Post Session Report

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

SB 5, PN 967 (Erickson) – This bill establishes the Community-Based Health Care (CHC) program in the Department of Health to provide grants to community-based health care clinics.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to the bill by a vote of 49-0.

SB 526, PN 489 (Waugh) – Amends Title 3 (Agriculture) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes regarding the documentation required to exhibit animals at livestock shows.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 583, IN 645 (Barrar) – House Bill 583 aims to ensure the solvency of the wireless 911 fund, which will be functionally bankrupt by 2014.  The legislation has three main components:  1) it encourages but does not require the regionalization of 911 centers to cut costs; 2) it clarifies that no public safety answering point (PSAP) can be funded for more than 70 percent of its agency-approved personnel training, salary and benefit costs; and 3) it stops the carryover of unfunded liabilities from year to year in the 911 fund.  A vote of 48-1 was recorded.

SB 851, PN 909 (Smucker) – This bill renames the bridge on State Route 222 over the Amtrak rail lines in the City of Lancaster, Lancaster County.  The bridge is currently known as the Lititz Pike Bridge and would be renamed the Thaddeus Stevens Bridge.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 867, PN 964 (Greenleaf) – Amends §5781 of the Crimes Code, Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, to extend the expiration date for the Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance Control Act to December 31, 2018.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Monday, May 13, 2013

SB 59 PN 28 (Ward): Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) by providing that county park police officers in Westmoreland County will be required to obtain the same training as municipal police officers. The bill was approved 48-0.

SB 277 PN 182 (Vogel): Amends Title 75 providing for commercial driver’s license qualification standards. The bill was approved 48-0.

HB 349 PN 356 (D. Costa): Designates the bridge over Washington’s Landing as the William Raymond Prom Memorial Bridge. The bill was approved 48-0.

SB 579 PN 883 (Rafferty): Amends section 205 of the Administrative Code of 1929 relating to the Pennsylvania State Police to further provide for the statutorily established complement. The bill was approved 48-0.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were confirmed, 48-0:

Gerald A. Rader, State Board of Auctioneer Examiners
Matthew C. Rader, State Board of Auctioneer Examiners
Daniel A. Trace, State Board of Auctioneer Examiners
Hon. Michael E. Wolf, Secretary of Health
Linda L. Kmetz, Ph.D., R.N, State Board of Nursing
Robert B. Pease, State Transportation Commission
Daniel A. Saltzgiver, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers, & Salesperson
David A. Kaflick, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers, & Salesperson

Wednesday, May 08, 2013

SB 648, PN 952 (Alloway)-Amends Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes further providing for the limitation of liability for others actions while hunting.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 777, PN 794 (Browne)-Amends the Juvenile Act to create a mechanism whereby the county children and youth agency, the juvenile probation department, and a court may be provided records about a child which are held by other agencies.  A vote of    49-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

HB 124, PN 742 (Aument) – This bill amends the Industrialized Housing Act to require the Department of Community and Economic Development to create regulations for a certification program to regulate the construction, installation and inspection of commercial modular buildings.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 835, PN 872 (Browne) – Amends §8301 of Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, to allow stepchildren to be beneficiaries in a wrongful death action.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

The Senate approved the following executive nominations by a vote of 50-0:

Kathleen L. Casey, Board of Trustees of Pennsylvania State University

David N. Sciocchetti, State Planning Board

Glenn Becker, State Employees’ Retirement Board

Monday, May 6, 2013

SB 304 PN 212 (Greenleaf): Amends the Associations Code, Title 15, and Title 54 (Names) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, to complete the codification of the Nonprofit Corporation Law. The bill was approved by a vote of 50-0.

SB 688 PN 672 (Waugh): Amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, defining the offense of theft of secondary metal; and prescribing penalties. The bill was approved by a vote of 50-0.

SB 865 PN 976 (Gordner): Amends the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, further providing for penalties involving liquefied ammonia gas, precursors and chemicals. The bill was approved by a vote of 50-0.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

SB 114, PN 1005 (Pileggi)-An Act amending the act of December 22, 2005 (P.L.474, No.94), known as the Breach of Personal Information Notification Act, further providing for notification of breach. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 680, PN 998 (Corman)-Provides for the Capital Budget Project Itemization Act of 2012-2013.   A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 689, PN 677 (Corman)-An Act amending Title 23 (Domestic Relations) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for prevention of abduction of children.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 744, PN 1006 (Alloway)-Amends Section 1302 of the County Code to allow counties to maintain the configuration of offices in effect in the county as long as the county deems appropriate. A vote of 49-0 was recorded

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

SB 302, PN 892 (Baker) – Amends Title 51 to expand and clarify the duties and responsibilities pertaining to the position of county director of veterans’ affairs.  The Senate concurred in amendments placed by the House to the bill by a vote of 49-0.

B 436, PN 884 (Smucker) – This bill amends the Pennsylvania Election Code to remove the sunset date for the voting standards previously adopted by the Voting Standards Development Board.  The Senate concurred in amendments placed by the House to the bill by a vote of 49-0.

SB 623, PN 951 (Corman) – This legislation would amend Title 34 (Game) to provide for a mentored adult hunting program.  The Senate concurred in amendments placed by the House to the bill by a vote of 49-0.

SB 114, PN 367 (Pileggi) – This legislation amends the Breach of Personal Information Notification Act to tighten time limits for notification of personal information security breaches by state agencies, counties, school districts and municipalities.  Senator Pileggi offered amendment A01271 which directs the Office of Administration to develop a data storage policy for state agencies.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

SB 297, PN 928 (Vance) – The bill would amend the Unemployment Compensation Law to prevent an employee from collecting unemployment compensation if they leave work to preserve their pension.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 638, PN 996 (Vogel) – Bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) to provide a tax exemption to high tunnels (greenhouses) so they may not be considered permanent structures and categorized as real estate for tax purposes.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 744, PN 774 (Alloway) – This legislation will amend Section 1302 of the County Code to allow counties to maintain the configuration of offices in effect in the county as long as the county deems appropriate.  Senator Baker offered amendment A01291 which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

Monday, April 29, 2013

SB 177 PN 134 (Greenleaf): Creates a freestanding act, the Lyme and Related Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance, Education, Prevention and Treatment Act. This bill was approved 50-0.

SB 608 PN 923 (Corman): Capital Budget Project Itemization Act of FY 2012-2013. Senator Pileggi on behalf of Senator Corman introduced Amendments A01429 and A01261, which adds Capital Projects to the bill. Senator Hughes offered Amendment A01256. The amendments were approved and the bill was over as amended.

SR 71 PN 838 (Folmer): A Resolution memorializing the President and the Congress of the United States to fully fund all special education mandates imposed by Federal laws or regulations upon State, county, municipal or local providers of educational services to students in this Commonwealth. The resolution was adopted 50-0.

Executive Nominations:

The following nominees were confirmed by the Senate 50-0:

Veronica M. Comfort, RN, MSN, Pennsylvania Council on Aging
Milissa S. Bauer, Council of Trustees of Clarion University
Joy “JD” Dunbar, Council of Trustees of Clarion University
Honorable R. Lee James, Council of Trustees of Clarion University
Kathy L. Pape, Council of Trustees of Edinboro University
Glenn Cannon, Council of Trustees of Indiana University
James T. McDermott, Jr., Navigation Commission for the Delaware River and Its Navigable Tri
Davis Haire, O.D., State Board of Optometry
Frank M. Tursi, D.O., State Board of Osteopathic Medicine
Kishor S. Mehta, State Board of Pharmacy
Jeffrey R. Elliott, Esquire, State Board of Physical Therapy
Kevin (Otis) Fitzgerald, ATC, MSPT, State Board of Physical Therapy
Vincent A. Galko, State Real Estate Commission

Wednesday April 17, 2013

SB 10, PN 939 (Scarnati)  - An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in safe schools, further providing for Office for Safe Schools and providing for allocation of certain appropriated funds.  A vote of 49 to 0 was recorded.

SB 37, PN 6 (Smucker) – An Act amending Title 25 (Elections) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in voter registration, further providing for methods of voter registration, providing for electronic voter registration application and further providing for preparation and distribution of applications; in changes in records, further providing for change of enrollment of political party; and conferring powers and imposing duties on the Department of State.  A vote of 49 to 0 was recorded.

SB 120, PN 940 (Pileggi) – An Act amending the act of June 3, 1937 (P.L.1333, No.320), known as the Pennsylvania Election Code, in primary and election expenses, further providing for registration; providing for reports required; further providing for late contributions and independent expenditures; providing for manner of filing and for inability to file reports or statements electronically by deadline; and further providing for late filing fee and certificate of filing.  A vote of 49 to 0 was recorded.

SB 308 PN 922 (Scarnati) – An Act amending Title 65 (Public Officers) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in lobbying disclosure, further providing for registration, for reporting and for registration fees, fund established, system and regulations. A vote of 49 to 0 was recorded.

SB 679 PN 654 (Wozniak) – An Act designating a portion of State Route 3031 in Richland and Conemaugh Townships, Cambria County, as the Lieutenant Colonel B.D. “Buzz” Wagner Memorial Highway.  A vote of 49 to 0 was recorded.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

SB 351, PN 273 (Erickson) – This bill provides municipalities with power to establish Stormwater Management Authorities.  A vote of 49-1 was recorded.

SB 808, PN 837 (Smucker) – This legislation allows for the abolishment of the county office of Jury Commissioner for third through eighth class counties.  A vote of 38-12 was recorded.

SB 10, PN 719 (Scarnati) – This bill amends the Public School Code to authorize the Office for Safe Schools to make grants to address school violence or enhance school security.  Senator Scarnati offered amendment A00979, which specifies a municipality’s use of grant funds and modifies the percentages appropriated for target grants.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill was agreed to as amended.

SB 120, PN 920 (Pileggi) – This bill amends the Pennsylvania Election Code to further provide for reporting requirements related to primary and election expenses.  Senator Pileggi offered amendment A00968, which reduces the monetary reporting threshold under Section 1626.2 to $10,000 per calendar year.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill was agreed to as amended.

Monday, April 15, 2013

SB 196 PN 716 (White): Amends the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority Act, further providing for definitions, for financial assistance and for annual report. The bill was approved 49-0.

SB 381 PN 314 (Eichelberger): Amends Titles 13 (Commercial Code), 30 (Fish) and 75 (Vehicles) of  the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to update the secured transactions provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code as provided by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. The bill was approved 49-0.

SR 79 PN 893 (Robbins): A Resolution opposing the International Olympic Committee’s decision to eliminate wrestling from the Summer Olympic Games beginning in 2020. The resolution was approved 49-0.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were approved, 49-0:

Norma Gotwalt, PA Council on Aging
Vincent Iacono, State Board of Barber Examiners
Annette D. Ganassi, Council of Trustees of California University
Thomas Uram, Council of Trustees of California University
The Hon. Samuel H. Smith, Council of Trustees of Indiana University
Dennis A. Giorno, Council of Trustees of Kutztown University
Guido Pichini, Council of Trustees of Kutztown University
Chris B. Dwyer, Council of Trustees of Lock Haven University
Steven M. Crawford, Council of Trustees of Mansfield University
Carolyn M. Gatty, State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure
Richard J. Turner, State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure
Joseph Mackey, State Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
James R. Biery, Public School Employees’ Retirement Board

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

SB 583, PN 860 (Eichelberger and others)- An Act amending the act of August 23, 1967 (P.L.251, No.102), known as the Economic Development Financing Law, further providing for competition in award of contracts. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 591, PN 565 (Vulakovich and others)- An Act amending the act of April 9, 1929 (P.L.343, No.176), known as The Fiscal Code, in Local Government Capital Project Loan Fund provisions, further providing for assistance to municipalities. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

HB 2, PN 537 (O’Neill) – This bill amends the Public School Code to establish the Special Education Funding Commission.  The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 492, PN 456 (Vance) – This bill amends the Liquid Fuels Tax Municipal Allocation Law (Act 655 of 1955), to provide for earlier remittance of liquid fuels formula monies due municipalities.  The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 508, PN 718 (Baker) – This bill amends the Crime Victims Act, 1998 Act 111, to permit a victim or victim’s representative to provide testimony before the person or body making the parole release decision.  The bill was approved unanimously.

Monday, April 08, 2013

SB 155 PN 368 (Greenleaf): This bill amends the Rabies Prevention and Control in Domestic Animals and Wildlife Act to modernize the act and provide an exemption for dogs and cats in cases when a vaccination would be detrimental to the health of the animal. The bill was approved 48-0.

SB 419 PN 373 (Gordner): This bill amends the entitled “An act to validate conveyances and other instruments which have been defectively acknowledged,” extending the date for validation of certain conveyances and other instruments. The bill was approved 48-0.

