Maddy summarySenate Resolution 87 commemorates September 2, 2025, as "V-J Day" in Pennsylvania, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. It encourages local governments and communities throughout the Commonwealth to conduct appropriate observances.
Maddy summarySR 86 is a resolution that recognizes May 8, 2025, as the 80th anniversary of "Victory in Europe Day" or "V-E Day" in Pennsylvania. It expresses the Senate's respect and appreciation for the men and women who served in the European theater during World War II and pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Maddy summarySB 654 establishes the Veterans Mental Health Services Program within the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. This program is designed to provide mental health care to honorably discharged veterans who have exhausted their federal mental health benefits or are in an acute crisis. Eligible veterans can receive reimbursement for up to five mental health sessions per year from participating health care providers, with the possibility of additional sessions if approved. The department will publish a list of participating providers and issue an annual report on the program's reach and services provided.
Maddy summarySenate Bill 646 establishes the Survivor-Centered, Accessible, Fair and Empowering Housing Trust Fund within the State Treasury. This fund aims to provide emergency, transitional, and permanent housing programs, along with support services, for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, human trafficking, stalking, and their immediate family members. Funding for the trust fund will come from an initial transfer of $1,000,000, a new $10 fee on deed and mortgage filings, and optional $5 contributions during online driver's license or vehicle registration renewals. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency will administer the fund to support housing stability for this target population.
Maddy summarySB 641 amends Pennsylvania's 1929 Administrative Code to clarify the maximum size of the Pennsylvania State Police. It specifies that the total number of State Police officers and troopers (including those assigned to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, Delaware River Bridge Commission, and gaming enforcement) cannot exceed 4,310 at any time. The bill removes a previous numerical cap that counted these assigned personnel toward the total limit, ensuring those officers are excluded from the 4,310 threshold. This change directly affects the State Police's staffing structure and reporting requirements under the Commonwealth's administrative code.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a bill with policy changes) honoring the Philadelphia Eagles for winning Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025. It formally recognizes their championship victory over the Kansas City Chiefs (40-22), their historic playoff performance, and their community contributions like supporting schools and mental health initiatives. The resolution expresses the Senate's appreciation for the team's role in uniting Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, calling them "one of the greatest football teams ever to represent this Commonwealth." As a symbolic gesture, it has no legal effect or impact on public policy.
Maddy summarySB 640 amends Pennsylvania's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law to require that businesses selling event tickets, lodging, or food delivery services display the total price - including all mandatory fees - clearly and conspicuously when a consumer first views the product or service. This applies specifically to platforms like hotel booking sites, ticket resellers, and food delivery apps, but excludes direct restaurant deliveries. The law mandates that this total price must be visible before purchase, ensuring consumers see all costs upfront without hidden fees (except government taxes). The bill defines key terms for these platforms to clarify enforcement and aligns with existing consumer protection standards.
Maddy summarySB 615 adds a new tax exemption for Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion chapters in Pennsylvania. The bill exempts their properties - including buildings, grounds, and social halls used for veterans' support activities - from county, municipal, and school property taxes, provided all income from these activities supports the organizations' charitable purposes. This change specifically applies to VFW and American Legion chapters founded and maintained through public or private charity. The exemption overrides other tax rules in the statute and takes effect 60 days after enactment.
Maddy summarySB 621 prohibits Pennsylvania businesses from deducting taxes for expenses related to opposing unionization efforts. It specifically blocks deductions for costs tied to National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) complaints, anti-union meetings with employees, or labor law violations. The law applies to corporations and business entities operating in Pennsylvania, including foreign companies. Exceptions allow deductions for legitimate communications with union representatives or shareholders. This changes tax treatment for anti-union activities without altering labor law.
Maddy summarySB 619 requires all coaches and school staff supervising athletic or school activities in Pennsylvania to complete annual sudden cardiac arrest training and maintain biennial CPR/AED certifications through approved organizations like the American Heart Association. It directly affects school coaches, athletic staff, and supervisors of school-sponsored activities (including practices, competitions, and noncompetitive cheerleading). Schools must document and publicly share each staff member’s certification status. The bill amends the Public School Code to standardize emergency response training for all school activities, without introducing medical testing requirements.
