Sen. Elder Vogel

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the funding rules for Pennsylvania's state universities by requiring a council to select no more than six performance metrics to distribute specific portions of state appropriations. If the council fails to meet its reporting deadline, a pre-defined set of default metrics will automatically take effect to allocate funds based on graduation rates, tuition costs, retention, and degrees in high-priority fields. The law also establishes a five-year review cycle to reassess these performance measures and outlines a process for funding the administrative costs of implementing the new system.

Maddy summaryThis bill expands the definition of eligible institutions for Pennsylvania's Grow Pennsylvania scholarship programs to include schools approved under the Higher Education Scholarship Law and those established under Article XIX-G. It updates the list of covered academic areas to include special education, STEM, and allied health fields while clarifying that students may take occasional online courses. The legislation also modifies repayment rules by allowing agencies to charge interest on unearned scholarships and permitting students to switch between different approved courses of study without losing eligibility. Additionally, the bill requires the state to actively market these programs online at least every three years and ensures that scholarship funds do not disqualify schools from receiving other state grants.

Maddy summarySB 1236 amends the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 to clarify legal definitions regarding who qualifies as a tenant versus an owner. The bill expands the definition of a lease to include oral agreements and situations where an owner accepts rent, while explicitly stating that someone who is not or has never been a tenant does not fall under these protections. By making these textual changes, the legislation updates the rules used to determine recovery of possession and notice requirements for landlords and tenants.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's Housing Authorities Law to clarify how public housing units are rented and how tenants are selected. It requires housing authorities to rent only to low-income individuals at affordable rates, ensuring that total household income does not exceed six times the annual rent including utilities. The legislation also restricts rentals to U.S. citizens or those with valid immigration status and mandates that authorities file their rental schedules with the State Planning Board. Additionally, the bill establishes a preference for eligible veterans in all housing programs offered by these authorities.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to ensure that medical assistance covers payments for custom orthotics and prosthetics. It requires the state department to set reimbursement rates for these items at a level no lower than the current federal Medicare fee schedule. Additionally, the law mandates that all specific codes for these custom devices be included in the state's medical assistance program. The changes are designed to align state coverage with federal standards for durable medical equipment.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows individuals who have received the Vice Presidential Service Badge to apply for special license plates in Pennsylvania. To qualify, applicants must pay a $26 fee in addition to standard registration costs and provide documentation proving their status as badge recipients. The special plates are restricted to passenger cars or trucks with a gross weight of 14,000 pounds or less and will become effective 120 days after the law is passed.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors the life and achievements of Seymour Holtzman, a businessman, humanitarian, and leader who passed away in May 2024. It recognizes his extensive career, which included founding multiple businesses, leading significant investments in Eastern Europe, and serving in various government advisory roles under President Reagan. The document formally expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and acknowledges his contributions as a philanthropist and advocate for free trade.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the state Tax Reform Code to modify various tax rules, including sales tax exclusions, personal income tax definitions, and corporate tax deductions. Key changes include allowing a deduction for student loan interest up to $2,500, exempting certain government and railway compensation related to the East Palestine train derailment from income tax, and creating new tax credits for employer contributions to 529 savings accounts and child care expenses. The legislation also establishes a $50 million annual transfer from personal income tax proceeds to the Clean Streams Fund and expands deductions for medical cannabis businesses. Additionally, it updates definitions and procedures for several existing tax incentive programs related to historic preservation, manufacturing, and city revitalization.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's DNA collection laws to require that individuals arrested for specific serious crimes, such as homicide and certain sex offenses, provide a DNA sample at the time of booking. It mandates that these samples be submitted to the State Police within 48 hours and prohibits the release of the arrested person until the collection is complete. The legislation also clarifies the rules for expunging DNA records, requiring a 30-day notice to prosecutors before a court can order the removal of a profile from the state database. Additionally, the bill sets different effective dates for various new provisions, with some changes taking effect immediately while others are delayed by up to 18 months.

Maddy summarySB 1171 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to allow trained nonmedical school employees to voluntarily administer emergency anti-seizure medication to students with epilepsy when a licensed nurse is not present. The bill requires that this participation be entirely voluntary, ensuring schools cannot force staff to provide medical assistance, and mandates that training be provided by licensed health care professionals. Additionally, the legislation outlines a process where parents can request these services, prompting schools to inform families about their rights to create a 504 plan or individualized education program to address the student's unique needs. By defining specific medications and establishing clear guidelines for training and consent, the measure aims to ensure the safety of students with seizures while respecting the professional boundaries of school staff.