Sen. Rosemary Brown

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.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates May 2026 as "National Treatment Court Month" in Pennsylvania to raise awareness about specialized courts that address substance use and mental health issues. The measure highlights the work of judges, prosecutors, treatment providers, and other professionals who operate these courts to help individuals recover rather than face traditional punishment. By acknowledging these programs, the resolution aims to educate the public and encourage continued support for initiatives that focus on rehabilitation and community safety.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of May 17 through 23, 2026, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" in Pennsylvania. The bill directly affects the state legislature and aims to recognize the work of emergency medical services providers, including first responders, paramedics, and volunteers. It does not create new laws or change policies but serves as a commemorative measure to highlight the importance of emergency care.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Athletic Trainer Interstate Compact, allowing licensed athletic trainers to practice in other member states without obtaining separate licenses for each location. The legislation empowers the Governor and the Secretary of the Commonwealth to execute the agreement, which aims to improve public access to care, support military families, and reduce administrative burdens for professionals. Under the compact, a Pennsylvania athletic trainer with a valid, unencumbered license would receive a "compact privilege" to work in other participating states while still adhering to the patient's local laws and regulations. The agreement also establishes a commission to oversee the compact and facilitates the sharing of disciplinary and investigative information among member states to maintain public safety.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a public online registry in Pennsylvania to list individuals convicted of aggravated cruelty to animals, starting in January 2027. The Pennsylvania State Police will maintain this list, which includes photos and identifying details but excludes sensitive numbers like Social Security numbers, and courts will send conviction records to the police within 60 days. People convicted once will remain on the list for two years, while repeat offenders stay for five years or longer, with judges having the option to order a lifetime ban on animal ownership for severe cases. Additionally, anyone selling, transferring, or adopting an animal must check the registry to ensure the buyer is not listed, with penalties including fines and license revocation for those who fail to do so.

Maddy summarySB 1053 amends Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation Act to expand the definition of "employe" to include volunteer emergency personnel. It specifically adds coverage for members of volunteer fire departments, ambulance corps, and rescue squads who perform operational support duties (such as fundraising, equipment maintenance, or administrative tasks) on a regular, approved basis - *not* just emergency response. This change ensures these volunteers qualify for workers' compensation if injured during approved activities, while explicitly excluding "social members" who do not perform operational duties. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates April 29, 2026, as "World Wish Day" throughout Pennsylvania to honor the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The measure serves as a symbolic recognition of the organization's work granting wishes to children with critical illnesses and does not create any new laws or require funding. By acknowledging the anniversary of the first wish granted in 1980, the resolution highlights the foundation's impact on children's well-being and community spirit.

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 summarySB 998 would create a grant program to fund expansions of nursing education programs at colleges and universities. It requires the Department of Community and Economic Development to administer grants for institutions aiming to increase nursing program capacity, directly affecting nursing schools and future nursing students. Key provisions include establishing grant criteria, application processes, and reporting requirements for funded programs. The bill is currently pending in the Appropriations committee after committee review.

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.