Sen. Amanda Cappelletti

Maddy summaryThis bill requires individuals in Pennsylvania who wish to obtain a license to carry a concealed firearm to purchase liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000. The legislation mandates that license applicants provide proof of this insurance to the state and carry the insurance certificate with their firearm at all times. If a person fails to produce the required insurance document when asked by law enforcement, the officer must confiscate the firearm and the state will revoke the individual's license. Additionally, the bill outlines specific procedures for reissuing a license after revocation, which includes a $50 fee and the requirement to submit new proof of insurance.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 26, 2024, as "Fourth Trimester Care Day" in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about the health needs of new mothers during the first three months after childbirth. The bill highlights that current healthcare often focuses solely on pregnancy and birth, leaving many postpartum physical and mental health issues, such as depression and recovery complications, unaddressed. By officially recognizing this period, the measure aims to encourage better support for mothers transitioning into parenthood without changing any existing laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Minimum Wage Act to increase the state minimum wage to $20 per hour starting July 1, 2024, and establishes a mechanism for automatic adjustments every five years based on the Consumer Price Index. It clarifies how tips and gratuities are handled by requiring employers to pay tipped workers a base wage of at least 70% of the standard minimum wage and prohibiting employers from taking credit card processing fees out of the full gratuity amount given to employees. The legislation also grants the Department of Labor and Industry broader authority to create regulations and enforce compliance, while explicitly stating that the state law preempts any conflicting local ordinances.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases Pennsylvania's Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit program by raising the annual funding cap from $36 million to $72 million. It adjusts the percentage of tax credits available to businesses and private companies based on their investment duration and specific project types, such as veterans' housing or long-term service commitments. The legislation also raises the maximum credit limit per taxpayer and allocates $2 million specifically for pass-through entities like partnerships and S corporations. These changes aim to encourage more private investment in community development projects while maintaining restrictions on financial institutions using credits for their standard business operations.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Public School Code to clarify the powers of intermediate unit boards of directors regarding property acquisition. It explicitly allows these boards to acquire land and buildings through purchase, lease, or gift to own office space and warehouse facilities. Additionally, the legislation requires that all contracts for such facilities be pre-approved by the Secretary of Education and establishes a specific funding formula for capital subsidies based on student enrollment and instructional expenses. These changes aim to provide clearer authority and financial support for intermediate units managing school infrastructure.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the Pennsylvania Department of General Services to officially release certain land restrictions to the United States government regarding specific plots within Valley Forge National Historical Park. The primary goal is to allow the state to grant permanent easements to the Department of Transportation and utility companies for a highway project without violating existing rules that require the land to remain used for recreation and history. By removing these restrictions from the designated parcels, the state can legally permit construction and infrastructure work while ensuring that the remaining land continues to be protected under the original use conditions. The transaction involves a symbolic one-dollar fee and requires approval from the Governor and other state agencies to finalize the transfer of rights.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new framework within the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to protect plants and pollinators from pests and invasive species. It establishes a dedicated Plant and Pollinator Protection Committee and a specific funding account while replacing the existing Plant Pest Management Account. The legislation grants the department authority to issue licenses to plant merchants and beekeepers, conduct inspections, and enforce quarantines or stop orders to prevent the spread of harmful organisms. Additionally, it defines specific terms related to beekeeping and plant distribution to ensure clear regulatory standards for those involved in the industry.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates May 10 through 19, 2024, as "Go Public Gardens Days" in Pennsylvania to encourage residents and visitors to explore the state's public gardens. The measure highlights the economic and environmental value of these institutions, noting that they support thousands of jobs, contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to the economy, and help conserve natural resources. By officially recognizing this specific week, the bill aims to draw attention to an existing campaign that promotes volunteering and attendance at these sites during the period surrounding Mother's Day.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania Senate resolution designates April 2024 as "Military Sexual Trauma Awareness Month" to highlight the issue of sexual violence within the military community. The measure aims to draw attention to available resources provided by state and federal veterans' agencies for survivors of such trauma. By officially recognizing this month, the bill seeks to increase public awareness and support for those affected, without altering any laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 5 through 11, 2024, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" in Pennsylvania. It aims to increase public and medical understanding of tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder that can affect people taking certain long-term medications for mental health or gastrointestinal issues. The resolution encourages individuals experiencing involuntary muscle movements to consult their healthcare providers for evaluation. This measure focuses on raising awareness rather than changing laws or funding specific programs.