Sen. Tony Williams

Maddy summaryPennsylvania Senate Bill 1425 establishes a five-year pilot program in Philadelphia that requires law enforcement to directly notify all registered motor vehicle repair facilities when a hit-and-run accident results in serious injury or death. The bill mandates that commercial garages and shops register with the city to receive these alerts, which include specific details such as the vehicle's make, model, color, license plate number, and extent of damage. If a repair facility discovers a vehicle in its possession that matches the description in an alert, the owner or operator must report it to law enforcement within 72 hours. Failure to comply with this reporting requirement is punishable by a third-degree misdemeanor, and the city must submit annual reports to state agencies detailing the program's costs and activity.

Maddy summaryThis resolution honors the life of former State Senator Shirley M. Kitchen and expresses condolences on her passing. It recognizes her career as a social worker, activist, and legislator who served Philadelphia for 20 years, focusing on health care and affordable housing. The document outlines her personal background and public service achievements, including her role as the leader of the 20th Ward Democratic Executive Committee. By formally acknowledging her contributions, the Senate pays tribute to her legacy of community advocacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services to replace existing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program cards with new chip-enabled versions by January 1, 2028. The new cards will be provided free of charge to eligible recipients and will include security features like tap-to-pay technology to help prevent benefit theft. The department is required to issue regular reports to state legislators on the progress of this transition and must conduct outreach to both vendors and recipients to explain the changes. Additionally, the law establishes procedures for distributing cards during emergencies and requires the department to seek additional federal funding by October 2026.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution directs the Uniform Construction Code Review and Advisory Council to study whether Pennsylvania's building codes should allow single-exit stairways in multifamily buildings up to six stories tall. Currently, the state follows the International Building Code, which requires two separate stairways for structures taller than three stories, a rule that increases construction costs and limits design options. The study must evaluate safety factors such as water supply, fire department response times, and other measures needed to protect public health and welfare. The Council is tasked with issuing a report with recommendations for modifying the code before the next version is adopted, while also receiving input from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new paid family and medical leave program in Pennsylvania, creating a fund to support workers who need time off for family care or medical reasons. It requires employers to contribute to the program and sets rules for how long employees can take leave, how much money they receive, and what situations qualify for benefits, including care for family members with serious health conditions or recovery from domestic violence. The Department of Labor and Industry will administer the program, handle claims, and enforce rules, while employees have the right to take legal action if their rights are violated. The legislation also includes provisions for self-employed individuals to opt into the program and establishes an advisory board to guide program development.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates the PA WORKS Scholarship Grant Program to provide financial aid to Pennsylvania residents pursuing specific trade careers in fields like construction, automotive repair, and welding at colleges and universities. To qualify for a grant of up to $5,000 per year, students must maintain satisfactory grades and sign an agreement to live and work in an in-demand trade job within the state for 36 months after graduation. The legislation also establishes a trade career-incentive tax credit for businesses that hire graduates from these approved trade programs.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution designates June 10, 2026, as "Delco Day" in Pennsylvania to officially recognize the annual community event held in Delaware County. The bill highlights the event's purpose of raising funds for local charities, specifically noting the 2026 beneficiary, the HEADstrong Foundation, which supports cancer patients and their families. Additionally, the resolution honors several notable individuals from the county, including civil rights leader Ruth L. Bennett, comedian Tina Fey, and Olympic swimmer Brendan Hansen, to celebrate their contributions and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes June 19, 2026, as "Juneteenth National Freedom Day" within the state of Pennsylvania. The measure serves a commemorative purpose by acknowledging the historical significance of the date, which marks the day enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom in 1865. It does not alter laws or create new policies but instead establishes an official state recognition of this African-American holiday.

Maddy summarySB 49 establishes Pennsylvania's Cannabis Control Board to regulate medical cannabis, replacing the prior oversight structure under the 2016 Medical Marijuana Act. The board will manage permits for cannabis organizations (including warehousing, distribution, and transport), oversee dispensing to registered medical patients and caregivers, and administer a Cannabis Regulation Fund. Key provisions include defining cannabis products (excluding industrial hemp), setting THC limits, and requiring board meetings and public records. This bill directly affects medical cannabis organizations, patients, and caregivers by creating a centralized regulatory system for their operations.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution officially designates June 19, 2026, as "Juneteenth National Freedom Day" within the state of Pennsylvania. The measure serves as a symbolic recognition of the historical significance of the date, which marks the day enslaved people in Texas learned of their emancipation in 1865. By passing this resolution, the Pennsylvania Senate acknowledges the legacy of African-American resilience and culture without altering any laws or government operations.