Sen. Frank Farry

Maddy summarySB 955 creates a new mental health registration plate for Pennsylvania vehicles, featuring the Liberty Bell with a teal and purple ribbon and the phrase "Mental Health Matters." Vehicle owners (motorcycles, passenger cars, trucks under 14,000 pounds, or motor homes) can apply for this plate by paying a $42 fee, with $15 of that fee directed to a new Mental Health Restricted Account. This account, established under the bill, is specifically funded to support the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or its successor through the Department of Human Services. The bill directly affects vehicle owners seeking to display the plate and ensures dedicated funding for mental health crisis services.

Maddy summaryPennsylvania's SB 583 would authorize the state to join the Social Work Licensure Compact, enabling licensed social workers to practice across participating states without obtaining separate licenses in each. This directly affects social workers seeking to provide services in multiple states, including military families and those addressing workforce shortages. The bill establishes a framework for mutual recognition of licenses, reducing duplicate application requirements and disciplinary information sharing between states. Key provisions include allowing "Multistate Authorization to Practice" and requiring states to hold social workers accountable for adhering to the laws of the state where services are delivered. The compact aims to increase access to social work services while maintaining state regulatory authority over licensure.

Maddy summarySB 1031 amends Pennsylvania's corporate tax code by repealing outdated penalty provisions and establishing a new Net Operating Loss Transfer Program. This program allows corporations with net operating losses to transfer those losses to other corporations, reducing future tax liability for the recipient. The bill also introduces new penalties for failing to comply with the transfer program's requirements. It directly affects corporations operating under Pennsylvania's corporate net income tax system, particularly those with unused losses or those seeking to offset future tax obligations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates June 8, 2025, as "Lieutenant Colonel George Hardy Day" in Pennsylvania. It honors Lieutenant Colonel George Hardy for his military service, recognizes him as a decorated veteran and community leader, and acknowledges him as a symbol of courage. The resolution is a formal commemorative measure with no binding legal effect, solely intended to publicly recognize his contributions. It directly affects Pennsylvanians by establishing a state-recognized day of remembrance for this individual.

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 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 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 114 updates Pennsylvania's Nurse Aide Resident Abuse Prevention Training Act to strengthen training standards for nurse aides working in long-term care facilities. It requires the state department to develop a specific long-term care curriculum, set qualifications for instructors (including RN supervision and facility experience), and establish a train-the-trainer program. The bill also creates three pathways to become a certified nurse aide, including completing approved training with a competency exam (offering remote written testing options), graduating from nursing programs, or meeting equivalent requirements. Additionally, it prohibits the department from imposing waiting periods before online training can be offered in approved programs. These changes directly affect nurse aides, long-term care facilities, and training programs across Pennsylvania.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 147) designates September 19, 2025, as "POW/MIA Recognition Day" within the state of Pennsylvania. It formally recognizes this date for observance of prisoners of war and missing in action service members. As a ceremonial resolution, it does not create new laws or alter existing policies; it solely establishes a day of official recognition for the state. The resolution is currently referred to the Rules & Executive Nominations committee.

Maddy summarySB 986 amends Pennsylvania's Tax Reform Code of 1971 to create a new tax credit under the PA EDGE economic development program specifically for businesses in the space economy. This provision would allow eligible space industry companies - such as those involved in satellite manufacturing, launch services, or space-related research - to claim tax credits for job creation and capital investments within Pennsylvania. The credits would reduce these businesses' state income tax liability, aiming to incentivize growth in the state's emerging space sector. The bill is currently referred to the Finance committee for further review.