Sen. Greg Rothman

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 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 464 amends Pennsylvania's sentencing laws for first-degree murder by adding new aggravating circumstances. Specifically, it expands the list of locations where a murder could trigger harsher penalties to include elementary/secondary schools, colleges, places of worship, professional sports facilities, and government offices. This change directly affects defendants convicted of first-degree murder committed in these specific locations, potentially leading to more severe sentences. The bill does not alter sentencing ranges but adds these locations as factors judges must consider during sentencing. The amendment becomes effective 60 days after enactment.

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 summaryThis resolution (SR 39) designates February 19, 2025, as "The Battle of Iwo Jima Remembrance Day" in Pennsylvania. It commemorates the 80th anniversary of the 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima, highlighting the battle's significant casualties (6,821 U.S. troops killed) and historical importance. The resolution encourages Pennsylvania local governments and communities to hold observances to honor the sacrifices made during the battle. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no legal effect or binding requirements.

Maddy summarySB 438 requires Pennsylvania state agencies to appoint a regulatory compliance officer. These officers must help regulated entities (like businesses and organizations subject to state rules) understand and follow regulations through education, clear communication channels, and resolving issues before penalties are applied. The bill mandates that officers provide written opinions on regulatory duties within 20 business days, which can serve as a defense in enforcement actions if requested in advance. Agencies must also establish support for new businesses and submit annual reports on compliance efforts.

Maddy summaryThis constitutional amendment would require gubernatorial nominees to wait for Senate confirmation before issuing rules or directives affecting the public. Currently, nominees can take effect immediately; this would delay such actions until Senate consent is granted, applying to all appointments except election certifications. It directly affects governors' appointees (e.g., cabinet officials), the Senate (which must provide consent), and the public impacted by new regulations. The amendment must pass both legislative chambers and be approved by voters to become part of Pennsylvania's Constitution.

Maddy summarySB 458 amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law to clarify that certain personal notes and working papers are exempt from public disclosure. Specifically, it explicitly exempts notes used solely for personal purposes (like telephone message slips or routing slips) and materials created to accommodate disabilities (such as braille translations or large-print documents). This change affects public agencies responding to information requests under the law, ensuring these specific materials remain confidential. The bill does not alter broader access rights but refines existing exceptions to prevent confusion about what records must be disclosed. The amendment takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summarySB 449 requires a study to examine drug abuse by parents in foster and adoptive families (referred to as "resource families" in the bill) to determine how to best protect children in care. The study will collect data on drug use patterns, evaluate mobile technology for social workers to document concerns, and assess cost-effective treatment options. It establishes a Selection and Advisory Council - appointed by state leaders - to oversee the study, select a research firm, and report findings to the Governor and relevant legislative committees. The bill does not implement new policies but mandates a 24-month study to inform future decisions about drug screening, technology, and treatment for parents in foster care.

Maddy summarySB 422 requires Pennsylvania's Department of Education to select and provide a free supplemental mathematics program for kindergarten through grade five students in public and nonpublic schools (including private and parochial schools). The program must be self-directed, flexible, and designed to strengthen students' math fluency and problem-solving skills while allowing student ownership of learning and parental involvement. Schools can voluntarily adopt the program at no cost, and the Department must annually report on participation to the General Assembly. This bill amends the Public School Code to establish a standardized, free resource for early math education without altering existing curricula.