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

SB 4 PN 347 (Brubaker): A Joint Resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for criteria for institutions of purely public charity. The bill was approved 30-20.

SB 193 PN 140 (Vance): Amends the Public School Code of 1949, in school health services, further providing for employment of school health personnel. The bill was approved 50-0.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were confirmed by the Senate:
Ash Khare, Appalachian State Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission
Lawrence J. Sylvester, O.D., State Board of Optometry
The Honorable John R. Evans, Small Business Advocate

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

SB 5, PN 715 (Erickson)-This bill establishes the Community-Based Health Care (CHC) program in the Department of Health to provide grants to community-based health care clinics.  The bill was approved on a vote of 50-0.

SB 623, PN 599 (Corman)-This legislation amends Title 34 (Game) to provide for a mentored adult hunting program.  The bill was approved on a vote of 50-0.

SB 644, PN 618 (Scarnati)- This legislation amends Title 34 (Game) to provide for the definition of wild animals.  The bill was approved on a mostly party line vote of 32 to 18.

Monday, March 18, 2013

SB 99, PN 366 (Greenleaf) – Amends title 2 (Administrative Law and Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. This bill adds provisions relating to Commonwealth documents, including the filing of documents for publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and in the Pennsylvania Code; the Attorney General and Office of General Counsel’s review for form and legality of all proposed regulations; the Office of Budget’s preparation of fiscal notes for regulatory actions; and the Independent Regulatory Review Commission and regulatory review process. The bill was approved 48-0.

SB 620, PN 627 (Greenleaf) – Amends Chapter 56 of the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code, Title 20 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, relating to powers of attorney and specifically addressing the reliance of third parties on facially valid powers of attorney. The bill was approved 48-0.

SR 53, PN 629 (Stack) – This resolution supports a United Ireland. Resolution was adopted 48-0.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were confirmed by the Senate:

Ash Khare, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission
Lawrence J. Sylvester, O.D., State Board of Optometry

Wednesday March 13, 2013

SB 83, PN 619 (Greenleaf) – Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in special vehicles and pedestrians, providing for regulation and operation of neighborhood electric vehicles; and, in inspection of vehicles, further providing for operation of vehicle without official certificate of inspection. A vote of 46-2 was recorded.

SB 371, PN427 (Brubaker) – Repeals the act of December 14, 1967 (P.L.746, No.345), known as the Savings Association Code of 1967, eliminating provisions for incorporation and organization, for names, for offices, for directors, officers, employees and attorneys, for members, for corporate powers, for savings operations, earnings, account insurance and reserves, for investment operations, for amendment of articles, for mergers, consolidations, conversions and reorganizations, for voluntary and involuntary dissolution and distribution of assets upon insolvency, for foreign and Federal associations, for provisions applicable to Department of Banking and Securities and for penalties and criminal provisions. A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Tuesday March 12, 2013

SB 82, PN47 (Greenleaf) – The bill amends what is commonly referred to as the Puppy Lemon Law, further providing for dog purchaser protection. The bill passed on a recorded vote of 49-0.

SB 194, PN 135 (Folmer) – This bill amends the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (MCARE) Act to repeal the requirement that the Insurance Department prepares an annual Medical Malpractice statistical report. The bill passed on a recorded vote of 45-4.

SB470, PN 411 (Browne) – This bill amends the Public School Code to establish a new equitable formula to distribute special education funding and an accountability system to ensure effective investment of resources, and establishes a special education funding commission.  The bill passed on a recorded vote of 49-0.

Monday, March 11, 2013

SB 436 PN 377 (Smucker): Amends the Pennsylvania Election Code, further providing for Voting Standards Development Board. The bill was approved unanimously.

SR 29 PN 382 (Yaw): Directs the Center for Rural Pennsylvania to study the potential for increased residential, commercial and industrial natural gas distribution infrastructure by Pennsylvania’s public utilities to unserved and underserved areas of this Commonwealth. The Resolution was approved unanimously.

Wednesday February 13, 2013

SB 302, PN 47 (Baker)-Amends the County Code to expand and clarify the duties and responsibilities pertaining to the position of county director of veterans’ affairs.  The bill passed on a vote of 50-0.

SB 333, PN 311 (Pileggi)-This bill is Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, eliminating the Traffic Court of Philadelphia.  The bill passed on a vote of 50-0.

SB 334, PN 413 (Pileggi)-This bill amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedures) eliminating the Traffic Court of Philadelphia.  The bill passed on a vote of 50-0.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

SB 84, PN 49 (Greenleaf) – Amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) further providing for six months limitation and for deficiency judgments.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 380, PN 313 (Eichelberger) – Amends Title 13 (Commercial Code) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in transfers of funds, further providing for exclusion of consumer transactions governed by Federal law; and making an editorial change.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Monday February 11, 2013

SB 371 PN 294 (Brubaker): Repeals the Savings Association Code of 1967, eliminating provisions for incorporation and organization, for names, for offices, for directors, officers, employees and attorneys, for members, for corporate powers, for savings operations, earnings, account insurance and reserves, for investment operations, for amendment of articles, for mergers, consolidations, conversions and reorganizations, for voluntary and involuntary dissolution and distribution of assets upon insolvency, for foreign and Federal associations, for provisions applicable to Department of Banking and for penalties and criminal provisions. Sen. Brubaker offered amendment A00159, which is technical in nature. The bill went over as amended.

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

SB 259, PN 341 (Yaw)- This bill amends Act 60 of 1979 that deals with Oil and Gas Leases.  The bill provides for certain forms of information to be provided to interest owners.  Senate approved the bill on a vote of 50-0

Monday, February 04, 2013

SB 259 PN 181 (Yaw): Amends the act of July 20, 1979 (P.L.183, No.60), entitled “An act regulating the terms and conditions of certain leases regarding natural gas and oil,” adding definitions; providing for payment information to interest owners for accumulation of proceeds from production; and making editorial changes. Senator Yaw offered Amendment A00114, which would change the effective date and includes the information needed. This amendment was adopted unanimously.

Wednesday January 30, 2013

SB 187, PN 238 (Corman)-This bill requires certain institutions of higher education that enter into an agreement with governing bodies which impose monetary penalties to pay the penalties into endowments under certain circumstances and provides for the duties of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).  Senate approved on a vote of 50-0

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

SB 66 PN 197 (Gordner): Amends the Community and Economic Development Enhancement Act (Act 58 of 1996) to establish the State Tax Equalization Board (“board” or “STEB”) within the Department of Community and Economic Development (“DCED”). The bill was approved unanimously.

SR 6 PN 180 (Greenleaf): A Resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to study the issue of violence prevention, to establish an advisory committee to conduct a thorough and comprehensive analysis of the underlying causes of violent crime, including mass shootings, and to report to the Senate with its findings and recommendations. Senator Costa, on behalf of Senator Hughes, offered Amendment A00067, which would include the Mental Health Procedures Act as a part of the final report. The amendment was adopted and the resolution was adopted as amended, 48-1.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

SB 79 PN 2431 (Greenleaf): Amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) to enact the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), applying to any civil action brought in another state or territory for which discovery is sought in Pennsylvania. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 235 PN 4233 (Clymer): An act to promulgate legislation to provide for the posting of information relating to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center and establishing duties on the Department of Labor and Industry, and other officials in the Commonwealth. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 272 PN 4222 (Hess):  Creates a freestanding act, the Lyme and Related Tick-Borne Disease Surveillance, Education, Prevention and Treatment Act. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 709 PN 730 (Solobay): Amends Title 35 (Health and Safety) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for funds of volunteer firefighters’ relief associations. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 815 PN 4234 (Grove): Amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) by adding a criminal offense of “transmission of sexually explicit images by minor” and amending the existing child pornography statute to reflect this addition. The bill was approved 37-13.

HB 898 PN 954 (Toepel):  Amends Section 6111(h) of Title 18 (Crimes Code) relating to the sale or transfer of firearms. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1718 PN 3804 (Creighton): Amends the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) regarding the time period to dispute the amount of review fees for projects, the amount of financial security held at the end of a project and arbitration over disputed fees. The bill was approved unanimously

HB 1719 PN 3805 (Creighton): Amends the Municipality Authorities Act (MAA) within Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) regarding the amount of financial security held at the end of a project, the time period to dispute the amount of review fees for projects and arbitration over disputed fees. The bill was approved unanimously

HB 1794 PN 2472 (Mustio): Establishes the HIV-Related Testing for Sex Offenders Act. The bill was approved unanimously

HB 1840 PN 4061 (Bear): Amends the Steel Products Procurement Act to require the Department of General Services (DGS) to prepare a list of exempt machinery and equipment steel products. The bill was approved unanimously

HB 1857 PN 4236 (Simmons): Amends Title 53 as follows; Amends the Local Government Unit Debt Act to expand the use of voter approval of borrowing in home rule counties and municipalities; Amends the Consolidated County Assessment Law by making technical corrections. Adds new Section 8563 (relating to tax rates) to control the rate of tax levied on real estate after Philadelphia’s reassessment based on Actual Value Initiative (AVI) to prevent substantial tax increases for property owners. Sen. Stack made a motion to revert to prior printer’s number. That motion was denied, 5-44. The bill was approved 45-4.

HB 1884 PN 4224 (Stern):  Authorizes the following “Project 70” and Armory transactions. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1970 PN4216 (Vulakovich): Permits trailer mounted portable traffic control signals to be transported to and from job sites in tandem and exempts them from registration. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1991 PN 4174 (Cutler): This legislation would require the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) and the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to verify eligibility for recipients receiving energy assistance through the Low Income Heating Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or the Low Income Weatherization Program (LIWP) through various means as articulated in Sections 432.19 and 432.23 of the Public Welfare Code. The bill was approved 31-18.

HB 2116 PN 3445 (Tallman): Amends the Local Tax Collection Law to provide for the transition from elected township treasurers to elected tax collectors in first class townships, and to make editorial changes. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2270 PN 3448 (Watson):  Establishes the Alzheimer’s disease State Planning Committee, which will develop and submit an Alzheimer’s Disease State Plan to the General Assembly within one year of its formation. Sen. Browne offered Amendment A13867, which would regulate tanning beds and the amendment was adopted 48-1. The bill was approved 48-1.

HB 2366 PN 4085 (Mackenzie): Amends Chapter 41 (Weights and Measures) of Title 3 PACS (Agriculture) by transferring the responsibility to inspect parking meters from the Department of Agriculture to any local government unit that makes use of such meters, and by prohibiting the inspection of truck-mounted fuel oil meters and retail motor fuel pumps by certified examiners of weights and measures. The bill was approved 47-2.

HB 2369 PN 3774 (Truitt): Amends the Department of Banking Code of 1933 to upgrade and modernize, further providing for the general scope of supervision and exercise of discretion, for disclosure of information, and providing for the implementation of the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010. The bill was approved 47-2.

HB 2370 PN 3763 (Metzgar): Amends the Loan Interest and Protection Law, further providing for residential mortgage rates and for effect on inconsistent acts. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2371 PN 4151 (Maher): Amends Title 75 (Vehicle Code) to provide for definitions and for uses of special vehicles. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2372 PN 4219 (Hickernell): Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to provide for certain agricultural vehicle registration requirements and for length of vehicles. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2400 PN 4083 (Marsico): Amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) to update Pennsylvania’s Wiretap Act. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2407 PN 3670 (Hackett): Amends the Older Adult Protective Services Act to allow the Department of Aging flexibility in the fingerprinting method used for all background checks for potential employees of facilities. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2428 PN 4076 (Pyle): Requires that PennDOT place a U.S. military veteran’s designation on driver’s licenses and/or ID cards. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2530 PN 4056 (Tallman): Amends the PA Construction Code Act to ensure that individual municipalities enforcing the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) can enter into agreements to designate, or create, a joint UCC board of appeals with another municipality, or municipalities. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2565 PN 4058 (Major): Amends Chapter 57 (Food Safety) of Title 3 (Agriculture) by exempting on-farm sales of honey from food licensing and registration. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2626 PN 4226 (Benninghoff): A freestanding act that establishes the Promote Employment across Pennsylvania Program (PEP). The bill was approved 33-16.

HB 2630 PN 4235 (Maher): Creates the Animal Euthanasia Method Act and makes a related repeal. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 390 PN 2490 (Brubaker): Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in size, weight and load, further providing for width of vehicles. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 850 PN 2475 (Greenleaf): Amends Titles 18 (Crimes Code) to address sentencing of minors for murder, provide for the Office of Victim Advocate, and to provide for expungement of juvenile records; amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) regarding sentencing enhancement for 3rd degree murder where the victim is under age 13; and amends Title 61 (Prisons and Parole Code) regarding parole review. The bill was approved 37-12.

