Rep. Dave Zimmerman

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Pennsylvania Department of Health to launch a public education campaign focused on prostate health and cancer screening. The legislation requires the department to provide clear, up-to-date information on risk factors, screening guidelines based on age and risk level, and the benefits and risks of available tests. To support these efforts, the bill establishes a dedicated state fund that can be financed through appropriations, grants, and donations to cover the costs of the campaign. The outreach will utilize various channels, including media, community forums, and partnerships with health providers, while ensuring materials are available in multiple languages.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows Pennsylvania municipalities to voluntarily pause the review of new applications for high-impact data centers for up to 18 months. The measure is designed to give local governments time to assess infrastructure needs, such as water and electrical grid capacity, and to draft updated zoning rules before approving such facilities. While the moratorium blocks new filings and variances, it does not affect existing data centers or their routine maintenance, and it includes a process for applicants to request waivers if they face unique hardships. Municipalities must hold public hearings and make reasonable progress on planning studies during the pause, and the law clarifies that this temporary measure does not constitute a legal taking of property.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Pennsylvania's agricultural grant program to help farms dealing with sudden market crashes. It directs the state department to create and manage grants specifically for agricultural operations facing acute market disruptions. Under normal conditions, the bill limits grants to 75% of project costs, but this cap is removed when the state secretary confirms a severe market disruption has occurred. Additionally, the law clarifies that non-cash contributions do not count toward the required matching funds for these grants. The changes are set to take effect 60 days after the bill is passed.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law to exempt internal records of volunteer emergency service groups, such as EMS, fire, and rescue companies, from public access. The legislation ensures that these organizations can keep their operational and administrative documents private unless the records specifically involve funding or resources provided by local municipalities under certain emergency service codes. By establishing these exemptions, the law aims to protect the privacy and autonomy of volunteer responders while still allowing public oversight of government-funded activities. The changes will become effective 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the Monday after Thanksgiving as Pennsylvania Sportsmen's Day to honor hunters, anglers, boaters, and trappers. The resolution recognizes the contributions of these groups to wildlife conservation, habitat management, and local businesses. It also highlights the importance of family traditions and mentorship in passing outdoor skills to younger generations. The bill is a symbolic gesture with no operational changes or new funding requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's construction code review process by delaying the evaluation of the 2024 International Code Council codes and initiating a special review of the 2015 edition. Starting in 2027, the bill requires the state council to examine current building codes and create alternative economic standards aimed at lowering construction costs. The process includes a public comment period, a technical committee review, and three public hearings held in Harrisburg and other regions to gather input before any changes are made.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 28, 2026, as "World Hunger Day" in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about food insecurity. It directly affects the state's residents, particularly the 1.7 million Pennsylvanians currently facing hunger, including over 475,000 children. The resolution encourages individuals and organizations to support efforts that expand access to nutritious food and promote understanding of the issue. The text highlights statistics on hunger in the state and nation while noting the impact of food deserts and recent changes to federal nutrition programs. Ultimately, the bill serves as a symbolic gesture to draw attention to the challenge rather than implementing new policy changes.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 5, 2026, as "The Blessing of the Balers Day" in Pennsylvania. It commemorates a story about a farmer whose equipment was fixed after a priest prayed over it. The bill has no legal effect beyond naming the date and expressing good wishes to farmers. It is a ceremonial measure that does not change laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania House Resolution officially designates the week of May 10 through 16, 2026, as "National Hospital Week" within the state. The measure aims to honor healthcare workers and hospitals by encouraging residents to show appreciation for their services and urging state representatives to visit local facilities. While it highlights the significant economic and community contributions of hospitals, it does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic recognition of the healthcare system's role in Pennsylvania.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a law with policy changes. It formally recognizes May 9, 2026, as "National Train Day" in Pennsylvania. The resolution acknowledges the historical significance of rail travel in Pennsylvania and the nation, referencing the 1869 completion of the transcontinental railroad. It encourages Pennsylvanians to learn about rail history and its benefits but creates no new requirements or funding.