Sen. Judy Ward

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill updates the state's Public School Code to require that all elementary schools teach cursive handwriting and provide students with a copy of the National Flag Code by eighth grade. It mandates that every student receive cursive instruction until they can read and write it by the end of fifth grade. Additionally, the legislation clarifies which existing laws and regulations apply to both traditional and cyber charter schools, ensuring they adhere to standards regarding safety, fair treatment, and other educational requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Outpatient Psychiatric Oversight Act to clarify definitions for mental health providers and expand how psychiatric services can be delivered. It specifically allows certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants to provide up to 50% of their psychiatric care remotely via telehealth, provided they hold or obtain a mental health certification within two years. Clinics seeking to offer more than 50% of services remotely must request a waiver from the state department, which requires them to maintain a partnership with a nearby physical clinic to ensure patients can access in-person care if needed. The legislation also mandates that outpatient clinics be directed by a psychiatrist who must participate in regular staff meetings and quality management processes, while simultaneously repealing several outdated regulations.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs funds from the State Lottery Fund to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging to support various programs for older adults. The legislation allocates money for general department operations, a major expansion of the PENNCARE program for services like counseling and community care, caregiver support, and grants for senior centers. Additionally, it provides funding for Alzheimer's outreach, pre-admission assessments, and a transfer to the Pharmaceutical Assistance Fund. These financial changes take effect immediately and apply retroactively to July 1, 2024.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates September 10, 2024, as "World Suicide Prevention Day" throughout Pennsylvania. It serves as a symbolic gesture to highlight the importance of mental health awareness and encourage open discussions about suicide prevention. The bill does not create new laws or change any government procedures, but rather acknowledges a global health initiative led by international organizations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates September 2024 as "Childhood Cancer Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania to highlight the impact of pediatric cancer on the state's youth and families. The bill does not create new laws or change funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to raise public awareness about the disease and the state's existing support systems. It acknowledges Pennsylvania's role as a leader in pediatric care by recognizing its seven Children's Oncology Group hospitals and the millions of dollars already allocated to research. The resolution encourages residents to join the fight against the disease and honors the patients, families, and medical professionals involved in the cause.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates September 2024 as "Life Insurance Awareness Month" throughout Pennsylvania to encourage residents to consider their life insurance needs. The bill highlights statistics showing the financial security life insurance provides to families and notes that many Pennsylvanians still lack adequate coverage. It urges citizens to learn more about life insurance benefits and consult with qualified professionals to ensure a secure financial future for their loved ones.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires commercial websites in Pennsylvania that host more than one-third of their content as material harmful to minors to implement age verification measures before allowing access. The law defines acceptable verification methods, such as using digital ID cards or third-party services, while prohibiting the retention of personal identifying information once access is granted. News organizations and internet service providers are exempt from these requirements, and the legislation imposes liability on companies that fail to verify user ages or improperly store personal data.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Administrative Code to clarify how executive departments are led and how their leaders are appointed. It establishes that each administrative department must have an officer who personally or through a deputy exercises the department's powers and duties. The legislation also sets specific rules for gubernatorial appointments, requiring Senate confirmation before a nominee can serve or receive pay. Additionally, it defines the role of deputy heads, limiting their authority to act as department leaders for no more than 90 days and prohibiting them from receiving higher pay or salary increases while serving in that temporary capacity.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires corrections officers to staff overwatch towers at Pennsylvania prisons whenever inmates are moving outdoors. The law defines an overwatch tower as a tall structure used for supervising inmates and mandates that these towers be manned during such movements, unless the tower is located in an area where supervision is impossible. The changes apply to all correctional institutions in the state and will take effect 60 days after the bill becomes law.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a concurrent resolution that asks the state legislature to officially recognize October 13, 2024, as the 249th birthday of the United States Navy. It does not create new laws, change funding, or affect any specific group of people, as it serves only as a symbolic gesture to honor the Navy's history and values. The text highlights the service's long tradition of protecting the nation and its core principles of honor, courage, and commitment.