Sen. Art Haywood

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 308 formally celebrates the City of Philadelphia for its role in American history and commemorates a ceremonial meeting of the Pennsylvania Senate at the National Constitution Center. The resolution acknowledges Philadelphia's significance as the site where the Declaration of Independence was drafted and signed, highlighting the city's upcoming 250th anniversary events. It also expresses appreciation for the hospitality extended to the Senate during this ceremonial gathering, which follows a tradition of honoring major historical milestones.

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 formally recognizes May 2026 as Older Americans Month within Pennsylvania to honor the contributions of seniors. The bill serves as a commemorative gesture that highlights the importance of health, wellness, and community support for older adults. It does not create any new laws or change existing policies, but rather expresses official appreciation for the aging population.

Maddy summarySB 256 requires child care facilities in Pennsylvania that use fossil fuel appliances (like heaters or fireplaces) to install and maintain operational, approved carbon monoxide alarms. Specifically, facilities must have alarms centrally located near these appliances and in every unit on the same floor within 18 months of the law's effective date. The bill ties compliance to licensing, stating the Department of Human Services cannot issue or renew a license for facilities failing to meet these standards unless a provisional license applies. It directly affects licensed child care facilities, including homes caring for 4-6 non-relative children, licensed schools, and facilities operating 24+ hours daily.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates May 8, 2026, as "Provider Appreciation Day" in Pennsylvania to honor child care providers for their contributions to families and communities. The measure does not change laws or create new programs; it simply sets aside a specific date to recognize the work of those who care for young children. By officially naming the day, the resolution aims to highlight the value of the child care workforce and the essential role these providers play in supporting working families and community growth.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates May 2026 as "Myositis Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania to highlight a rare autoimmune disease that causes muscle inflammation and weakness. The bill directly affects the state legislature by formally acknowledging the condition, which impacts approximately 75,000 people across the United States and includes various forms such as dermatomyositis and polymyositis. By passing this resolution, the Senate aims to increase public understanding of the disease and show support for those living with it, without changing any laws or funding. The measure serves as a symbolic gesture to bring attention to the challenges faced by patients and their families during the specified month.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Covered Device Recycling Act by clarifying definitions and expanding the range of electronic items subject to recycling requirements. It specifically adds smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other personal electronics to the list of covered devices while removing mobile phones and landline telephones from the program. The legislation also establishes a sales prohibition mechanism that allows the Department of Environmental Protection to ban the sale of specific brands that fail to meet recycling obligations. Additionally, the bill increases the definition of a small business for program eligibility from 50 to 100 employees and requires manufacturers to report their market share and recycling plans.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Capital Facilities Debt Enabling Act to clarify what counts as a "redevelopment assistance capital project" and sets specific rules for funding such projects. It directly affects local governments and developers seeking state-backed financing for infrastructure and community improvements by defining eligible projects as those that boost employment, generate tax revenue, and involve at least 50% non-State funding. The legislation excludes major public works like highways and sewage facilities but includes stormwater systems, tunnels, roads, hospitals, and housing developments that support economic activity, provided the total project cost is at least $1 million. Additionally, the bill removes a previous provision that allowed up to $50 million of state funds to be used specifically for constructing housing units. These changes take effect 60 days after the bill is enacted.

Maddy summarySB 1314 amends Pennsylvania's personal income tax law to increase tax rates for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025. The bill raises the tax rate for residents from 3.7% to 9.7% and for nonresidents earning income from Pennsylvania sources from 3.7% to 9.7%. It also clarifies that income earned by certain trusts is taxable to the grantor rather than the trust itself. These changes directly affect Pennsylvania residents, nonresidents with Pennsylvania income, and individuals who establish or manage trusts.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates the week of May 17 through 23, 2026, as "Public Works Week" in Pennsylvania to align with the national observance. The measure aims to honor public works professionals, such as engineers, inspectors, and contractors, who maintain essential infrastructure and services for the community. By officially recognizing this period, the resolution highlights the contributions of these workers to the state's health, safety, and quality of life. The text does not alter laws or create new programs but serves as a commemorative acknowledgment of the public works workforce.