Capitol Recap

February 4, 2019 THE PLS REPORTER Contents Special bonus coverage from the PLS Reporter, included each Monday in the Capitol Recap THE PLS REPORTER 1 AROUND THE ROTUNDA 2 Senate advances bill expanding pension forfeiture requirement COMMITTEE NEWS 11 NEW LEGISLATION 16 Nicholas Martino, who made headlines across the state last year when the state Department LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS 37 of Transportation employee was accused of soliciting and accepting bribes from a contractor, UPCOMING MEETINGS 41 pleaded guilty to related charges last week. SESSION STATUS At 4:26 p.m. on Monday, But Martino would not necessarily be compelled to give up his pension under current law, February 4, 2019 the according to Sen. John DiSanto (R-Dauphin). Senate stands in recess until Tuesday, February 5, The senator said there were over 600 similar cases which have arisen since the General 2019 at 11:00 a.m., unless Assembly last broadened the crimes for which state employees could lose their pension. A sooner recalled. bill introduced by DiSanto and approved by the Senate Monday would change this, triggering pension forfeiture for any felony conviction related to their position. At 3:19 p.m. on Monday, February 4, 2019 the “Its unfathomable to me that, as a state employee executing your job duties, you commit House stands adjourned felonies and you can get fired, convicted and still keep your state pension,” DiSanto told the until Tuesday, February 5, PLS Reporter last week “This will address that.” 2019 at 11:00 a.m., unless sooner recalled. DiSanto added that he believed his bill could save the state “millions of dollars” going forward. UPCOMING SESSION DAYS House “I think it’s a significant number [of employees],” he said. “That if these pensions were Feb. 5, 6, 19, 20, 21 taken it would be a significant amount of money … that we could potentially return back Mar. 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, to the citizens of Pennsylvania and use for programs that have a good use, as opposed to 25, 26, 27 supporting convicted felons.” April 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 29, 30 The bill is virtually identical to one introduced last session. That proposal also cleared the May 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, Senate but came up short in the House - waylaid, DiSanto said, by the “machinations of the 22, 23 budget.” June 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24-28 This time, the proposal was one of the first taken up in the new session. Approved by both Budget hearings: Feb. 11 the Senate Finance and Appropriation Committees unanimously, the bill also was approved - Mar. 7 by a 49-0 margin by the full Senate. Senate Feb. 5, 6 It now heads to the House, where there is not yet a firm timeline for the bill’s consideration. Mar. 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 Rep. (R-Bucks) has introduced a companion bill in that body. DiSanto said that April 8, 9, 10, 29, 30 while he hoped his bill would be the one to move forward, the primary concern should be to May 1, 6, 7, 8 address what he sees as an important issue. June 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24-28 Budget hearings: Feb. 19 “They’ve indicated that they’re going to try and keep moving the bill along and get it across - Mar. 7 the finish line,” he said. “This is moving relatively quickly now and I think everybody would like to have some successes, on both sides of the aisle, before we go into a difficult budget season.” Provided by Pennsylvania Legislative Services 240 N. 3rd St. 6th Floor Harrisburg, PA 17101 717.236.6984 phone The PLS Reporter provides original news, insight and in-depth analysis on current topics and 717.236.5097 fax proposals moving through the state legislature. For more information about adding the PLS Reporter www.mypls.com to your subscription, please email us at [email protected]. AROUND THE ROTUNDA PLS coverage of Capitol events including press conferences, bill signings, & media availabilities

COALITION RELEASES A “BLUEPRINT FOR GROWING PENNSYLVANIA’S ECONOMY” By Jeff Cox, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

Members of the Coalition for Labor Engagement and Accountable Revenues (CLEAR) and supporters from the General Assembly today held a news conference in the Main Capitol Rotunda to release the group’s Blueprint for Growing Pennsylvania’s Economy, which they say will “create higher wages, more jobs and revenue for critical investments in quality K-12 and technical education; affordable access to higher education; and adequate funding for other core services and programs.” Kenneth Mash, president of the Association of Pennsylvania State Colleges and University Faculties (APSCUF), explained, “The blueprint identifies $3.5 billion in new revenue and savings that could be put to use for our joint prosperity.” He said, “The bottom line is that we believe these proposals will provide more than one million Pennsylvanians with additional money in their pockets, create jobs, better our public schools, make higher education more affordable, make our tax system more fair and honest, and fix our deficit.”

The main proposals in the blueprint include: • raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour, • imposing a 2.4 percent shale tax, • closing the “Delaware loophole” and institute combined reporting, • increasing efficiencies in state government operations.

Sen. Arthur Haywood (D-Montgomery), a leader in the effort to increase the minimum wage, said, “I want to highlight that all of the states around us have a higher minimum wage than we do.” He continued, “It means we are lagging behind all the other states surrounding us. Those who say raising the minimum wage is going to cost jobs, all I ask is look to New York, look to New Jersey, look to Ohio, look to Delaware, look to West Virginia.” Sen. Haywood asserted, “All those states have a higher minimum wage and there have not been any reports of job loss.” According to Sen. Haywood, raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour will “generate $9.1 billion of new revenue for spending.” He argued the increase will benefit business and “hardworking men and women.” Rep. (D-Dauphin), a leader in the House for a minimum wage increase, said, “We have to come together to move this forward.” She argued the increase is “long overdue.”

Jeff Ney, treasurer for the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA), told reporters, “Our plan is about investing in people and making sure corporations pay their fair share.” He stated, “By raising the minimum wage, we can make sure that every hardworking Pennsylvanian who plays by the rules can earn a family-sustaining wage.” Ney continued, “Enacting a shale tax will bring in the revenues we need to invest in the next generation, building a stronger economy now and for years to come.”

Marc Stier, director of the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, said, “For too long in this state, our policy has been guided by a right-wing corporate agenda that says the way to prosperity is to cut taxes for the rich, cut spending for everyone else, and although they say this quietly, keep wages down.” He asserted, “It is time to reject that agenda and adopt a different agenda.” Stier said, “One in which we, first of all, raise peoples’ wages and benefits, create the buying power that drives our economy forward, and invest in our people.” He described the blueprint as “the core of a new vision for our state; one that can create prosperity for everyone, can lift up poor people, encourage working people and rebuild our middle class.”

2 LAWMAKERS, ADVOCATES DISCUSS PEDIATRIC CANCER By Robert Cochran, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Day, lawmakers, advocates and families of children diagnosed with pediatric cancer gathered this morning to discuss efforts to combat the disease.

Sen. Scott Martin (R-Lancaster) said cancer is the leading cause of death among children in the United States, and that 90,000 children die each year from cancer worldwide, which is approximately one-third of Pittsburgh’s population. “We need to keep fighting for ongoing awareness and exposing the inequity in funding research for childhood cancers,” the Lancaster County senator said.

Sen. Martin indicated the commonwealth needs to do a better job organizing resources to combat pediatric cancer. Overall, only four percent of cancer funding was awarded for childhood cancer research, he stated. Sen. Martin added that last year, the General Assembly approved legislation to allow residents to voluntarily donate $5 to the Pediatric Cancer Research Fund when electronically renewing a driver’s license, photo identification card or vehicle registration.

The Republican senator highlighted upcoming legislation which would create a tax credit for donations made to pediatric cancer research centers, which will later be introduced as SB 74. Sen. Martin also mentioned another upcoming proposal which would help intermediate units purchase equipment to allow homebound students to interact with their classes remotely.

Rep. (R-Centre) recognized the efforts of parents who help their children cope with cancer andthe medical institutions in Pennsylvania focused on pediatric cancer research. The Republican representative said 600 children in Pennsylvania are diagnosed with cancer annually. Rep. Benninghoff said he would continue to work on passing right-to- try legislation in the commonwealth.

Sen. Andrew Dinniman (D-Chester) said both sides of the legislature are working to combat pediatric cancer, mentioning last year’s achievement of passing legislation regarding inducements. The Democratic senator indicated the proposed right-to- try legislation would take care of a child’s medical expenses. Regarding the previously mentioned legislation, Sen. Dinniman stated that “the aim is…to create comprehensive policy to help any child with pediatric cancer.”

Rep. Tom Caltagirone (D-Berks) said he worked to pass legislation that established a specific account for funding pediatric cancer research which residents could donate through their state income tax. He also highlighted Sen. Martin’s effort in addressing pediatric cancer. The Berks County Democrat said the legislation, which establishes a tax credit for donations to pediatric cancer research centers, would generate up to $100 million in the next ten years.

Dr. Elizabeth Fox, physician at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, thanked legislators for sponsoring legislative initiatives regarding childhood cancer research. Dr. Fox said childhood cancer brings unique challenges to patients because their bodies respond differently to both cancer and medication compared to adults.

Noelle Weinhold, a childhood cancer survivor, urged for support for the legislation’s increases in funding for pediatric cancer research. Travis Cook, a teenage diagnosed with cancer, said he advocates for children with cancer because most people are ignorant of the details of pediatric cancer.

Melania Timpano discussed her family’s experience with cancer, indicating her daughter had cancer. Similarly, Jennifer Kratzer spoke on her son’s pediatric cancer. Cathy Kohler, a mother of a child who died from pediatric cancer, spoke on the loss of her son.

Senator (R-Blair) and Representatives Joe Hohenstein (D-Philadelphia) and (D-Mercer) were also in attendance.

3 LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS MARKS BLACK HISTORY MONTH By Mike Howells, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

Members of the General Assembly’s Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) today celebrated the start of Black History Month and its national theme for 2019: Black Migrations.

House Democratic Leader Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny) said the Legislative Black Caucus has been around for nearly 50 years and is now larger than it has ever been. “It’s a great legacy to continue,” he said, thanking Caucus Chairman (D-Philadelphia) and other members.

Democratic Whip Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia) remarked that although a month is set aside to reflect on historical black achievements in America, “black history is being made every single day.”

“We stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us; we stand on the shoulders of those who have spent time paving the way for us,” Rep. Harris said. “But…standing on those shoulders means you don’t just stand there and enjoy the view — but you stand there to continue to walk.”

Rep. Harris said he looks for the PLBC to continue its progress under Chairman Kinsey.

Rep. Joanna McClinton (D-Philadelphia), the first woman and African-American to hold the post of Democratic Caucus Chair, discussed the work of the Legislative Black Caucus in the context of future generations. Addressing the students from Pine Forge Academy and others in attendance, Rep. McClinton remarked, “All the world continues to watch to see what each of you become.”

Rep. (D-Philadelphia), vice chair of the PLBC, offered historical perspective on the theme of black migration in the United States as families spread out from the rural south to the west, midwest and northern US in search of economic freedom and social justice, though not always successfully.

“Through black history programs like this, we showcase our success,” she said. “Today we celebrate, tomorrow we continue to fight.”

Dr. Chieke Ihejirika, political science professor at Lincoln University, provided the keynote speech at the event. He presented a history of black migration from west Africa to America over the course of centuries, as well as fresh migration in the 20th century, owing in part to the world wars.

Ihejirika asserted that in a democracy, population — and thus migration — is power.

“We are no longer a fringe people,” he said of African Americans. Ihejirika contended that during the Civil Rights movement, the American black community had a great deal of organizational power, but little funding. By comparison he said the modern movement has money, but little organization.

Speaking to PLBC members and other legislative leaders in attendance, Ihejirika remarked, “Your destiny is the destiny of the black world.”

Speaker of the House Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) credited the work of the Legislative Black Caucus and recalled the career of famed American actor Sidney Poitier, who grew up in the Bahamas and whose parents were Bahamian.

Rep. Turzai advised he is working with Rep. (D-Philadelphia) on electoral process reform.

During the event, students from the Pine Forge Academy Choir and the Enon Vessels of Praise dance troupe performed.

Other legislators in attendance included Representatives Patty Kim (D-Dauphin), Carol Hill-Evans (D-York), Summer

4 Lee (D-Allegheny), (D-Chester), (D-Philadelphia), Danilo Burgos (D-Philadelphia), (D-Philadelphia), (D-Philadelphia), and Dan Williams (D-Chester)

LEGISLATORS DISCUSS HB 50 AND THE LEGALIZATION OF RECREATIONAL, ADULT USE OF CANNABIS By Emily Mistishen, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

Rep. (D-Allegheny) today was joined by advocates and Representatives (D-Allegheny), (D-Philadelphia), (D-Monroe), Jeanne McNeill (D-Lehigh), Christopher Rabb (D-Philadelphia), (D-Philadelphia), and Sen. (D-Philadelphia) to speak on HB 50, which would allow for the legalization of recreational adult-use cannabis.

Sen. Street opened by acknowledging those present and voicing his support of the legislation and the legalization of recreational adult-use for cannabis. He stressed that the end of the prohibition of cannabis will have a greater impact than just decriminalization. He listed a few of the areas that would benefit from the legalization of recreational adult-use cannabis, including freeing up law enforcement, promoting agricultural growth, providing valuable resources to the government, and addressing self-medication. Above all, he stated, recreational adult-use is a liberty issue and people should have the right to make responsible choices. Sen. Street clarified that the bill is not intended for minors’ use of cannabis, and said that a responsible regime has been established for alcohol and other medicines, so it can be established for cannabis as well. He concluded by urging for the quick adoption of HB 50.

Rep. Gainey thanked Rep. Wheatley for his work on the legislation and said he disagreed with the current practice of arresting people and preventing them from obtaining housing and employment “for something that has happened since the beginning of time.” He continued by saying, “At some level, we have to begin to help society. And as legislators, it’s not how much we can punish people, but it’s how well we can help people.” He expressed his amazement at how people are being placed in jail for a plant and he called for change. He asked the members of the General Assembly to support HB 50 and “move people forward.”

