Sen. Art Haywood

Maddy summaryThis bill requires individuals in Pennsylvania who wish to obtain a license to carry a concealed firearm to purchase liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000. The legislation mandates that license applicants provide proof of this insurance to the state and carry the insurance certificate with their firearm at all times. If a person fails to produce the required insurance document when asked by law enforcement, the officer must confiscate the firearm and the state will revoke the individual's license. Additionally, the bill outlines specific procedures for reissuing a license after revocation, which includes a $50 fee and the requirement to submit new proof of insurance.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates May 29, 2024, as "College and Career Savings Day" in Pennsylvania to raise public awareness about the state's 529 savings program. The resolution honors the program's history and highlights its tax benefits, which allow residents to save for postsecondary education, K-12 costs, and apprenticeships without incurring federal or state taxes on growth. It also recognizes the program's two investment options and its significant role in helping over 293,000 accounts hold more than $7.2 billion in savings. As a commemorative measure, the bill does not alter any existing laws or financial rules but serves to promote the value of saving for future education and career opportunities.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 2024 as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to highlight the condition, which affects connective tissue and causes issues like joint instability and fragile skin. The bill aims to increase public understanding of the disorder, which often goes undiagnosed due to its varied symptoms and lack of routine screening. By drawing attention to the disease, the measure seeks to support affected individuals and encourage further research and multidisciplinary care without mandating any specific government actions or funding.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates May 26, 2024, as "Fourth Trimester Care Day" in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about the health needs of new mothers during the first three months after childbirth. The bill highlights that current healthcare often focuses solely on pregnancy and birth, leaving many postpartum physical and mental health issues, such as depression and recovery complications, unaddressed. By officially recognizing this period, the measure aims to encourage better support for mothers transitioning into parenthood without changing any existing laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Minimum Wage Act to increase the state minimum wage to $20 per hour starting July 1, 2024, and establishes a mechanism for automatic adjustments every five years based on the Consumer Price Index. It clarifies how tips and gratuities are handled by requiring employers to pay tipped workers a base wage of at least 70% of the standard minimum wage and prohibiting employers from taking credit card processing fees out of the full gratuity amount given to employees. The legislation also grants the Department of Labor and Industry broader authority to create regulations and enforce compliance, while explicitly stating that the state law preempts any conflicting local ordinances.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases Pennsylvania's Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit program by raising the annual funding cap from $36 million to $72 million. It adjusts the percentage of tax credits available to businesses and private companies based on their investment duration and specific project types, such as veterans' housing or long-term service commitments. The legislation also raises the maximum credit limit per taxpayer and allocates $2 million specifically for pass-through entities like partnerships and S corporations. These changes aim to encourage more private investment in community development projects while maintaining restrictions on financial institutions using credits for their standard business operations.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new framework within the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to protect plants and pollinators from pests and invasive species. It establishes a dedicated Plant and Pollinator Protection Committee and a specific funding account while replacing the existing Plant Pest Management Account. The legislation grants the department authority to issue licenses to plant merchants and beekeepers, conduct inspections, and enforce quarantines or stop orders to prevent the spread of harmful organisms. Additionally, it defines specific terms related to beekeeping and plant distribution to ensure clear regulatory standards for those involved in the industry.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution that formally recognizes May 2024 as "Older Americans Month" within the Pennsylvania Senate. It does not create new laws, allocate funding, or change existing policies, but rather serves as a symbolic gesture to honor the contributions of older adults and highlight the theme of social connection. The text acknowledges the national Older Americans Act and encourages community engagement, such as sharing stories and organizing inclusive events, to support seniors. As a commemorative measure, its primary effect is to raise awareness about aging issues rather than to implement concrete policy changes.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates May 10 through 19, 2024, as "Go Public Gardens Days" in Pennsylvania to encourage residents and visitors to explore the state's public gardens. The measure highlights the economic and environmental value of these institutions, noting that they support thousands of jobs, contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to the economy, and help conserve natural resources. By officially recognizing this specific week, the bill aims to draw attention to an existing campaign that promotes volunteering and attendance at these sites during the period surrounding Mother's Day.

Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania Senate resolution designates April 2024 as "Military Sexual Trauma Awareness Month" to highlight the issue of sexual violence within the military community. The measure aims to draw attention to available resources provided by state and federal veterans' agencies for survivors of such trauma. By officially recognizing this month, the bill seeks to increase public awareness and support for those affected, without altering any laws or policies.