Sen. Judy Ward

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 182) commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps and honors the service and sacrifice of Marines throughout history, specifically acknowledging their contributions to both the Commonwealth and the nation. It is a formal, non-binding resolution adopted by the legislature to recognize this milestone, directly affecting the Commonwealth's official acknowledgment of Marine Corps history. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial tribute to Marines' legacy.

Maddy summarySB 755 abolishes 19 state advisory bodies, including the Climate Change Advisory Committee and Canine Health Board, transferring their duties to existing departments (e.g., Secretary of Agriculture assumes Canine Health Board responsibilities). It revises the composition of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, requiring bipartisan appointments from legislative leaders and adding specific roles like the Attorney General. The bill also repeals outdated provisions in the Dog Law and Pennsylvania Climate Change Act that referenced the abolished entities. These changes streamline state governance by eliminating redundant advisory structures while updating related legal references.

Maddy summarySB 69 establishes a temporary pilot program called "Recovery-to-work" within Pennsylvania's Department of Labor and Industry to help individuals recovering from drug or alcohol substance use disorders gain employment. The program requires local workforce development boards to create local pilot initiatives focused on job training, career readiness skills, and recovery support services, partnering with businesses and treatment providers. Businesses that participate receive incentives, and the program leverages existing funds like the Opioid Settlement Account and Reemployment Fund. Local programs must include support services providers, secure business partner commitments, and target in-demand local jobs with industry-recognized credentials. The bill mandates annual reporting to evaluate effectiveness and ensure accountability.

Maddy summarySB 1060 amends Pennsylvania's Health Care Facilities Act to require licensed health care facilities to screen new patients for veteran status during admission. This applies directly to hospitals, clinics, and other facilities that admit new patients under the Act. The bill updates licensing requirements to mandate this screening as a standard part of patient intake, without altering existing benefits or eligibility processes. The provision aims to identify veterans for potential service-connected care options through the facility's existing systems.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the week of October 25-31, 2025, as "Epidermolysis Bullosa Awareness Week" in Pennsylvania. It aims to increase public awareness about epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition causing fragile skin and severe blistering. As a symbolic measure, the resolution does not create new laws, allocate funds, or impose legal obligations. The resolution has been referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee for further review.

Maddy summarySB 6 creates a statewide system to streamline permit processing for state agencies. It requires a digital tracking system for permit applications, establishes a third-party review process for delayed permit decisions, and mandates annual reports on permit timelines. The bill also creates two new state entities: the Pennsylvania Office of Transformation and Opportunity (to coordinate permit reforms) and the Economic Development Strategy Group (to develop growth plans). These provisions directly affect state agencies managing permits, businesses and individuals applying for permits, and the new offices tasked with implementing the changes. The bill passed final passage in October 2025 and now awaits further committee review.

Maddy summarySB 1068 removes existing regulations governing the state's CO2 Budget Trading Program, which is a system where businesses buy and sell allowances for carbon emissions. This change directly affects companies participating in the program by eliminating specific compliance rules they previously had to follow. The key provision is the outright abrogation (removal) of these regulations, streamlining the program's operational requirements without creating new rules. The bill passed final passage on October 22, 2025, and was referred to the Environmental & Natural Resource Protection committee for further consideration.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 13, 2025, as the official observance of the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy. It is a ceremonial measure with no binding legal effect, intended to honor the Navy's founding. The resolution directly affects the state legislature and its official communications, encouraging recognition of this historical milestone. It does not create new laws, alter funding, or impact any specific groups or individuals.

Maddy summarySR 179 designates the week of October 20-24, 2025, as "School Bus Safety Week" in Pennsylvania. This resolution is a symbolic gesture to promote public awareness of school bus safety, without creating new laws or requirements. It does not directly affect any specific group or mandate actions but encourages community focus on this issue during the designated week.

Maddy summarySB 1041 amends Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to expand public assistance coverage for complex care assistant services. It directly affects individuals requiring long-term, specialized personal care due to disabilities or chronic conditions. The bill establishes a new provision requiring the state to provide medical assistance for these services under the public assistance program. This changes existing coverage by explicitly including complex care assistants, who help with daily living tasks like bathing, feeding, and medication management. The bill is currently pending in the Health & Human Services committee.