Rep. Wheatley outlined the major aspects of HB 50, beginning with the social justice component of the bill. “This is not just about cannabis,” he said. “It’s about making sure we’re righting some of the wrongs of the failed war on drugs.” He continued by affirming that the bill will rectify decades of injustice, providing automatic expungements and restoration of licenses for those incarcerated for acts no longer illegal under the bill. He noted the bill is intended solely for general use for those older than 21, provides for product control and labelling, incentivizes keeping cannabis away from minors, provides protection to citizenry by prohibiting public consumption, allows for home-grown cannabis, and frees up law enforcement resources. He remarked that law enforcement will be able to focus on more dangerous crimes rather than penalizing cannabis use. Driving under the influence, he explained, will be handled by Rep. Rabb’s future legislation.

Rep. Wheatley indicated that the auditor general’s report showed that Pennsylvania could gain $500-$600 million in revenue from legalizing and taxing cannabis, which can fill extensive structural gaps in finances. Additionally, he illustrated that the Total Aerobic Count (TAC) in cannabis can be regulated if cannabis is legalized. “Pennsylvanians would know exactly what they are ingesting,” he said, and stressed the importance of this from a public safety standpoint. The bill also incentivizes supporting local farms, Rep. Wheatley noted, providing a 10 percent tax waiver for partnering with a local farm. He listed other taxes included in the bill, such as a 10 percent tax on wholesale growers, processors, and dispensaries; a point of sale tax of 6 percent; exempting medical marijuana from taxation; and an optional county tax of 3 percent to be divided among municipalities for funding afterschool programs, public defenders for indigent defendants, children and youth services for families affected by the opioid crisis, and the county district attorney’s office. Rep. Wheatley also highlighted that the bill is intended to send certain percentages of the revenue to reducing student loan debt, affordable housing utilization, and afterschool programs. He noted that they are open to discussion on how the earned revenue can be used.

Rep. Wheatley stated that HB 50 is the result of collaboration between a wide variety of stakeholders, including the medical

5 community and some aspects of law enforcement. He also addressed the bill’s changes to Act 16 of 2016, or the Medical Marijuana Act, assuring that the only changes would be to change “marijuana” to “cannabis.” Jeff Riedy, representative of Lehigh Valley National Organization of Reform Marijuana Laws (NORML), stated hewas proud to be there on behalf of NORML state chapters across Pennsylvania. He emphasized the organization is encouraged by Rep. Wheatley’s, explaining that the legislation aligns with NORML’s mission to change public opinion regarding the legalization of responsible use of marijuana. “This bill will right the wrongs of decades of unnecessary prohibition of a plant, a prohibition that for far too long has been seeded in suppression and racial disparity,” he opined, listing the bill’s effects on the criminal justice system and benefits to the medical marijuana community. Indicating the bill as long overdue, Riedy encouraged legislators to be “leaders for that change,” and urged for innovation for antiquated laws. “Let’s make cannabis legal again,” he concluded.

Les Stark, executive director of Keystone Cannabis Coalition, asserted that legislation such as HB 50 is long overdue. He explained that cannabis has been illegal in Pennsylvania for 85 years, since 1933, and has been driven by “lies, stigma, and reefer madness.” He affirmed that the prohibition of marijuana is based on archaic thinking, and warned that legalization in neighboring states will force legalization here. He indicated HB 50 is “emergency legislation,” and restated that the time of legalization is now. “Any problems that arise from cannabis in society will always be able to be handled better under a legal, taxed, and regulated industry [rather] than an illegal, chaotic, unregulated industry, controlled in many cases, by street thugs, criminal gangs, and large drug cartels,” Stark opined, adding that Pennsylvania will benefit from marijuana instead of criminals. He concluded by urging for hearings on the bill immediately.

Rep. Rabb discussed his legislation regarding driving under the influence (DUI), noting marijuana’s role in being a “gateway to the criminal justice system.” He established the need for moving to an impairment-based law, expressing his support of HB 50 and the current system’s inability to properly handle DUI cases. He remarked that if concern was truly about public safety, alcohol would have steeper regulations. He concluded by restating his intention to prevent wrongful convictions in DUI cases.

Questions were opened for the media.

Do you have any sense of the odds of this bill getting serious consideration under Republic leadership right now? Rep. Wheatley referenced previous gaming legislation as similar legislation that has passed, explaining it was driven by necessity, budgeting, and the voices of citizens. He added that the bill is an important source of revenue, and said the conversation surrounding legalization will have to happen at some point.

Do you think the legislators should follow the World Health Organization’s rescheduling research? Rep. Wheatley responded that the federal government is having the conversation now, and that the conversation is a sign of this being a good time for HB 50. He questioned why Pennsylvania should wait to react.

Do you think the lieutenant governor’s listening tours in regard to marijuana will help you guys in any way? Rep. Wheatley expressed his hope that the tours would assist the legislation. He highlighted that the listening tours will give voice to what the citizens want, but said starting the legislative process is also important. “I think this is a great starting point, but it doesn’t have to be the end point,” he said.

If legalization or HB 50 doesn’t go through, are there any decriminalization bills coming up? Rep. Wheatley answered that he is fairly certain that a decriminalization bill will move in the near future. However, he added, decriminalization does not reduce arrests or stigma as well as legalization would.

6 LEGISLATORS RECOGNIZE NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY By Jessica Richardson, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

Legislators gathered in the Media Center to recognize February 7, 2019, as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Pennsylvania.

Legislators present included Sen. (D-Philadelphia), Rep. Brian Sims (D-Philadelphia), Rep. Jake Wheatley (D-Allegheny), Rep. Ed Gainey (D-Allegheny), Rep. Austin Davis (D-Allegheny), Rep. Christopher Rabb (D-Philadelphia) and Sen. Timothy Kearney (D-Delaware).

Sen. Hughes explained February 7, 2019, will be the observation of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Pennsylvania. He said this is something he and Rep. Wheatley have worked on over the past several years. Sen. Hughes noted that as they advance in the fight against HIV and AIDS, it is important the awareness day is not forgotten. Despite the four decade fight, Sen. Hughes said, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), black Americans account for 44 percent of all new HIV infections in 2016 while they make up only 12 percent of the United States population. He added black American females are 16 times more likely to be diagnosed with HIV than Caucasian females, and black American males are eight times more likely to be diagnosed than Caucasian males.

“The purpose of this day is to promote awareness to black Americans about how devastating HIV and AIDS is while emphasizing education, testing, involvement and treatment,” Sen. Hughes said.

Rep. Sims added that during his time in the Capitol as an LGBTQ man, he has seen very little leadership when it comes to HIV/AIDS, but he has seen leadership consistently come from Sen. Hughes’s office. He said they are in a building to make policy and that policy needs to be medically and evidence-based policy, but based on the alarming numbers that has not been the case. Rep. Sims stated the disease has been known to not discriminate, but policy does. He commented the legislature has fallen down consistently when it comes to public policy of health when it revolves around HIV/AIDS. Rep. Sims thanked Rep. Wheatley for bringing a testing facility to the Capitol today.

“We are going to be the generation that ends HIV/AIDS and the way that that starts is with information,” Rep. Sims said.

Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health Loren Robinson noted people have been fighting HIV since 1981 and since 1981, 61,000 Pennsylvanians have been diagnosed. Black Pennsylvanians count for 11 percent of Pennsylvania’s population but count for 49 percent of new HIV cases, Robinson said. She noted in 2016, more than 17,000 African Americans were diagnosed with HIV in the United States and more than half of African Americans who receive an HIV diagnosis identify as gay or bisexual.

Robinson continued that in 2019, 965 adults and adolescent cases of HIV were reported in Pennsylvania. She stated 36 percent of new cases were among black and African American men and 11.5 percent were among black and African American women. The department has services in terms of medical care, pharmaceutical care and housing services for those diagnosed with HIV, Robinson said. She noted that testing is routine care.

“We are working to make Pennsylvania a place where HIV infections are rare or they are not occurring at all,” Robinson said. “When a new case of HIV does occur we work to assure that every person regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or socioeconomic circumstance will have access to high-quality life extending care free from stigma and discrimination.”

Julia Och, of AIDS Free Pittsburgh, stated that AIDS Free Pittsburgh first began in 2015 and Allegheny County was seen as a great place to start because it had the second highest rate of new HIV cases in Pennsylvania. Ochexplained AIDS Free Pittsburgh uses a collective impact approach with three key strategies to end the epidemic: normalize HIV screening, increase access to Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and facilitate immediate linkage to care for people who do test positive.

Och noted that addressing racial health disparities is a key piece of the puzzle in ending HIV and AIDS. She said in 2017,

7 African Americans comprised 51 percent of all new HIV cases in the city of Pittsburgh alone. Despite this, only 40 percent of African Americans in Allegheny County have heard of PrEP, Och said. She noted AIDS Free Pittsburgh is working to raise awareness about PrEP.

Jeannine Peterson, CEO of the Hamilton Health Center added that the agency is doing testing in the Capitol today and it only takes fifteen minutes. She said this disease is not about geographical boundaries as it impacts everyone. In the media, Peterson stated, people hear about the opioid epidemic and HIV is linked to that through sharing of needles. She added HIV is also sexually transmitted.

Peterson explained many hear the diagnosis and think it means death but there are medications available to help those with HIV. She added the health center has case management services as once someone is diagnosed, they and their family will need support.

“The only way you remove ignorance is through education,” Rep. Gainey said.

Rep. Gainey noted the best way to be a friend is to take a friend to get tested, as sometimes someone does not feel comfortable going alone. He said they are here to send a message that they are here to eradicate and eliminate HIV and AIDS.

Rep. Wheatley explained he saw Sen. Hughes’s work on the national board and wanted to make sure Pennsylvania had access to the national movement. He said February 7th is the official day to observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, but the main point is to try to have citizens that are sexual active or involved in needle exchange or drug activities to be safe, get tested and educate themselves. Rep. Wheatley noted there are options out there for those diagnosed to have a productive high quality of life.

“Even though we are recognizing it as National Black HIV/AIDS, it is also a Pennsylvanian problem,” Rep. Wheatley said. “It is for all of us because we should not forget the marginalized communities for LGBTQIA community or African American community.”

SPORTSMEN’S GROUPS UNITE TO COMBAT CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE By Jessica Richardson, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

The Unified Sportsmen of Pennsylvania (USP), alongside its board, members and partner organizations, announced its partnership in reversing the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD).

USP President Phil Wagner said CWD is a violent and lethal threat to the deer family in North America, which includes deer, elk and moose. He stated CWD now exists in half of the states in the United States, and they are faced with the frightening thought that it will not stop. Wagner explained USP has entered into an official agreement with Professor Frank Bastian, from the Louisiana State University (LSU) Department of Agriculture School of Animal Sciences, in research efforts to reverse the spread of CWD.

USP Chairman of the Board Stephen Mohr stated that CWD has been around for 50 years and little progress has been made until today. He said it has taken the common folk to take the bull by the horns and make something happen. Mohr explained CWD can affect and will affect every four-legged animal in the United States. He stated there are other CWD- related diseases, such as mad cow disease in cows or Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD) in humans. He stated USP, with support, can help make CWD history. Mohr noted the Pennsylvania Game Commission tried to take care of the problem themselves as no one wanted to join in with the CWD fight, but the department has been on the wrong track.

John Eveland, a consulting biologist, announced that they have discovered the real cause of CWD and there is a cure

8 for field application in 12 to 18 months. He commented that CWD was first identified in Pennsylvania in 2012 and since then has spread within the state to the edge of the Pennsylvania elk range. He said if there is not a dramatic change to CWD management, the deer family will face extinction of deer and elk. Eveland explained that Bastian has discovered that CWD is caused by a previously unknown bacterium called spiroplasma. He said with this breakthrough discovery, Bastian has developed a three-step approach. Eveland explained the three-steps as follows:

• Within a year, develop a diagnostic test kit so hunters can test for infection at the point of harvest. • By the end of the second year, develop an injectable vaccine primarily for captive deer and elk. • In the third year, develop an oral or nasal vaccine for wild deer and elk.

Eveland continued that without continuing research there will be a catastrophic loss of deer, elk and moose that will have an unimaginable impact on the ecosystem. In addition, Eveland said, 15 percent of Alzheimer’s patients are misdiagnosed and have CJD, so within a few years of research, 15 percent of Alzheimer’s patients may be able to be cured with a vaccine.

USP Chairman of CWD Committee Wayne Haas explained that this past October, USP entered into an official agreement toward ending CWD and protecting human health in Pennsylvania and throughout America. He said under the agreement, USP will begin fundraising efforts to generate $100,000 in each of the next three years for a total of $300,000 for funding to provide professional lab assistance. He said all organizations, businesses and individuals who donate will be permanently listed as part of the founders to end CWD in Pennsylvania. Haas stated that over the last several weeks, USP has received donations from word of mouth. He noted that under the agreement, USP will coordinate the first state testing in Pennsylvania and hunter’s test kits will be first tested in Pennsylvania. Haas added that following the testing, a vaccine will be given for captive deer and then will be administered to wild deer and elk.

Haas recognized the Allegheny County Sportsmen’s League, Sinnemahoning Sportsmen’s Club, Pennsylvania State Camp Association, Eastern Pennsylvania State Firearms Coalition and Firearms Owners Against Crime as partners.

USP Treasurer Pete Kingsley noted USP has been working for almost two years on the CWD problem. He said USP has donated $18,000 so far and has received donations by word of mouth. Kingsley noted the Game Commission has tried to stop the disease, but it is not working and never will. He stated that he hopes legislators, the Game Commission, and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will come on board to support USP’s mission.

Allegheny County Sportsmen’s League President Klint Macro commented that if there is a chance the Allegheny’s County Sportsmen’s League can help conserve the deer herd in Pennsylvania, they have to do it. He said part of the league’s mission is to conserve wildlife, but also protect the Pennsylvania hunting heritage. Macro presented a check to USP on behalf of the league.

Sinnemahoning Sportsmen’s Club President Carol Feidt noted that the group is 4,500 members strong and gives their support to this very worthwhile cause. She said Sinnemahoning’s economy depends largely on the wildlife herd of elk and deer, tourism and hunting. She stated if they did not have those things the area would not exist, as it has a small population and is comprised of mostly hunting camps.

Rep. Dave Maloney commented that this is a prime example of public-private partnership. He said to him, passion is what pushes that partnership. He stated that this is something people must pay attention to for Pennsylvania’s heritage and traditions.

“We really have to understand that the way in which we may have been addressing this may not be the answer,” Rep. Maloney said.

He continued that to see people explaining and presenting their passion and digging into their own pocket to give a lot of their hard-earned money for research is indicative of why this is so important.

9 PENNSYLVANIA ORTHOPAEDIC SOCIETY CALLS ON SUPREME COURT TO PREVENT VENUE SHOPPING By Emily Mistishen, Pennsylvania Legislative Services | February 4, 2019

Members of the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society joined with legislators to urge Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court to stop a proposed venue rule change regarding medical malpractice.

Dr. Asif Ilyas, president of the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society, opened by saying those gathered were there to “[call] upon the state Supreme Court to stop the madness.” Noting the Civil Procedural Rules Committee’s proposed change to governing venues in medical professional liability actions, Ilyas referenced a medical liability crisis that occurred in Pennsylvania around 20 years prior when “venue shopping” was allowed and argued that the proposed change should not go through. “We don’t know why they proposed this change,” he stated, “but we know that a return to trial lawyer venue shopping will cause medical liability insurance premiums to skyrocket again and patient care to suffer.”

Ilyas continued by explaining that the previous crisis had caused closures in multiple maternity and obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) practices. Orthopaedic practices were unable to acquire state-mandated liability insurance, preventing them from performing necessary procedures on patients. Further, he argued, along with many practices closing down, multiple physicians retired, limited their practice, or left the state due to a lack of affordable liability insurance.

“Yes, we do remember the adverse impact venue shopping had on patient care. Apparently, too few Supreme Court justices do as well,” Ilyas remarked.

He noted Act 13, or the Mcare Abatement Act, as a sign of multiple branches of government coming together to address the medical liability crisis. Ilyas listed the results of the current venue rules, explaining that it stabilized the insurance market, retained physicians, expanded hospital services, and ensured quality care for Pennsylvanians. He reaffirmed his apprehension in reverting to the previous venue shopping rule, and urged the court to stop the Civil Procedural Rules Committee’s consideration of the change.

Ilyas expressed the society’s support of Sen. Lisa Baker’s (R-Luzerne) proposed legislation, SR 20, as well as Rep. ’s (R-Clarion) schedule of hearings to review the proposed change. He affirmed both efforts as a vital part of demonstrating the adverse effect of venue shopping.

Ilyas added that the society is offering draft legislation to address solutions for venue shopping. He explained that the legislation builds on Act 127 of 2002 and further provides for court jurisdiction over medical liability lawsuits. “Our proposal builds upon this near 20-year statute and ensures the court cannot unilaterally toss the commonwealth back into a medical liability crisis,” he asserted, and encouraged the General Assembly to adopt the legislation before the proposed venue shopping rule.

Dr. Mike Gratch, an orthopaedic surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, explained how his practice in Abington Hospital was affected by the previous venue ruling. He described how the practice was unable to receive medical malpractice insurance, and, as a result, had to limit their practice before closing it entirely. “This is just insane, in my mind,” he opined in regard to the proposed ruling change, and warned that if the change were to be adopted, many practitioners would retire or leave. “This cannot happen,” Gratch stated, and called on the General Assembly and Gov. Tom Wolf, a former classmate of his, to stop the change.

Ilyas acknowledged the society’s support of the Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform and Curt Schroder, former state representative and current executive director of the coalition. He credited the coalition’s role in maintaining legislative awareness of the venue proposal, and thanked them for their commitment to patient care.

Schroder thanked those present for standing against “this very short-sighted and dangerous proposal.” He noted his experience as a previous legislator, explaining that he had been in office during the previous medical liability crisis. He illustrated how family and maternity practices suffered from their inability to receive medical liability insurance before being closed, and called it a patient access issue. “Patients were no longer having access to the critical care that they needed,”

10 he remarked. He indicated Philadelphia as a particularly problematic area in the crisis. He reiterated Act 13 as a sign of the government coming together to address the issue, but then cautioned that the ruling is under attack by lawyers seeking to benefit from contingency fees. “This is an emergency,” he stated, and urged those present to contact the committee in opposition to the ruling.

Rep. (R-Mercer) declared his support of those present, and said he is proud to stand with them against the proposed ruling. He explained that he does not believe the change is needed and hoped a resolution could be reached to maintain the status quo. He recognized his previous collaboration with the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society on other legislation and reaffirmed that a solution needs to be found.

COMMITTEE NEWS Comprehensive coverage of House & Senate public hearings & voting meetings

Senate Judiciary Committee 02/04/19, 12:90 p.m., Senate Rules Committee Conference Room By Robert Cochran, Pennsylvania Legislative Services

The committee met to consider legislation.

Chairman Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) remarked that she looked forward to serving as chairman of the committee.

SB 49 Killion, Thomas - (PN 95) Amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure), in particular rights and immunities, providing for civil immunity of person rescuing minor from motor vehicle. A person who removes or attempts to remove a minor from a motor vehicle shall be immune from civil liability for any damage to the motor vehicle or property contained in the motor vehicle resulting from the removal or attempt if the person: (1) determines that the motor vehicle is locked or no reasonable method exists for the minor to exit the motor vehicle; (2) has a reasonable and good faith belief that forcible entry into the motor vehicle is necessary because the minor is in imminent danger of suffering harm if not immediately removed from the motor vehicle; (3) contacts emergency responders before the removal or attempt occurs, if practicable, or as soon as possible after the removal or attempt occurs; (4) remains with the minor at a safe location near the motor vehicle until a law enforcement officer arrives; and (5) uses no more force than necessary for the removal or attempt. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

SB 86 Brooks, Michele - (PN 64) Amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 23 (Domestic Relations), in offenses against the family, further providing for newborn protection; in child protective services, further providing for definitions and for taking a child into protective custody; and, in newborn protection, further providing for definitions, for health care providers accepting newborns, for police officers accepting newborns, for reporting acceptance of newborns, for immunity and for duties of department. The bill adds urgent care centers to the Safe Haven Law. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

SR 20 Baker, Lisa - - The resolution was reported as committed with Democrats voting in the negative.

Sen. Larry Farnese (D-Philadelphia) said the committee should be unwilling to discuss the court’s decision concerning medical malpractice litigation due to the separation of powers. He added that the Democrats believe, after 16 years since the reform legislation passed, that the court’s review is necessary. Sen. Farnese stated the courts “can do that alone without any intervention by the legislature.”

The Philadelphia senator explained that the health care industry has changed significantly in the 16 years since the reform legislation passed, and because of that, the legislature should remain out of the issue. Sen. Farnese stated that in 2017, 79.4 percent of cases tried in court regarding medical malpractice were ruled in favor of the defense. He added that the 11 provisions that go along with the certificate of merit changed, and for the legislature to address the court’s determination could ultimately impact those seeking compensation. Sen. Farnese requested to delay the study and report on venue in medical malpractice cases.

Chairman Baker said that because the Interbranch Commission on Venue was established previously by the General Assembly, the issue of medical malpractice falls within the legislature’s purview.

Sen. (R-Columbia) stated that before Pennsylvania’s medical malpractice reform, the commonwealth was ranked last by both doctors and hospitals regarding medical malpractice litigation. “To think that we could possibly have… the Supreme Court change a rule that might allow us to go back to that is unfathomable,” the senator opined.

Sen. Gordner indicated the reform legislation was a bipartisan compromise to prevent doctors from leaving Pennsylvania and hospitals from closing. He further explained that the resolution proposed a transparent study of medical malpractice lawsuits. The senator questioned how Democrats could be against the proposed resolution while the judicial branch refuses to publish public comments on the medical malpractice.

Sen. Art Haywood (D-Montgomery) welcomed Chairman Baker to the committee and wished her luck. Sen. Haywood said he would vote in the negative today, but would consider the resolution once more information was provided to him.

Sen. Steven Santarsiero (D-Bucks) said his concern with the resolution was that the study focused on one factor regarding medical malpractice lawsuits, which may potentially ruin the examination from the beginning. “I don’t think any of these things can be looked at in a vacuum,” the Bucks County senator said. Although the study may be transparent, Sen. Santarsiero stated that transparency itself may not be sufficient to provide useful information to the courts.

Sen. Santarsiero said he does not support the resolution because he believes the study does not consider all the factors surrounding medical malpractice litigation. Sen. Farnese said the resolution allows for a transparent and practical study, but adding more areas of examination would enhance the review. Chairman Baker said the resolution would allow for a public hearing process to discuss these concerns while the judicial branch examines the issue discreetly.

Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee 2/4/19, 12:30 p.m., Room 8E-A East Wing By Matt Hess, Pennsylvania Legislative Services

The committee met to consider bills.

SB 85 Phillips-Hill, Kristin (F) - (PN 63) Amends the Dog Law adding language providing license fee exemptions for those service dogs which are used in the performance of services by a fire department, sheriff’s office or in the performance of rescue services or medical emergency services. Effective in 60 days. -The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

Minority Chairman (D-Berks) said she supports the legislation but noted that she authored legislation last session to expand dog license fees because the Department of Agriculture has limited resources to enforce the Dog Law. Chairman Elder Vogel (R-Beaver) indicated that the committee will have discussions with Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding on the issue.

SB 145 Yaw, Gene - (PN 119) Amends the Agricultural Area Security Law further providing for purchase of agricultural conservation easements by establishing an easement shall not prevent construction and use of structures on the subject land for the purpose of a residence of the landowner, and immediate family member or an employee. Further provides that the owner of the land may relinquish and extinguish the right of construction and use of structures conferred. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

12 Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming), prime sponsor of the bill, explained that the legislation addresses inconsistencies in the Agricultural Area Security Law.

House Insurance Committee 2/4/18, 11:00 a.m., Room G-50 Irvis Office Building By Jeff Cox, Pennsylvania Legislative Services

The committee held an informational hearing on surprise balance billing in other states. Chairman Pickett commented, “The Insurance Committee is hearing presentations today and tomorrow on ideas dealing with surprise balance billing.” She explained, “You may know surprise balance billing happens when a provider does not disclose to a consumer that the provider is an out-of-network provider and not a participating provider in the consumer’s health plan.” Chairman Pickett further explained, “The insurer reimburses the consumer as the health plan details, but often time this amount only partially pays the bill sent by the provider.” According to Chairman Pickett, “Constituents are increasingly facing bills that reach many thousands of dollars to be owed.” She stated, “It is the goal of legislation to keep the consumer out of the middle and have the insurers and the providers each have increased transparency and accountability.”

Rep. Davis read a statement on behalf of Minority Chairman Anthony DeLuca (D-Allegheny), who was unable to attend the meeting. She read, “Surprise balance billing is real and it is happening every day, and when it affects you it can be shocking and financially devastating.” Rep. Davis also read, “Real surprise bills exist and real complaints are filed with the Insurance Department and the problem is growing.” She continued, “For this reason, I am joining the majority chair in co-sponsoring a bill that will take the consumer out of the middle of this debate.”

Michelle Scott, general counsel, FAIR Health, provided an overview of her organization. She explained, “FAIR Health is a national, independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing transparency to health care costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support.” Scott told the committee members, “FAIR Health’s activities involve the use of a variety of data sources, including non-discounted fees for services reported by providers in private claim records, the allowed amounts which are the in-network fees that insurers’ negotiate with providers under network contracts and Medicare fees, as well as Medicaid and Workers Compensation fee schedules in many jurisdictions.”

Pointing out that FAIR Health’s database contains over 27 billion privately-billed medical and dental claims, Scott explained that FAIR Health uses this database “to power an award-winning, free consumer website and to create data products and custom analytics serving all health care stakeholders, including government officials, researchers, consumers, providers, insurers and other businesses.” She told lawmakers her group “does not lobby nor does it take positions on the specifics of proposed policies.” Scott added, “However, the organization believes its charitable mission includes sharing information based on its resources and experience with all parties.”

According to Scott, the database contains approximately 830 million records from 2002 to the present for Pennsylvania. She reported, “In 2017, FAIR Health had 45 data contributors who each contributed more than 10,000 claims for services rendered in Pennsylvania.” Scott noted, “Annual contributions for the commonwealth amount to 85 million claims.” She stated, “The database receives claims from both self-insured and fully insured plans.” Scott also reported that FAIR Health organizes the Pennsylvania claims data into and reports benchmarks for 28 geographic regions throughout the commonwealth. According to Scott, “Medicare divides Pennsylvania into two regions in determining its fee schedules.”

Scott also provided an overview of how FAIR Health assists legislators, policy makers and administrators; their interactions with federal agencies and officials; and how they support research institutions. She also discussed her group’s benchmarks, data validation, product types, product uses, governmental use, analyses and reports, Medicare data and related health products. Scott also reported on FAIR Health’s consumer tools including consumer protection and standards for provider payments. She noted, “As part of its nonprofit charitable mission, FAIR Health provides its benchmarks free of charge to consumers through its consumer website, which is available in both English and Spanish language versions.” Scott also 13 noted that FAIR Health also tries to make its data available to governmental organizations and academic researchers at low rates set to cover costs.

Chairman Pickett wanted to know how many insurers in Pennsylvania find it to their advantage to share their data with FAIR Health. Scott responded that most are, but Pennsylvania is not the highest percentage state. She said that about 60 percent share the data, while the national state average is about 75 percent, with some states having over 90 percent. Chairman Pickett asked if consumers are aware of the data available to them through FAIR Health’s consumer website. Scott said, “I think it’s known more widely than people guess.” She added FAIR Health was given a grant from New York last year to add specific information about specific doctors on the website and to promote it. Scott commented that they found that as people became aware of its existence, especially in areas where it was promoted, people signed up for it. She pointed out it is being used nationwide. Chairman Pickett reported, “I was recently at a gathering where we were told if they can’t do it on their phone, don’t even bother trying to give them the information.” Scott responded that Fair Health does have an app which is being used by consumers and patients.

Rep. Thomas asked where Fair Health gets its funding. Scott explained that the organization is self-sustaining and basically their funding is based on the fees that they charge for-profit clients, so it is the insurance companies and consultants.

Rep. Tobash wanted to know if Fair Health has seen any outliers in Pennsylvania when it comes to claims. Scott responded that occasionally there are in some specialties. She noted that Pennsylvania “has a better track record than New York and New Jersey in terms of having extraordinary outliers.” Scott added, “Every region has a few and in some cases, it may be for people who do extraordinarily difficult cases.” Regarding emergency room visits, Rep. Tobash asked if most prices are set by negotiations between the insurer and the hospital providing the emergency room services. Scott responded that the actual emergency room professional charges are frequently billed separately and negotiated separately. She added the structure of emergency room services varies greatly.

House Consumer Affairs Committee 2/4/19, 2:15 p.m., 205 Ryan Office Building By Jessica Richardson, Pennsylvania Legislative Services

The committee met to consider legislation.

Chairman (R-Crawford) commented that he is new to the committee and is looking forward to working on it.

Minority Chairman (D-Beaver) stated he is also new as chairman and is looking forward to working with Chairman Roae and the rest of the committee.

HB 350 Rigby, Jim (F) - (PN 2796) Amends the Precious Metal Sale Regulation Law to replace the term “refining,” with “other commercial disposition”; and to expand requirements regarding proof of identity. Further, the legislation prohibits any sales to an individual less than 18 years of age; ensures a dealer.s license is available on location and at request; provides greater photography and description requirements of items purchased; and expands procedures during law enforcement investigations. Lastly, this legislation increases penalties for dealers violating the act from a misdemeanor of the third degree to a misdemeanor of the second degree. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

Rep. Jim Rigby (R-Cambria) explained the bill amends the Precious Metal Sale Regulation Law to have previous metals retained for ten days instead of five. He said the bill also prohibits a dealer from purchasing precious metals from or selling to someone under 18 years of age.

Chairman Roae said last session HB 41 had almost the same wording and passed 187-10 so there was good bipartisan support last session.

14 HB 318 Mizgorski, Lori (F) - (PN 275) Amends the Telemarketer Registration Act to include the definition of robocall as “a telephone solicitation call made to a large number of people, using a computerized autodialer, to deliver a prerecorded telemarketing message,” and to prohibit robocalls in the same manner as other telephone solicitation calls. Further, the legislation provides requirements on businesses which use robocalls and allows persons to opt-out of receiving future telephone solicitation calls from that telemarketing business. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

Rep. (R-Allegheny) stated that this is a consumer-friendly bill that updates the Telemarketer Registration Act by eliminating the need for consumers to reregister their phone numbers every five years for the do-not-call list. She said it also provides some relief to the frequent calls received by prohibiting telemarketer calls on holidays and requiring opt-out for robocalls.

Chairman Roae noted that this is a good piece of legislation.

HB 26 Snyder, Pam - (PN 41) Amends the Automobile Lemon Law, adding motorcycles to the definition of a new motor vehicle. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

Rep. Pam Snyder (D-Greene) commented that Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law requires manufacturers to replace, repurchase or compensate vehicle owners for defects that substantially impair its use or value at no cost to the owner. She said this legislation would extend the buyer protection to new and leased motorcycles. Rep. Snyder noted 28 other states currently provide this protection to consumers.

Rep. Frank Farry (R-Bucks) stated he will vote in favor of the bill out of committee in respect to the author of the bill, however there are concerns raised by some of the stakeholders. He said he did work with the prime sponsor last session with an amendment on the floor to address some of those concerns. Rep. Farry said the Harley Davidson dealership in his district asked him to vote no.

Rep. Snyder thanked Rep. Farry as they worked together on the bill last session. She said all Rep. Farry’s concerns and his amendment have been incorporated into this piece of legislation.

House Appropriations Committee 2/4/19, 2:30 p.m. , Room 140 Main Capitol By Matt Hess, Pennsylvania Legislative Services

The committee met to consider bills.

HB 195 Nelson, Eric - (PN 167) Amends Title 40 (Insurance), in regulation of insurers and related persons generally, adding a chapter providing for medication synchronization. “Medication synchronization” is defined as the coordination of prescription drug filling or refilling by a pharmacy or dispensing physician for a health insurance enrollee taking two or more maintenance medications for the purpose of improving medication adherence. Effective in 365 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

HB 233 O’Neal, Tim - (PN 203) Amends the Second Class County Code, in special powers and duties of the county, stating it shall be the duty of the county commissioners to provide flags on each Memorial Day with which to decorate each grave of a deceased service person and each grave of other deceased persons who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard or Merchant Marine during World War II or any organization officially connected to those forces, whose separation from service was honorable, whether by discharge or otherwise, and who are interred within the county. The flags to be used shall be standard size, colorfast and American made and shall be purchased at the expense of the county from money in the county treasury. A family member of a person whose grave is decorated with a flag by the county for the purpose of Memorial Day may take and keep the flag after the first working day after Veterans’ Day. The county may 15 coordinate with local veterans’ organizations to ensure that cemeteries are decorated in compliance. Money expended by the county under this section shall be in addition to money appropriated by the county for Memorial Day purposes. Annually, the authority in charge of each cemetery is authorized to remove a flag when the flag has become unsightly or weatherworn any time on or after the first working day after Veterans’ Day. A cemetery may remove flag holders for annual storage. An unauthorized person who removes or causes the removal of flags prior to the first working day after Independence Day shall be guilty of a summary offense. Effective in 60 days. - The bill was unanimously reported as committed.

NEW LEGISLATION

HB 317 Rothman, Greg (R) (PN 297) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for surcharge; providing for automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems; imposing penalties; and establishing the ALPR Equipment Fund. A surcharge of $25 is levied upon conviction for violation of Chapter 13 (relating to registration of vehicles), a surcharge of $25 which shall be remitted to the State Treasury for deposit in the ALPR Equipment Fund. The ALPR Equipment Fund is established to procure ALPR equipment for use by law enforcement agencies and to assist and provide equipment support for State and local law enforcement. Effective in six months. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 318 Mizgorski, Lori (F) (R) (PN 275) Amends the Telemarketer Registration Act defining “robocall” and further providing for unlawful acts and penalties and for unwanted telephone solicitation calls prohibited. Prohibited acts include initiating a robocall unless as prescribed. Enrollment on the do-not-call list shall be maintained until the subscriber requests to have the telephone number removed from the list. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed Jan 31, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Consumer Affairs

HB 319 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 298) Amends the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act further providing for definitions; providing for referendum for prevailing wage rates, for subsequent public referenda and for election interference prohibited; and repealing related provisions of the Public School Code of 1949. Certain school entities are excluded from the act. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 320 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 299) Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally), in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in miscellaneous provisions, repealing provisions relating to qualified interest rate management agreements, further providing for financial reporting, providing for application of subchapter, for definitions, for qualified interest rate management agreements and for interest rate risk and interest cost management in first class cities and counties; and making editorial changes. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 322 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 300) The Property Tax Pension Obligation Disclosure Act requires school districts to provide annual notice relating to certain pension and other postemployment benefit obligations; and provides for property disclosure statement and for duty of State Real Estate Commission. Portions are effective in 60 days and portions are effective six months after publication. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

16 HB 323 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 301) Amends the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act excluding political subdivisions from the act and authorizing a political subdivision or an authority, agency or instrumentality of a political subdivision to elect, by ordinance or resolution, to place itself within the jurisdiction of the act. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 324 Gillespie, Keith (R) (PN 302) Amends Title 72 (Taxation & Fiscal Affairs), establishing microenterprise loan programs and abating real property assessment. The bill establishes that an administrative entity shall have the powers to: issue loans to microenterprises that will operate on property owned by the administrative entity and leased to the microenterprise; negotiate for loans and grants form both public and private sources; acquire property to lease to start-up entrepreneurs in order to facilitate the establishment of a microenterprise; and enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with other administrative entities or municipalities. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 325 Deasy, Daniel (D) (PN 303) Amends the Liquor Code, in distilleries, wineries, bonded warehouses, bailees for hire and transporters for hire, establishing the Pennsylvania Distilled Spirits Industry Promotion Board. The bill establishes the Pennsylvania Distilled Spirits Industry Promotion Board to make recommendations to the board to award grants to entities for the purpose of increasing the production of Pennsylvania-made spirits and enhancing the Pennsylvania distilled spirits industry through promotion, marketing and research-based programs and projects. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 326 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 304) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions, for persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms, for sale or transfer of firearms and for Pennsylvania State Police. The bill establishes that a person whose name is included on the terrorist screening database shall not possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 327 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 305) Amends the Liquor Code, in licenses and regulations, liquor, alcohol, and malt and brewed beverages, further providing for local option. The bill establishes that with respect to a question to be placed on the ballot in a primary election, and nomination papers, with respect to a question to be placed on the ballot in a municipal or general election, in each case to ask the voters to allow the sale of liquor in the municipality. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 328 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 306) Act establishing the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force. The task force shall review and analyze the law, procedures, practices, processes and rules relating to the administration of flood insurance. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 329 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 307) Amends the Tax Reform Code, providing for a commuter and commerce toll tax credit. The bill establishes that a taxpayer that incurs a qualified toll expense in a taxable year may apply for a tax credit.A taxpayer is qualified to receive a tax credit for the taxable year in the amount of 50 percent, not to exceed $500, of the taxpayer’s total qualified toll expense for the taxable year. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

17 HB 330 Emrick, Joe (R) (PN 308) Amends the Taxpayer Relief Act making editorial changes to incorrect references. The bill corrects section references of the Local Tax Enabling Act throughout the bill. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 331 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 309) Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) adding a new section prohibiting any municipality from regulating employer policies or practices or enforcing any mandate regarding employer policies or practices. This prohibition shall not apply to a mandate enacted by a municipality affecting an employee or class of employees of the municipality itself. Does not preempt any ordinances authorized by the Human Relations Act or the terms and conditions of a collective bargaining agreement. Exempts school districts from the definition of “municipality.” Provides for effect, relief, reasonable expenses, and definitions. Effective immediately. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 332 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 310) Amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure), in jurisdiction of appellate courts, allowing the Superior Court to establish a commerce court program; and, in organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, allowing a court of common pleas to establish a commerce court. The Supreme Court may appoint a statewide commerce court coordinator and may establish an interdisciplinary and interbranch advisory committee to advise and assist the Statewide commerce courts coordinator in monitoring and administrating commerce courts Statewide. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 334 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 311) Amends the Public School Code codifying pilot program relating to classification of instructional programs. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 335 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 312) Amends the Human Services Code, in public assistance, providing for the integration of mental health, substance abuse and primary care services in the HealthChoices medical assistance managed care program. Effective immediately. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 336 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 313) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), prohibiting individuals, with the exception of law enforcement and security personnel, from carrying firearms in the Capitol Complex. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 337 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 314) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses) & 42 (Judiciary), requiring persons convicted of an animal abuse crime to register their personal information and the offense for which they were convicted for a period of seven years for the first offense, 15 years for the second offense, and for their lifetime for three or more convictions. Charges county sheriffs with maintaining a local registry and forwarding information to the Pennsylvania State Police, which will maintain a publicly accessible central registry. Effective in 90 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 339 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 316) Amends the Public School Code, in charter schools, establishing the Pennsylvania Charter School Oversight Board to review denied applications submitted for new charter schools, as well as any revocation or renewal by a local board of school directors for charter schools located in a city of the first class. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