HB 2591 PN 3980 (Godshall):  Amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) relating to retirement rights and Title 71 (State Government) relating to the State Employees’ Retirement System (SERS). The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 941 PN 2419 (Corman): Amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) to increase the fines for public drunkenness and underage drinking. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 1225 PN 2411 (Pileggi):  Amends Title 24 (Education) to recodify and update the Library Code (Act 188 of 1961). The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 775 PN 2506 (Pileggi): Amends Title 44 (Law and Justice Code) relating to DNA Detection of Sexual Offenders and Other Offenders. The bill was approved 44-5.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were confirmed unanimously:
The Honorable Gerald J. Pappert, Banking and Securities Commission
Odelfa Preston, State Civil Service Commission
Peter Barsz, State Tax Equalization Board
Daniel Guydish, State Tax Equalization Board
Anthony Pinizzotto, State Tax Equalization Board
James Zurick, Esq., Workers’ Compensation Board

The following nominee was confirmed 48-1:
Alan Novak, State Horse Racing Commission

 

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

SB 341, PN 2473 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends Title 3 (Agriculture) by adding a Subchapter 41 to provide for the authorization of an automotive fuel testing and disclosure program.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to the bill as further amended by the Senate by a vote of 49-0.

SB 1115, PN 2474 (Browne) – Senate Bill 1115 amends the Public School Code to establish a new equitable formula to distribute special education funding and an accountability system to ensure effective investment of resources, and establishes a special education funding commission.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to the bill as further amended by the Senate by a vote of 33-16.

SB 623, PN 2454 (Tomlinson) – This legislation assists veteran-owned businesses in procurement contracts with Commonwealth agencies.  The Senate concurred in amendments placed by the House by a vote of 49-0.

SB 1147, PN 2453 (Argall) – This bill amends the Vehicle Code as it pertains to annual permits, and further provides for commercial driver employer responsibilities, for requirements for commercial driver’s license, for rules of the road, and for violations of the uniformity clause.  The Senate concurred in amendments placed by the House by a vote of 49-0.

HB 140, PN 4213 (DiGirolamo) – The bill establishes the Methadone Death and Incident Review Act which will create an Incident Review Team within the Commonwealth department charged with oversight of drug and alcohol programs, currently it is the Department of Health, to conduct reviews for all deaths where methadone was either a primary or secondary cause of death.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1616, PN 3330 (Denlinger) – Amends the Associations Code, Title 15 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, authorizing the creation of benefit corporations to provide for the general public benefit and to possibly provide for specific public benefits.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1682, PN 4185 (Taylor) – This legislation would add Chapter 21 to Title 68 (Real and Personal Property) to provide for the establishment of land banks to manage vacant, abandoned and tax-delinquent properties.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1767, PN 3481 (Freeman) – This legislation amends the Manufactured Home Community Rights Act to provide for protocol in the event of abandonment of a home, and for the sale or lease of a manufactured home community.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1813, PN 4149 (Tobash) – This bill amends the Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act (Act 173 of 1992) to provide for bonding and reclamation financial guarantees for surface mining operations.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1830, PN 4214 (Bear) – This bill amends Title 75, Vehicles, to add a new Special Registration Plate for the United States Merchant Marines and a special registration plate for United States military airborne units.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1857, PN 4215 (Simmons) – This bill amends The Home Rule Charter and Optional Plans Law within Title 53 (Municipalities), to further provide for indebtedness and borrowing, and in consolidated county assessment, to further provide for exemptions from taxation, and make technical changes to the appeals process.  Senator Williams offered Amendment A13862, providing for tax rates relating to cities and counties of the first class.  The amendment was adopted by a vote of 45-4 and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2043, PN 4218 (Hahn) – The bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities), Section 2164 to permit the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission to provide waivers to certain requirement for police basic training to federal law enforcement officers and military police.  A vote of 49-0 was recorde.

HB 2368, PN 4217 (Payne) – Amends the Banking Code to upgrade and modernize antiquated sections of the 1965 law, inserts mandatory Dodd-Frank lending limits language that requires states to consider credit exposure to derivatives transactions, removes the cap on the number of individuals that can be beneficiaries of a deposit account, and increases state-chartered banks’ ability to invest in branches based on 100 % of capital assets.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2460, PN 4220 (Bloom) – This bill designates a portion of State Route 233 in Cumberland County, a bridge in Adams County, a section of State Route 2038 in Montgomery County, and a bridge in Armstrong County.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

The Senate approved the following executive nominations by a vote of 49-0:

Barbara Butcher, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Vincent DiCenzo, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

The Honorable Robert Fean, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Charles Horvat, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Roger Maclean, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Stephen Margeson, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Todd Naylor, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Keith Sadler, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Sonia Stopperich, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Monday, October 15, 2012

HB 1310, PN 3893 (Toepl) – This bill amends the act of April 12, 1951 (P.L.90, No.21), known as the Liquor Code, to provide privately owned ski resorts with liquor licenses regardless of county quotas. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1298, PN 2410 (Smucker) – This legislation amends the PA Farmland and Forest Land Assessment ACT (Clean and Green) to provide certain composting and nutrient management activities on land enrolled in clean and green. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 135, PN 4060 (Sabatina) – This bill adds a member to the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) as well as clarifies and updates language to the original act.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 140, PN 2259 (DiGirolamo) – The bill establishes the Methadone Death and Incident Review Act which will create an Incident Review Team within the Commonwealth department charged with oversight of drug and alcohol programs, currently it is the Department of Health, to conduct reviews for all deaths where methadone was either a primary or secondary cause of death.  Senator Browne introduced amendment A13788, which makes technical and substantive changes, further providing for the administration and data collection of methadone clinics. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1346, PN 2208 (Kasunic) – This bill amends Title 27 (Environmental Resources), Chapter 81, to provide for and encourage the use of mine water for fracking natural gas wells.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1417, PN 2634 (Staback) – This legislation amends Title 18 (Crimes Code), Title 30 (Fish and Boat Code) and Title 34 (Game and Wildlife Code) to increase the penalty for assaulting a Waterways Conservation Officer or Wildlife Conservation Officer by including them in the list of other law enforcement officers covered under aggravated assault in Title 18.  A vote of 45-4 was recorded.

SB 1532, PN 2449 (Vogel) – This bill amends Title 75 as it pertains to emission inspection testing.  A vote of 36-13 was recorded.

HB 1868, PN 4074 (Gillespie) – The bill amends the Cosmetology Law by allowing cosmetology students to take the theoretical portion of the examination prior to completion of their schooling.   A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2043, PN 4084 (Hahn) – The bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities), Section 2164 to permit the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission to provide waivers to certain requirement for police basic training to federal law enforcement officers and military police.  Senator Pileggi introduced amendment A13745, which further provides for the revocation of police officer approval for instruction. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2372, PN 4152 (Hickernell) – This legislation amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to address allowable daytime and nighttime maximum vehicle widths as well as lighting and other safety measures to appropriate to various widths and hours of operation.  Senator Rafferty introduced amendment A13779, which makes technical and substantive changes, including further restrictions for towing. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2460, PN 4078 (Bloom) – This bill designates a portion of State Route 233 in Cumberland County, a bridge in Adams County, a section of State Route 2038 in Montgomery County, and a bridge in Armstrong County.  Senator Rafferty introduced amendment 13762, which adds further designations. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2467, PN 4079 (Micozzie) – This bill amends Title 75, Vehicles, dealing with certificate of titles, security interests, manufacturer statements of origin, and certificates of salvage.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

The following Executive Nominations were approved by a vote of 49-0:

Philip M. Leinbach, AIA, Architects Licensure Board
Mary Louise Doyle, State Board of Auctioneer Examiners
Sharon Dell, State Board of Barber Examiners
Reverend William F. Schafer, State Board of Barber Examiners
Alvin M. Myers, State Conservation Commission
James A. Van Blarcom, State Conservation Commission
The Honorable Rodney D. Ruddock, Constables’ Education & Training Board
Stephen A. Wallin, State Board of Cosmetology
Rick Grimaldi, Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board
Pam Higgins, Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board
John Keegan, Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board
Jeffrey J. Runge, DVM, DACVS; Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board
Joan B. Tarloff, Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board
Franklin Schoeneman, Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority
James E. Grandon, Jr., State Board of Education
Rocco S. Ali, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Charles E. Fox, Pennsylvania Game Commission
Sara Dickson, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education
Laura E. Ellsworth, Esquire, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education
Dave Wolfe, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education
Joseph Bush, Industrial Board
Krystjan Callahan, Council of Trustees of Lock Haven University
Jerry Swope, Council of Trustees of Lock Haven University
Loreli H. Bauer, M.Ed., NCTMB, State Board of Massage Therapy
Linda Kerns, State Board of Nursing
Carl J. Urbanski, O.D., State Board of Optometry
Dr. Maria DeMario, State Board of Osteopathic Medicine
John A. “Jack” Barbour, Commonwealth Trustee of University of Pittsburgh
Bert J. Altmanshofer, D.P.M., State Board of Podiatry
Thomas J. Baker, Professional Standards and Practices Commission
Lisa A. Barbour, Professional Standards and Practices Commission
Karen C. Cahilly, Esquire, State Board of Psychology
John J. Egan, Jr., Public Employee Retirement Commission
Thomas E. Breth, Esquire, Council of Trustees of Slippery Rock University
Robert Marcus, Council of Trustees of Slippery Rock University
Cristina G. Cavalieri, State Transportation Commission
Ronald J. Drnevich, State Transportation Commission
The Honorable Charles Martin, State Transportation Commission
Frank Paczewski, State Transportation Commission
William Patterson, State Transportation Commission
The Honorable Michelle Kunes, Treasurer, Clinton County
Jonathan Ireland, Council of Trustees of West Chester University

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

HB 1121 PN 4147 (Reichley): Amends Title 18 by creating the offense of recruiting criminal gang members, and amends Title 42 to provide for a sentence enhancement for crimes committed to further the interests of a criminal gang. The bill was approved 45-3.

SB 1303 PN 2450 (Williams): Amends Section 696 (Distress in School Districts of the First Class) of the Public School Code to allow the school district of the first class to adjust the rate of taxes levied on real estate upon reassessment. The bill was approved 43-5.

HB 1548 PN 4148 (Murt): Enacts the Child Labor Act and replaces the Child Labor Law. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1682 PN 3105 (Taylor): Amends Title 68 (Real and Personal Property) by adding new chapter 21, which provides enabling authority to certain municipalities to establish land banks Sen. Pileggi offered Amendment A13557, which would not allow 2^nd class counties with a 2^nd class city to engage in an agreement with a county, city, borough, incorporated town, township, school district or body politic and corporate created as a municipal authority pursuant to law whose claims comprise the upset sales price: (1) Purchase property for less than the upset sales price described in section 29 of the Municipal Claim and Tax Lien Law or section 301 of the Second Class City Treasurer’s Sale and Collection Act. (2) Alter the form, substance or timing of the payment of the sales price by the land bank. The amendment was approved 46-2. The bill went over as amended

HB 2224 PN 4146 (Cutler): Amends the Donated and Dedicated Property Act by providing that public lands or buildings purchased by a political subdivision do not need Orphans’ Court approval prior to reconveyance if the lands or buildings are unencumbered by recorded restrictions or covenants requiring them to be used for public use. Also clarifies that, if a political subdivision acquired the lands or buildings through condemnation, the assets may be sold or disposed of pursuant to the Eminent Domain Code. Sen. Pileggi offered Amendment A13590, which would make Project 70 apply to lands acquired through the act. The amendment was unanimously approved and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2293 PN 4150 (Peifer): Amends Title 30 (Fish and Boat) to raise fine amounts for summary offenses, to increase possible revocation lengths, to create new sections for serious poaching incidents and taking fish illegally, and to include new penalties and assessment of costs. The bill was unanimously approved.

Executive Nominations

The following nominations were approved unanimously:
David J. Dattilo, D.D.S, State Board of Dentistry
Ronald E. Plesco, DMD, State Board of Dentistry
Steven Beckman, Environmental Hearing Board
Randy Feathers, Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole
Thomas Cummings, Jr. ESQ, Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board
Alfonso Frioni, Jr., ESQ, Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board
Susan M. McDermott, ESQ, Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

SB 1546, PN 2434 (Gordner) – This legislation repeals the Act of June 27, 1947 (the State Tax Equalization Board Law), and moves the Board under the purview of the Department of Community and Economic Development.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to Senate amendments as further amended by the Senate by a vote of 49-0.

SB 444, PN 2433 (Earll) – This bill amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act by increasing the prize limits for games, and making several additional changes.  The Senate concurred in House amendments as amended by the Senate by a vote of 46-3.

