Maddy summaryPennsylvania's SB 822 strengthens state preemption over local firearm regulations. It declares that state law exclusively governs all aspects of firearms, ammunition, and related items - including purchase, sale, possession, and transportation - nullifying any conflicting local ordinances, resolutions, or rules. The bill also creates a legal pathway for individuals or organizations adversely affected by local gun rules to seek court relief, including recovery of attorney fees and other costs if they successfully challenge such rules. This directly affects municipalities (cities, towns, counties) and residents or businesses operating under local firearm regulations that conflict with state law. The bill does not change existing firearm laws but explicitly prevents local governments from enacting stricter rules.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 1014 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code of 1949 to require public schools to adopt a "bell-to-bell phone-free policy" during the entire school day. This policy directly affects all public K-12 schools and students by prohibiting the use of personal electronic devices during instructional time. The key provision mandates that schools establish and enforce this policy, though the bill does not specify exemptions or implementation details. The legislation focuses on reducing distractions in classrooms by limiting student phone access from the start to the end of the school day. It is currently pending in the Education committee.
Maddy summarySB 64 creates an official logotype for veteran-owned businesses in Pennsylvania (defined as businesses where veterans own at least 51% of the interest). Businesses can apply to use the logotype through a department process, with a $250 fee and optional contributions to the Military Family Relief Assistance Fund. The fund, established under existing law, will use these fees and contributions to support military families. The bill also imposes penalties for falsely claiming veteran status to use the logotype. It directly affects veteran-owned businesses and funds military family relief programs.
Maddy summarySB 848 amends Pennsylvania's 1929 Administrative Code to update the composition of the State Planning Board. It adds two members appointed by the Senate President pro tempore (from different political parties) and two by the House Speaker (also from different parties), while expanding ex-officio membership to include eight cabinet secretaries and agency directors. The bill specifies four-year terms for Governor-appointed members and increases the board's required quorum from 13 to 14 members. These changes directly affect how the board is structured and who serves on it, without altering the board's policy responsibilities. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution officially designates the week of May 10 through 16, 2026, as "National Police Week" and May 4, 2026, as "Police Officers' Memorial Day" within Pennsylvania. The measure serves to formally recognize and honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, specifically mentioning five officers who passed away in 2025. By adopting this resolution, the Pennsylvania Senate acknowledges the sacrifices made by police officers and aligns with a national observance that has been held annually since 1962.
Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of May 17 through 23, 2026, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" in Pennsylvania. The bill directly affects the state legislature and aims to recognize the work of emergency medical services providers, including first responders, paramedics, and volunteers. It does not create new laws or change policies but serves as a commemorative measure to highlight the importance of emergency care.
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 summaryThis Senate Resolution designates the week of April 26 through May 2, 2026, as "Jewish Day Schools Week" in Pennsylvania to recognize the state's 34 Jewish day schools. The measure expresses appreciation for these institutions, which educate over 440,000 Jewish Pennsylvanians and provide cultural and religious instruction. The resolution highlights the schools' role in fostering community, offering bilingual education, and connecting students to global Jewish networks. It also notes that these schools have produced notable alumni such as Seth Rogen and Natalie Portman. This is a ceremonial designation with no changes to laws or funding.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the life of Kevin L. Brehm, a volunteer emergency medical technician and fire service leader from Adams County who passed away in April 2026. The document recognizes his 42 years of service, during which he mentored others and received a Senate citation for 25 years of dedication to local emergency response. As a procedural measure, the resolution formally expresses the Senate's condolences to Brehm's family and directs that a copy of the document be sent to them as a gesture of respect.
Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific bridge in Mount Carmel Borough as the "Veterans Viaduct" to honor the service and sacrifices of military veterans. The legislation requires the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to install and maintain official signs displaying this new name on the bridge. By officially renaming the structure, the bill aims to create a lasting symbol of gratitude for veterans who have served the nation. The change takes effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.