Sen. Judy Ward

Maddy summarySB 524 amends Pennsylvania’s environmental and oil/gas statutes to increase state control over energy regulation. It exempts coal-powered plants from federal EPA rules, requires legislative approval for new regulations affecting coal and natural gas, and establishes a public database tracking permit applications for these industries. The bill also sets a 45-day deadline for permit decisions (with automatic approval if missed) and formally withdraws Pennsylvania from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. These changes directly affect coal and natural gas operators, the Department of Environmental Protection, and permit applicants by shifting regulatory authority and streamlining permitting processes.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a $500 annual tax credit for Pennsylvania residents who serve as active volunteer certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or volunteer firefighters. To qualify, individuals must have at least two full years of service by December 31 of the tax year and respond to at least 20% of their agency's emergency calls during that period. The credit applies to tax liability starting with taxable years beginning after December 31, 2026, and cannot be carried over, refunded, or sold. The Department of Revenue will administer the credit, require self-certification, and submit annual reports to the General Assembly on its usage.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 57) symbolically recognizes April 2025 as "Faith Month" in Pennsylvania. It encourages awareness of religious holidays and observances during that month, citing historical references to faith in American founding documents and emphasizing religious liberty. As a non-binding Senate resolution, it does not create new laws or affect any individuals or groups, serving only as a ceremonial acknowledgment.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 56) passed by the Pennsylvania Senate to honor the late Jerry Allen Stern, a former state representative who served the 80th District from 1992 to 2015. The resolution extends condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, and family following his death on December 11, 2024. It recognizes his service as a legislator, his work on committees, and his community involvement in Blair County. As a memorial resolution, it has no policy impact or binding effect.

Maddy summaryThis non-binding resolution designates March 2025 as "Disabilities Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. It encourages all Pennsylvanians to learn about challenges faced by people with disabilities and fosters greater public awareness of their experiences. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it serves as a symbolic gesture to recognize systemic inequities and honor disability rights progress.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (SR 50) recognizes March 28, 2025, as "Drugs Kill Dreams Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the 25th anniversary of Judge J. Gary DeComo's anti-drug slogan, adopted in 2000. It does not create new laws or funding but encourages Pennsylvanians to participate in existing community-based drug prevention education activities. The resolution specifically thanks Judge DeComo for his campaign, which partners with schools and community groups to promote youth prevention efforts. It serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about ongoing prevention work, not a policy change.

Maddy summarySB 462 establishes Pennsylvania's Office of Government Efficiency within the existing Regulatory Review Commission. This office will review state regulations and statutes to identify those that are unreasonable, unduly burdensome, redundant, or wasteful, and recommend modifications, revisions, or repeals to the General Assembly or relevant agencies. It requires the office to create a public website for receiving suggestions and reports on inefficient practices, and to submit annual reports to the legislature and governor. The office will operate for five years before being abolished, with its director appointed without political consideration.

Maddy summarySB 173 extends Pennsylvania's veteran benefits and recognition to eligible veterans of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces who served during the Vietnam War (January 9, 1962 - May 7, 1975) and are recognized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under 38 U.S.C. § 109. It defines "eligible veteran of the Korean Armed Forces" as meeting these criteria and requires proof of service (like discharge papers or VA documentation) for benefits. The bill ensures these veterans receive the same rights, benefits, and privileges as Pennsylvania veterans of U.S. military forces. This policy change directly affects Korean veterans meeting the specific service period and VA recognition requirements.

Maddy summarySB 463, the "Whole Milk in Pennsylvania Schools Act," allows Pennsylvania schools to use state or local funds to provide or sell whole Pennsylvania milk (3% fat) or reduced-fat Pennsylvania milk (2% fat) processed within the state. It directly affects all Pennsylvania schools, including public districts, charter schools, and career technical schools. The bill requires school boards to choose PA milk options, mandates a report on milk consumption and availability within two years, and authorizes the Attorney General to pursue federal legal action if schools face funding loss for complying. "Pennsylvania milk" is defined as raw milk from PA cows processed into fluid milk within Pennsylvania.

Maddy summarySB 465 amends Pennsylvania's Local Option Small Games of Chance Act to change how club licensees (like social clubs running bingo or similar games) must distribute proceeds from these activities. It requires that at least 50% of annual proceeds be used for public interest purposes within one year, while limiting clubs to retaining no more than 50% of the proceeds. The bill directly affects licensed clubs operating small games of chance under the existing law. The changes apply to calendar years starting after December 31, 2025, and take effect 60 days after enactment.