Rep. Carol Hill-Evans

Maddy summaryHB 1751 creates a new Office of Employee Ownership within the state's Department of Community and Economic Development to support employee-owned businesses. It establishes an Employee Ownership Advisory Board to guide the program and a Main Street Employee Ownership Grant Program to provide funding for these businesses. The bill also directs the state to offer technical and financial assistance to help employee-owned enterprises grow and operate. This bill directly affects employee-owned businesses seeking support, grants, and guidance through state programs.

Maddy summaryHB 1591 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle laws to specifically include rules for private parking lots within the "rules of the road" section. It directly affects owners and operators of private parking lots (like those at shopping centers or apartment complexes) by allowing them to establish their own parking rules without needing separate municipal permits. The key provision moves private lot regulations under the state vehicle code, clarifying that lot operators can set rules for parking duration, access, and enforcement. This changes how local authorities and lot managers handle parking governance, shifting it from general municipal oversight to a defined state regulatory framework.

Maddy summaryHB 1749 amends Pennsylvania's 1971 Tax Reform Code to modify sales and use tax exclusions and create a new tax credit specifically for the steel industry. The bill establishes a "fueling opportunities" tax credit aimed at supporting steel businesses engaged in revitalization, growth, and operational efficiency. This credit directly affects steel manufacturers and related businesses by potentially reducing their tax burden for qualifying activities. The bill focuses on concrete tax code changes rather than broader policy shifts, with its key mechanism being the new credit program within the existing tax framework.

Maddy summaryHB 1093 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle safety laws to update requirements for restraint systems, directly affecting vehicle owners and drivers statewide. The bill modifies existing rules for seatbelts and child safety restraints, clarifying standards for installation and use in motor vehicles. Key provisions include updating equipment specifications to align with current safety technology and ensuring compliance for all passenger vehicles. This change aims to strengthen road safety by standardizing restraint system requirements across Pennsylvania.

Maddy summaryHB 938 amends the Public School Code of 1949 to update governance rules for the Board of Governors overseeing the State System of Higher Education. It directly affects the board members, public universities, and the administrative structure of the higher education system. The bill modifies provisions related to the board's composition, responsibilities, or operational procedures under the existing code, though specific changes are not detailed in the provided context. The bill passed the legislature on July 14, 2025, and was referred to the Education committee for further action.

Maddy summaryHB 1747 amends Pennsylvania's firearm laws by updating definitions and regulations around the sale or transfer of firearms under Title 18. It directly affects firearm sellers, buyers, and law enforcement by potentially clarifying legal standards for transactions. The bill's title indicates it focuses on refining existing provisions without specifying new restrictions or requirements in the provided context. As it was recently referred to the Judiciary Committee (July 21, 2025), no specific policy changes or voting details are available in the given information. This summary is based solely on the bill's title and referral status.

Maddy summaryHB 1748 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to establish a Pilot Program supporting homeless youth pursuing higher education. The bill directly affects homeless youth in Pennsylvania who are seeking or enrolled in post-secondary education programs. Key provisions include providing state funding for supportive services like housing assistance, counseling, and academic support through designated educational institutions. The program aims to address barriers to higher education access for this vulnerable population by creating a structured, state-supported pathway. The bill was recently referred to the Education committee for further review.

Maddy summaryHB 1058 amends Pennsylvania's State Lottery Law to adjust the minimum percentage of lottery revenues dedicated to senior programs. It reduces the required allocation from 20% (for fiscal years 2019-2025) to 10% for fiscal years beginning after June 30, 2025. This directly affects seniors aged 65+ who receive property tax relief and reduced-fare transit services funded by lottery revenues. The change modifies Section 303(a)(11)(iv) of the law, specifying the new funding percentage starting in 2026. The bill became law on July 21, 2025, as Act No. 37 of 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1429 requires the state agency administering public assistance programs (like food stamps or cash aid) to submit a report detailing a transition plan to replace current access cards with secure chip-enabled electronic cards. The bill directly affects recipients of public assistance and the agencies managing these programs by mandating a formal report on how the switch to chip cards will be implemented. Key provisions include specifying the report must cover timelines, costs, and how the transition will ensure continued access for beneficiaries. This is a procedural bill focused on reporting requirements, not altering benefit eligibility or funding.

Maddy summaryHB 1743 requires Pennsylvania public and charter schools to implement comprehensive school counseling plans developed by certified counselors. The bill mandates that school counselors spend at least 80% of their time on direct student services (like classroom instruction, individual counseling, and career planning) and indirect services (such as consultations with parents or staff). Each school entity must create an annual, K-12-aligned plan addressing academic, career, and social-emotional needs, including special populations like students with individualized education plans. These plans must be reviewed yearly and integrated with existing school strategic planning. The law applies directly to all Pennsylvania school districts, charter schools, and intermediate units.