Sen. Art Haywood

Maddy summarySB 668 is a Pennsylvania bill that requires individuals to present identification when purchasing firearm ammunition. Specifically, purchasers must show an official form of photographic identification, such as a driver's license or government photo ID. There is an exception for members of religious sects whose beliefs prohibit photographs, allowing them to use a valid-without-photo driver's license or other prescribed documents. Sellers who violate these provisions face fines ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 for repeat offenses, and a 30-day prohibition on ammunition sales for a third or subsequent violation.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 92 recognizes April 2025 as "Sikh Awareness and Appreciation Month" in Pennsylvania. This resolution aims to promote public understanding of the Sikh faith, acknowledge the contributions of the Sikh community, and combat anti-Sikh bigotry throughout the Commonwealth.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 661 establishes the Animal Cruelty Investigation Fund within the State Treasury. This fund is continuously appropriated to the Attorney General to support efforts against animal cruelty. The money will be used for training and equipping humane society police officers, developing investigation materials, and covering salaries and benefits for attorneys prosecuting animal cruelty cases. It also provides grants to animal shelters for investigations or other permissible expenses. The fund will be financed by a new $25 assessment imposed on individuals who violate animal cruelty laws.

Maddy summarySB 656 proposes changes to Pennsylvania's corporate net income tax, primarily affecting corporations that are part of a "unitary business," meaning a group of related companies operating as a single economic unit. Beginning after December 31, 2025, these businesses would calculate their taxable income based on the combined income of their U.S. operations ("water's-edge basis"). The bill also modifies rules for deductions related to intercompany dividends and addresses the treatment of intangible and interest expenses incurred in transactions between affiliated entities. Income for these unitary businesses would be apportioned to the state using a sales factor.

Maddy summarySB 650 amends Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to enhance child safety. It mandates that all child care centers and family child care homes install and maintain door safety guards. These guards must meet or exceed specific requirements set by the department to minimize the risk of harm or injury to children. This bill directly affects licensed child care facilities and will take effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 643 amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to regulate how landlords can use criminal history information when making housing decisions. The bill prohibits landlords from denying tenancy or retaliating against prospective occupants and tenants based on certain criminal histories. It establishes "fair chance housing" practices, defining specific "legitimate business reasons" for considering criminal history, generally excluding convictions more than two years old. Additionally, it requires landlords to provide notice regarding their use of criminal history and updates the procedures and civil penalties for violations.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 646 establishes the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering Housing Trust Fund within the State Treasury. This fund aims to provide emergency, transitional, and permanent housing programs, along with support services, for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, human trafficking, stalking, and their immediate family members. Funding for the trust fund will come from an initial transfer of $1,000,000, a new $10 fee on deed and mortgage filings, and optional $5 contributions during online driver's license or vehicle registration renewals. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency will administer the fund to support housing stability for this target population.

Maddy summarySB 647 amends Pennsylvania's Crimes and Offenses statute regarding prostitution and related offenses. The bill removes specific provisions that made these offenses a third-degree felony if the person involved was HIV positive or knew another person involved was HIV positive. It establishes a mechanism for individuals previously convicted and sentenced under these specific HIV-related felony provisions to petition the court for resentencing to a misdemeanor grade. This resentencing process applies to those who have completed their sentence and those currently serving it, subject to certain conditions.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a bill with policy changes) honoring the Philadelphia Eagles for winning Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025. It formally recognizes their championship victory over the Kansas City Chiefs (40-22), their historic playoff performance, and their community contributions like supporting schools and mental health initiatives. The resolution expresses the Senate's appreciation for the team's role in uniting Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, calling them "one of the greatest football teams ever to represent this Commonwealth." As a symbolic gesture, it has no legal effect or impact on public policy.

Maddy summarySB 640 amends Pennsylvania's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law to require that businesses selling event tickets, lodging, or food delivery services display the total price - including all mandatory fees - clearly and conspicuously when a consumer first views the product or service. This applies specifically to platforms like hotel booking sites, ticket resellers, and food delivery apps, but excludes direct restaurant deliveries. The law mandates that this total price must be visible before purchase, ensuring consumers see all costs upfront without hidden fees (except government taxes). The bill defines key terms for these platforms to clarify enforcement and aligns with existing consumer protection standards.