Sen. Cris Dush

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Pennsylvania state agencies to review every program from scratch every five years, starting in 2026. Agencies must justify each program's existence, detail costs for minimum vs. current service levels, and assess impacts if discontinued, except for classroom teaching, curriculum, and direct student services in public schools. The Secretary of the Budget will oversee this process, mandating detailed plans from agencies to ensure transparency and accountability in spending. It aims to replace incremental budgeting with a system that evaluates all programs based on current needs rather than historical spending.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SB 125) is a constitutional amendment proposal that has only been referred to committee (State Government) as of September 30, 2025. It does not describe specific policy changes or provisions, as it is a formal proposal to amend Pennsylvania's Constitution regarding venue rules and judicial administration. Constitutional amendment proposals at this stage do not directly affect any specific group or create new laws. The summary cannot detail key mechanisms because the exact constitutional changes proposed are not provided in the available context. This is a procedural step, not a substantive legislative bill.

Maddy summarySB 1005 amends the Cash Consumer Protection Act to prohibit businesses from refusing cash payments for goods or services, directly affecting retailers, service providers, and other businesses that accept payments. Key provisions require businesses to accept cash without discrimination, allow state enforcement through court orders to stop violations and impose fines, and permit consumers to file private lawsuits if denied cash. These changes clarify and strengthen the 1984 law to protect consumers' right to pay with cash. The bill aims to ensure cash remains a valid payment method without penalty.

Maddy summarySB 952 amends Pennsylvania’s transportation code to advance sustainable mobility options, such as bike lanes and electric transit infrastructure, by updating definitions and program rules. It requires metropolitan transportation authorities to submit supplemental performance reports on their projects and clarifies the authority for public-private partnerships in transportation development. The bill directly affects regional transit agencies, private transportation companies, and local governments managing mobility programs. Key provisions include standardized reporting for accountability, streamlined partnership agreements, and clearer guidelines for sustainable project implementation. These changes aim to improve transparency and coordination in transportation planning without altering funding mechanisms.

Maddy summarySB 241 requires Pennsylvania's Liquor Control Board to automatically expunge citations issued to retail liquor licensees (such as restaurants, hotels, and clubs) for failing to follow pandemic-related health orders during the Governor's emergency period (March 2020 to end of emergency). It applies specifically to violations of executive actions, Health Secretary orders, or Department guidance related to COVID-19 protocols. The Board must remove these citations within 30 days at no cost to the business, providing written notice of the expungement. This policy change directly affects businesses that received such citations during the pandemic emergency.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 151) formally commemorates the life, military service, and memory of United States Army Air Forces Corporal Glenn Hodak. It is a non-binding ceremonial resolution adopted by the legislature to honor his contributions. The resolution does not create new laws or affect any policies or individuals. It serves solely as a symbolic tribute to Corporal Hodak's service.

Maddy summarySB 114 updates Pennsylvania's Nurse Aide Resident Abuse Prevention Training Act to strengthen training standards for nurse aides working in long-term care facilities. It requires the state department to develop a specific long-term care curriculum, set qualifications for instructors (including RN supervision and facility experience), and establish a train-the-trainer program. The bill also creates three pathways to become a certified nurse aide, including completing approved training with a competency exam (offering remote written testing options), graduating from nursing programs, or meeting equivalent requirements. Additionally, it prohibits the department from imposing waiting periods before online training can be offered in approved programs. These changes directly affect nurse aides, long-term care facilities, and training programs across Pennsylvania.

Maddy summarySB 460 amends Pennsylvania's Governor and Lieutenant Governor Disability Procedure Law to clarify and update the process for determining incapacity and succession if the Governor or Lieutenant Governor cannot perform duties. It specifies procedures for medical evaluations, notification requirements, and the transfer of authority to the Secretary of the Commonwealth during such periods. This directly affects state officials, including the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and key cabinet members, by establishing clear steps for leadership continuity. The bill focuses on procedural clarity rather than substantive policy changes to ensure smooth governance during emergencies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 147) designates September 19, 2025, as "POW/MIA Recognition Day" within the state of Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes this date for observance of prisoners of war and missing in action service members. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or alter existing policies; it solely establishes a day of official recognition for the state. The resolution is currently referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee.

Maddy summarySB 987 amends Pennsylvania's rules of evidence to clarify procedures for subpoenaing records in legal cases. It directly affects courts, attorneys, and organizations holding records (such as hospitals or financial institutions) by specifying how records can be legally requested. The key provision modifies Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to define acceptable formats and timelines for producing documents under subpoena. This change aims to streamline access to evidence while maintaining procedural safeguards for record-holding entities. The bill is currently pending referral to the Judiciary committee for further review.