Sen. Lynda Culver

Maddy summarySB 1053 amends Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation Act to expand the definition of "employe" to include volunteer emergency personnel. It specifically adds coverage for members of volunteer fire departments, ambulance corps, and rescue squads who perform operational support duties (such as fundraising, equipment maintenance, or administrative tasks) on a regular, approved basis - *not* just emergency response. This change ensures these volunteers qualify for workers' compensation if injured during approved activities, while explicitly excluding "social members" who do not perform operational duties. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader and activist who passed away in February 2026. The document outlines his significant contributions to social justice, including his work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Operation Breadbasket, and Operation PUSH, as well as his role in organizing the Black Political Convention and his two presidential campaigns. The resolution serves as a formal acknowledgment of his impact on movements for racial equality, economic justice, and peace both domestically and internationally.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Unemployment Compensation Law to clarify how the state defines "employment." Specifically, it adds a provision stating that temporary, seasonal labor performed by aliens admitted under specific federal immigration categories does not count as employment for unemployment compensation purposes. The change directly affects the Department of Labor and Industry by updating the rules used to determine eligibility for benefits. The legislation applies to services performed on or after its effective date, which is set to occur 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates April 29, 2026, as "World Wish Day" throughout Pennsylvania to honor the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The measure serves as a symbolic recognition of the organization's work granting wishes to children with critical illnesses and does not create any new laws or require funding. By acknowledging the anniversary of the first wish granted in 1980, the resolution highlights the foundation's impact on children's well-being and community spirit.

Maddy summarySB 980 bans the manufacture, sale, and use of class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals after July 1, 2026 (for manufacturers/sellers) and January 1, 2027 (for users), with limited exceptions for federal requirements and exempt facilities like airports. It requires manufacturers of firefighting protective gear to label products containing PFAS and provide online information about PFAS content. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations (up to $5,000 for first offenses, $10,000 for repeat offenses) and creates new grant funding for fire companies to dispose of PFAS foam and purchase PFAS-free alternatives, with penalty revenue directed to these programs.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 287 is a commemorative measure that honors the life and service of Katherine 'Katie' True, a former Pennsylvania state representative from Lancaster County who passed away in October 2025. The resolution formally notes her death and extends condolences to her family while acknowledging her extensive career in public service, which included eight terms in the House and roles as Commissioner of Professional and Occupational Affairs and Secretary of Legislative Affairs. It also recognizes her legislative achievements and advocacy work on issues such as independent living, human trafficking, and domestic abuse before transmitting a copy of the resolution to the True family.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 211) directs Pennsylvania's Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the effectiveness of the Municipalities Planning Code - the state's primary zoning law - and its enforcement by the Department of Community and Economic Development. The study must examine impacts on housing affordability, municipal costs (including staffing and fees), and compare Pennsylvania's practices to those of other states. The committee must issue a report with findings and recommendations to the General Assembly within 180 days. This resolution does not change laws but seeks data to inform future legislative action.

Maddy summarySB 998 would create a grant program to fund expansions of nursing education programs at colleges and universities. It requires the Department of Community and Economic Development to administer grants for institutions aiming to increase nursing program capacity, directly affecting nursing schools and future nursing students. Key provisions include establishing grant criteria, application processes, and reporting requirements for funded programs. The bill is currently pending in the Appropriations committee after committee review.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to highlight the prevalence and impact of sexual violence. The bill includes background information on statistics regarding sexual assault and harassment, as well as the history of advocacy efforts in the state. It does not change any laws or policies but serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of the issue and support for survivors.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific bridge in Mount Carmel Borough as the "Veterans Viaduct" to honor the service and sacrifices of military veterans. The legislation requires the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to install and maintain official signs displaying this new name on the bridge. By officially renaming the structure, the bill aims to create a lasting symbol of gratitude for veterans who have served the nation. The change takes effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.