SB 201, PN 2384 (Rafferty) – This bill amends the Insurance Company Law of 1921, providing for access to community pharmacy services.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 657, PN 671 (Ward) – The bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) by adding county park police force in a third class county that is contiguous with a second class (Westmoreland County) to the list of police officers that must receive training from the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 991, PN 2413 (Argall) – The bill establishes the Service Contract Automatic Renewal Act to require a seller of service contract that includes an automatic renewal provision to disclose the automatic renewal to the consumer.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1185, PN 2274 (Waugh) – This legislation amends the First Class Township Code (Act 331 of 1931) to establish the elective office of tax collector and to provide for the appointed position of township treasurer.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1303, PN 2137 (Williams) – Senate Bill 1303 amends section 696 of the Public School Code of 1949 to provide flexibility in setting tax rates for school districts of the first class.  Senator Kitchen offered amendment A13195 which was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order as amended.

SB 1352, PN 2414 (Gordner) – The bill amends the Speech-Language and Hearing Licensure Act by updating the statute.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1402, PN 2415 (Alloway) – This bill amends Title 30 (Fish) to make numerous updates and revisions throughout the Title that incorporate past regulatory practice, Court decisions, and removal of obsolete provisions.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1591, PN 2380 (Folmer) – Amends the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (MCARE) Act to repeal the requirement that the Insurance Department prepares an annual Medical Malpractice statistical report.  A vote of 47-2 was recorded.

HB 2324, PN 3399 (Keller) – This bill amends the Public Auditorium Authorities Law to increase bid thresholds and provide for annual adjustments tied to the Consumer Price Index.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Monday, October 1, 2012

SB 819, PN 1115 (Robbins) – This legislation removes certain employee positions with the State Veterans Homes under the PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs from being classified under the Civil Service Commission. A vote of 29-20 was recorded.

SB 903, PN 2385(Rafferty) – This legislation amends amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for arson and related offenses.  A vote of 47-2 was recorded.

SB 1092, PN 2416 (Greenleaf) – This legislation amends provisions of the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code (Probate Code), Title 20 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, relating to the validity of powers of attorney, and further providing for general provisions and for special rules for gifts.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1442, PN 2386 (M. White) – This legislation is an update of the Pennsylvania Code of Military Justice (PCMJ).  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1449, PN 2387 (Corman) – The legislation amends Title 23 (Domestic Relations) by establishing the Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1531, PN 2388 (Baker) – The legislation establishes the PA Veterans Trust Fund.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1572, PN 2322 (Ward) – The legislation amends Act 265 of 1951 to remove the state requirement that a police officer employed by a city of the second class maintain a residence in that city during the entire period of employment, but still permits the city to require residency.  A vote of 48-1 was recorded.

HB 1617, PN 3058 (Gillespie) – This legislation amends Title 75 to further provide for suspension of operating privileges for failure to respond to a citation. A vote of 46-3 was recorded.

HB 2224, PN 3495 (Cutler) – The legislation amends the Donated and Dedicated Property Act (Act 670 of 1959) to enable local governments to generate revenue by selling under-utilized assets that were once purchased for a purpose that no longer exists.  Specifically, the bill would clarify that public lands or buildings purchased or condemned by a political subdivision would not require Orphans’ Court approval prior to conveyance of the property if the property is free of recorded restrictions or covenants requiring public usage.  Senator Pileggi offered amendment A13129, which makes technical and substantive changes, including further duties, instructions, and restrictions regarding agents and powers of attorney.  A vote of 29-20 was recorded on the amendment.  The bill went over as amended.

SR 342, PN 2378 (Greenleaf) – This resolution would memorialize Congress to support the Nation of Israel and its right to live in peace and defend itself.  A vote of 48-1 was recorded.

The following Executive Nominations were approved by a vote of 49-0:

Milissa S. Bauer, Council of Trustees of Clarion University
Randy P. Seitz, Council of Trustees of Clarion University
The Honorable Bill Wenner, Constables’ Education & Training Board
Susan Williams, Pennsylvania Drug, Device and Cosmetic Board
Thomas B. Hagen, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
Edward Rak, State Board of Landscape Architects
The Honorable John A. Lawrence, Board of Trustees of Lincoln University
Harry Lewis, Jr., Board of Trustees of Lincoln University
J. Bret DeLone, M.D., State Board of Medicine
Mandy Ann Fauble, PhD., LCSW; State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists & Professionals
Karen A. Rizzo, M.D., F.A.C.S., State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing
Reverend Rene Robert Barczak, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salespersons
John C. Hickey, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salespersons
Meredith A. Odato, State Board of Veterinary Medicine
Christopher Franklin, Council of Trustees of West Chester University

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

HB 728, PN 3887 (Barrar) – This legislation amends the Combustible and Flammable Liquids Act of October 18, 2000 by adding a subsection providing for further regulations and safety requirements for emergency fuel shut-off devices.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1092, PN 1270 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends provisions of the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code (Probate Code), Title 20 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, relating to the validity of powers of attorney and the good faith reliance on powers of attorney by third parties.  Senator Greenleaf offered amendment A13129, which gutted the current language in the bill and replaced it with new language to further provide for form of power of attorney.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

HB 1478, PN 1785 (Sonney) – The legislation amends the Third Class County Convention Center Authority Act of the County Code by granting the county the ability to impose a hotel tax which cannot exceed seven (7%) percent (Erie County).The bill also provides which fund this increase will be deposited into.  A vote of 47-2 was recorded.

The Senate approved the following executive nominations by a vote of 49-0:

The Honorable Fortunato Contino, Constables’ Education & Training Board

Elaine M. Gowaty, State Board of Cosmetology

Robert Kane, Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority

Kathy L. Pape, Council of Trustees of Edinboro University

George D. Moyer, State Board of Massage Therapy

Melissa A. Haluszczak, State Board of Podiatry

Lance Alexander, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

Monday, September 24, 2012

Previously tabled bills were added to the active calendar. No votes were taken.

Saturday, June 30, 2012

SB 9 PN 2348 (Scarnati): Establishes the Proof of Citizenship for Receipt of Public Benefits Act. The Senate concurred in House Amendments  by a vote of 39-10.

SB 367 PN 2349 (D. White): Providing for indigenous mineral resources development; and imposing powers and duties on the Department of General Services and the State System of Higher Education. The Senate concurred in House Amendments by a vote of 46-3.

SB 1174 PN 2350(Yaw): This legislation amends the Housing Authorities Law by altering the makeup and terms of office of members of a housing authority of a city of the first class (Philadelphia). The Senate concurred in House Amendments as amended by a vote of 49-0.

SB 351 PN 2326 (Baker): Amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) relating to the good Samaritan civil immunity. The Senate concurred in House Amendments by a vote of 49-0.

SB 1301 PN  2334 (Williams): Amends Title 53 to grant Philadelphia authority to offer the homestead exemption to owner-occupants of real property. The Senate concurred in House Amendments by a vote of 49-0.

SB 1386 PN 2247 (Vogel): Amends the Air Pollution Control Act (Act 787 of 1959) to allow the repeal of regulations relating to control of volatile organic compounds from gasoline-dispensing facilities. The Senate concurred in House Amendments by a vote of 29-20.

SB 1551 PN 2332 (Greenleaf): Designates 8.6 miles of the U.S. Route 202 Parkway between State Route 63 and State Route 611 as a scenic byway; and designates a bridge on the Parkway over State Route 309 as the Chief Richard J. Brady Bridge. The Senate concurred in House Amendments by a vote of 49-0.

HB 3 PN 3769 (Geist): Provides a broad-based legislative framework authorizing the implementation of transportation specific public-private partnerships to help the Commonwealth meet its substantial transportation infrastructure needs. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 197 PN 3834 (Gingrich): Amends Title 53 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated statutes pertaining to review of intergovernmental agreements by the Local Government Commission. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 532 PN 3601 (Saylor): Mandates insurance coverage of general anesthesia/associated medical costs for dental care provided to certain young or special needs patients. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 869 PN 3891 (Marsico): Authorizes funeral directors to display flashing or revolving purple lights on any funeral processional vehicle which is being driven in a funeral procession; permits the display of illuminated decals on vehicles. A vote of 45-4 was recorded.

HB 1026 PN 3876 (Caltigirone): Amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) to: allow retired or senior judges to administer oaths and affirmations; re-authorize senior judge operational support grants for another five years; and reauthorize the Access to Justice Act for another five years. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1310 PN 3833 (Torpel): Amends the Liquor Code (Title 47) to allow privately owned ski resorts to obtain a restaurant liquor license outside of the quota system. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1363 PN 3837 (Rapp): Provides for public hearings in school districts where there is a contract impasse; and proposes a moratorium on the requirements placed on individuals holding Pennsylvania public school certification to earn 180 continuing education hours every five years. A vote of xx was recorded.

HB 2135 PN 3603 (Quinn): Establishes a limited lines license for portable electronic vendors (vendors) for the sale of portable electronic insurance coverage (coverage). A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2199 PN 3888 (Stephens): Amends the Vehicle Code to further prohibit drivers from disobeying traffic-control devices used to close roads and highways. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2267 PN 3786 (Gabler): Amends the Liquor Code (Title 47) to:  clarify which branches of the United States military may sell alcohol in Pennsylvania; make changes as to how an off-premises catering permit is obtained; allow out-of-state wineries the ability to participate in Pennsylvania wine festivals; and allow for exemptions from the PLCB’s noise restrictions. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2390 PN 3604 (Miccarelli): Amends the Municipal Code to add procedures and regulations for the operation of wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) – taxicabs – in Philadelphia and to clarify certain existing provisions. A vote of 46-3 was recorded.

HB 2438 PN 3659 (Fleck): Amends the Department of Banking Code of 1933 by amending the title of the act, reorganizing the Department of Banking and the PA Securities Commission, and making related repeals. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 637 PN 2347 (Ward): Participate in the federal E-Verify Program (EVP). The Senate concurred in House Amendments by a vote of 42-7.

HB 1330, PN 3892 (Quigley) – This legislation transfers the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program (EITC) from the Tax Code back into the Public School Code and makes several changes in the program. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1122, PN 2312 (Corman) –   This legislation provides for the non-preferred appropriation to the Pennsylvania State University for the 2012-13 fiscal year. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1123, PN 2313 (Corman) – This legislation provides for the non-preferred appropriation to the University Pittsburgh for the 2012-13 fiscal year. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1124, PN 2314 (Corman) – This legislation provides for the non-preferred appropriation to Temple University for the 2012-13 fiscal year. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1125, PN 2315 (Corman) – This legislation provides for the non-preferred appropriation to Lincoln University for the 2012-13 fiscal year. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1126, PN 2316 (Corman) – This legislation provides for the non-preferred appropriation to the University of Pennsylvania for the 2012-13 fiscal year. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 761, PN 3894 (Cutler) – This legislation amends the Tax Code to update the Commonwealth’s tax policies and procedures. A concurrence vote of 48-1 was recorded.

SB 1263, PN 2351 (Browne) – This legislation provides for general budget implementation, under the Department of Labor and Industry, of limitations upon the appropriations for “Reed Act-Unemployment Insurance” and “Reed Act-Employment Services and Unemployment Insurance”.  A concurrence vote of 43-6 was recorded.

HB 1588, PN 3346 (Moul) – The legislation amends the County Code to increase the hotel tax up to 5% (was 3%) for a County of the Fifth Class with a certain population (Adams County).  A vote of 46-3 was recorded.

HB 1749, PN 2238 (Staback) – The legislation amends the County Code to increase the hotel tax up to 7% (was 4%) for a county  of the third class having a second class A city located therein (Lackawanna County).  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

The Senate confirmed the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 49-0:
Paul E. Cozza, Judge, Court of Common Pleas, Allegheny County
William F. Ward, Esq.; Judge, Court of Common Pleas, Allegheny County
The Honorable Roger F. Gordon, Judge, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County
The Honorable Kenneth J. Powell, Jr.; Judge, Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County
J. Scott O’Keefe, Esquire; Judge, Philadelphia Municipal Court
T. Francis Shields, Esquire; Judge, Philadelphia Municipal Court
Michael W. Flannelly, Esquire; Judge, Court of Common Pleas, York County

 

Friday, June 29, 2012

SB 1466, PN 2335 (Corman) – This bill is the Republican-negotiated General Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2012-13. Senate Republicans offered comments in support of the spending plan, noting that it makes restorations to Education funding, helps create jobs through business investment and tax breaks, and allows us to live within our means. Senators Costa and Hughes said they will ultimately support the bill, but noted that it is not a perfect document and ignores many necessary programs. Other Democratic caucus members decried the cuts as draconian and unnecessarily cruel, potentially jeopardizing their health and wellbeing.  A concurrence vote of 32-17 was recorded.

HB 48, PN 3846 (Scavello) – The bill amends the Medical Practice Act, by establishing a state licensure requirement for prosthetists, orthotists, pedorthists and orthotic fitters.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 254, PN 3874 (Grove) – This bill amends Title 75, Vehicle Code, further providing for learner’s permits.  A vote of 34-15 was recorded.