18 HB 340 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 317) Amends the Public School Code requiring the State Board of Education, in consultation with every board of school directors located in each county, to develop assessments to be administered in lieu of the statewide standardized tests. Provides for the elimination of the required passage of assessments as a requirement for graduation. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 341 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 318) Amends the Public School Code, in pupils and attendance, requiring a student be tested for diabetes prior to their admittance to school. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 342 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 319) Amends an Act authorizing cities of the first class that have adopted a home rule charter to enforce ordinances, rules & regulations prohibiting dumping or disposal of waste, trash or debris, establishing a penalty of $5,000 per illegally dumped tire. Also requires documentation and recordkeeping by a business dealing in waste tires and waste tire haulers, provide for waste tire enforcement to encourage recycling, expand waste tire disposal programs in accordance with the Waste Tire Disposal Act and enforce compliance with the act. Effective in 120 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 343 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 320) Amends Title 65 (Public Officers), requiring all public officers and employees to provide proof of a valid license to the appropriate governmental unit or employer each year. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 344 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 321)Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, requiring individuals who seek to rent a firearm at a shooting range undergo a yearly application process, including a background check. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 345 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 322) Amends the Human Services Code, requiring the Department of Human Services, in conjunction with the Department of Health, to develop guidelines for managing a child with a life-threatening food allergy. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 346 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 323) Amends the Public School Code, in school health services, further providing for definitions and providing for notice of peanut or tree nut allergies by defining “school building” and requiring schools that enroll an elementary or middle school student who has a peanut or tree nut allergy to post a notice in plain view at every point of entry and in the cafeteria stating that a student within the school building has a peanut or tree nut allergy. The bill also prohibits the sale of a product containing a peanut or tree nut in the cafeteria and requires one nut free cafeteria table and classroom per grade level. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 347 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 324) Amends the Pharmacy Act adding language allowing a licensed pharmacy to collect a legend drug from an ultimate user, or from a long-term care facility on behalf of the ultimate user who resides or has resided the facility for the purpose of disposing the drug as pharmaceutical waste as long as certain requirements in the bill are met. Effective in 60 days. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

19 HB 348 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 325) Amends the Pennsylvania Election Code further providing for district election officers by adding that in counties of the first class (Philadelphia), the compensation of judges of election, inspectors of election, clerks and machine operators shall be established at the discretion of the county board of elections or shall be fixed by the county board of elections for each election in accordance with the following, whichever is greater: judges of election, $17/hour; inspectors of election, $16/hour; and clerks and machine operators, $15/hour. Effective January 1, 2020, or immediately, whichever is later. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 349 Heffley, Doyle (R) (PN 326) Amends the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act, requiring that municipalities which opt to enforce the Uniform Construction Code by utilizing third-party agencies have at least two or more of them under contract for UCC administration. Effective immediately. Jan 31, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 139 Quinn, Chris (R) (PN 282) Amends Title 27 (Environmental Resources), in environmental stewardship and watershed protection, further providing for legislative findings and for agencies and establishing duties for the Department of Community and Economic Development, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The bill is intended to create a Growing Greener III program. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Environmental Resources and Energy

HB 244 Roebuck, James (D) (PN 283) The Promise Act provides for the Promise Program and establishes the Promise Fund. The program provides scholarship to offset higher education expenses. Portions are effective immediately and the remainder is effective upon publication. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Education

HB 276 Delozier, Sheryl (R) (PN 284) Joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing rights of victims of crime, dubbed Marsy’s Law. Constitutional amendments require approval in two consecutive legislative sessions and then approval by the voters through a referendum. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 305 Snyder, Pam (D) (PN 285) The Communications Assets and Wireless Broadband Services Act provides for an inventory of State-owned communications assets and the use of communication towers for the development of wireless broadband services in unserved areas and underserved areas of this Commonwealth. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House State Government

HB 306 Gainey, Ed (D) (PN 286) Amends Title 25 (Elections), in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for automatic registration of qualified electors and further providing for time and for approval of registration applications.The bill provides for automatic voter registration. Effective in 90 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House State Government

HB 307 Gainey, Ed (D) (PN 287) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, defining an offence prohibiting certain assault weapons. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

20 HB 308 Gainey, Ed (D) (PN 288) Amends Title 65 (Public Officers) adding a chapter providing for ethics standards and controlled substance testing relating to the General Assembly. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House State Government

HB 309 Mehaffie, Thomas (R) (PN 289) Amends the Human Services Code, in departmental powers and duties as to supervision, providing for Keystone STARS Program participants; and, in departmental powers and duties as to licensing, further providing for fees, providing for Keystone STARS Program participants and further providing for definition. Each child care provider, child care center and family child care home enrolled in the Keystone STARS Program shall: (1) conspicuously denote on its website, if operational, its designated STAR-level rating, which shall include how many STARS out of four that the facility has received; (2) provide its STAR-level rating in writing to families at the time of application and enrollment; and (3) obtain a department-issued placard that denotes the facility’s participation in the Keystone STARS Program and designated STAR- level rating. Effective in 180 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Children and Youth

HB 310 Reese, Mike (R) (PN 290) Amends Title 66 (Public Utilities), in restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for duties of electric distribution companies stipulating that customer consent shall not be required if: (1) the information is released to comply with a subpoena or order issued by a court or regulatory agency; (2) the information is released on a confidential basis in the context of an administrative proceeding involving a customer complaint; (3) the information is released in aggregated form; or (4) there is an emergency situation involving an imminent threat to public health or safety. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Consumer Affairs

HB 311 Reese, Mike (R) (PN 291) Amends Title 66 (Public Utilities), in restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for duties of electric distribution companies by outlining a method for customers to choose to opt out of receiving smart meter technology. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Consumer Affairs

HB 312 Reese, Mike (R) (PN 292) Amends Title 66 (Public Utilities), in restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for duties of electric distribution companies. The bill changes the requirement that smart meters be procured into a “may” provision. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Consumer Affairs

HB 313 Reese, Mike (R) (PN 293) Amends Title 66 (Public Utilities), in restructuring of electric utility industry, further providing for duties of electric distribution companies. The bill changes the requirement that smart meters be procured into a “may” provision and provides for customer opt out. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Consumer Affairs

HB 314 Pashinski, Eddie Day (D) (PN 294) Amends the Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors Act licensing and regulating the practice of music therapy. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Professional Licensure

HB 315 Murt, Thomas (R) (PN 295) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in sexual offenses, establishing the offense of female mutilation. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

21 HB 316 Owlett, Clint (R) (PN 296) The Opioid Abuse Child Impact Task Force Act establishes a task force on the opioid abuse epidemic’s impact on children and provides for powers and duties of the task force. The task force shall focus on improving the safety, well- being and permanency of substance-exposed infants and other young children affected by their parents’ substance abuse disorders. This act expires March 1, 2020, and is effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Human Services

HB 317 Rothman, Greg (R) (PN 297) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in penalties and disposition of fines, further providing for surcharge; providing for automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems; imposing penalties; and establishing the ALPR Equipment Fund. A surcharge of $25 is levied upon conviction for violation of Chapter 13 (relating to registration of vehicles), a surcharge of $25 which shall be remitted to the State Treasury for deposit in the ALPR Equipment Fund. The ALPR Equipment Fund is established to procure ALPR equipment for use by law enforcement agencies and to assist and provide equipment support for State and local law enforcement. Effective in six months. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

HB 319 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 298) Amends the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act further providing for definitions; providing for referendum for prevailing wage rates, for subsequent public referenda and for election interference prohibited; and repealing related provisions of the Public School Code of 1949. Certain school entities are excluded from the act. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Labor and Industry

HB 320 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 299) Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally), in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in miscellaneous provisions, repealing provisions relating to qualified interest rate management agreements, further providing for financial reporting, providing for application of subchapter, for definitions, for qualified interest rate management agreements and for interest rate risk and interest cost management in first class cities and counties; and making editorial changes. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Local Government

HB 322 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 300) The Property Tax Pension Obligation Disclosure Act requires school districts to provide annual notice relating to certain pension and other postemployment benefit obligations; and provides for property disclosure statement and for duty of State Real Estate Commission. Portions are effective in 60 days and portions are effective six months after publication. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Finance

HB 323 Ryan, Frank (R) (PN 301) Amends the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act excluding political subdivisions from the act and authorizing a political subdivision or an authority, agency or instrumentality of a political subdivision to elect, by ordinance or resolution, to place itself within the jurisdiction of the act. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Labor and Industry

HB 324 Gillespie, Keith (R) (PN 302) Amends Title 72 (Taxation & Fiscal Affairs), establishing microenterprise loan programs and abating real property assessment. The bill establishes that an administrative entity shall have the powers to: issue loans to microenterprises that will operate on property owned by the administrative entity and leased to the microenterprise; negotiate for loans and grants form both public and private sources; acquire property to lease to start-up entrepreneurs in order to facilitate the establishment of a microenterprise; and enter into an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with other administrative entities or municipalities. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Urban Affairs

22 HB 325 Deasy, Daniel (D) (PN 303) Amends the Liquor Code, in distilleries, wineries, bonded warehouses, bailees for hire and transporters for hire, establishing the Pennsylvania Distilled Spirits Industry Promotion Board. The bill establishes the Pennsylvania Distilled Spirits Industry Promotion Board to make recommendations to the board to award grants to entities for the purpose of increasing the production of Pennsylvania-made spirits and enhancing the Pennsylvania distilled spirits industry through promotion, marketing and research-based programs and projects. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Liquor Control

HB 326 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 304) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for definitions, for persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms, for sale or transfer of firearms and for Pennsylvania State Police. The bill establishes that a person whose name is included on the terrorist screening database shall not possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 327 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 305) Amends the Liquor Code, in licenses and regulations, liquor, alcohol, and malt and brewed beverages, further providing for local option. The bill establishes that with respect to a question to be placed on the ballot in a primary election, and nomination papers, with respect to a question to be placed on the ballot in a municipal or general election, in each case to ask the voters to allow the sale of liquor in the municipality. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Liquor Control

HB 328 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 306) Act establishing the Flood Insurance Premium Assistance Task Force. The task force shall review and analyze the law, procedures, practices, processes and rules relating to the administration of flood insurance. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Insurance

HB 329 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 307) Amends the Tax Reform Code, providing for a commuter and commerce toll tax credit. The bill establishes that a taxpayer that incurs a qualified toll expense in a taxable year may apply for a tax credit.A taxpayer is qualified to receive a tax credit for the taxable year in the amount of 50 percent, not to exceed $500, of the taxpayer’s total qualified toll expense for the taxable year. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Finance

HB 330 Emrick, Joe (R) (PN 308) Amends the Taxpayer Relief Act making editorial changes to incorrect references. The bill corrects section references of the Local Tax Enabling Act throughout the bill. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Finance

HB 331 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 309) Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) adding a new section prohibiting any municipality from regulating employer policies or practices or enforcing any mandate regarding employer policies or practices. This prohibition shall not apply to a mandate enacted by a municipality affecting an employee or class of employees of the municipality itself. Does not preempt any ordinances authorized by the Human Relations Act or the terms and conditions of a collective bargaining agreement. Exempts school districts from the definition of “municipality.” Provides for effect, relief, reasonable expenses, and definitions. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Labor and Industry

23 HB 332 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 310) Amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure), in jurisdiction of appellate courts, allowing the Superior Court to establish a commerce court program; and, in organization and jurisdiction of courts of common pleas, allowing a court of common pleas to establish a commerce court. The Supreme Court may appoint a statewide commerce court coordinator and may establish an interdisciplinary and interbranch advisory committee to advise and assist the Statewide commerce courts coordinator in monitoring and administrating commerce courts Statewide. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 334 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 311) Amends the Public School Code codifying pilot program relating to classification of instructional programs. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Education

HB 335 Grove, Seth (R) (PN 312) Amends the Human Services Code, in public assistance, providing for the integration of mental health, substance abuse and primary care services in the HealthChoices medical assistance managed care program. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Health

HB 336 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 313) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), prohibiting individuals, with the exception of law enforcement and security personnel, from carrying firearms in the Capitol Complex. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 337 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 314) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses) & 42 (Judiciary), requiring persons convicted of an animal abuse crime to register their personal information and the offense for which they were convicted for a period of seven years for the first offense, 15 years for the second offense, and for their lifetime for three or more convictions. Charges county sheriffs with maintaining a local registry and forwarding information to the Pennsylvania State Police, which will maintain a publicly accessible central registry. Effective in 90 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 338 Cruz, Angel (D) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in wiretapping & electronic surveillance, for exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications, general prohibition on use of certain devices, and for warrant for use. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 339 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 316) Amends the Public School Code, in charter schools, establishing the Pennsylvania Charter School Oversight Board to review denied applications submitted for new charter schools, as well as any revocation or renewal by a local board of school directors for charter schools located in a city of the first class. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Education

HB 340 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 317) Amends the Public School Code requiring the State Board of Education, in consultation with every board of school directors located in each county, to develop assessments to be administered in lieu of the statewide standardized tests. Provides for the elimination of the required passage of assessments as a requirement for graduation. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Education

24 HB 341 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 318) Amends the Public School Code, in pupils and attendance, requiring a student be tested for diabetes prior to their admittance to school. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Health

HB 342 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 319) Amends an Act authorizing cities of the first class that have adopted a home rule charter to enforce ordinances, rules & regulations prohibiting dumping or disposal of waste, trash or debris, establishing a penalty of $5,000 per illegally dumped tire. Also requires documentation and recordkeeping by a business dealing in waste tires and waste tire haulers, provide for waste tire enforcement to encourage recycling, expand waste tire disposal programs in accordance with the Waste Tire Disposal Act and enforce compliance with the act. Effective in 120 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Urban Affairs

HB 343 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 320) Amends Title 65 (Public Officers), requiring all public officers and employees to provide proof of a valid license to the appropriate governmental unit or employer each year. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House State Government

HB 344 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 321)Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, requiring individuals who seek to rent a firearm at a shooting range undergo a yearly application process, including a background check. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 345 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 322) Amends the Human Services Code, requiring the Department of Human Services, in conjunction with the Department of Health, to develop guidelines for managing a child with a life-threatening food allergy. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Health

