Sen. Judy Ward

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors Pennsylvania service members participating in Operation Epic Fury and expresses the state's support for their efforts. It recognizes the courage and sacrifice of soldiers, airmen, marines, sailors, and guardians while acknowledging the historical context of threats from Iran. The measure does not change laws or allocate funds but instead formally commends these troops and their families for their dedication to national security. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the Secretary of War and Pennsylvania's members of Congress.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 1296 requires commercial drivers in Pennsylvania to demonstrate English proficiency by being able to converse with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to officials, and complete reports. Drivers who fail to meet this standard face a $500 fine and a one-year disqualification for a first offense, with penalties increasing for repeat violations. The bill also imposes fines on employers and contractors if their drivers are convicted of violating the English proficiency requirement.

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 designates the week of April 26 through May 2, 2026, as "Conservation District Week" throughout Pennsylvania to raise awareness about local conservation efforts. The measure directly affects Pennsylvania's conservation districts, which are volunteer-led local government units responsible for managing natural resources like soil and water on private and public lands. By officially naming this specific week, the bill aims to highlight the work these districts perform in partnering with landowners, businesses, and other agencies to protect the environment. This action is a commemorative gesture that does not alter existing laws or create new funding, but rather serves to recognize the role of conservation districts in the state.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution commemorates the 40th anniversary of Operation El Dorado Canyon, a 1986 U.S. military mission targeting terrorist operations in Libya. The bill does not change any laws or policies but instead formally acknowledges the historical event that was launched in response to attacks on American service members in West Berlin. It highlights the coordinated efforts of the Air Force and Navy that neutralized Libyan air defenses and struck strategic sites, resulting in one downed aircraft and two pilot deaths. The resolution serves as a memorial to the operation's success in ending international terrorism based in Libya for decades and its lasting impact on U.S. military strategy.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes May 2026 as "National Mammography Month" in Pennsylvania. The bill does not change laws or allocate funding; it serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about breast cancer screening. The text highlights statistics on mammogram access and the importance of early detection, then encourages Pennsylvania residents, especially those in high-risk groups, to schedule appointments for screening.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates April 2026 as "Faith Month" in Pennsylvania to highlight the role of religion in the nation's history and values. The measure encourages residents to openly share their faiths and participate in public celebrations, such as prayer and expressions of thanksgiving, during that month. It does not create any new laws or alter government operations but serves as a symbolic gesture to recognize religious freedom.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Clean Streams Law to allow construction sites disturbing between one and two acres to request a waiver for certain stormwater discharge permits. By referencing existing federal regulations, the legislation provides a formal mechanism for these smaller projects to bypass specific state permitting requirements. The change directly affects developers and landowners managing medium-sized construction projects, streamlining the regulatory process for them. The law takes effect 60 days after being passed.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Biobonds Innovation Fund to provide low-interest loans and loan guarantees for companies and research institutions conducting clinical trials for drugs or medical devices in Pennsylvania. The program requires recipients to maintain a physical presence in the state and conduct the majority of their research there while receiving financial support. Money for the fund will come from state appropriations, bond proceeds, loan repayments, and interest earnings, with the Department of Community and Economic Development managing the application and oversight process.