HB 864, PN 3875 (Geist) – This bill would amend Title 75 to provide for an increase in the members of the Pedalcycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 869, PN 3847 (Marsico) – This bill would amend Title 75 to further provide for funeral processions.  Senator Mensch offered Amendment A12884, which provides for further language pertaining to illuminated decals. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 1893, PN 3877 (Vulakovich) – This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) by providing that a person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree if the person has a business and/or owns and operates simulated gambling programs.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2349, PN 3476 (S.H. Smith) – This bill designates a bridge in Jefferson County.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 728, PN 3576 (Barrar) – This legislation amends the Combustible and Flammable Liquids Act of October 18, 2000 by adding a subsection providing for further regulations and safety requirements for emergency fuel shut-off devices.  Senator Vance offered Amendment A12828, which provides for further signage requirements. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2199, PN 3482 (Stephens) – This bill amends Title 75, Vehicle Code, as it pertains to the duty of a driver in an emergency response area.  Senator Rafferty offered Amendment A12875, which provides for regulations for obedience to traffic control devices warning of hazardous conditions and penalties for violation. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 761, PN 3883 (Cutler) – This legislation amends the Tax Code to update the Commonwealth’s tax policies and procedures. This legislation serves as the Tax Code vehicle for this year. The Senate conducted a lengthy debate on various merits of the tax code, focusing on the Shell cracker deal. Senator Stack offered Amendment A12888, which would change the Shell cracker plant reporting timeline from once every ten years to once each year.  The amendment failed by a vote of 20-29. A vote of 43-6 was recorded.

HB 1261, PN 3884 (Quigley) – This legislation amends the act of June 13, 1967 (Public Welfare Code) further providing for determination of eligibility for public assistance; further providing for notification under the Kinship Care Program; and creating the Subsidized Permanent Legal Custodianship Program. This legislation serves as the Public Welfare Code vehicle for this year. A vote of 31-18 was recorded.

HB 1901, PN 3885 (Everett) – This legislation is the omnibus School Code bill.  As amended by the Senate Education Committee on June 27, 2012, the legislation makes substantive and technical revisions, along with annual budgetary housekeeping and Administration initiatives, to the Public School Code of 1949. A vote of 47-2 was recorded.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

HB 208, PN 3491 (Reed) – This bill amends Title 75 by increasing the penalty for accidents resulting in the death of the victim.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 254, PN 3443 (Grove) – The bill amends Title 75, Vehicle Code, further providing for learner’s permits.  Senator Pileggi offered Amendment A12779, which expands the use of red light cameras to other municipalities.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

HB 973, PN 3835 (Kula) – The bill amends the Vital Statistics Law of 1953 and further provides for disposition of cremated remains of veterans.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1539, PN 3790 (Saylor) – This legislation amends the Workforce Development Act to establish the Keystone Works Program.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1893, PN 3788 (Vulakovich) – This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) by providing that a person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree if the person has a business and/or owns and operates simulated gambling programs.  Senator Tomlinson offered amendment A12070, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

HB 1908, PN 3842 (Micozzie) – The bill creates the Towing and Towing Storage Facility Standards Act.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2345, PN 3473 (Vereb) – The bill designates the bridge carrying Burnside Avenue in West Norriton Township in Montgomery County over Stony Creek as the “Albert Earl Momme Bridge.”  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

HB 869 PN 907 (Marsico): Authorizes funeral directors to display flashing or revolving purple lights on any funeral processional vehicle which is being driven in a funeral procession. Sen. Mensch offered Amendment A12699, which regarded illuminating decals was approved 45-4 and the bill was reported as amended.

HB 1055 PN 3577 (Mustio): Creates a freestanding act to regulate the professional employer organization (PEO) industry which will be known as the “Professional Employer Organization Act”. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1269 PN 2161 (Adolph): Creates special license plates for recipients of the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Bronze Star for Valor, Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross, Navy Cross and Air Force Cross. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 1345 PN 2285 (Folmer): Establishes a freestanding act known as the Wireless Broadband Collocation Act. The bill was approved 48-1.

SB 1503 PN 2120 (Argall): Grants and conveys to the Borough of Ashland or their assigns certain lands situate in the Borough of Ashland, Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, a portion of which is subject to Project 70 restrictions. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1525 PN 3714 (Ellis): Provides for an exception to the requirement that a health club must have an employee trained and certified to administer CPR present during the club’s hours of operation. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 1934 PN 3589 (F. Keller): Amends Act 101 of 1988, the Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling, and Waste Reduction Act, to exclude the population of a state or federal facility that conducts a recycling program administered by a state or federal government from the municipality’s total population count when this count is used to determine a municipality’s required compliance with the recycling law. The bill was approved unanimously.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

HB 75, PN 3827 (Marsico) – Amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses), 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) and 44 (Law and Justice) to further provide for failure to comply with registration of sexual offenders.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1343, PN 3828 (Baker) – House Bill 1343 creates the Commonwealth Higher Education Modernization Act and makes several repeals.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1720, PN 2589 (Hennessey) – This legislation amends Title 20 (Decedents, Estates and Fiduciaries) to provide for uniform adult guardianship and protective proceedings jurisdiction.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1820, PN 3687 (Delozier) – This legislation amends the Minimum Wage Act to provide for certain exceptions to mandatory overtime restrictions.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2027, PN 2776 (Cox) –  This bill designates State Route 422 from the intersection of SR 724 in Sinking Spring, Berks County to the west end of Robesonia, Berks County as the Kyle D. Pagerly Memorial Highway.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 2406, PN 3829 (Helm) – This legislation authorizes the Department of General Services to convey certain lands located throughout the Commonwealth.  This bill is an omnibus land conveyance bill.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1908, PN 3724 (Micozzie) – The bill creates the Towing and Towing Storage Facility Standards Act.  Senator Tomlinson offered amendment A12560, which amends the language pertaining to standards for tow truck operators following an accident.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill was re-referred to the Committee on Appropriations.

Monday, June 25, 2012

HB 823, PN 3792 (Scavello) – This bill amends the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247 of 1968) by requiring municipalities to give monthly notice of finally-approved residential developments or planned residential developments to school superintendents for the purposes of anticipating the impact on that school district.  A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 100, PN 2272 (Greenleaf) – This legislation amends the Judicial Code, Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, and the Prisons and Parole Code, Title 61, to make changes relating to the powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing; provide for sanctions for probation violations; modify the eligibility requirements for alternative sentencing and pre-release programs; establish a comprehensive reentry program; and make criminal justice appropriations.  A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 157, PN 2289 (Fontana) – This legislation creates a Task Force on Homeless Children’s Education that is charged with examining the educational needs and status of homeless children in this Commonwealth in order to develop and recommend a Statewide proposal to provide a strong educational foundation for homeless children.  A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 449, PN 2248 (Vance) – This legislation amends the Public School Code to provide for the recognition of child abuse and mandatory training to report instances of abuse. A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 17, PN 2466 (Watson) – This legislation designates a bridge in Bucks County.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 75, PN 3770 (Marsico) – This legislation amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses), 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) and 44 (Law and Justice) to further providing for failure to comply with registration of sexual offenders.  Senator Vance offered Amendment 12555, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 970, PN 3493 (Longietti) – This legislation amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses), 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) and 44 (Law and Justice) to further providing for failure to comply with registration of sexual offenders.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1343, PN 3772 (Baker) – This legislation creates the Commonwealth Higher Education Modernization Act and makes several repeals.  Senator Costa offered Amendment A12511, which was technical in nature. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 2046, PN 3781 (Helm) – This legislation authorizes and directs the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey land to Susquehanna Township in Dauphin County, to remove restrictions imposed on certain land in the City of Philadelphia, and to grant and convey land to Winebrenner Theological Seminary in Greene Township, Franklin County.  Senator McIlhinney offered Amendment A12428, which made various changes to conveyances.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

The following Executive Nominations were approved by a vote of 49-0:
Brian H. Hoover, Pennsylvania Game Commission
Gary L. Coburn, State Board of Physical Therapy

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

SB 161, PN 2297 (Brubaker) – This legislation amends the PA Constitution giving the General Assembly exclusive power in writing laws providing for the qualifications of institutions of purely public charity.  A vote of 46-1 was recorded.

HB 608, PN 592 (Brooks) – This bill amends the Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act (Act 418 of 1945) to provide for the use of bioenergy crops in reclamation projects.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1309, PN 2298 (Argall) – Senate Bill 1309 amends Title 53, the Consolidated County Assessment Law, prohibiting a taxing district from appealing the assessment of real property based upon a recent sale and to clarify the cases in which a taxing district may appeal the assessment of real property.  A vote of 34-13 was recorded.

SB 1480, PN 2074 (Corman) – Senate Bill 1480 provides for the Capital Budget Act of 2012-2013.  A vote of 45-2 was recorded.

SB 1535, PN 2299 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends section 6152 of the Judicial Code, Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for the rates charged for copying medical records when a subpoena is served upon a health care provider or a health care facility.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

HB 807, PN 3586 (Sonney) – This bill amends the “Biofuel Development and In-State Production Incentive Act” to provide for blending and registration requirements and for establishing penalties for violations of the act.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 920, PN 2301 (Browne) – This legislation creates the “Carbon Monoxide Alarm Standards Act,” which regulates the installation, maintenance and requirements of carbon monoxide alarms in Pennsylvania.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 1307, PN 3771 (Milne) – House Bill 1307 limits the compensation of superintendents and assistant superintendents of school districts in financial distress; requires the Auditor General to conduct an audit every four years of school districts in financial distress; requires the Department of Education to provide annual reporting on intermediate unit funding, contracts and agreements; and allows students to wear military uniforms at graduation ceremonies.  A vote of 27-21 was recorded.

HB 1349, PN 3773 (Pickett) – The bill amends the Regulatory Act by requiring state agencies to consider the impact of proposed regulations on small businesses.  Senator Ferlo offered amendment A12110, which adds a sunset provision to the bill so that the impact of the legislation could be reviewed at that time.  The amendment failed 15-33.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded on the bill.

HB 1539, PN 3689 (Saylor) – This legislation amends the Workforce Development Act to establish the Keystone Works Program.  Senator Waugh offered amendment A12107 on behalf of Senator Gordner, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill was rereferred to the Committee on Appropriations.

SB 1551, PN 2300 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends Title 74 to designate the U.S. Route 202 Parkway as a scenic byway.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 1960, PN 2674 (Vulakovich) – The legislation amends the Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers Act by defining the term “child” as well as removing some language.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 2151, PN 3333 (Gabler) – This bill amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to provide for a vintage snowmobile permit.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 2215, PN 3110 (Neuman) – This bill would designate an interchange in Washington County. A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Monday, June 18, 2012

SB 244, PN2202 (Kasunic) – This bill amends Article XIV (relating to School Health Services) of act of March 10, 1949 (P.L. 30, No. 14), known as the Public School Code by adding a new section relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).  A vote 48-0 was recorded.

SB 941, PN 1116 (Corman) – This bill amends Title 18 further providing for public drunkenness and similar misconduct and for purchase, consumption, possession or transportation of liquor or malt or brewed beverages.  A vote of 45-3 was recorded.

SB 943, PN 2236 (Corman) – This bill amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) in financial matters, imposing an alcohol offense prevention fee in certain municipalities.  A vote of 46-2 was recorded.

HB 1349, PN 3587 (Pickett) – This bill amends the Regulatory Act by requiring state agencies to consider the impact of proposed regulations on small businesses.  Senator Waugh offered Amendment A12018, which provides for further regulations.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1551, PN 2245 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends Title 74 as it pertains to scenic byways.  Senator Greenleaf offered Amendment A12039, which provides for further signage requirements.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 920, PN 2265 (Browne) – This legislation creates the “Carbon Monoxide Alarm Standards Act,” which regulates the installation, maintenance and requirements of carbon monoxide alarms in Pennsylvania.  Senator Waugh offered Amendment A12039, which redefines “approved carbon monoxide alarms.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill moved up as amended.

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 48-0:
Edward P. Abraham, Council of Trustees of East Stroudsburg University
Mike Baker, Industrial Board
Bony R. Dawood, PE, Industrial Board
David Kozich, DPT, State Board of Physical Therapy
Edward L. Seebeck, State Real Estate Commission

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

SB 375, PN 2278 (Pileggi) – This legislation amends Title 53 to provide that municipal authorities may not expend funds for purposes not related to their mission. The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 47-0.

SB 1433, PN 2257 (Gordner) – This legislation establishes the Homeowner Assistance Settlement Act.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 47-0.

