Sen. Scott Hutchinson

Maddy summarySB 1099 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code to clarify that drivers must obey traffic directions given by authorized personnel, such as police officers or flaggers. It specifically adds rules for organized motorcycle processions, requiring riders to follow designated safety protocols while traveling in groups. The bill also updates the "following too closely" rule to emphasize maintaining a safe distance between vehicles, reducing tailgating risks. These changes directly affect all drivers operating vehicles on Pennsylvania roads, particularly those participating in motorcycle events.

Maddy summarySB 88 amends Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law to require health insurance plans sold in the state to cover specific breast imaging services without cost-sharing for policyholders. It mandates annual mammograms for women 40+ and physician-recommended mammograms for women under 40, plus MRI and other breast imaging for those at average or higher risk of breast cancer due to factors like family history, genetic mutations, or dense breast tissue. The law specifies coverage for screening, supplemental, and diagnostic exams but does not require coverage for mastectomies or override standard deductibles/copays beyond the minimum required services. This replaces prior requirements that allowed cost-sharing and excluded MRI coverage.

Maddy summarySB 1097 amends Pennsylvania's holiday statutes to include provisions for "family recognition" within special observances. This procedural bill would update Title 38 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes regarding holiday and observance designations. The bill specifically aims to formally recognize families within the context of state-observed days, though the exact mechanisms for this recognition are not detailed in the provided context. It is currently in the referral stage with no further actions recorded.

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 995 amends Pennsylvania's Local Option Small Games of Chance Act to update prize limits for small gambling games, directly affecting local operators of games like bingo or raffles. The bill increases the maximum prize value allowed per game, changing the current cap set by the 1988 law. This adjustment aims to modernize regulations for small-scale gaming activities while maintaining local control over such events. The bill is currently under review in the Community, Economic & Recreational Development committee.

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 185 permits non-commercial vehicles under 14,000 pounds gross weight to install decorative rear lighting strips (e.g., ornamental lamp bars) that match the color and illumination of the vehicle's stop lamps. These additions must be horizontally mounted, no longer than 60 inches, non-battery-powered, and cannot feature flashing lights (except when paired with turn signals). The law explicitly excludes commercial motor carriers and vehicles with factory-installed lighting matching the described standards.

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 10 establishes the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success Scholarship Program (PASS), providing financial assistance to low-income students attending nonpublic schools. It directly affects eligible students in Pennsylvania who live in households below 250% of the federal poverty level, attend or reside within the attendance boundary of a low-achieving public school, and have not earned a high school diploma. The program, administered by the State Treasury starting in the 2026-2027 school year, covers tuition, school-related fees, and special education services at participating nonpublic schools. School districts must notify parents of eligible students about the program within 15 days of a school being designated "low-achieving."

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates November 7, 2025, as "Victims of Communism Memorial Day" within Pennsylvania. It is a symbolic gesture recognizing individuals affected by communist regimes, primarily impacting Pennsylvania state observances. The resolution does not create new laws or alter existing policies; it simply formally designates a specific date for commemoration. As a procedural resolution, it requires approval by the Pennsylvania General Assembly to take effect.