Sen. Joe Picozzi

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates October 2025 as "National Breast Cancer Awareness Month" and October 17, 2025, as "National Mammography Day" within Pennsylvania. It does not create new laws or funding but formally recognizes these observances at the state level. The resolution affects Pennsylvania's official state calendar and communications, encouraging awareness efforts during these designated dates. As a ceremonial resolution, it has no binding legal effect beyond the state's symbolic recognition.

Maddy summarySB 1008 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle code (Title 75) to update definitions, modify driver's license examination requirements, and establish regulations for low-speed electric scooters. The bill directly affects drivers (through changes to license exams), pedestrians, and electric scooter operators (by creating new operational rules). Key provisions include revising terminology in vehicle law, altering the process for issuing driver's licenses, and introducing a dedicated category for low-speed electric scooters under special vehicle regulations. The bill was referred to the Transportation committee on September 30, 2025, for further review.

Maddy summarySB 952 amends Pennsylvania’s transportation code to advance sustainable mobility options, such as bike lanes and electric transit infrastructure, by updating definitions and program rules. It requires metropolitan transportation authorities to submit supplemental performance reports on their projects and clarifies the authority for public-private partnerships in transportation development. The bill directly affects regional transit agencies, private transportation companies, and local governments managing mobility programs. Key provisions include standardized reporting for accountability, streamlined partnership agreements, and clearer guidelines for sustainable project implementation. These changes aim to improve transparency and coordination in transportation planning without altering funding mechanisms.

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 summarySB 713 amends Pennsylvania's vehicle lighting laws to allow specific types of illuminated signs on vehicles, such as those used by commercial drivers or for business purposes. It directly affects vehicle owners, operators, and commercial entities that display illuminated signage on their vehicles. The key provision updates Title 75 statutes to establish clear standards for the size, placement, and visibility of these signs, replacing outdated regulations. This change aims to modernize vehicle lighting rules while maintaining safety requirements for illuminated displays. The bill passed the state legislature on September 10, 2025, and is now under review by the Transportation committee.

Maddy summarySB 983 creates a program to support commercial and industrial businesses in installing solar panels on their rooftops. It directly affects large businesses (such as factories, warehouses, and offices) with suitable roof space. The bill establishes rules for program participation and sets standards for solar installations. The bill is currently pending review by the Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure committee.

Maddy summarySB 981 amends Pennsylvania's licensing law for social work and therapy professions to specifically regulate "Licensed Recreational Therapists." It defines recreational therapy practice (including 15 methods like assessment, treatment planning, and community integration) and requires a license for anyone using the title "Licensed Recreational Therapist." Unlike other licensed professions under this law, recreational therapists must hold a license for employment by the state, local governments, or nonprofit agencies. The bill also updates the State Board composition to include one licensed recreational therapist member.

Maddy summarySB 919 expands Pennsylvania's aggravated assault law to specifically protect United States postal workers and delivery drivers. The bill adds "a United States postal worker or delivery driver" to the list of protected individuals under Section 2702(c), making attacks against them a more serious offense. It also defines "delivery driver" as someone employed for package deliveries using standard-licensed vehicles, regardless of their employer. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Pennsylvania's sentencing guidelines to increase penalties for specific offenses committed during riots. It requires the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing to create enhanced penalties for crimes like simple assault, aggravated assault, burglary, and criminal trespass when these occur while violating riot laws (18 Pa.C.S. § 5501). The key mechanism is adding a sentencing enhancement factor for such circumstances, modifying the standard penalty ranges for these offenses. The bill directly affects individuals convicted of these specific crimes during riot-related incidents.

Maddy summarySB 916 modifies Pennsylvania's burglary laws and juvenile definitions. It elevates burglary involving intent to steal a firearm or ammunition to a first-degree felony (the most serious category) and adds sentencing enhancements when domestic animals are harmed during burglary or stolen firearms are used in subsequent crimes. For juveniles, it revises the definition of "child" to extend court jurisdiction beyond age 18 for those pursuing education, employment, or training, and updates "delinquent act" to exclude certain serious crimes committed by 15+ year olds involving deadly weapons. The bill directly affects burglary defendants (especially firearm-related cases), courts (with new sentencing options), and juveniles aged 15-21 facing specific charges.