HB 346 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 323) Amends the Public School Code, in school health services, further providing for definitions and providing for notice of peanut or tree nut allergies by defining “school building” and requiring schools that enroll an elementary or middle school student who has a peanut or tree nut allergy to post a notice in plain view at every point of entry and in the cafeteria stating that a student within the school building has a peanut or tree nut allergy. The bill also prohibits the sale of a product containing a peanut or tree nut in the cafeteria and requires one nut free cafeteria table and classroom per grade level. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Education

HB 347 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 324) Amends the Pharmacy Act adding language allowing a licensed pharmacy to collect a legend drug from an ultimate user, or from a long-term care facility on behalf of the ultimate user who resides or has resided the facility for the purpose of disposing the drug as pharmaceutical waste as long as certain requirements in the bill are met. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Health

25 HB 348 Cruz, Angel (D) (PN 325) Amends the Pennsylvania Election Code further providing for district election officers by adding that in counties of the first class (Philadelphia), the compensation of judges of election, inspectors of election, clerks and machine operators shall be established at the discretion of the county board of elections or shall be fixed by the county board of elections for each election in accordance with the following, whichever is greater: judges of election, $17/hour; inspectors of election, $16/hour; and clerks and machine operators, $15/hour. Effective January 1, 2020, or immediately, whichever is later. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House State Government

HB 349 Heffley, Doyle (R) (PN 326) Amends the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act, requiring that municipalities which opt to enforce the Uniform Construction Code by utilizing third-party agencies have at least two or more of them under contract for UCC administration. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Labor and Industry

HB 350 Rigby, Jim (F) (R) (PN 2796) Amends the Precious Metal Sale Regulation Law to replace the term “refining,” with “other commercial disposition”; and to expand requirements regarding proof of identity. Further, the legislation prohibits any sales to an individual less than 18 years of age; ensures a dealer.s license is available on location and at request; provides greater photography and description requirements of items purchased; and expands procedures during law enforcement investigations. Lastly, this legislation increases penalties for dealers violating the act from a misdemeanor of the third degree to a misdemeanor of the second degree. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Consumer Affairs

HR 28 Wheatley, Jake (D) (PN 277) Resolution recognizing February 7, 2019, as “National Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced as noncontroversial resolution

HR 53 Gillen, Mark (R) (PN 35) Concurrent Resolution urging the President and Congress of the United States to take immediate action to preserve the underwater graves of servicepersons who died defending this nation. Feb 1, 2019 - Received and referred to Senate Veterans Affairs & Emergency Prepared.

HR 60 Davis, Austin (D) (PN 278) Resolution directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study of the salaries and training of police officers in this Commonwealth. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Local Government

HR 62 Brown, Rosemary (R) (PN 279) Resolution recognizing the week of February 3 through 9, 2019, as “National Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda Week” in Pennsylvania. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced as noncontroversial resolution

HR 65 Goodman, Neal (D) (PN 280) Resolution designating February 16, 2019, as “Lithuanian Independence Day” in Pennsylvania. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced as noncontroversial resolution

HR 66 Bizzarro, Ryan (D) (PN 281) Resolution designating the month of February 2019 as “Esports Month” in Pennsylvania. Feb 1, 2019 - H-Introduced as noncontroversial resolution

26 SB 5 DiSanto, John (R) (PN 121) Amends the Regulatory Review Act providing for regulatory reduction and for regulatory baseline and public availability. The bill requires that each proposed regulation shall include a regulatory replacement request as part of the regulatory analysis form. A regulatory replacement request shall include the following: (1) The regulatory requirements that are proposed to be repealed; (2) The number of regulatory requirements proposed to be repealed through the proposed regulation and regulatory replacement request; (3) The number of new regulatory requirements proposed to be promulgated through the proposed regulation and regulatory replacement request; and (4) The net number of new regulatory requirements proposed to be promulgated. Additionally, each state agency shall complete an internal review of all regulatory requirements within the purview of the agency and shall submit their findings to the Governor, both the Senate and the House of Representatives and the commission. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Inter-Governmental Operations

SB 7 Folmer, Mike (R) (PN 122) Amends Titles 24 (Education), 71 (State Government) and 72 (Taxation and Fiscal Affairs), in Title 24 in retirement for school employees as to membership, contributions and benefits, further providing for actuarial cost method providing for distributions from the PSERS/SERS Unfunded Accrued Liability Fund; in Title 24 in administration and miscellaneous provisions, further providing for administrative duties of board to accept distributions from the fund; in Title 71, in retirement for State employees and officers as to contributions, further providing for actuarial cost method providing for distributions from the PSERS/SERS Unfunded Accrued Liability Fund; in administration, funds, accounts, general provisions, further providing for administrative duties of board to accept distributions from the fund; in Tile 72 adding the Taxpayer Protection Act, which limits total commonwealth spending based on the previous year’s spending plus inflationary and population adjustments; and repealing certain provisions of the Fiscal Code. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 100 Brooks, Michele (R) (PN 123) Act requiring health care practitioners renewing a license or certification to complete a certain number of approved continuing education classes which address Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Banking and Insurance

SB 119 DiSanto, John (R) (PN 124) Amends the Regulatory Review Act providing for regulatory reduction and for regulatory baseline and public availability. The bill requires that each proposed regulation shall include a regulatory replacement request as part of the regulatory analysis form. A regulatory replacement request shall include the following: (1) The regulatory requirements that are proposed to be repealed; (2) The number of regulatory requirements proposed to be repealed through the proposed regulation and regulatory replacement request; (3) The number of new regulatory requirements proposed to be promulgated through the proposed regulation and regulatory replacement request; and (4) The net number of new regulatory requirements proposed to be promulgated. Additionally, each state agency shall complete an internal review of all regulatory requirements within the purview of the agency and shall submit their findings to the Governor, both the Senate and the House of Representatives and the commission. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Inter-Governmental Operations

SB 147 Laughlin, Daniel (R) (PN 125) Amends Title 34 (Game), in hunting and furtaking, authorizing the Game Commission to allow for hunting on Sundays. Also makes the offense of trespass while hunting a primary offense and increases penalties. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Game and Fisheries

27 SB 148 Hughes, Vincent (D) (PN 126) Amends the Tax Reform Code excluding from the sales and use tax the sale at retail or use of a solar energy system or a component of a solar energy system that complies with applicable national and industry equipment, installation and performance standards. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 149 Sabatina, John (D) (PN 127) Joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, establishing rights of victims of crime, dubbed Marsy’s Law. Constitutional amendments require approval in two consecutive legislative sessions and then approval by the voters through a referendum. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 171 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 128) Amends the Tax Increment Financing Act further providing for the definitions of “tax increment” and “tax increment base” in order to allow municipalities to add wage tax revenue in a tax increment financing district to the tax revenue that can be dedicated to amortize bond issues used to pay for infrastructure improvements in the tax increment financing district. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 172 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 129) Amends the Tax Increment Financing Act further defining “tax increment” and “tax increment base”; and further providing for determination of tax increment and tax increment base and for allocation of positive tax increments. The bill adds state and local sales taxes to the list of taxes included in the tax increment used to secure tax increment financing district projects. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 173 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 130) Amends the Housing Finance Agency Law, in the agency, further providing for agency membership by removing the Secretary of Community Affairs and Secretary of Commerce and adding the Secretary of Community and Economic Development, Secretary of Banking and Securities, and Insurance Commissioner; and making an editorial change. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Urban Affairs and Housing

SB 174 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 131) The Abandoned Property Tax Sale Act provides for the tax sale of abandoned properties. The bill outlines notification timelines and for public postings. Additionally, the bill outlines duties for the purchaser of an abandoned property. Effective in 90 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Urban Affairs and Housing

SB 175 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 132) Amends the Tax Reform Code, in tax for education, excluding from the sales and use tax the sale at retail or use of tangible personal property directly and predominantly used to facilitate reading and communicating, including computer and related equipment, by persons who are blind or visually impaired. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

28 SB 176 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 133) Amends Title 62 (Procurement), in source selection and contract formation, further providing for sole source procurement and for competitive selection procedures for certain services. The bill outlines stipulations for contracts that include contingency fees. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Government

SB 177 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 134) Amends Title 64 (Public Authorities and Quasi-Public Corporations) establishing the Delinquent Debt Intercept Authority. The authority may borrow from the Commonwealth an amount not to exceed $1,000,000 for its operation, which must be repaid to the Commonwealth by June 30, 2017. Effective immediately. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 178 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 135) Amends the Pennsylvania Election Code, in primary election expenses, further providing for reporting by candidate and political committees and other persons, for late contributions and independent expenditures and for additional powers and duties of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The bill requires all candidates for office and political action committees in Pennsylvania to utilize the Department of State’s online filing system to electronically file campaign finance reports. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Government

SB 179 Browne, Patrick (R) (PN 136) Amends the Tax Reform Code, in personal income tax, further providing for classes of income relating to employee stock ownership plans. The stated intent is to apply certain provisions of the Internal Revenue Code permitting the deferral of taxation on a lump sum distribution from the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) of a company. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 180 Browne, Patrick (R) Amends the Tax Reform Code, in personal income tax, further providing for net gains or income, net losses and dividends. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 182 Brooks, Michele (R) Amends the Public School Code, in school health services, further providing for health services. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Education

SB 183 Leach, Daylin (D) Amends the PA Higher Education Assistance Agency Act, establishing the Pay It Forward Pay It Back PA Program; imposing a natural gas severance tax; and establishing the Pay It Forward Pay It Back PA Program Fund. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Education

29 SB 184 Leach, Daylin (D) (PN 140) Amends The Insurance Company Law by requiring insurance companies to provide coverage for eating disorders. The bill also provides certain restrictions on insurance companies while providing coverage. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Banking and Insurance

SB 186 Leach, Daylin (D) Act providing for living wage accreditation for nursing facilities and for employer responsibility penalties for nursing facilities; establishing the Employer Responsibility for Public Assistance Fund; and imposing penalties. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Health and Human Services

SB 187 Leach, Daylin (D) Amends Title 20 (Decedents, Estates & Fiduciaries), in health care, for definitions, legislative findings & intent, when living will operative, revocation & authority of health care agent & for living will registry. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 188 Leach, Daylin (D) Act prohibiting administration of certain antimicrobial agents in agriculture; and for inspection & testing of agricultural operations, for enforcement, for reporting by agricultural operations & for alternatives to administration. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs

SB 189 Leach, Daylin (D) (PN 144) Amends the Health Care Facilities Act, in licensing of health care facilities, further providing for licensure of abortion facilities by applying the same regulations as applied to ambulatory surgical facilities. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Health and Human Services

SB 190 Stefano, Patrick (R) Act authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey to Jeffrey C. Walker, certain lands situate in Somerset Township, Somerset County. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Government

SB 191 Bartolotta, Camera (R) Amends Title 35 (Health and Safety), providing for office-based opioid and non-narcotic opioid treatment provider certification; and establishing the Opioid Treatment Certification Fund. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Health and Human Services

SB 192 Hughes, Vincent (D) Amends Titles 24 (Education) and 71 (State Government), in membership, further providing for member’s options, for benefits; for duties of board and duties of school employees; for elections of members & for rights & duties of State employees. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

30 SB 193 Hughes, Vincent (D) (PN 149) Amends Title 61 (Prisons & Parole) expanding the Statewide Intermediate Program to include gambling addiction. Effective in six months. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 194 Hughes, Vincent (D) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in minors, further providing for misrepresentation of age to secure liquor or malt or brewed beverages, for purchase, consumption, possession or transportation and for carrying a false identification card. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 195 Hughes, Vincent (D) (PN 151) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, further providing for licenses by requiring applicants to affirm that they have successfully completed a firearms safety course.The bill outlines provisions requiring completion of firearms safety courses. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 196 Hughes, Vincent (D) Amends Title 23 (Domestic Relations), in protection from abuse, providing for the definition of “electronic monitoring device” and further providing for relief. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 197 Hughes, Vincent (D) (PN 153) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, to hold those who knowingly sell or transfer a firearm illegally to the same responsibility as a person committing a crime with the illegally obtained firearm. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SB 198 Hughes, Vincent (D) (PN 154) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in firearms and other dangerous articles, adding persons who are convicted of certain offenses are not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms.Added offenses include (but at not limited to) possession of firearm or other dangerous weapon in court facility, murder of unborn child, voluntary manslaughter of unborn child, recklessly endangering another person if the reckless conduct engaged in involved a firearm, terroristic threats if the threat communicated referenced the use of a firearm, threat to use weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, false imprisonment if a firearm is used in the commission of the offense, trafficking in individuals, statutory sexual assault, sexual assault, institutional sexual assault, and indecent assault. Effective in 60 days. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

SR 16 Hughes, Vincent (D) Resolution establishing a task force on law enforcement practices and procedures used in response to large scale demonstrations, protests and other acts of civil disobedience. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Law and Justice

31 SR 20 Baker, Lisa (R) Resolution directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to conduct a study of the impact of venue for medical professional liability actions on access to medical care & maintenance of health care systems. Feb 1, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 1, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

