Sen. Wayne Fontana

Maddy summarySR 153 is a ceremonial resolution congratulating the West Suburban Little League 12-and-Under Softball Team on winning the 2025 Little League Softball World Series. It does not create new laws or policies, but formally recognizes the team's achievement through a vote by the legislature. The resolution directly affects the team and their community by providing official legislative acknowledgment of their championship. It was referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee on September 17, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 1005 amends the Cash Consumer Protection Act to prohibit businesses from refusing cash payments for goods or services, directly affecting retailers, service providers, and other businesses that accept payments. Key provisions require businesses to accept cash without discrimination, allow state enforcement through court orders to stop violations and impose fines, and permit consumers to file private lawsuits if denied cash. These changes clarify and strengthen the 1984 law to protect consumers' right to pay with cash. The bill aims to ensure cash remains a valid payment method without penalty.

Maddy summarySB 994 would amend Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code of 1971 to adjust how hotel occupancy tax revenue is allocated, directing a portion to the Tourism Promotion Fund. This change would directly affect hotels and lodging businesses that collect the tax, as well as the state tourism agency managing promotional activities. The bill specifies that funds must be used for tourism marketing, advertising, and events to promote Pennsylvania as a travel destination. The measure is currently referred to the Finance committee for further review.

Maddy summarySR 154 is a Senate Resolution designating September 2025 as "National Preparedness Month" in Pennsylvania. This resolution does not create new laws or directly affect any specific groups; it is a symbolic recognition to raise awareness about emergency preparedness. The resolution was referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee on September 17, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates September 15 through October 15, 2025, as "Hispanic Heritage Month" in Pennsylvania. It is a ceremonial observance without legal effect, intended to recognize Hispanic culture and contributions within the state. The resolution directly affects Pennsylvania state government and communities by formally designating this period for commemorative activities. It does not create new laws, alter policies, or impose requirements on individuals or organizations.

Maddy summarySB 381 amends Pennsylvania law to prohibit certain types of animal experimentation, testing, and sale of products developed through such testing. Specifically, it bans animal testing for cosmetics, certain medical products, and household items, and prohibits the sale of these products within Pennsylvania. The bill imposes penalties for violations, including fines for businesses that conduct or sell prohibited products. This directly affects businesses that conduct or market cosmetics, personal care products, or specific medical items tested on animals. The law aims to restrict animal testing in these product categories without banning all scientific research.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 151) formally commemorates the life, military service, and memory of United States Army Air Forces Corporal Glenn Hodak. It is a non-binding ceremonial resolution adopted by the legislature to honor his contributions. The resolution does not create new laws or affect any policies or individuals. It serves solely as a symbolic tribute to Corporal Hodak's service.

Maddy summarySB 460 amends Pennsylvania's Governor and Lieutenant Governor Disability Procedure Law to clarify and update the process for determining incapacity and succession if the Governor or Lieutenant Governor cannot perform duties. It specifies procedures for medical evaluations, notification requirements, and the transfer of authority to the Secretary of the Commonwealth during such periods. This directly affects state officials, including the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and key cabinet members, by establishing clear steps for leadership continuity. The bill focuses on procedural clarity rather than substantive policy changes to ensure smooth governance during emergencies.

Maddy summarySB 461 requires health insurance policies in Pennsylvania to cover specific diagnostic tests and treatments for Lyme disease and related tick-borne illnesses. It directly affects all Pennsylvanians with health insurance, particularly those in the state’s high-risk areas (all 67 counties, per the bill’s findings). The key provision mandates insurers cover clinically appropriate diagnostics and antibiotics, including longer-term treatments that some patients require. The bill aims to improve access to care by eliminating coverage barriers, as Pennsylvania has the highest Lyme disease incidence in the U.S. (over 100,000 cases reported in 2018 alone). This is intended to reduce chronic cases and overall disease burden, aligning with the state’s legislative purpose to promote prevention and treatment access.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates September 15-21, 2025, as "Rail Safety Week" in Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes and promotes rail safety awareness during that week through official state acknowledgment. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or affect specific groups but aims to raise public attention to rail safety issues. The measure is pending referral to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee.