Sen. Carolyn Comitta

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 summaryThis resolution (SR 165) designates October 15, 2025, as "Global Dignity Day" within Pennsylvania. It is a ceremonial recognition with no binding legal requirements or direct impact on specific individuals or groups. The bill serves solely to honor the concept of global dignity through a formal state acknowledgment on that date. As a resolution, it does not create new policies, alter existing laws, or affect government programs.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the week of November 2-8, 2025, as "Election Official and Election Worker Appreciation Week" in Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes election officials and workers for their service during elections. The resolution has no binding effect or policy changes; it is a symbolic gesture to honor these individuals. It does not impose new requirements or affect any specific groups beyond this ceremonial acknowledgment.

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 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 summarySR 156 is a non-binding resolution designating October 2025 as "National Chiropractic Health Month" in Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes the importance of chiropractic health awareness during that month without creating new laws or requirements. The resolution serves as a symbolic gesture to highlight chiropractic care's role in public health, but it does not directly affect healthcare providers, patients, or existing policies. As a commemorative resolution, it has no legal force or policy implications.

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.