Sen. Frank Farry

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the maximum prison sentences for people convicted of attempting, conspiring, or soliciting murder, including the murder of unborn children and law enforcement officers. It establishes a 40-year maximum for these crimes when serious bodily injury occurs, and up to life imprisonment when serious bodily injury results specifically from attempts against law enforcement officers. Additionally, the law mandates a minimum 20-year prison sentence for anyone convicted of attempting, conspiring, or soliciting the murder of a law enforcement officer where serious bodily injury is caused, or for assaulting a law enforcement officer.

Maddy summarySB 1091 designates Bridge Key 7041 on Pennsylvania Route 513 over Neshaminy Creek in Hulmeville Borough, Bucks County, as the "Corporal Robert Lee Clampffer Memorial Bridge." The bill directly affects the bridge's official name and honors Corporal Robert Lee Clampffer, a Bucks County resident who died in service. This is a commemorative resolution with no substantive policy changes or financial provisions. The bill was referred to the Transportation committee on November 24, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution officially designates the week of May 10 through 16, 2026, as "National Police Week" and May 4, 2026, as "Police Officers' Memorial Day" within Pennsylvania. The measure serves to formally recognize and honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, specifically mentioning five officers who passed away in 2025. By adopting this resolution, the Pennsylvania Senate acknowledges the sacrifices made by police officers and aligns with a national observance that has been held annually since 1962.

Maddy summarySB 256 requires child care facilities in Pennsylvania that use fossil fuel appliances (like heaters or fireplaces) to install and maintain operational, approved carbon monoxide alarms. Specifically, facilities must have alarms centrally located near these appliances and in every unit on the same floor within 18 months of the law's effective date. The bill ties compliance to licensing, stating the Department of Human Services cannot issue or renew a license for facilities failing to meet these standards unless a provisional license applies. It directly affects licensed child care facilities, including homes caring for 4-6 non-relative children, licensed schools, and facilities operating 24+ hours daily.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates Pennsylvania's Covered Device Recycling Act by clarifying definitions and expanding the range of electronic items subject to recycling requirements. It specifically adds smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other personal electronics to the list of covered devices while removing mobile phones and landline telephones from the program. The legislation also establishes a sales prohibition mechanism that allows the Department of Environmental Protection to ban the sale of specific brands that fail to meet recycling obligations. Additionally, the bill increases the definition of a small business for program eligibility from 50 to 100 employees and requires manufacturers to report their market share and recycling plans.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates May 2026 as "Save Your Tooth Month" in Pennsylvania to promote oral health awareness. The measure highlights the importance of preserving natural teeth and acknowledges the specialized role of endodontists in treating dental issues. It encourages residents to maintain good hygiene practices and seek care from dental professionals to protect their teeth.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates the week of May 17 through 23, 2026, as "Emergency Medical Services Week" in Pennsylvania. The bill directly affects the state legislature and aims to recognize the work of emergency medical services providers, including first responders, paramedics, and volunteers. It does not create new laws or change policies but serves as a commemorative measure to highlight the importance of emergency care.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the Hospital Security Grant Fund to provide financial assistance to nonprofit hospitals for improving safety and security measures. The fund will be administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency and is initially funded with a $10 million transfer from the General Treasury, with potential for additional appropriations in future years. Eligible projects include purchasing security equipment like surveillance systems and metal detectors, conducting vulnerability assessments, providing staff training, and upgrading physical structures to protect patients, employees, and visitors. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis after applications are reviewed by the commission in consultation with state homeland security and police officials.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution officially designates the Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope as the State Theater of Pennsylvania. The bill recognizes the venue's historic significance, noting its origins as a grist mill, its preservation in the 1930s, and its long-standing reputation as a major cultural institution that has hosted numerous renowned performers. By passing this resolution, the Pennsylvania Senate formally acknowledges the theater's role as a cornerstone of the state's performing arts tradition and its contribution to the Commonwealth's national profile.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution officially designates the week of May 6 through 12, 2026, as Nurses Week in Pennsylvania. The measure aims to recognize the contributions of the state's large nursing workforce, which includes over 240,000 registered nurses and other licensed practitioners. By aligning with National Nurses Week, the resolution highlights the critical role nurses play in the Commonwealth's healthcare delivery system.