Maddy summarySB 1116 requires Pennsylvania public schools to provide age-appropriate instruction on communism beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. It mandates teaching the origins of communist ideology, historical communist regimes, documented human rights abuses under such systems, survivor accounts, and comparisons between communist governance and U.S. democratic principles (including constitutional protections and freedoms). The Pennsylvania Department of Education must develop and distribute curriculum materials, primary sources, and teacher training by May 2026, integrating lessons into existing courses like history and civics. Schools must report annually on implementation, with all materials and summaries made publicly available online. The bill defines "communism" as a political ideology advocating for centralized economic control and one-party rule, and "totalitarian ideology" as systems suppressing dissent and individual freedoms.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis Pennsylvania Senate resolution (SR 202) formally recognizes December 13, 2025, as "Wreaths Across America Day" within the state. It honors the Wreaths Across America project, which coordinates nationwide wreath-laying ceremonies at veterans' gravesites to "Remember, Honor and Teach." The resolution encourages all Pennsylvania residents to participate in this volunteer effort and reflect on veterans' service and sacrifices. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic observance.
Maddy summarySB 88 amends Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law to require health insurance plans sold in the state to cover specific breast imaging services without cost-sharing for policyholders. It mandates annual mammograms for women 40+ and physician-recommended mammograms for women under 40, plus MRI and other breast imaging for those at average or higher risk of breast cancer due to factors like family history, genetic mutations, or dense breast tissue. The law specifies coverage for screening, supplemental, and diagnostic exams but does not require coverage for mastectomies or override standard deductibles/copays beyond the minimum required services. This replaces prior requirements that allowed cost-sharing and excluded MRI coverage.
Maddy summarySB 1020 modifies Pennsylvania's hunting and trapping license fee structure to expand resident license exemptions. It directly affects Pennsylvania residents who hunt or trap, particularly those who may qualify for reduced or waived fees under updated criteria. The bill changes specific provisions in Title 34 of the state statutes to clarify eligibility for these exemptions, making it easier for qualifying residents to obtain licenses without paying standard fees. The bill passed final passage on November 18, 2025, and was referred to the Game & Fisheries committee for further consideration.
Maddy summarySB 1050 modifies Pennsylvania's child protective services laws by clarifying who must report suspected child abuse and expanding exemptions from the definition of child abuse. It directly affects child welfare professionals, healthcare providers, and educators who currently have mandatory reporting duties. The bill adds specific categories of actions or circumstances that are excluded from being classified as child abuse, reducing the scope of mandatory reporting requirements. This change aims to streamline reporting obligations while maintaining protections for children.
Maddy summarySB 1093 raises Pennsylvania's minimum wage to $9.00 per hour starting January 1, 2026; $10.00 per hour starting January 1, 2027; and $11.00 per hour starting January 1, 2028. It also adds two new exemptions: one for employees working in the personal staff of elected officials or as immediate advisers, and another for minor league baseball players covered by collective bargaining agreements. These changes directly affect most private-sector employers and workers in Pennsylvania, with new wage rates taking effect on the specified dates. The bill updates the 1968 Minimum Wage Act but does not alter existing overtime requirements.
Maddy summarySB 715 extends the expiration date of Pennsylvania's Rare Disease Advisory Council from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2028. This procedural bill directly affects the council, which advises state departments on rare disease issues, and the departments it collaborates with (Health, Insurance, Human Services, Education). The key provision simply changes the expiration date in the 2017 law without altering the council's structure or duties. This extension provides continued operation of the council for an additional three years.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates November 2025 as "Care at Home Month" in Pennsylvania to recognize and promote home care services supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities. It is a symbolic designation without legal force or funding provisions, aiming to raise public awareness about home-based care options. The resolution does not create new laws, alter existing policies, or directly affect specific groups through enforceable requirements. It serves as a ceremonial observance to highlight the importance of community-based care services.
Maddy summarySB 1082 designates January 11 as "Human Trafficking Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania each year. The bill requires the state government to annually recognize this day to promote public awareness about human trafficking. It does not create new programs, funding, or legal obligations; it solely establishes an official observance date. This designation directly affects Pennsylvania state agencies and public awareness efforts.
Maddy summaryThis resolution designates November 2025 as "Epilepsy Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. It serves as a ceremonial recognition to highlight epilepsy awareness efforts within the state, without creating new laws or altering policies. The resolution was referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee on October 29, 2025.