SB 1129, PN 1319 (Dinniman) – This legislation amends section 1308 (relating to liability for tuition and enforcement of payment) of the Public School Code of 1949.  A vote of 39-8 was recorded.

HB 1913, PN 3211 (Culver) – This legislation creates the Real Estate Tax Abatement for Properties Damaged by Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee Act.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1916, PN 3730 (Millard) – House Bill 1916 provides for a freestanding act to the known as the Flood Control and Disaster Mitigation Itemization Act of 2012.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 47-0:
Libby A. White, State Board of Accountancy
Michele M. Mandell, Council of Trustees of California University
Robert G. Miner, Jr., Council of Trustees of California University
Ann Catalano, State Board of Cosmetology
Christopher L. Neidert, Board of Trustees of Hamburg Center
Susan Whitney, Ph.D., PT, NCS, ATC; State Board of Physical Therapy
Kirk D. Stoner, AICP, State Planning Board
Robb Keith, State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists
Douglas A. Enders, Professional Standards and Practices Commission
Joyce Haas, State Real Estate Commission
George Mermon, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

SB 8, PN 2269 (Folmer) – This legislation is titled the Pennsylvania Health Information Technology Act.  This initiative was known as PHIX (Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange) under the prior administration.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 866, PN 2270 (Ward) – Extends the sunset provision of the Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Act.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1528, PN 2213 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends the Occupational Therapy Practice Act further providing for creation of the board and providing for impaired professionals program.  A vote of 46-1 was recorded.

SB 1545, PN 2267 (White) – This bill would amend the Department of Banking Code to transfer the duties of the Pennsylvania Securities Commission to the Department of Banking.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1546, PN 2268 (Gordner) – Senate Bill 1546 amends the Act of June 27, 1996 (the Community Economic Development Enhancement Act) to codify the State Tax Equalization Board into the Act.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1916, PN 3634 (Millard) – House Bill 1916 provides for a freestanding act to the known as the Flood Control and Disaster Mitigation Itemization Act of 2012.  Senator Gordner offered amendment A11641 that further provides for project funding in certain locals.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

Monday, June 11, 2012

SB 8, PN 2196 (Folmer) – This legislation is titled the Pennsylvania Health Information Technology Act.  This initiative was known as PHIX (Pennsylvania Health Information Exchange) under the prior administration.  Senator Folmer offered Amendment A11117, which makes technical and substantive changes, and includes language prohibiting the act from interfering with a patient’s access to their medical records.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 237, PN 722 (Tartaglione) – This legislation amends Title 42 as it pertains to fines for vehicle offenses.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 866, PN 2235 (Ward) – This legislation extends the sunset provision of the Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Act.  Senator Ward offered Amendment A11352, which makes technical and substantive changes, including permitting additional funds transfers for the Fire Company Grant Program.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1255, PN 2170 (Robbins) – This legislation amends Tile 25 (Elections) to create the Uniform Military and Overseas Voters Act.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded

HB 1264, PN 3643 (Parker) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) by adding Section 5920 relating to expert testimony in certain criminal proceedings.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 48-0:
Martin C. Levin, CPA, MBA; State Board of Accountancy
Pat Halpin-Murphy, Pennsylvania Cancer Control, Prevention & Research Advisory Board
Elizabeth R. Kremer, Board of Trustees of Danville State Hospital
Bruno Klaus, Council of Trustees of East Stroudsburg University
Brigadier General Roy E. Uptegraff, III, Major General, Pennsylvania Air National Guard
Colonel Carol A. Eggert, Brigadier General, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
Colonel Andrew P. Schafer, Jr., Brigadier General, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
Colonel George M. Schwartz, Brigadier General, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
Colonel Wilbur E. Wolf, III, Brigadier General, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
Brigadier General John L. Gronski, Major General, Pennsylvania Army National Guard
James A. Laughman, Board of Trustees of Norristown State Hospital
Jesse Topper, State Board of Nursing
Lisa M. Hegedus, State Board of Optometry
Joseph Gerdes, State Board of Pharmacy
Jeff C. Wheeland, State Planning Board
John J. Barber, Board of Trustees of Polk Center
The Honorable Jill E. Rangos, Advisory Committee on Probation
Sean R. Ryan, Advisory Committee on Probation
The Honorable Bob Thomas, Advisory Committee on Probation
Joseph J. McGettigan, Sr., State Real Estate Commission
W. Greg Rothman, MAI, MRICS, CPE, CCIM; State Real Estate Commission
Edward J. Cernic, Sr., State Transportation Commission

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

SB 155 PN 129 (Folmer): This bill providing for securing loads in vehicles. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1465 PN 2059 (Dinniman): This bill designates a portion of State Route 3 in West Chester Borough, Chester County, as the Senator Robert J. Thompson Highway; and designating the Pottstown Pike Bridge over the French Creek in South Coventry Township, Chester County, as the Representative Sam Morris and Eleanor Morris Memorial Bridge. The bill was unanimously approved.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

SB 1310, PN 2234 (Gordner) – The legislation amends the Unemployment Compensation Law by permitting the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority to issue bonds if the issuance to repay federal advances, including interest, would result in a savings to the employers of the Commonwealth.  In addition, an Unemployment Compensation Amnesty Program will be authorized to partially waive unpaid interest debt in return for outstanding obligations being paid in full, and makes certain changes to the contribution structure, eligibility, claims, state adjustment factor, interest factor, and solvency trigger.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to the bill by a vote of 29-19.

HB 10, PN 1957 (Turzai) – The bill amends the Second Class County Port Authority Act by removing all provisions in the Act that provide the Port Authority of Allegheny County exclusive control over who provides transportation services within a County of the Second Class.  A vote of 21-21 was recorded.

SB 1321, PN 2237 (Earll) – Amends Act 47 (Municipal Financial Recovery Act) providing for the restructuring of debt of financially distressed municipalities.  A vote of 47-1 was recorded.

SB 1464, PN 2238 (D. White) – Amends Article XIV of  the Insurance Holding Companies Law, 40 P.S. §§ 991.1401 – 991.1413, providing for definitions, for acquisition of control of or merger or consolidation with domestic insurer, for acquisitions involving insurers not otherwise covered, for registration of insurers, for standards and management of an insurer within a holding company system and for examination; providing for supervisory colleges and for group-wide supervision for internationally active insurance groups; further providing for confidential treatment, for rules and regulations, for injunctions and certain prohibitions and for sanctions.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

 

Monday, June 4, 2012

SB 1115, PN 2203 (Browne) – This legislation amends the Public School Code to establish a new equitable formula to distribute special education funding and an accountability system to ensure effective investment of resources.  A vote of 46-1 was recorded.

HB 1237, PN 1356 (J. Evans) – This legislation amends Title 34 (Game) to provide for the reduced cost-hunting license for members of the Pennsylvania National Guard and Reserves component of the armed forces.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1264, PN 3237 (Parker) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) by adding Section 5920 relating to expert testimony in certain criminal proceedings.  Senator Mary Jo White offered Amendment A11048, which removes portions of the introductory language and further defines qualifications for experts used in trial.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1321, PN 3273 (Earll) – This legislation amends Act 47 (Municipal Financial Recovery Act) providing for the restructuring of debt of financially distressed municipalities.  Senator Earll offered Amendment A10774, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1410, PN 2205 (Ferlo) – This legislation removes the expiration date of Section 1704-B(c) of the Public School Code of 1949.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1464, PN 2205 (D. White) – This legislation amends Article XIV of  the Insurance Holding Companies Law, 40 P.S. §§ 991.1401 – 991.1413, providing for definitions, for acquisition of control of or merger or consolidation with domestic insurer, for acquisitions involving insurers not otherwise covered, for registration of insurers, for standards and management of an insurer within a holding company system and for examination; providing for supervisory colleges and for group-wide supervision for internationally active insurance groups; further providing for confidential treatment, for rules and regulations, for injunctions and certain prohibitions and for sanctions.  Senator Don White offered Amendment A11076, which makes certain technical and substantive changes, including providing exemptions for certain instances of credit reissuance. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

The Senate approved the following executive nominations by a vote of 47-0:
Rae Sprigle Kurland, Board of Trustees of Danville State Hospital
Wolfgang Hrabyk, Board of Trustees of Hamburg Center
Thomas Heck, Council of Trustees of Kutztown University
Ann C. Roman, M.S., CCC-SLP, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing
Susan E. Bortz, Board of Trustees of Torrance State Hospital
Wayne P. McGrew, Board of Trustees of Torrance State Hospital
Edward J. Picchiarini, Board of Trustees of Torrance State Hospital
William F. McCarthy, Board of Trustees of Warren State Hospital

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

HB 804 PN 3561 (Masser): Amends the Judicial Code (Title 42) to provide an exemption from jury duty. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB1091 PN 1188 (Harkins): Designates a portion of State Route 955 in Lawrence Park Township, Erie County as the Michael D. Crotty Memorial Parkway. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 1492 PN 2197 (Smucker): Establishes a new Article XV-G (Open Campus Initiatives) in the Public School Code to authorize open campus initiatives between school districts. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 2271 PN3255 (Reese): Designates a bridge carrying State Route 2009 in West Wheatfield Township and in St. Clair Township and New Florence Borough as the PFC Robert “Piney Decker” Nadolski Memorial Bridge. The bill was approved unanimously.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

SB 817, PN 1830 (Baker) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for the use of restraints on juveniles during court proceedings.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to the bill by a vote of 48-0.

HB 165, PN 3560 (J. Evans) – Amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) by imposing a criminal penalty upon the owner or co-owner of a dog that injures a service dog used by an individual with a disability.  A vote of 38-10 was recorded.

SB 1263, PN 1627 (Browne) – This bill would create a provision in the Fiscal Code for the “Reed Act” limitations under Labor and Industry Appropriations.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1398, PN 2163 (Yudichak) – This bill amends the “Storage Tank and Spill Prevention Act” (Act 32 of 1989) to extend the sunset date for two of act’s programs to June 30, 2017.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 1610, PN 3442 (Vereb) – This bill creates the “Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Act” to require the development of guidelines to educate coaches, parents and student-athletes about the warning signs of sudden cardiac arrest; provides for the removal of student-athletes from participating in a sporting event if they show symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest; requires new training for coaches to recognize the symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest; and provides penalties for violation of the act.  A vote of 46-2 was recorded.

HB 1825, PN 3494 (Baker) – This legislation would authorize the Department of General Services and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to convey certain lands located throughout the Commonwealth.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Monday, May 21, 2012

HB 165, PN 3272 (J. Evans) – This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) by imposing a criminal penalty upon the owner or co-owner of a dog that injures a service dog used by an individual with a disability.  Senator Eichelberger offered Amendment A10273, which provides for further definitions, and expanded language pertaining to civil penalties and restitution.  A vote of 45-2 was recorded and the bill went over as amended.

SB 351, PN 745 (Baker) – This bill amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in particular rights and immunities, further providing for Good Samaritan civil immunity for use of automated external defibrillator and for nonmedical Good Samaritan civil immunity.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1509, PN 2150 (Earll) – This legislation would authorize the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Governor, to grant and convey to the Erie Art Museum certain land located in the City of Erie, Erie County.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded

SB 1510, PN 2151 (Earll) – This legislation would authorize the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Governor, to grant and convey to the Erie Art Museum certain land located in the City of Erie, Erie County.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 804, PN 823 (Masser) – This bill amends Title 42 by allowing for an optional exemption from jury duty for any person who had already served a full term on a statewide investigating grand jury. Senator Pileggi offered Amendment A10610, which was technical in nature. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

The Senate voted to confirm the following executive nominee by a vote of 44-3:
Gary Tennis, Secretary of Drug and Alcohol Programs

The Senate voted to confirm the following executive nominee by a vote of 47-0:
John E. Payne, Jr., State Board of Barber Examiners
The Honorable Donna Oberlander, Council of Trustees of Clarion University
Celestino R. Pennoni, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education
Feather O’Conner Houstoun, Philadelphia School Reform Commission
John M. Levitski, Board of Trustees of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

SB 1466, PN2165 (Corman) – This legislation is the General Appropriations bill as proposed by the Governor for fiscal year 2012-13.  Senator Kitchen offered Amendment A10355, which increases funding for employment and training and supportive services for cash assistance recipients by $150 million.  The amendment was defeated 18-29.  Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A10357, which would restore $84 million in funding to the Human Services Development Fund.  The amendment was defeated 20-27.  Senator Fontana offered Amendment A10356, which would restore $17 million in funding for child care services.  The amendment was defeated 20-27.  Senator Dinniman offered Amendment A10353, which would restore $50 million in funding to the Accountability Block Grant Program.  The amendment was defeated 20-27.  Senator Stack offered Amendment A10354, which would add $100 million in funding for the Adult Basic Health Insurance Program.  Senator Stack noted that 41,000 people were dropped from the program when it ended, and many of those people have not found new coverage.  The amendment was defeated 20-27.  Senator Stack proceeded to offer Amendment A10329, which would use $60 million in the General Assembly surplus to fund Adult Basic.  The Amendment was defeated 12-35.  A vote of 39-8 was recorded on the bill.

