Sen. Lisa Baker

Maddy summarySB 1020 modifies Pennsylvania's hunting and trapping license fee structure to expand resident license exemptions. It directly affects Pennsylvania residents who hunt or trap, particularly those who may qualify for reduced or waived fees under updated criteria. The bill changes specific provisions in Title 34 of the state statutes to clarify eligibility for these exemptions, making it easier for qualifying residents to obtain licenses without paying standard fees. The bill passed final passage on November 18, 2025, and was referred to the Game & Fisheries committee for further consideration.

Maddy summarySB 1050 modifies Pennsylvania's child protective services laws by clarifying who must report suspected child abuse and expanding exemptions from the definition of child abuse. It directly affects child welfare professionals, healthcare providers, and educators who currently have mandatory reporting duties. The bill adds specific categories of actions or circumstances that are excluded from being classified as child abuse, reducing the scope of mandatory reporting requirements. This change aims to streamline reporting obligations while maintaining protections for children.

Maddy summarySB 533 creates a fee exemption for veterans and active military members participating in approved hunting events. It allows the Pennsylvania Game Commission to issue "Military Event License Exemption Permits" for events on private land (with landowner approval) that provide rehabilitation or enjoyment for eligible individuals. Eligible participants include veterans with 30%+ service-connected disabilities, Purple Heart recipients, and one designated assistant per participant. Events are limited to 10 people for no more than seven consecutive days, require 14-day advance applications, and still require adherence to all hunting regulations like seasons and bag limits. The bill takes effect 60 days after passage.

Maddy summarySB 715 extends the expiration date of Pennsylvania's Rare Disease Advisory Council from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2028. This procedural bill directly affects the council, which advises state departments on rare disease issues, and the departments it collaborates with (Health, Insurance, Human Services, Education). The key provision simply changes the expiration date in the 2017 law without altering the council's structure or duties. This extension provides continued operation of the council for an additional three years.

Maddy summarySB 418 clarifies procedures for filling vacancies in county district attorney and municipal offices across Pennsylvania. It requires county courts to appoint the first assistant district attorney (if qualified) or another eligible person to serve the remainder of the unexpired term, with elections held no sooner than 90 days after the vacancy. The bill also prevents municipalities from altering these vacancy rules through home rule charters, ensuring statutory procedures remain in place. These changes apply immediately upon enactment.

Maddy summarySB 731 amends the existing Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) program to add a new "Needs Enhancement Tier" for determining eligibility. This tier would allow more elderly residents to qualify for prescription drug assistance based on specific financial or health needs. The bill changes how eligibility is assessed under the program, making it easier for seniors with higher needs to access medication support. The bill recently passed final passage on November 12, 2025, and is now referred to Rules & Executive Nominations.

Maddy summarySB 1084 creates a new child adoption tax credit under Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code of 1971, allowing adoptive parents to reduce their state income tax payments. The bill amends the existing tax code to establish this credit and clarify definitions for tax credit administration. This change directly affects adoptive families in Pennsylvania by providing a financial benefit to offset adoption costs. The credit is a concrete policy change that modifies how state tax liabilities are calculated for eligible taxpayers.

Maddy summarySR 177 is a procedural resolution directing Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to create a task force with stakeholder input. This task force will review, update, and organize the state's existing emergency management services law. The resolution does not change laws itself but sets up a process to modernize the framework governing emergency response. It affects how Pennsylvania manages emergency preparedness policies through future legislative updates.

Maddy summarySB 581 updates Pennsylvania's 1975 electronic payment law to clarify rules for payroll cards and direct deposit. It requires employers to give employees 45 days' notice before eliminating cash/check payment options, with clear disclosure of all choices (including direct deposit) and deadlines to select a payment method at least 7 days before payday. If employees don’t choose, employers may use a payroll card they designate but must provide free access to wages (including two in-network ATM withdrawals weekly) and disclose all fees upfront. The law also prohibits payroll cards charging overdraft fees and mandates employers to honor requests to switch to direct deposit within 14 days. It directly affects Pennsylvania employees and employers using electronic wage payments.

Maddy summarySB 69 establishes a temporary pilot program called "Recovery-to-work" within Pennsylvania's Department of Labor and Industry to help individuals recovering from drug or alcohol substance use disorders gain employment. The program requires local workforce development boards to create local pilot initiatives focused on job training, career readiness skills, and recovery support services, partnering with businesses and treatment providers. Businesses that participate receive incentives, and the program leverages existing funds like the Opioid Settlement Account and Reemployment Fund. Local programs must include support services providers, secure business partner commitments, and target in-demand local jobs with industry-recognized credentials. The bill mandates annual reporting to evaluate effectiveness and ensure accountability.