Sen. Marty Flynn

Maddy summaryThis bill limits the fees charged by the Pennsylvania Department of Education for reviewing teacher certification applications to a maximum of $50. It directly affects individuals seeking state teaching certificates by capping the cost of the eligibility review process. The funds collected from these fees must be deposited into the Talent Recruitment Account. The changes become effective 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new paid family and medical leave program in Pennsylvania, creating a fund to support workers who need time off for family care or medical reasons. It requires employers to contribute to the program and sets rules for how long employees can take leave, how much money they receive, and what situations qualify for benefits, including care for family members with serious health conditions or recovery from domestic violence. The Department of Labor and Industry will administer the program, handle claims, and enforce rules, while employees have the right to take legal action if their rights are violated. The legislation also includes provisions for self-employed individuals to opt into the program and establishes an advisory board to guide program development.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates the week of June 8 through 14, 2026, as "Union Organizing Week" throughout Pennsylvania. The measure directly affects workers and employers by formally recognizing the historical efforts of employees who have fought for the right to organize and bargain collectively. The resolution highlights the benefits of unionization, such as improved workplace safety and fair wages, while acknowledging the challenges workers face during the organizing process. It serves as a commemorative gesture rather than establishing new legal requirements or changing existing labor laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit Program to align state tax credits with future changes in the federal tax code. It directly affects Pennsylvania taxpayers who claim credits for employment-related child and dependent care expenses by modifying how the credit amount is calculated. The legislation establishes a new "applicable percent" for tax years starting after December 31, 2025, ensuring the state credit matches the federal credit limits, which are set at $3,000 for one qualifying individual or $6,000 for two or more. By linking these two systems, the bill ensures that the state tax benefit remains consistent with federal rules for future taxable years.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes June 19, 2026, as "Juneteenth National Freedom Day" within the state of Pennsylvania. The measure serves a commemorative purpose by acknowledging the historical significance of the date, which marks the day enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom in 1865. It does not alter laws or create new policies but instead establishes an official state recognition of this African-American holiday.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows commercial businesses and nonresidential property owners in Pennsylvania to install outdoor electrified security systems designed to deter intruders. The law specifies that these systems must use low-voltage batteries, connect to monitored alarms rather than directly calling police, and be positioned behind existing fences with clear warning signs. Local governments retain the authority to require system registration or ban installations that do not meet the new safety standards. The legislation applies immediately to properties designated for commercial or nonresidential use, excluding areas primarily used for containing livestock.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's vehicle laws to introduce stricter sentencing enhancements for specific driving offenses involving alcohol or drugs. It directly affects drivers who refuse chemical testing under a warrant, repeat offenders with four or more prior violations, and school bus drivers convicted of operating their vehicles while impaired. The key mechanism requires the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to mandate harsher penalties for these three categories of cases. The changes would take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summarySB 49 establishes Pennsylvania's Cannabis Control Board to regulate medical cannabis, replacing the prior oversight structure under the 2016 Medical Marijuana Act. The board will manage permits for cannabis organizations (including warehousing, distribution, and transport), oversee dispensing to registered medical patients and caregivers, and administer a Cannabis Regulation Fund. Key provisions include defining cannabis products (excluding industrial hemp), setting THC limits, and requiring board meetings and public records. This bill directly affects medical cannabis organizations, patients, and caregivers by creating a centralized regulatory system for their operations.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 1360, titled the "So Every BODY Can Move Act," requires health insurance policies in Pennsylvania to cover prostheses and custom orthotics for enrollees. The bill mandates that insurers provide these devices in a nondiscriminatory manner and allows patients to choose their own licensed providers for determination and prescription. Additionally, the legislation assigns duties to the Insurance Department and the Department of Human Services to oversee financial requirements, issue necessary notices, and enforce compliance with the new coverage rules.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania laws to create new funding accounts and taxes specifically for aviation activities. It establishes an Aviation Restricted Account and an Aviation Trust Fund, directing millions of dollars annually to the Department of Transportation for airport programs and aviation development. The legislation also introduces new taxes on aviation fuels, including jet fuel and alternative fuels like hydrogen and electricity, while defining terms such as "alternative aviation fuel" and "aircraft operating area." Additionally, the bill grants the Department of Transportation authority to adopt airport zoning regulations, address abandoned aircraft, and impose penalties for obstructing aircraft operations.