SB 1472, PN2066 (Corman) – This legislation appropriates the Governor’s requested amount to fund the administrative costs of the State Employees Retirement System (SERS) for the 2012-13 fiscal year.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1473, PN 2067 (Corman) – This legislation appropriates the Governor’s requested amount to fund the administrative costs of the Public School Retirement System (PSERS) for the 2012-13 fiscal year.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1474, PN 2068 (Corman) – This legislation would make an appropriation from the Professional Licensure Augmentation Account and from restricted revenue accounts within the General Fund to the Department of State for operations.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1475, PN 2069 (Corman) – This legislation is the appropriation for the Public Utility Commission for the 2012-13 Fiscal Year.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1476, PN 2070 (Corman) – This legislation would make an appropriation from a restricted revenue account within the General Fund to the Office of Small Business Advocate in the Department of Community and Economic Development.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1477, PN 2071 (Corman) – This legislation appropriates the total sum of $66,727,000 from the State Gaming Fund and restricted revenue accounts within the State Gaming Fund to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Office of Attorney General for costs related to oversight of the gaming industry for FY 2012-13.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1478, PN 2072 (Corman) – This legislation provides for appropriations from the Workmen’s Compensation Administration Fund to the Department of Labor and Industry and to the Department of Community and Economic Development.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1479, PN 2073 (Corman) – This legislation appropriates $5,173,000 from a restricted revenue account within the General Fund to the Office of Consumer Advocate (OCA) in the Office of Attorney General.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1433, PN 2164 (Gordner) – This legislation establishes the Homeowner Assistance Settlement Act.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

 Tuesday, May 8, 2012

SB 1225 PN 2159 (Pileggi) – This legislation codifies the Library Code in consolidated statute form to improve the readability of the Library Code and reconciles conflicts between the Library Code and regulations that have been issued under it.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 1382 PN 1891 (Solobay) – This bill designates the interchange at the intersection of Route 136 and I-70 in Washington County as the Officer John David Dryer Memorial Interchange.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1400 PN 3479 (Reichley) – This bill establishes the Primary Stroke Center Recognition Act.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1862 PN 2400 (Causer) – This bill designates two bridges in Potter County.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1955 PN 2686 (Rock) – This bill would name Grant Street from Main Street in Waynesboro, Franklin County, to the borough line at Route 316 the Staff Sgt. Richard J. Tieman Memorial Highway.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

HB 1956 PN 2687 (Rock) – This bill would name State Route 16 from the entrance of Greencastle in Franklin County to the square of the borough on State Route 16 the Master Sergeant Benjamin F. Bitner Memorial Highway.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

Monday, May 07, 2012

SB 1225, PN 2128 (Pileggi) –   This bill codifies the Library Code in consolidated statute form to improve the readability of the Library Code and reconciles conflicts between the Library Code and regulations that have been issued under it.   On behalf of Senator Costa, Senator Williams offered Amendment A10211, which is technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to.  Also on behalf of Senator Costa, Senator Williams offered Amendment A10240, which provides execptions and funding distribution changes for cities of the Second Class.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 1400, PN 2652 (Reichley) – This bill establishes the Primary Stroke Center Recognition Act.  Senator Vance offered Amendment A10206, which provides for a definition of “licensed acute care hospital.”  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1403, PN 1974 (Alloway) – This bill amends Title 34 (Game) to provide for liability protection to landowners.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 2134, PN 2979 (Micozzie) – This bill amends Pennsylvania’s Risk-Based Capital (RBC) statutes (Act 40 of 1997 and Act 62 of 2000) for life or health and property or casualty insurers and for health organizations, respectively, to require such organizations to more quickly formulate corrective action plans to address solvency problems before the regulator needs to take action.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded

Wednesday, May 02, 2012

SB 1067, PN 2127 (Alloway) – This bill amends Title 75 to further define “emergency vehicle.”  A vote of 46-0 was recorded.

SB 1144, PN 2077 (Ward) – This bill amends the Health Security Act by prohibiting insurers from setting fees for non-covered insurance services.  A vote of 46-0 was recorded.

SB 1177, PN 1420 (Solobay) – This bill designates an interchange on I-70 in Washington County.  A vote of 46-0 was recorded.

SB 1351, PN 2140 (Vance) – This bill amends the Vital Statistics Law of 1953 by permitting a certified registered nurse practitioner (CRNP) to sign death certificates.  A vote of 46-0 was recorded.

SB 1406, PN 1934 (Folmer) – This bill amends section 6503 of Title 24 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes (24 Pa.C.S. §6503) to allow private, nonprofit colleges or universities to offer additional degrees and institute additional programs and majors without the approval of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) if the college or university has operated continuously in Pennsylvania for at least ten years and is accredited by a regional accrediting agency.  A vote of 46-0 was recorded.

HB 2045, PN 2184 (Hess) – This bill designates a bridge in Bedford County.  A vote of 46-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

HB 61, PN 29 (Metzgar) – Amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) by extending the period of time which a collection agency has to collect fines, costs and restitution, from 180 days to 48 months.  A vote of 41-4 was recorded.

SB 1351, PN 1873 (Vance) – The bill amends the Vital Statistics Law of 1953 by permitting a certified registered nurse practitioner (CRNP) to sign death certificates.  Senator Vance offered amendment A10021, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

HB 1702, PN 3331 (Gingrich) – Amends Act 581 of 1965 (Borough Code) to modernize and recodify the statute.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded.

HB 2192, 3077 (Quinn) – This bill designates a bridge carrying U.S. Route 202 over an unnamed branch of the Neshaminy Creek in Doylestown Township, Bucks County as the First Lieutenant Colby J. Umbrell Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded.

HB 2246, PN 3195 (Quinn) – This bill designates the bridge carrying U.S. Route 202 over the Neshaminy Creek in Doylestown Township, Bucks County as the First Lieutenant Travis Lemma Manion Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded.

SR 277, PN 2126 (Pileggi) – This resolution provides for a temporary rule of the Senate, which would rule out of order certain amendments to General Appropriation Bills for the fiscal year 2012-2013.  The resolution was adopted.

 

Monday, April 30, 2012

SB 157, PN 2076 (Fontana) – This legislation creates a Task Force on Homeless Children’s Education that is charged with examining the educational needs and status of homeless children in this Commonwealth in order to develop and recommend a statewide proposal to provide a strong educational foundation for homeless children.  A vote of 44-0 was recorded.

SB 466, PN 455 (Browne) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for death action.  A vote of 44-0 was recorded.

SB 1296, PN 1983 (Piccola) – This legislation amends the Public School Code of 1949 to provide for greater transparency and accountability in superintendent and assistant superintendent contracts by setting new requirements for the content of those contracts and subjecting them to the Right-to-Know Law.  A vote of 44-0 was recorded.

HB 1596, PN 3167 (Toohil) – This legislation amends Title 42 regarding the powers and duties of the Juvenile Court Judges’ Commission (JCJC).  A vote of 44-0 was recorded.

HB 2133, PN 2978 (Oberlander) – This legislation designates a bridge lying between Armstrong and Clarion Counties.  A vote of 44-0 was recorded.

The following Executive Nominations were approved by a vote of 44-0:

Robert D. Winegardner, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Larry C. Skinner, Council of Trustees of Cheyney University

Joseph I. Wells, Council of Trustees of Cheyney University

Mariellen Brickley-Raab, RDH, State Board of Dentistry

Alice A. Zemba, Board of Trustees of Ebensburg Center

Joseph F. McGinn, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education

K. Scott Baker, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency

John Paone, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency

Susan Delaney, Council of Trustees of Indiana University

Mark A. Holman, Council of Trustees of Indiana University

Robert H. Shoop, Jr., Esquire; Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board

Becky D. Lesik, LMT, State Board of Massage Therapy

J. Ward Guilday, Navigation Commission for the Delaware River and Its Navigable Tributaries

Ed Kisselback, Jr., Navigation Commission for the Delaware River and Its Navigable Tributaries

Roy Pino, Navigation Commission for the Delaware River and Its Navigable Tributaries

Paul L. West, Ed.D., LPC, NCC; State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors

Tuesday, April 03, 2012

SB 110, PN 2051 (Smucker) – This bill amends Title 74 (Transportation) to require that certain information be provided about the use of the Commonwealth’s aircraft and the information would be maintained on PennDOT’s website.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 49-0.

SB 730, PN 2034 (Gordner) – The bill amends the Second Class Township Code (P.L. 103, No. 69 of 1933) by amending Section 1503 to permit a township to transfer real and personal property to a council of governments (COGs) or any other entity created by an intergovernmental cooperation agreement without following public notification and bidding requirements.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 49-0.

SB 743, PN 1843 (Rafferty) – This legislation amends Section 1519 (relating to teaching of Safe Driving of Motor Vehicles) of the Public School Code of 1949 to provide an exemption from certification for driver education teachers.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 49-0.

SB 815, PN 2033 (Baker) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) further providing for right to counsel.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 49-0.

SB 1167, PN 1947 (Baker) – This legislation amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) providing for assignment of custody rights during military deployment.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 49-0.

HB 469, PN 2756 (Cox) – The bill amends the Practical Nurse Law, allowing only individuals licensed as registered nurses or practical nurses to use the title “nurse.”  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 470, PN 2757 (Cox) – The bill amends the Professional Nursing Law, allowing only individuals licensed as registered nurses or practical nurses to use the title “nurse.”  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 823, PN 3335 (Scavello) – This bill amends the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247 of 1968) by requiring municipalities to give monthly notice of finally-approved residential developments or planned residential developments to school superintendants for the purposes of anticipating the impact on that school district.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1500, PN 3336 (Bear) – This legislation consolidates the Long-Term Care Patient Access to Pharmaceuticals Act into Title 51 (Military Affairs).  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

 

Monday, April 02, 2012

SB 341, PN 2036 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends Title 3 (Agriculture) by adding a Subchapter 41 to provide for the authorization of an automotive fuel testing and disclosure program.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 823, PN 3060 (Scavello) – This bill amends the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 247 of 1968) by requiring municipalities to give monthly notice of finally-approved residential developments or planned residential developments to school superintendants for the purposes of anticipating the impact on that school district.  Senator Alloway offered Amendment 09525, which expands the applicability of the bill’s requirements for instances wherein construction involves the use of wastewater treatment services in a county of the second class A. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1150, PN 2037 (Smucker) – This bill creates the Historic Preservation Incentive Act, a tax credit program to provide for expenditures incurred to restore certain historic structures. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1395, PN 1925 (Argall) – This bill designates a portion of highway in Berks County.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1500, PN 2108 (Bear) – This bill consolidates the Long-Term Care Patient Access to Pharmaceuticals Act into Title 51 (Military Affairs).  Senator Baker offered Amendment A09731, which provides for further clarification language regarding pharmacies in long term care facilities and provides for additional responsibility for pharmacists.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 1827, PN 2345 (George) – This bill would redesignate a bridge in Clearfield County.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations:

The Senate approved the following nominations by a vote of 49-0:

Richard J. Welsh, State Harness Racing Commission

The Honorable Roy W. Wilt, State Harness Racing Commission

Donald E. Houser, Jr., Council of Trustees of Lock Haven University

Brigadier General Eric G. Weller, Major General, Pennsylvania Air National Guard

Marla L. Moon, O.D., F.A.A.O., State Board of Optometry

John F. Coleman, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission

Dan G. Murphy, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

 

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Senate Bill 10 PN 173 (Scarnati): Amends the Article III of the Pennsylvania Constitution providing for the freedom to provide one’s own health care with the exception of providing indemnity and medical benefits to injured workers and prohibits the enactment of any law to the contrary. Sen. Kitchen offered Amendment A09472, which would have not allowed Medicare or Social Security to be affected by the bill. Sen. Scarnati motioned to table the amendment and the vote was 29-19 to table the amendment. Sen. Yudichak offered amendment A09443 which would have eliminated property taxes. Sen. Pileggi motioned to table and used the term “Obamacare” to describe the legislation. Sen. Williams asked for a motion to use the actual name of the Act. Sen. Costa made the motion to strike the term, “Obamacare” from the record. The President ruled that the term “Obamacare” was allowed to be used. Sen. Williams asked for an appeal of the ruling. The appeal was denied 18-30. Sen. Pileggi motion to table was approved 29-19. Sen. Stack offered Amendment A09518, which would eliminate the use of Auto and Fire Insurance for Pennsylvania residents. Sen. Scarnati made a motion to table and the motion was approved 29-19. Sen. Boscola offered Amendment A09486, which would also eliminate property taxes. Sen. Pileggi made a motion to table and the motion was approved 28-20. The bill was approved 29-19.

