Rep. Nikki Rivera

Maddy summaryHB 668 would allow Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact, an existing agreement between states. This would let licensed counselors from other participating states practice in Pennsylvania more easily, and allow Pennsylvania counselors to practice in those states without obtaining separate licenses. The bill's key mechanism is adopting the standard compact form, creating a streamlined process for cross-state counseling licensure without changing existing state licensing requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires electric utilities and their contractors to place automated external defibrillators at all worksites where lineworkers perform electrical tasks. It mandates that these workers and crew leaders receive basic CPR and AED training while also establishing rules for maintaining and inspecting the devices. The legislation extends legal protections to individuals who use these devices in good faith, aiming to improve emergency response capabilities for high-risk workers.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House resolution designates May 4, 2026, as "Aerospace Day" to recognize the state's growing aerospace industry. The measure highlights Pennsylvania's skilled workforce, proximity to federal agencies, and educational institutions as key assets for the sector. It calls for public exhibitions and a legislative hearing in Harrisburg on that date to educate residents and lawmakers about the industry's economic potential. The bill does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to promote awareness of aerospace opportunities within the Commonwealth.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Landlord and Tenant Act to regulate fees charged for common household pets, which are defined as typical domestic animals kept for pleasure. It prohibits landlords from collecting ongoing or upfront fees specifically for these pets, though it allows for a monthly pet deposit of up to one percent of the rent or a maximum of $500 per unit to cover potential damages. The law explicitly excludes service animals required for disabilities from these restrictions and ensures compliance with existing animal control and public health regulations. These provisions will apply to leases signed or renewed on or after the bill's effective date, which is set for 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Crime Victims Act to update the definition of "out-of-pocket loss" for reimbursement purposes. It directly affects crime victims by expanding the list of eligible expenses to include costs for medical and nonmedical care, prosthetics, cleaning crime scenes, and temporary relocation for victims and their household pets. The legislation also clarifies that "common household pets" refers to domesticated animals kept for pleasure rather than commercial use. These changes ensure victims can receive financial support for a broader range of necessary costs incurred due to criminal incidents, while explicitly excluding property damage and pain and suffering from this specific reimbursement category.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 15, 2026, as Prader Willi Syndrome Awareness Day in Pennsylvania to highlight the rare genetic disorder and support affected individuals and families. The resolution aims to increase public understanding of the condition's symptoms, such as hyperphagia and cognitive challenges, and to promote early diagnosis and access to care. By officially recognizing this day, the bill seeks to encourage community awareness and demonstrate support for those impacted by the syndrome.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution formally recognizes the month of May 2026 as "Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month" within the state. The measure encourages residents to learn about and celebrate the history and contributions of Asian-American and Pacific Islander communities. It serves as a symbolic designation rather than establishing new laws, funding, or regulatory requirements.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates May 2, 2026, as Negro Leagues Day to honor African-American baseball players who contributed to the sport. The bill recognizes the historical significance of Negro League teams in Pennsylvania, such as the Philadelphia Giants and Homestead Grays, and highlights the achievements of players like Josh Gibson and Roy Campanella. By officially naming this date, the resolution aims to preserve the legacy of these athletes and acknowledge their impact on the civil rights movement in sports.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution designates the week of May 10 through 19, 2026, as "Go Public Gardens Days" to encourage residents to visit public gardens. The measure directly affects botanical gardens, zoos, historical homes, parks, and other horticultural organizations across the state. By officially recognizing this period, the resolution aims to highlight the economic and community value of these spaces without mandating any specific actions or spending. The text describes public gardens as important destinations for recreation, education, and conservation that support thousands of jobs and millions of visitors annually.

Maddy summaryThis resolution directs Pennsylvania's Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study wild native terrestrial invertebrate management - including bees, butterflies, worms, and beetles - and issue a report. The study will evaluate existing state laws (like the Conservation and Natural Resources Act of 1995), compare other states' conservation approaches, and assess the ecological and economic value of these species (noting their $250+ million annual contribution to agriculture through pollination). It does not create new laws but aims to clarify agency responsibilities and identify gaps in conservation efforts. The report will inform future policy decisions affecting state agencies like DCNR, the Department of Agriculture, and wildlife commissions.