Rep. Nikki Rivera

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 421) designates April 2026 as "Child Abuse Prevention Month" in Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or programs but formally recognizes the month to raise awareness about child abuse prevention. The resolution highlights Pennsylvania's 2024 statistics (4,756 substantiated abuse cases, 60 child fatalities) and acknowledges community efforts to support victims. It urges Pennsylvanians to participate in prevention efforts and commends organizations working on this issue. The designation is symbolic, aiming to foster community engagement without altering existing policies.

Maddy summaryHB 2250 requires Pennsylvania school districts (second, third, and fourth class) to obtain voter approval via referendum or hold a public hearing before constructing new schools or making substantial additions to existing buildings. It sets specific cost thresholds based on student capacity: $2,800 per elementary student, $4,200 for middle school students, and $5,200 for high school students. If a project exceeds initial cost estimates by 8% or surpasses these per-pupil limits, a second public hearing is mandated before final state approval. This bill directly affects school districts by adding procedural steps for major construction decisions, ensuring community input before significant spending.

Maddy summaryHB 2239 prohibits operating drones without written permission on school property, including grounds and aerial space of all school types (public, charter, private, etc.). It creates a new misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine up to $300 for unauthorized drone use near schools, while exempting school security personnel acting in their official duties. The bill specifically targets drone activity that could disrupt school safety or operations, defining "school entity" broadly to cover all educational institutions. This amendment to Pennsylvania's criminal code directly affects drone operators near schools and aims to prevent unauthorized aerial surveillance or intrusion.

Maddy summaryHB 2241 requires Pennsylvania hospitals and medical offices to publish standard charges for services online in a readable digital format and provide printed copies upon request. It mandates that hospitals list all standard charges - including gross charges, negotiated rates with insurers, and discounted cash prices - for every item or service, including both inpatient and outpatient care. The bill specifically requires a simplified, consumer-friendly list of "shoppable services" (like elective procedures patients can schedule in advance) alongside the full charge list. This applies directly to all hospitals operating under Pennsylvania's Health Care Facilities Act, aiming to help patients compare costs before receiving care.

Maddy summaryHB 2242 amends Pennsylvania law to clarify the Governor's authority as Commander-in-Chief over state military forces. It specifically prohibits armed military forces from other states or territories from entering Pennsylvania for military duty without the Governor's express permission, except when federal service under the President's authority is involved. The Governor may grant permission for up to 30 days per calendar year, or longer if approved by a concurrent resolution of the General Assembly. This directly affects Pennsylvania's military operations and limits how neighboring states' forces can operate within Pennsylvania. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryHB 2236 requires Pennsylvania public utilities to notify residential customers when their water usage significantly exceeds typical levels (by 200% or $200 above average over 12 months), as it may indicate a property leak. Notifications must include a leak warning, an estimate of future bills if usage continues, and tips for preventing/identifying leaks. Utilities may offer a free, non-intrusive site visit (with customer consent) to inspect for leaks but cannot disturb property or be held liable for missed leaks. The bill defines "atypical water consumption" and prohibits utilities from using this data for purposes beyond leak alerts.

Maddy summaryHB 2235 creates a nonrefundable Pennsylvania tax credit of up to $6,000 annually for qualified firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) providers. It directly affects individuals who are active volunteers or employees of career/volunteer fire companies, EMS companies, or rescue services as defined under Pennsylvania law. The credit applies to the year a person becomes qualified plus the next five consecutive tax years (2027-2031), and must be claimed on tax returns with proof of eligibility. The credit expires December 31, 2037, and cannot be carried over, sold, or transferred.

Maddy summaryHB 1923 establishes new workplace safety requirements for meat packing and food processing facilities by mandating facility health and safety committees. It creates a dedicated workers' rights coordinator position within the Department of Labor and Industry to oversee compliance and address concerns. The bill also adds specific public health emergency protections for workers during outbreaks or crises, requiring employers to follow state health guidelines. These changes directly affect workers and employers in the meat and food processing industry across the state.

Maddy summaryHB 1556 amends Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code of 1971 to add new tax credits under the PA EDGE program specifically for "advanced clean manufacturing projects." This bill directly affects businesses constructing or expanding facilities that produce clean energy technology, such as solar panels or battery components. The key change expands the existing PA EDGE tax credit program to include these advanced clean manufacturing projects, providing financial incentives for qualifying investments. The bill does not alter other existing PA EDGE provisions or create new tax credit categories beyond this specific addition.

Maddy summaryHB 144 amends Pennsylvania's juvenile justice laws to adjust the process for "informal adjustment" in court cases involving minors. It directly affects youth and families involved in juvenile court by changing how cases can be resolved without formal court proceedings. The bill modifies specific provisions related to informal adjustment procedures within juvenile matters, while also making minor editorial corrections to the statute. This is a procedural change focused on streamlining court handling of certain juvenile cases, not a major policy shift.