Sen. Art Haywood

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania bill, SB 1300, amends the state's personal income tax code to allow tax-free withdrawals from certain retirement accounts for specific life events. It directly affects Pennsylvania residents who hold these accounts and plan to access funds for a child's birth or adoption or to purchase a first-time home. Under the new provisions, parents may withdraw up to $5,000 individually or $10,000 combined per child, while first-time homebuyers can withdraw up to $10,000. The legislation aligns state tax treatment with federal exemptions for these categories of early withdrawals. These tax exemptions will apply to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania Senate resolution urges the U.S. Congress to pass a law banning insider stock trading and betting in prediction markets for top federal officials. The proposed legislation would prohibit members of Congress, the President, the Vice President, and Cabinet members from buying or selling stocks, derivatives, or other securities that could be influenced by their access to nonpublic government information. Additionally, the bill seeks to forbid these officials from placing financial bets on outcomes related to government actions, policy decisions, or national security events. If enacted, the law would require these officials to divest their holdings within a set timeframe and establish an independent authority to enforce penalties for violations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates April 2026 as "Distracted Driving Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania to promote safe driving habits. The bill aims to educate drivers and passengers about the dangers of activities like texting, eating, or using navigation systems while operating a vehicle. By encouraging responsible behavior, the resolution seeks to raise awareness about preventable crashes and fatalities caused by driver distraction. The measure is a symbolic designation that does not create new laws or penalties but relies on existing state agencies to share resources for public safety campaigns.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates May 2026 as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to highlight a group of genetic disorders affecting connective tissues. The measure aims to increase public understanding of the condition's symptoms, such as joint hypermobility and fragile skin, and to encourage better recognition and care for the estimated one in 5,000 people affected. By officially setting aside the month for awareness, the resolution seeks to draw attention to the need for accurate diagnosis and multidisciplinary medical support for individuals with this chronic condition.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 287 is a commemorative measure that honors the life and service of Katherine 'Katie' True, a former Pennsylvania state representative from Lancaster County who passed away in October 2025. The resolution formally notes her death and extends condolences to her family while acknowledging her extensive career in public service, which included eight terms in the House and roles as Commissioner of Professional and Occupational Affairs and Secretary of Legislative Affairs. It also recognizes her legislative achievements and advocacy work on issues such as independent living, human trafficking, and domestic abuse before transmitting a copy of the resolution to the True family.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors the Curtis Institute of Music on its 100th anniversary. It recognizes the school's century-long impact on Philadelphia and the global music community, highlighting its history of providing free, high-quality education to talented students since 1928. The resolution formally acknowledges the institute's contributions to the arts and celebrates its legacy of producing world-renowned musicians.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally recognizes April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to highlight the prevalence and impact of sexual violence. The bill includes background information on statistics regarding sexual assault and harassment, as well as the history of advocacy efforts in the state. It does not change any laws or policies but serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of the issue and support for survivors.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates the week of April 19 through 25, 2026, as "National Library Week" throughout Pennsylvania. The measure formally acknowledges the vital role libraries play in education and community support, highlighting their services to residents of all backgrounds. While it promotes awareness of library resources during this specific timeframe, it does not alter any laws or allocate funding. The resolution serves as a symbolic gesture to encourage public engagement with local libraries rather than implementing new policy requirements.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates April 2026 as "Fair Housing Month" and April 30, 2026, as "Affordable Homeownership Day" in Pennsylvania to honor the legacy of the Fair Housing Act and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The bill directly affects the state's residents, financial institutions, community organizations, and local governments by encouraging them to promote equitable lending and remove barriers to homeownership. It formally commends the National Association of Real Estate Brokers for its work in expanding housing access for Black families and underserved communities. The measure serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about housing disparities rather than implementing new laws or funding programs.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 1290 would limit the use of cash bail for pregnant defendants in Pennsylvania, except in cases involving capital offenses or crimes with a maximum life sentence. The bill creates a rebuttable presumption against setting monetary bail for these individuals and requires courts to document specific reasons if cash bail is still imposed. It also mandates that jails provide free pregnancy tests within 24 hours of request and protects the confidentiality of related medical information.