Sen. Jay Costa

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 updates Pennsylvania's Public School Code to clarify the powers of intermediate unit boards of directors regarding property acquisition. It explicitly allows these boards to acquire land and buildings through purchase, lease, or gift to own office space and warehouse facilities. Additionally, the legislation requires that all contracts for such facilities be pre-approved by the Secretary of Education and establishes a specific funding formula for capital subsidies based on student enrollment and instructional expenses. These changes aim to provide clearer authority and financial support for intermediate units managing school infrastructure.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's lobbying laws by clarifying definitions for terms like "affiliate" and "political consultant" to ensure clearer identification of related parties and service providers. It requires lobbyists, lobbying firms, principals, and political consultants to register electronically with the state within ten days of beginning their work and to report changes within 14 days. The legislation also establishes specific exemptions from registration and reporting for individuals who limit their activities to testifying, earn less than $2,500, work less than 20 hours for their employer, or represent religious organizations. Additionally, it mandates that political consultants disclose the specific candidates and offices they have assisted in the past 12 months. These changes aim to increase transparency in how individuals and organizations influence state and county officials.

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 Senate resolution officially designates April 2024 as "Distracted Driving Awareness Month" throughout Pennsylvania. The measure aims to increase public awareness about the dangers of activities like texting, eating, or talking while driving, which can divert a driver's attention from the road. By adopting this designation, the Senate encourages safe driving habits and highlights the state's commitment to reducing preventable accidents caused by driver distraction. This is a symbolic gesture intended to reinforce safety education rather than implement new laws or regulations.

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 congratulates The Pennsylvania State University wrestling team on winning its 12th NCAA Division I Championship and honors Pennsylvania residents who placed at the national tournament. The bill formally recognizes the team's historic performance, including setting a record for points scored and producing multiple All-Americans, as well as celebrating specific individual achievements by wrestlers Levi Haines, Carter Starocci, Aaron Brooks, and Greg Kerkvliet. It also extends congratulations to the coaching staff and wishes continued success to the university's wrestling program and other Pennsylvania-based athletes.

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.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of May 5 through 11, 2024, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week" in Pennsylvania. It aims to increase public and medical understanding of tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder that can affect people taking certain long-term medications for mental health or gastrointestinal issues. The resolution encourages individuals experiencing involuntary muscle movements to consult their healthcare providers for evaluation. This measure focuses on raising awareness rather than changing laws or funding specific programs.