Sen. Judy Schwank

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 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 summaryThis resolution designates September 2025 as "National Recovery Month" in Pennsylvania through a symbolic recognition. It has no legal effect and serves to honor recovery efforts (such as substance use disorder treatment and mental health support) during that month. The resolution was referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee on October 3, 2025. It does not impose new requirements or change existing laws.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 161) designates October 2025 as "Pork Month" in Pennsylvania for symbolic recognition. It is a non-binding commemorative measure with no legal effect or direct impact on residents or policies. The resolution serves solely to honor pork-related industries or traditions through a formal designation. It does not create new laws, alter regulations, or affect any individuals or entities.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 2025 as "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month" and October 17, 2025, as "National Mammography Day" within Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or funding but formally recognizes these observances at the state level. The resolution affects Pennsylvania's official state calendar and communications, encouraging awareness efforts during these designated dates. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no binding legal effect beyond the state's symbolic recognition.

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 1006 is a constitutional amendment proposing to expand property tax exemptions for Pennsylvania veterans with service-connected disabilities. It would extend partial tax relief proportional to disability ratings (50%-100%) and full exemption for veterans rated 100% disabled or surviving spouses of service members who died in action, were POWs, or were missing in action. The amendment also clarifies that surviving spouses of eligible veterans retain exemption after the veteran's death. As a constitutional amendment, it requires voter approval after legislative passage. (Bill: SB 1006, 2025 Session)

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates September 15 through October 15, 2025, as "Hispanic Heritage Month" in Pennsylvania. It is a ceremonial observance without legal effect, intended to recognize Hispanic culture and contributions within the state. The resolution directly affects Pennsylvania state government and communities by formally designating this period for commemorative activities. It does not create new laws, alter policies, or impose requirements on individuals or organizations.

Maddy summarySB 381 amends Pennsylvania law to prohibit certain types of animal experimentation, testing, and sale of products developed through such testing. Specifically, it bans animal testing for cosmetics, certain medical products, and household items, and prohibits the sale of these products within Pennsylvania. The bill imposes penalties for violations, including fines for businesses that conduct or sell prohibited products. This directly affects businesses that conduct or market cosmetics, personal care products, or specific medical items tested on animals. The law aims to restrict animal testing in these product categories without banning all scientific research.

Maddy summarySB 114 updates Pennsylvania's Nurse Aide Resident Abuse Prevention Training Act to strengthen training standards for nurse aides working in long-term care facilities. It requires the state department to develop a specific long-term care curriculum, set qualifications for instructors (including RN supervision and facility experience), and establish a train-the-trainer program. The bill also creates three pathways to become a certified nurse aide, including completing approved training with a competency exam (offering remote written testing options), graduating from nursing programs, or meeting equivalent requirements. Additionally, it prohibits the department from imposing waiting periods before online training can be offered in approved programs. These changes directly affect nurse aides, long-term care facilities, and training programs across Pennsylvania.