Sen. Judy Ward

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates September 11, 2026, as "25th Anniversary of the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001, Day" throughout Pennsylvania. The measure aims to honor the memory of civilians, military members, and first responders who died in the attacks and to acknowledge the bravery of those who responded to the crisis. By passing this resolution, the Senate formally recognizes the historical significance of the event and reaffirms its commitment to remembering the victims and the lessons learned from that day.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution honors the life of former State Senator Jack McGregor and expresses condolences following his death on January 6, 2026. The document outlines his extensive career, including his service in the Marine Corps, his tenure in the Pennsylvania Senate, and his role as a founder of the Pittsburgh Penguins. It also notes his various appointments to federal boards and his establishment of a scholarship at the University of Pittsburgh. The resolution serves as a formal acknowledgment of his public service and personal achievements rather than proposing new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates June 10, 2026, as "National Guard and Veterans Day" to honor the Pennsylvania National Guard and its veterans. The measure highlights the unit's historical roots dating back to 1747 and outlines its extensive roles in military service, disaster relief, and community support. By formally recognizing this date, the resolution acknowledges the contributions of the approximately 20,000 members who serve in both full-time and part-time capacities across the state.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Pennsylvania county agencies and juvenile probation officers to use a specific screening process when interacting with children who may be dependent or delinquent. The goal is to identify whether these children are currently victims of human trafficking or are at risk of becoming victims, particularly those involved in sexual servitude. If a child is identified through this screening, the agency must immediately connect them with specialized support services designed for sexually exploited minors. The law takes effect 90 days after it is signed into action.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new program within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to fund the investigation and prosecution of internet crimes against children. It authorizes the commission to provide grants to law enforcement agencies for establishing task forces that specialize in investigating online sexual offenses and human trafficking involving minors. The funding can also be used to supplement existing federal grants and to train investigators and prosecutors in handling these specific cases. Additionally, the bill requires the commission to set guidelines for awarding these grants, ensuring they are distributed across different geographic areas.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's vehicle laws to introduce stricter sentencing enhancements for specific driving offenses involving alcohol or drugs. It directly affects drivers who refuse chemical testing under a warrant, repeat offenders with four or more prior violations, and school bus drivers convicted of operating their vehicles while impaired. The key mechanism requires the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to mandate harsher penalties for these three categories of cases. The changes would take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation Act to update how pharmacies are reimbursed for compounded and topical medications. It directly affects employers, employees, and pharmacies by setting specific payment rules for custom-made drugs and topical treatments. The key provisions establish a $20 fee per prescription for compounded drugs with a $400 maximum per month, while non-compounded topical drugs are capped at $240 per month plus a $10 dispensing fee. The bill also clarifies definitions for compounded and topical drugs, noting that duplicates of commercially available medications are not reimbursable. These changes take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to create a Task Force on Child Protection in the Digital Age to evaluate how current laws address online risks to minors. The Task Force will include representatives from law enforcement, victim advocacy, medical professionals, and other relevant agencies appointed by the Attorney General. Its main role is to review Pennsylvania's statutes regarding child protection in the digital age, particularly concerning artificial intelligence and child sexual abuse material, and recommend updates to laws and policies. The commission must submit an initial report by November 30, 2027, with follow-up reports every odd-numbered year thereafter, and publish findings online while sending copies to state leadership.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates June 15, 2026, as Pediatric Brain Cancer Awareness Day in Pennsylvania to highlight the severity of the disease among children. The measure calls on residents to observe the day by raising awareness, supporting affected families, and advocating for increased research funding. It does not create new laws or change government operations but serves as a symbolic gesture to draw attention to the condition.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 1360, titled the "So Every BODY Can Move Act," requires health insurance policies in Pennsylvania to cover prostheses and custom orthotics for enrollees. The bill mandates that insurers provide these devices in a nondiscriminatory manner and allows patients to choose their own licensed providers for determination and prescription. Additionally, the legislation assigns duties to the Insurance Department and the Department of Human Services to oversee financial requirements, issue necessary notices, and enforce compliance with the new coverage rules.