Sen. Gene Yaw

Maddy summaryThis bill requires school districts in Pennsylvania that use state funding for mapping services to ensure their campus maps are compatible with emergency response software. The legislation mandates that these maps include detailed floor plans, accurate room labels, and verified data from onsite inspections while being stored securely within the United States. Before purchasing such services, districts must obtain written approval from their primary law enforcement agency to confirm the data meets specific safety standards.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the PA WORKS Scholarship Grant Program to provide financial aid to Pennsylvania residents pursuing specific trade careers in fields like construction, automotive repair, and welding at colleges and universities. To qualify for a grant of up to $5,000 per year, students must maintain satisfactory grades and sign an agreement to live and work in an in-demand trade job within the state for 36 months after graduation. The legislation also establishes a trade career-incentive tax credit for businesses that hire graduates from these approved trade programs.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 481 amends Pennsylvania vehicle law to allow certain milk haulers to operate on highways during inclement weather and declared emergencies. This bill permits combination vehicles and farm vehicles transporting milk products to travel 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even when other vehicles might be restricted due to weather or emergency declarations. It requires these licensed milk haulers to display a specific decal issued by the Pennsylvania Milk Board, for which a fee will be charged to cover administrative costs. The bill also clarifies existing provisions related to permits for milk hauling during the manufacturing process.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates September 25, 2026, as "Disabled American Veterans Day" in Pennsylvania to honor veterans with disabilities and the Disabled American Veterans organization. The measure recognizes the DAV's long history of providing services such as helping with benefits claims, offering transportation to medical appointments, and supporting local communities. By establishing this specific date, the resolution aims to raise public awareness about the sacrifices made by disabled veterans and the ongoing support provided by the DAV.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates September 11, 2026, as "25th Anniversary of the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001, Day" throughout Pennsylvania. The measure aims to honor the memory of civilians, military members, and first responders who died in the attacks and to acknowledge the bravery of those who responded to the crisis. By passing this resolution, the Senate formally recognizes the historical significance of the event and reaffirms its commitment to remembering the victims and the lessons learned from that day.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life of former State Senator Jack McGregor and expresses condolences following his death on January 6, 2026. The document outlines his extensive career, including his service in the Marine Corps, his tenure in the Pennsylvania Senate, and his role as a founder of the Pittsburgh Penguins. It also notes his various appointments to federal boards and his establishment of a scholarship at the University of Pittsburgh. The resolution serves as a formal acknowledgment of his public service and personal achievements rather than proposing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates June 10, 2026, as "National Guard and Veterans Day" to honor the Pennsylvania National Guard and its veterans. The measure highlights the unit's historical roots dating back to 1747 and outlines its extensive roles in military service, disaster relief, and community support. By formally recognizing this date, the resolution acknowledges the contributions of the approximately 20,000 members who serve in both full-time and part-time capacities across the state.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates June 15, 2026, as "World Elder Abuse Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania to highlight the issue of elder abuse. The measure does not change any laws or create new programs but serves as a formal recognition to draw attention to the rising number of abuse reports and the vulnerability of older adults. By acknowledging this specific date, the resolution aims to encourage the public and officials to focus on safeguarding the well-being of the state's aging population.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's ABLE Act to help disabled veterans keep their real estate tax exemptions. It allows money deposited into an ABLE savings account to be ignored when calculating whether a veteran meets the financial need requirements for this tax break. The change ensures that contributions made to these special savings accounts do not count as annual income for eligibility purposes. This policy will apply to tax determinations made on or after January 1, 2027.

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.