HB 24 Lawrence, John (R) Amends the Capital Facilities Debt Enabling Act, in capital facilities, further providing for bonds, issue of bonds and notes, maturity and interest. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 37 Brown, Rosemary (R) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in licensing of drivers, for learners’ permits; in rules of the road, prohibiting use of interactive wireless communications devices, imposing penalties & est. Fund; and, in operation, for offenses. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 50 Wheatley, Jake (D) Amends the Medical Marijuana Act, for policy & defs., for program established, for use of medical marijuana, for practitioner registration, for ID cards, for medical marijuana organizations, for permits, for electronic tracking for tax. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 255 Mako, Zachary (R) Amends the Barbers’ License Law, further providing for licensure of manager-barbers and barber-teachers. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 351 Emrick, Joe (R) Amends the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Compact, providing for veto power by the Governor; for audits; and providing the Governor of each state with power to ratify or veto certain actions taken by commissioners. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

HB 352 Kortz, Bill (D) Amends Titles 44 (Law & Justice) & 75 (Vehicles), providing for issuance of citations; in rules of the road in general, providing for radar enforcement systems pilot program; and making a related repeal. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

HB 353 Kortz, Bill (D) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in inchoate crimes, further providing for the offense of corrupt organizations. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 354 Bullock, Donna (D) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver’s license. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

HB 360 Topper, Jesse (R) Amends Title 23 (Domestic Relations), in marriage license, further providing for restrictions on issuance of license. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

32 HB 361 Kaufer, Aaron (R) Amends the Taxpayer Relief Act, in senior citizens property tax and rent rebate assistance, further providing for property tax and rent rebate. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Finance

HB 362 Pickett, Tina (R) Amends the Human Services Code, in public assistance, providing for payments for burial services; and abrogating a regulation. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Health

HB 363 Lawrence, John (R) Act providing a procedure for the approval of a lease-backed debt obligation. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 364 Gabler, Matt (R) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in other required equipment, further providing for visual signals on authorized vehicles. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

HB 365 White, Martina (R) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in burglary and other criminal intrusion, providing for arrest or removal of persons from residential property. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Judiciary

HB 366 Quinn, Chris (R) Amends the Fiscal Code, in general budget implementation, providing for prohibited expenditures in general. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 367 Rothman, Greg (R) Amends the Public School Code, in school district financial recovery, providing for exemption from prevailing wage laws. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 368 Rothman, Greg (R) Amends the Dog Law, further providing for definitions. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Agriculture and Rural Affairs

HB 369 Ortitay, Jason (R) Amends Title 4 (Amusements), in administration and enforcement relating to gaming, further providing for list of persons self excluded from gaming activities. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Gaming Oversight

HB 370 Klunk, Kate (R) Amends the Agricultural Area Security Law, further providing for purchase of agricultural conservation easements. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - H-Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

33 HB 371 Murt, Thomas (R) Amends the PA Amber Alert System Law, establishing the PA Blue Alert System for the protection of the public and the apprehension of a person of immediate threat. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 372 Murt, Thomas (R) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in assault, further providing for the offense of aggravated assault. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 373 Bernstine, Aaron (R) Act providing for public notice and access requirements for public works projects labor agreements. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 374 Everett, Garth (R) Amends Titles 27 (Environmental Resources) & 75 (Vehicles) providing for Keystone Tree Fund; and, in registration of vehicles, providing for contributions to the Keystone Tree Fund. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 375 Goodman, Neal (D) Amends State Lottery Law, in pharmaceutical assistance, for the elderly, further providing for definitions. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 376 Owlett, Clint (R) Amends the Tax Reform Code, authorizing a tax credit for a member of a volunteer emergency service organization who purchases fire equipment with personal income. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 377 Isaacson, Mary (F) (D) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in firearms & other dangerous articles, for sale or transfer of firearms, for duties of the PA State Police & for destruction of confiscated or recovered firearms. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 378 Isaacson, Mary (F) (D) Amends Title 18 (Crimes & Offenses), in firearms & other dangerous articles, for persons not to possess, use, manufacture, control, sell or transfer firearms, for restoration of firearm rights, for licenses and forA P State Police. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 379 Isaacson, Mary (F) (D) Amends the Whistleblower Law, further providing for remedies and for enforcement. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 381 Diamond, Russ (R) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in miscellaneous provisions relating to operations of vehicles, further providing for accident reports by police. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 382 Diamond, Russ (R) Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, prohibiting the taxation of real property. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

34 HB 383 Diamond, Russ (R) Amends the Public School Code, in collective bargaining, further providing for matters of inherent managerial policy. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HB 384 Kail, Joshua (F) (R) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in licensing of drivers, further providing for classes of licenses. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HR 67 Hahn, Marcia (R) Resolution designating the week of February 10 through 16, 2019, as “Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes Awareness Week” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

HR 68 Kenyatta, Malcolm (F) (D) Resolution recognizing poverty as a public health crisis in this Commonwealth that leads to a myriad of individual and societal harms. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Filed

SB 199 Regan, Mike (R) Amends the Public School Code, in school health services, providing for early intervention depression screening. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Education

SB 201 DiSanto, John (R) (PN 157) Amends the Tax Reform Code, in personal income tax, further providing for classes of income by adding that the requirements of section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code referring to property that has been exchanged for similar property, shall be applicable. Effective immediately. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 202 Ward, Judy (F) (R) (PN 158) Amends the Tax Reform Code, in personal income tax, further providing for classes of income by allowing a small business to use the Net Operating Loss deduction. This bill is said to be part of a small business reform package. Effective immediately. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 203 Hutchinson, Scott (R) Amends the Tax Reform Code, in personal income tax, further providing for classes of income. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Finance

SB 212 Farnese, Lawrence (D) (PN 160) Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses), in general provisions relating to offenses involving danger to the person, stipulating that the term “serious provocation” does not include the discovery, knowledge or potential disclosure of a victim’s actual or perceived gender identity or expression or sexual orientation, including circumstances in which the victim made an unwanted nonforcible romantic or sexual advance toward the defendant or if the defendant and victim had a romantic or sexual relationship. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Judiciary

35 SB 213 Farnese, Lawrence (D) (PN 161) Amends Title 44 (Law and Justice) adding a new chapter requiring the Pennsylvania State Police to establish and maintain a registry of individuals who have been convicted of, pleaded guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to animal abuse. Requires the clerk of courts of each judicial district in the commonwealth to forward a certified copy of the judgment of an individual who has been convicted of, pleaded guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to animal abuse, along with the individual’s date of birth, to the State Police within 60 calendar days after the date of judgment. Further provides for the contents of the registry; the maintenance of information on the registry; the posting of information in the registry; and expungement. Requires the State Police to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the provisions of the new chapter. Effective January 1, 2020. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Law and Justice

SB 214 Farnese, Lawrence (D) (PN 162) Amends Title 25 (Elections), in preliminary provisions relating to voter registration, further providing for definitions; in registration system, further providing for SURE system; in voter registration, further providing for qualifications to register, for government agencies, for time and for preparation and distribution of applications; and, in changes in records, further providing for death of registrant. The bill provides for preregistration of 16 year olds which would be automatically activated on the 18th birthday. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Government

SB 215 Farnese, Lawrence (D) Amends Title 62 (Procurement), in source selection and contract formation, providing for limitations on political contributions by contractors. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Government

SB 216 Farnese, Lawrence (D) (PN 164) Amends Title 65 (Public Officers), in ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for statement of financial interests. The bill establishes the statement of financial interests required information shall include the following information for the prior calendar year with regard to the person required to file the statement:The name and address of the source and the amount of any gift or gifts valued in the aggregate at $250 or more and the circumstances of each gift. This paragraph shall not apply to a gift or gifts received from a spouse, parent, parent by marriage, sibling, child, grandchild or other family member when the circumstances make it clear that the motivation for the action was a personal or family relationship. “Friend” is removed from this list. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Government

SB 217 Farnese, Lawrence (D) (PN 165) Amends the Assessors Certification Act repealing provisions relating to nonapplicability for first class counties (Philadelphia); and providing for assessors in counties of the first class by granting them three years from the effective date of the section to become certified. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Filed Feb 4, 2019 - S-Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Consumer Protection & Prof. Licensure

36 LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS

HR 54 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 274) Resolution recognizing February 4, 2019, as “National Thank a Mail Carrier Day” in Pennsylvania. (Prior Printer Number: 219) Feb 1, 2019 - H-Corrective Reprint, Printer’s No. 274

HB 18 Mackenzie, Ryan (R) (PN 38) Act authorizing the release of Project 70 restrictions on certain lands owned by the Borough of Topton, Berks County, in exchange for the imposition of Project 70 restrictions on other lands to be acquired by the Borough of Topton, Berks County. Effective immediately. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid out for discussion Feb 4, 2019 - H-Second consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Over in House Feb 4, 2019 - H-Rereferred to House Appropriations

HB 26 Snyder, Pam (D) (PN 41) Amends the Automobile Lemon Law, adding motorcycles to the definition of a new motor vehicle. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Voted favorably from committee on House Consumer Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Consumer Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - H-First consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid on the table

HB 50 Wheatley, Jake (D) Amends the Medical Marijuana Act, for policy & defs., for program established, for use of medical marijuana, for practitioner registration, for ID cards, for medical marijuana organizations, for permits, for electronic tracking for tax. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Press conference held

HB 195 Nelson, Eric (R) (PN 167) Amends Title 40 (Insurance), in regulation of insurers and related persons generally, adding a chapter providing for medication synchronization. “Medication synchronization” is defined as the coordination of prescription drug filling or refilling by a pharmacy or dispensing physician for a health insurance enrollee taking two or more maintenance medications for the purpose of improving medication adherence. Effective in 365 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Voted favorably from committee on House Appropriations Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Appropriations Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid out for discussion Feb 4, 2019 - H-Third consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Final Passage by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HB 227 Gabler, Matt (R) (PN 197) Amends the Pennsylvania Election Code, in nomination of candidates, providing that ten signers are required for nomination petitions of candidates for school director at primaries. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid out for discussion Feb 4, 2019 - H-Second consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Over in House Feb 4, 2019 - H-Rereferred to House Appropriations

37 HB 233 O’Neal, Tim (R) (PN 203) Amends the Second Class County Code, in special powers and duties of the county, stating it shall be the duty of the county commissioners to provide flags on each Memorial Day with which to decorate each grave of a deceased service person and each grave of other deceased persons who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard or Merchant Marine during World War II or any organization officially connected to those forces, whose separation from service was honorable, whether by discharge or otherwise, and who are interred within the county. The flags to be used shall be standard size, colorfast and American made and shall be purchased at the expense of the county from money in the county treasury. A family member of a person whose grave is decorated with a flag by the county for the purpose of Memorial Day may take and keep the flag after the first working day aftereterans’ V Day. The county may coordinate with local veterans’ organizations to ensure that cemeteries are decorated in compliance. Money expended by the county under this section shall be in addition to money appropriated by the county for Memorial Day purposes. Annually, the authority in charge of each cemetery is authorized to remove a flag when the flag has become unsightly or weatherworn any time on or after the first working day after eterans’V Day. A cemetery may remove flag holders for annual storage. An unauthorized person who removes or causes the removal of flags prior to the first working day after Independence Day shall be guilty of a summary offense. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Voted favorably from committee on House Appropriations Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Appropriations Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid out for discussion Feb 4, 2019 - H-Third consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Final Passage by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HB 264 Mako, Zachary (R) (PN 235) Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally), in municipal authorities, further providing for money of authority. The bill is intended to create a system of financial best practices for municipal authorities across the state to use when handling the money they collect. Effective in 90 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Local Government Feb 4, 2019 - H-First consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid on the table Feb 4, 2019 - H-Removed from the table

HB 275 Mehaffie, Thomas (R) (PN 246) Amends the Municipalities Financial Recovery Act, in Early Intervention Program, further providing for definitions, for program objectives and for authorization; in municipal financial distress, further providing for limitation of status; and making an editorial change. The Early Intervention Program is renamed the Strategic Management Planning Program. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Local Government Feb 4, 2019 - H-First consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid on the table Feb 4, 2019 - H-Removed from the table

HB 318 Mizgorski, Lori (F) (R) (PN 275) Amends the Telemarketer Registration Act defining “robocall” and further providing for unlawful acts and penalties and for unwanted telephone solicitation calls prohibited. Prohibited acts include initiating a robocall unless as prescribed. Enrollment on the do-not-call list shall be maintained until the subscriber requests to have the telephone number removed from the list. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Voted favorably from committee on House Consumer Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Consumer Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - H-First consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid on the table

38 HB 350 Rigby, Jim (F) (R) (PN 2796) Amends the Precious Metal Sale Regulation Law to replace the term “refining,” with “other commercial disposition”; and to expand requirements regarding proof of identity. Further, the legislation prohibits any sales to an individual less than 18 years of age; ensures a dealer.s license is available on location and at request; provides greater photography and description requirements of items purchased; and expands procedures during law enforcement investigations. Lastly, this legislation increases penalties for dealers violating the act from a misdemeanor of the third degree to a misdemeanor of the second degree. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Voted favorably from committee on House Consumer Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - H-Reported as committed from House Consumer Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - H-First consideration Feb 4, 2019 - H-Laid on the table

HR 9 Readshaw, Harry (D) (PN 5) Resolution observing February 12, 2019, as the 210th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 28 Wheatley, Jake (D) (PN 277) Resolution recognizing February 7, 2019, as “National Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 45 Keller, Mark (R) (PN 24) Resolution designating the week of February 16 through 23, 2019, as “FFA Week” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 54 Warren, Perry (D) (PN 274) Resolution recognizing February 4, 2019, as “National Thank a Mail Carrier Day” in Pennsylvania. (Prior Printer Number: 219) Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 55 McClinton, Joanna (D) (PN 220) Resolution designating February 4, 2019, as “Rosa Parks Remembrance Day” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 59 Boback, Karen (R) (PN 249) Resolution designating the week of February 7 through 14, 2019, as “Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 62 Brown, Rosemary (R) (PN 279) Resolution recognizing the week of February 3 through 9, 2019, as “National Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda Week” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

