Sen. Nikil Saval

Maddy summarySB 1024 amends Pennsylvania law to specifically address ethnic intimidation as a criminal offense under assault statutes (Title 18) and strengthens protections against civil rights violations (Title 42). The bill directly affects individuals who experience or are accused of committing acts of intimidation based on race, ethnicity, or national origin. Key provisions include defining ethnic intimidation as a distinct assault offense and prohibiting actions that violate civil rights protections in public accommodations or services. This legislation updates criminal penalties and civil recourse for targeted discrimination under existing state law.

Maddy summarySB 1029 would create a publicly accessible database of organizations identified as hate groups in Pennsylvania, requiring the Attorney General to establish and maintain this resource. The bill mandates the Attorney General to identify and list groups engaging in hate-based activities, with regular updates to the database. This database would provide transparent information to the public about such groups, including their activities and affiliations. The bill directly affects the Attorney General's office, which would assume new administrative duties, and the public, which would gain access to this information.

Maddy summarySB 1028 amends the Commonwealth Attorneys Act of 1980 to further define the Pennsylvania Attorney General's responsibilities in providing legal advice, handling civil matters, and conducting criminal prosecutions. The bill directly affects the Office of Attorney General and the state's legal processes in these areas. Specific changes to the law are not detailed in the provided context, but the amendment aims to clarify or expand existing provisions. The bill was referred to the Judiciary committee on October 3, 2025, for further review.

Maddy summarySB 1035 (Ryan's Law) would amend Pennsylvania's Medical Marijuana Act to allow terminally ill patients to use medical marijuana in healthcare facilities under specific conditions. The bill requires facilities to permit use (without smoking/vaping), document it in patient records, and store marijuana in locked containers for safety, while exempting emergency departments. It directly affects terminally ill patients (with a one-year life expectancy prognosis) and healthcare facilities licensed under the Health Care Facilities Act. Key provisions include mandatory facility guidelines for use and allowing suspension of compliance if federal agencies prohibit medical marijuana programs. The bill does not require facilities to recommend marijuana or include it in discharge plans.

Maddy summarySB 1022 amends Pennsylvania's Controlled Substance Act to clarify definitions related to drug overdose medication. It specifically defines terms for medications like naloxone used to reverse overdoses, ensuring healthcare providers and pharmacists have clear legal guidance. The bill directly affects medical professionals who administer or distribute overdose reversal treatments. This procedural amendment updates existing law without creating new programs or funding.

Maddy summarySB 1034 amends Pennsylvania's child protective services law to expand mandatory reporting requirements for certain child abuse offenses. It adds two specific crimes to the list that must be reported: "unlawful dissemination of intimate image" (18 Pa.C.S. § 3131) and "sexual abuse of children" (18 Pa.C.S. § 6312). This change directly affects mandated reporters (like teachers, healthcare workers, and social workers) who must now report these additional offenses under the law. The bill does not alter existing reporting obligations for other specified crimes like rape or sexual assault. It takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summarySB 1008 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code (Title 75) to update definitions, modify driver's license examination requirements, and establish regulations for low-speed electric scooters. The bill directly affects drivers (through changes to license exams), pedestrians, and electric scooter operators (by creating new operational rules). Key provisions include revising terminology in vehicle law, altering the process for issuing driver's licenses, and introducing a dedicated category for low-speed electric scooters under special vehicle regulations. The bill was referred to the Transportation committee on September 30, 2025, for further review.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates June 8, 2025, as "Lieutenant Colonel George Hardy Day" in Pennsylvania. It honors Lieutenant Colonel George Hardy for his military service, recognizes him as a decorated veteran and community leader, and acknowledges him as a symbol of courage. The resolution is a formal commemorative measure with no binding legal effect, solely intended to publicly recognize his contributions. It directly affects Pennsylvanians by establishing a state-recognized day of remembrance for this individual.

Maddy summarySB 994 would amend Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code of 1971 to adjust how hotel occupancy tax revenue is allocated, directing a portion to the Tourism Promotion Fund. This change would directly affect hotels and lodging businesses that collect the tax, as well as the state tourism agency managing promotional activities. The bill specifies that funds must be used for tourism marketing, advertising, and events to promote Pennsylvania as a travel destination. The measure is currently referred to the Finance committee for further review.

Maddy summarySB 987 amends Pennsylvania's rules of evidence to clarify procedures for subpoenaing records in legal cases. It directly affects courts, attorneys, and organizations holding records (such as hospitals or financial institutions) by specifying how records can be legally requested. The key provision modifies Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to define acceptable formats and timelines for producing documents under subpoena. This change aims to streamline access to evidence while maintaining procedural safeguards for record-holding entities. The bill is currently pending referral to the Judiciary committee for further review.