends Pennsylvania's unemployment compensation law to adjust the earnings requirement for workers seeking benefits after certain job separations. It increases the required earnings from six to fifteen times the weekly benefit rate in the 10 weeks following a disqualifying separation (e.g., quitting for personal reasons or being terminated). The bill also adds a provision exempting workers who took a leave of absence and made reasonable efforts to return to work. This change directly affects unemployed workers who left jobs under disqualifying circumstances but meet the new earnings threshold. The bill takes effect six months after enactment.

Maddy summaryHR 7 is a symbolic resolution designating August 21, 2025, as "National Senior Citizens Day" in Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or alter policies; it serves only to recognize and honor senior citizens within the state. The resolution was referred to the Aging & Older Adult Services committee and is currently stalled after being laid on the table under House Rule 71. This procedural bill affects no specific individuals or programs, as it has no binding effect.

Maddy summaryHR 199 is a ceremonial resolution designating October 2025 as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month" and October 17, 2025, as "National Mammography Day" in Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws, allocate funds, or impose requirements on any individuals or entities; it solely serves to recognize these observances. The resolution aims to raise public awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection through mammography. As a procedural resolution, it affects no specific group or policy and has no binding effect. The bill was referred to the Health Committee but was later laid on the table (stalled) on June 23, 2025.

Maddy summaryHR 68 is a resolution requiring Pennsylvania's Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study rural public transit management and status. It directs the committee to examine current operations, management practices, and implementation of mass transit services in rural communities across the state. The resolution does not change transit policies or funding but would produce a report on findings. This study was referred to the Transportation Committee, reported as committed, and later laid on the table in June 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1119 amends Pennsylvania's real estate tax exemption rules for disabled veterans under Title 51 of the Consolidated Statutes. It directly affects Pennsylvania veterans who are disabled and own real estate, by modifying the existing exemption provisions. The bill focuses on adjusting how the exemption applies to their property taxes, though specific changes to eligibility or calculation methods are not detailed in the provided context. This legislative action aims to refine the tax relief program for veterans through statutory updates.

Maddy summaryHR 227 is a ceremonial resolution designating August 17-23, 2025, as "Little League World Series Week" in Pennsylvania. It recognizes the Little League World Series, held annually in South Williamsport, as a celebration of youth sports, community volunteers, and Pennsylvania’s historical role as the founding home of Little League (1939). The resolution encourages Pennsylvanians to observe the week by attending events, honoring volunteers, and supporting local youth sports. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but formally acknowledges the event’s cultural and economic significance to the state.

Maddy summaryHB 1578 requires Pennsylvania's commission to create a process for preapproving disabled veterans for real estate tax exemptions. This allows veterans waiting for final U.S. Veterans Affairs certification of a 100% disability or those purchasing a new home to qualify for the exemption before the VA finalizes their case. The bill directly affects disabled veterans in Pennsylvania who are applying for this tax benefit under these specific circumstances. The commission must develop this process, and the law takes effect 60 days after enactment.