HR 66 Bizzarro, Ryan (D) (PN 281) Resolution designating the month of February 2019 as “Esports Month” in Pennsylvania. Feb 4, 2019 - H-Adopted by a vote of 194 YEAS 0 NAYS

39 SB 9 Yaw, Gene (R) (PN 43) Act designating the Eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis) as the official amphibian of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Effective immediately. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Laid out for discussion Feb 4, 2019 - S-Third consideration Feb 4, 2019 - S-Final Passage by a vote of 48 YEAS 1 NAYS

SB 49 Killion, Thomas (R) (PN 95) Amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure), in particular rights and immunities, providing for civil immunity of person rescuing minor from motor vehicle. A person who removes or attempts to remove a minor from a motor vehicle shall be immune from civil liability for any damage to the motor vehicle or property contained in the motor vehicle resulting from the removal or attempt if the person: (1) determines that the motor vehicle is locked or no reasonable method exists for the minor to exit the motor vehicle; (2) has a reasonable and good faith belief that forcible entry into the motor vehicle is necessary because the minor is in imminent danger of suffering harm if not immediately removed from the motor vehicle; (3) contacts emergency responders before the removal or attempt occurs, if practicable, or as soon as possible after the removal or attempt occurs; (4) remains with the minor at a safe location near the motor vehicle until a law enforcement officer arrives; and (5) uses no more force than necessary for the removal or attempt. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Voted favorably from committee on Senate Judiciary Feb 4, 2019 - S-Reported as committed from Senate Judiciary Feb 4, 2019 - S-First consideration

SB 85 Phillips-Hill, Kristin (F) (R) (PN 63) Amends the Dog Law adding language providing license fee exemptions for those service dogs which are used in the performance of services by a fire department, sheriff’s office or in the performance of rescue services or medical emergency services. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Voted favorably from committee on Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - S-Reported as committed from Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - S-First consideration

SB 86 Brooks, Michele (R) (PN 64) Amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 23 (Domestic Relations), in offenses against the family, further providing for newborn protection; in child protective services, further providing for definitions and for taking a child into protective custody; and, in newborn protection, further providing for definitions, for health care providers accepting newborns, for police officers accepting newborns, for reporting acceptance of newborns, for immunity and for duties of department. The bill adds urgent care centers to the Safe Haven Law. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Voted favorably from committee on Senate Judiciary Feb 4, 2019 - S-Reported as committed from Senate Judiciary Feb 4, 2019 - S-First consideration

SB 113 DiSanto, John (R) (PN 58) Amends the Public Employee Pension Forfeiture Act further providing for definitions, for disqualification and forfeiture of benefits and for restitution for monetary loss; and repealing a retroactivity provision.The bill establishes that the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts shall provide the State Employees’ Retirement System and the Public School Employees’ Retirement System with the information necessary to fulfill the duties under disqualification and forfeiture of benefits. It also establishes that until restitution is determined by a court, the appropriate benefits administrator shall not make payment of any refund of contributions applied for after the date of such finding or entry to the public official or public employee until the court notifies the appropriate benefits administrator that no restitution is due. Disqualification and forfeiture of benefits section effective in 60 days.The remainder of the act effective immediately. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Laid out for discussion Feb 4, 2019 - S-Third consideration Feb 4, 2019 - S-Final Passage by a vote of 49 YEAS 0 NAYS

40 SB 145 Yaw, Gene (R) (PN 119) Amends the Agricultural Area Security Law further providing for purchase of agricultural conservation easements by establishing an easement shall not prevent construction and use of structures on the subject land for the purpose of a residence of the landowner, and immediate family member or an employee. Further provides that the owner of the land may relinquish and extinguish the right of construction and use of structures conferred. Effective in 60 days. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Voted favorably from committee on Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - S-Reported as committed from Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Feb 4, 2019 - S-First consideration

SR 20 Baker, Lisa (R) Resolution directing the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to conduct a study of the impact of venue for medical professional liability actions on access to medical care & maintenance of health care systems. Feb 4, 2019 - S-Voted favorably from committee on Senate Judiciary Feb 4, 2019 - S-Reported as committed from Senate Judiciary

UPCOMING MEETINGS

TUESDAY - 2/5/19 House Health 9:30 a.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building To consider: HB 51 Bernstine, Aaron Amends Human Services Code re med. assistance HB 81 Kauffman, Rob Act re cert. of central service technicians

House Insurance 9:30 a.m., Room 140, Main Capitol Informational meeting with a panel of commercial and non-profit providers and insurers to discuss surprise balance billing, and any other business that may come before the committee

***Senate Game and Fisheries (New) 9:30 a.m., Room 8E-A, East Wing To consider: SB 147 Laughlin, Daniel Amends Title 34 re hunting on Sunday

Senate State Government 9:30 a.m., Room 461, Main Capitol To consider: SB 133 Argall, David Joint Resolution re process to elect Lt. Gov SB 190 Stefano, Patrick Act re Somerset Township land conveyance

House Environmental Resources and Energy 10:00 a.m., Room 205, Ryan Office Building Informational meeting with a focus on the State of the State with API, MSC, DEP and DCNR

House Urban Affairs 10:00 a.m., Room 60, East Wing To consider: HB 128 Brown, Rosemary Act re first-time homebuyers savings accounts

Senate Transportation 10:00 a.m., Room 461, Main Capitol To consider: SB 43 Ward, Kim Act re J. Edward Hutchinson Memorial Bypass SB 62 Ward, Judy (F) Amends Title 75 re disabled veteran plate SB 117 Langerholc, Wayne Act re Seaman Apprentice Kenneth Scaife Bridge

41 ***House Appropriations (New) Off the Floor, Room 140, Main Capitol To consider: HB 18 Mackenzie, Ryan Act re Project 70 Topton Borough Berks County HB 227 Gabler, Matt Amends PA Election Code re school directors

Joint Legislative Budget & Finance Committee 3:30 p.m., Room 16, East Wing Meeting of officers to discuss various projects and office updates

WEDNESDAY - 2/6/19 House Tourism and Recreational Development 9:00 a.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building Informational meeting with DCED’s office of Marketing, Tourism and Film, and any other business that may come before the committee

House Labor and Industry 10:00 a.m., Room 205, Ryan Office Building (Note time change from 9:30am) Informational meeting on minimum wage economic impacts

House Appropriations Off the Floor, Room 140, Main Capitol Agenda TBA

THURSDAY - 2/7/19 House Democratic Policy Committee 12:00 p.m., Council Chambers, Clairton Municipal Building, 551 Ravensburg Blvd., Clairton Joint public hearing with the Senate Democratic Policy Committee on the recent fire that took place at the Clairton Coke Works, and the subsequent hazardous amounts of sulfur dioxide that were emitted in the Mon Valley

Senate Democratic Policy Committee 12:00 p.m., Council Chambers, Clairton Municipal Building, 551 Ravensburg Blvd., Clairton Joint public hearing with the House Democratic Policy Committee on the fire that took place at Clairton Coke orks,W and the subsequent hazardous amounts of sulfur dioxide that were emitted in the Mon Valley

MONDAY - 2/11/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Independent Fiscal Office 1:00 p.m. - Department of Revenue (including Lottery) 3:00 p.m. - Department of Aging

House Veterans Affairs & Emergency Prepared. 1:00 p.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building Informational meeting to hear from the PA War Council, State Veterans Commission, Office of the State Fire Commissioner and the PA Civil Air Patrol regarding their programs and legislative initiatives

TUESDAY - 2/12/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - PSERS/SERS 1:00 p.m. - State System of Higher Education 3:00 p.m. - Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency

42 House Veterans Affairs & Emergency Prepared. 1:00 p.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building Informational meeting with an update of SR 6 of 2017 by the SR 6 subcommittee chairs

WEDNESDAY - 2/13/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Treasury Department 1:00 p.m. - Auditor General 3:00 p.m. - Attorney General

House Veterans Affairs & Emergency Prepared. 9:15 a.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building Informational meeting about Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) and how it affects our emergency responders

THURSDAY - 2/14/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Department of Environmental Protection 1:00 p.m. - Department of Conservation & Natural Resources 3:00 p.m. - Department of Labor and Industry

Senate Democratic Policy Committee 10:00 a.m., LaSalle Union Building, LaSalle University, 1900 W Olney Ave, Philadelphia Public hearing to explore legislative solutions in order to mitigate the gun violence epidemic

**CANCELLED**House Labor and Industry 1:00 p.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building Agenda TBA

TUESDAY - 2/19/19 Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m., - Department of Revenue/Lottery 1:00 p.m. - Independent Fiscal Office 3:00 p.m. - Public Utility Commission

House Urban Affairs 11:00 a.m., Room B31, Main Capitol To consider: HB 128 Brown, Rosemary Act re first-time homebuyers savings accounts

WEDNESDAY - 2/20/19 Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Department of State 1:00 p.m. - Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission 3:00 p.m. - Department of Banking & Securities

House Agriculture and Rural Affairs 9:00 a.m., Room B31, Main Capitol Informational meeting to discuss agriculture issues with Russell Redding, Secretary of Agriculture

43 House Children and Youth 9:00 a.m., Room 60, East Wing Public hearing to examine issue of substance-exposed infants

House Finance 9:00 a.m., Room 205, Ryan Office Building Informational meeting on Job creation tax credits and any other business that may come before the committee

THURSDAY - 2/21/19 Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - PA State System of Higher Education 1:00 p.m. - State Police/Homeland Security 3:00 p.m. - PA Emergency Management Agency/Fire Commissioner

House Human Services 9:00 a.m., Room 60, East Wing Public hearing on two Heffley bills (not yet introduced) to create a bed registry and a warm hand-off for addiction treatment. The Blue Guardian program which was the inspiration for the warm hand-off will make a presentation

House Health 9:30 a.m., Room G-50, Irvis Office Building Public hearing on an overview of the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Report

Independent Regulatory Review Commission 10:00 a.m., 14th Floor Conference Room, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg Public hearing on the availability of wheelchair accessible vehicle service in this Commonwealth

MONDAY - 2/25/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Pennsylvania State Police/Homeland Security 1:00 p.m. - Criminal Justice: Corrections, Board of Probation & Parole, Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Juvenile Court Judges’ Commission 3:00 p.m. - Department of Health/Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Dept. of Labor & Industry 1:00 p.m. - Dept. of General Services 3:00 p.m. - Dept. of Transportation

TUESDAY - 2/26/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Office of Administration-Office for Information Technology 1:00 p.m. - Department of Transportation 3:00 p.m. - Department of General Services

44 Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - State Related Universities 1:00 p.m. - Judiciary 3:00 p.m. - PA College of Technology 4:00 p.m. - Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

WEDNESDAY - 2/27/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Gaming Control Board 1:00 p.m. - Department of Community & Economic Development 3:00 p.m. - Liquor Control Board

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Dept. of Health 1:00 p.m. - Dept. of Human Services 3:00 p.m. - Dept. of Human Services continued

***House Game and Fisheries (New) 10:00 a.m., Room 205, Ryan Office Building Informational meeting on PA Game Commission and PA Fish and Boat Commission’s Annual Reports

***House Game and Fisheries (New) 1:30 p.m., Room 205, Ryan Office Building Informational meeting on PA Game Commission and PA Fish and Boat Commission’s Annual Reports

THURSDAY - 2/28/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Department of Human Services

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Dept. of Corrections/Board of Probation and Parole 1:00 p.m. - PA Liquor Control Board 3:00 p.m. - Dept. of Environmental Protection 4:00 p.m. - JCJC/PCCD

MONDAY - 3/4/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Department of Education

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Dept. of Drug & Alcohol Programs 1:00 p.m. - Life Sciences Greenhouse/Life Sciences PA (Note: Changed from Tobacco Supported Programs) 3:00 p.m. - Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources

45 TUESDAY - 3/5/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Department of Agriculture 1:00 p.m. - OPEN

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Dept. of Education 1:00 p.m. - Dept. of Education continued 3:00 p.m. - Dept. of Aging

WEDNESDAY - 3/6/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. - Budget Secretary-Office of the Governor/Executive Offices 1:00 p.m. - Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - Dept. of Military & Veterans Affairs 1:00 p.m. - Dept. of Agriculture 3:00 p.m. - Ben Franklin Technology Partners

THURSDAY - 3/7/19 House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearing Room 140 Main Capitol Building 10:00 a.m. – OPEN

Senate Appropriations Budget Hearing Hearing Room 1, North Office Building 10:00 a.m. - PA Gaming Control Board 1:00 p.m. - Dept. of Community & Economic Development 3:00 p.m. - Budget Secretary/Governor’s Executive Office (if necessary)

46 Capitol Recap is a comprehensive daily report on legislative and executive actions in the Pennsylvania capitol and is compiled and edited by PLS.

For subscription information, questions or more information contact PLS at [email protected] or 717-236-6984.Thank you, Lynn, Jeff, Mike, Matt Hess, Nina, Matt Hykes, Deborah, Kara, Cheryl, Aaron, Becky, Amyra, Nick, Jessica, Nicole, Stephen, Robert, Emily and Andrew.

Copyright © 2019. All materials contained in Capitol Recap are protected by US copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published, broadcast, or modified, in whole or in part, without prior written permission from Pennsylvania Legislative Services.

Provided by Pennsylvania Legislative Services 240 N. 3rd St. 6th Floor Harrisburg, PA 17101 717.236.6984 phone 717.236.5097 fax www.mypls.com

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