Sen. Wayne Langerholc

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Pennsylvania motor vehicle owners to self-certify financial responsibility (such as auto insurance) during registration or renewal. It establishes an online verification system for the Department of Transportation to confirm coverage instantly, eliminating the need for physical insurance cards. If the system shows no proof, the department notifies the owner to provide evidence within a specified timeframe. Insurers must notify the state of policy cancellations (unless using the online system), streamlining verification and reducing paperwork for drivers.

Maddy summarySB 1147 amends Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to update reimbursement rates for emergency ambulance services under Medicaid programs (Fee-for-Service, Capitation, and Community HealthChoices). It requires reimbursement for every loaded mile based on the higher of 2023 Medicare ambulance rates or current Medicaid fees, effective January 1, 2024. For cases where patients refused transport, it sets new rates starting July 1, 2025, using 2025 Medicare rates or updated Medicaid fees. The bill applies retroactively to July 1, 2025, directly affecting licensed ambulance providers serving Medicaid enrollees.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Pennsylvania's oil and gas fee structure to redirect 40% of remaining revenue from unconventional gas well fees (after 2011) into the Marcellus Legacy Fund. Specifically, 25% of this portion will fund county bridge repairs through the Highway Bridge Improvement Restricted Account. Counties and municipalities can use these funds to repair deteriorated bridges, regardless of federal aid eligibility, by submitting approved repair plans. The funds are distributed proportionally based on county population, and first- or second-class counties may also use them for public transportation authority bridges. This changes how oil and gas fee revenue is allocated to support local infrastructure.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania Senate resolution (SR 202) formally recognizes December 13, 2025, as "Wreaths Across America Day" within the state. It honors the Wreaths Across America project, which coordinates nationwide wreath-laying ceremonies at veterans' gravesites to "Remember, Honor and Teach." The resolution encourages all Pennsylvania residents to participate in this volunteer effort and reflect on veterans' service and sacrifices. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic observance.

Maddy summarySB 88 amends Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law to require health insurance plans sold in the state to cover specific breast imaging services without cost-sharing for policyholders. It mandates annual mammograms for women 40+ and physician-recommended mammograms for women under 40, plus MRI and other breast imaging for those at average or higher risk of breast cancer due to factors like family history, genetic mutations, or dense breast tissue. The law specifies coverage for screening, supplemental, and diagnostic exams but does not require coverage for mastectomies or override standard deductibles/copays beyond the minimum required services. This replaces prior requirements that allowed cost-sharing and excluded MRI coverage.

Maddy summarySB 1020 modifies Pennsylvania's hunting and trapping license fee structure to expand resident license exemptions. It directly affects Pennsylvania residents who hunt or trap, particularly those who may qualify for reduced or waived fees under updated criteria. The bill changes specific provisions in Title 34 of the state statutes to clarify eligibility for these exemptions, making it easier for qualifying residents to obtain licenses without paying standard fees. The bill passed final passage on November 18, 2025, and was referred to the Game & Fisheries committee for further consideration.

Maddy summarySB 1050 modifies Pennsylvania's child protective services laws by clarifying who must report suspected child abuse and expanding exemptions from the definition of child abuse. It directly affects child welfare professionals, healthcare providers, and educators who currently have mandatory reporting duties. The bill adds specific categories of actions or circumstances that are excluded from being classified as child abuse, reducing the scope of mandatory reporting requirements. This change aims to streamline reporting obligations while maintaining protections for children.

Maddy summarySB 533 creates a fee exemption for veterans and active military members participating in approved hunting events. It allows the Pennsylvania Game Commission to issue "Military Event License Exemption Permits" for events on private land (with landowner approval) that provide rehabilitation or enjoyment for eligible individuals. Eligible participants include veterans with 30%+ service-connected disabilities, Purple Heart recipients, and one designated assistant per participant. Events are limited to 10 people for no more than seven consecutive days, require 14-day advance applications, and still require adherence to all hunting regulations like seasons and bag limits. The bill takes effect 60 days after passage.

Maddy summarySB 185 permits non-commercial vehicles under 14,000 pounds gross weight to install decorative rear lighting strips (e.g., ornamental lamp bars) that match the color and illumination of the vehicle's stop lamps. These additions must be horizontally mounted, no longer than 60 inches, non-battery-powered, and cannot feature flashing lights (except when paired with turn signals). The law explicitly excludes commercial motor carriers and vehicles with factory-installed lighting matching the described standards.

Maddy summarySB 715 extends the expiration date of Pennsylvania's Rare Disease Advisory Council from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2028. This procedural bill directly affects the council, which advises state departments on rare disease issues, and the departments it collaborates with (Health, Insurance, Human Services, Education). The key provision simply changes the expiration date in the 2017 law without altering the council's structure or duties. This extension provides continued operation of the council for an additional three years.