Senate Bill 790 PN 2052 (Earll): Amends Section 488 (Shipment of Wine) of the Liquor Code to allow a person licensed as a producer, supplier, importer, wholesaler, distributor or retailer by the Liquor Control Board or another state to obtain a direct shipper license to ship up to 18 liters per month to any Commonwealth resident who is at least 21 years of age for personal use. The bill was approved unanimously.

Senate Bill 1169 PN 2038 (Waugh): Amends the Pennsylvania Fair Dealership Law (Act 86 of 1987), which regulates agreements between dealers and suppliers of agriculture equipment. The bill was approved 37-11. 

House Bill 1203 PN 1598 (Lawrence): Amends the Vehicle Code to permit owners of antique or classic vehicles to display vintage Pennsylvania license plates from the year of the manufacture of the vehicle as their official plate. The bill was approved unanimously.

Senate Bill 1329 PN 2053 (Dinniman): Amends the Animal Destruction Method Authorization Law (Act 83 of 1983) to require no animal be destroyed by unacceptable agents as published in the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Guidelines on Euthanasia. The bill was approved unanimously.

 

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

SB 818, PN 2007 (Baker) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in juvenile matters, providing for disposition information.  The Senate concurred in House amendments to Senate amendments by a vote of 48-0.

SB 86, PN 1680 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends both Title 75 (Vehicles) and Title 18 (Crimes) as it pertains to Motor Vehicle Chop Shop and Illegally Obtained and Altered Property Act.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 790, PN 2008 (Earll) – The bill amends the Liquor Code (Act 21 of 1951) by allowing for direct wine shipment.  Senator Ferlo offered A09445, which would require anyone seeking a license to provide documentation that he/she has obtained a sales tax license.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

HB 1054, PN 3214 (Mustio) – The bill amends the Engineer, Land Surveyor and Geologist Registration Law by allowing a retired licensee to obtain a retired-status license.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1200, PN 2035 (Folmer) – The bill amends Title 62 (Procurement), further providing for sole source procurement and for emergency procurement.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1329, PN 2010 (Dinniman) – This bill amends the Animal Destruction Method Authorization Law to prohibit the method of carbon monoxide gas as a form to destroy animals.  Senator Dinniman offered A09469, further specifying prohibited means of destruction of animals.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over in its order as amended.

SB 1429, PN 1968 (Vance) – This bill designates the bridge carrying State Route 114 over Interstate 81 in Silver Spring Township, Cumberland County as the Corporal Paul Walters Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

 

Monday, March 26, 2012

SB 1036, PN 1301 (Vance) – This bill amends the Liquid Fuels Tax Municipal Allocation Law, further providing for allocated money.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1200, PN 2009 (Folmer) – This bill amends Title 62 (Procurement), further providing for sole source procurement and for emergency procurement.  Senator Folmer offered Amendment A09332, which was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1261, PN 1625 (Erickson) – This bill amends Chapter 56 (Municipality Authorities Act) within Tile 53 (Municipalities Generally) to add storm water management planning and projects to the powers of municipal authorities.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1298, PN 1864 (Smucker) – This bill amends the PA Farmland and Forest Land Assessment ACT (Clean and Green) to provide certain composting and nutrient management activities on land enrolled in clean and green.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations: The Senate approved the following nominations by a vote of 48-0:

Colonel Gerald E. Otterbien, Brigadier General, Pennsylvanian Air National Guard
Nancy Vasta, Council of Trustees of Bloomsburg University
Joel S. Noumoff, M.D., Pennsylvania Cancer Control, Prevention & Research Advisory Board
Paulette A. Burnside, State Board of Crane Operators
Richard T. Hawley, O.D., State Board of Optometry
Karl E. Streilein, State Board of Optometry
Sarah R. Gibson, Board of Trustees of Polk Center
Carol D. Sides, State Recreation Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors

 

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

SB 209 PN 1981 (M. White): Establishes a new Article XVI-C (Equity in Interscholastic Athletics Disclosure) in the Public School Code of 1949 requiring public school entities report athletic opportunities afforded male and female students annually on a disclosure form established by the Department of Education beginning October 15, 2013. The bill was approved unanimously.

B 884 PN 2003 (Greenleaf): Amends the Associations Code, Title 15, and Title 54 (Names)of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, to complete the codification of the Nonprofit Corporation Law (Title 15, Part II, Subpart C). The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 1373 PN 2004 (Greenleaf): Amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) further providing for six months limitation and for deficiency judgments. The bill was approved unanimously.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

HB 424, PN 3197 (Godshall) – Amends Act 72 of 1983 (The Public Adjuster Licensing Law) regarding administration and enforcement of public adjusters.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 623, PN 2002 (Tomlinson) – Amends Title 62 (Procurement) by creating a new chapter (Veteran-Owned Small Businesses) to provide for veteran-owned small business participation in procurement contracts with Commonwealth agencies.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 1355, PN 1584 (Sonney) – A bridge naming bill; the bridge that carries I-90 over Six Mile Creek in Harborcreek Township, Erie County, would be known as the Jarrid L. King Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Monday, March 12, 2012

SB 276, PN 1977 (Argall) – This legislation amends the Downtown Location Law to expand the factors that should be considered when determining where to local a state office facility and requires that the agency coordinate with local historical and economic development entities.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 424, PN 1977 (Godshall) – This legislation amends Act 72 of 1983 (The Public Adjuster Licensing Law) regarding administration and enforcement of public adjusters.  Senator Don White offered Amendment A09224, which is technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 623, PN 1978 (Tomlinson) – This legislation assists veteran-owned businesses in procurement contracts with Commonwealth agencies.  Senator Tomlinson offered Amendment A09227, which is technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 816, PN 1853 (Grove) – This legislation amends the Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors Act by further providing for qualifications for license.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 884, PN 938 (Greenleaf) – This legislation amends the Associations Code, Title 15, and Title 54 (Names) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, to complete the codification of the Nonprofit Corporation Law (Title 15, Part II, Subpart C).  Senator Greenleaf offered Amendment A08997, which includes provisions for limited liability corporations.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1141, PN 1909 (McIlhinney) – This legislation amends the Manufactured Housing Improvement Act of 2004 by providing for the definition and inclusion of “relocated manufactured home,” as well as providing for further regulations regarding relocated manufactured homes.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1373, PN 1886 (Greenleaf) – This legislation amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) further providing for six months limitation and for deficiency judgments.  Senator Greenleaf offered Amendment A09235, which is technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

Executive Nominations The Senate approved the following nominations by a vote of 48-0:

David B. Morgan, RLA, State Board of Landscape Architects

John Noone, State Board of Physical Therapy

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

SB 1386, PN 1979 (Vogel) – This bill amends the “Air Pollution Control Act” (Act 787 of 1959) to repeal a requirement for controlling Volatile Organic Compounds from gasoline dispensing facilities.  A vote of 38-10 was recorded.

HB 1886, PN 2461 (Saccone) – This bill designates the bridge carrying State Route 136 over the Monongahela River connecting Forward Township, Allegheny County and Monongahela, Washington County as the General Carl E. Vuono Bridge.

HB 934, PN 3166 (Metcalfe) – This legislation amends the Election Code to require each voter to present proof of identification when he or she appears to vote at any election.  The following amendments were offered:

Senator Tartaglione offered A09031, which would exempt elderly and handicapped electors from the ID requirements.  The amendment was defeated 19-29.

Senator Farnese offered A09026, which takes into consideration transgender individuals and photo identification that may not reflect their looks.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Hughes offered A09024, which would allow all photo ID that has expired for not less than a year to be used.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Kitchen offered A09077, which would allow expired student ID to be used for up to one year.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Williams offered A09050, which would require a study to show the impact on minority voters.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Schwank offered A09036, which would move the effective date to elections held after December 31, 2012.  The amendment was defeated 21-28.

Senator Williams offered A09079, which would exempt persons that are members of a protected class.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Williams offered A09080, which would exempt persons 65 and older.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Williams offered A09040, which would provide for religious objectors and allow for the use of any valid non-photo ID.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Kitchen offered A09032, which would permit the use of ACCESS cards as valid ID.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Williams offered A09025, which would allow for a corroborator to vouch for the ID of a voter.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Leach offered A09017, which would increase the hours of operation for PennDOT one week prior to an election and give priority to those persons who need ID to vote.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Fontana offered A09078, which would disseminate information requiring ID to vote through mass media, newspapers of high circulation and social media.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Kasunic offered A09020, which would allow a person to sign an affidavit if they do not have an ID.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Stack offered A09047, which would require the use of electronic ID verification devices.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Stack offered A09043, which would provide an exemption for veterans.  The amendment was defeated 21-28.

Senator Stack offered A09048, which would provide for on-site voter registration.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Boscola offered A09062, which would provide an exemption for electors in the PA Voter Hall of Fame.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Boscola offered A09081, which would require the posting of photo ID requirements at polls an election prior to the effective date of the ID requirement, moving it back to 2013.  The amendment was defeated 22-27.

Senator Costa offered A09023, which would provide for Campaign Finance Reform.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Hughes offered A09049, which would require PennDOT to be open during times that polls are open on Election Day.  The amendment was defeated 21-18.

Senator Boscola offered A09065, which would permit the use of Medicare Cards as ID.  The amendment was defeated 21-28.

Senator Hughes offered A09063, which would replace municipal ID with political subdivision to permit ID form public schools.  The amendment was defeated 20-29.

Senator Solobay offered A09029, which would remove the requirement for ID to request and vote by absentee ballot.  The amendment was defeated 19-30.

The bill was approved by a vote of 26-23.

Executive Nominations The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 48-0:

The Honorable Vincent J. Gastgeb, Pennsylvania Securities Commission

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

SB 1301, PN 1803 (Williams) – This bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in assessments of persons and property, to add definitions of boards of the Homestead Property Exclusion to include the body with responsibility for the making of assessments of real property in Philadelphia.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1302, PN 1831 (Williams) – This legislation amends the Philadelphia City-County Consolidation Act of 1963 by granting the Philadelphia City Council authorization to initiate a new appellate board, as approved by Philadelphia voters in the May 18, 2010 primary election.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1324, PN 1976 (Yaw) – This bill amends Title 42(Judiciary) providing for actions regarding titles involving subsurface mineral rights.  A vote of 46-2 was recorded.

SR 65, PN 969 (Pileggi) – The resolution amends the Rules of the Senate, providing for affiliation with nonprofit entities.  The resolution was adopted.

Monday, March 5, 2012

SB 1049, PN 1717 (Kasunic) – This bill would amend Title 30 (Fish) to provide the Fish and Boat Commission with license issuing flexibility.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1324, PN 1945 (Yaw) – This bill amends Title 42 (Judiciary) providing for actions regarding titles involving subsurface mineral rights.  Senator Yaw introduced amendment A09008, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended. Executive Nominations The Senate approved the following nominations by a vote of 48-0:

Robert P. Edwards, M.D., Pennsylvania Cancer Control, Prevention & Research Advisory Board

Rodney W. Wagner, Jr., Children’s Trust Fund Board

Pamela L. McGaha, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission

Megan A. Carpenter, State Board of Landscape Architects

Dr. James P. Argires, Council of Trustees of Millersville University

The Honorable Gibson E. Armstrong, Council of Trustees of Millersville University

Kevin F. Harley, Council of Trustees of Millersville University

Christopher J. Delozier, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

The Honorable Robert “Bo” Fean, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Mark J. Zilner, R. Ph., State Board of Pharmacy

Steven R. Cohen, Ph.D., FPPR, State Board of Psychology

Richard F. Small, State Board of Psychology

The Honorable Martin J. Silverstein, Public School Employees’ Retirement Board

Donald J. Stoy, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

Andrea M. Grolemund, Board of Trustees of Warren State Hospital

Jonathan D. Encarnacion, Board of Trustees of Wernersville State Hospital

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

SB 405 PN 1534(Browne):Amends § 301.1 of The Local Tax Enabling Act to clarify when a political subdivision may levy a business privilege tax (“BPT”). Senator Blake offered Amendment A05908, which would amend the BPT. The amendment was defeated 19-37. The bill was approved 34-16.

HB 149 PN 2574(Payne): Provides for an “In God We Trust” specialty registration plate for passenger cars or trucks. Sen. Boscola offered Amendment A08515, which was agreed to. The bill went over as amended.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

SB 1237, PN 1918 (Pileggi) – This bill amends the Keystone Opportunity Zone, Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zone and Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zone to allow designation of any unused Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones and extends tax exemptions to any parcel of land adjacent to a current Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ) if it will create at least 200 new jobs.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 49-1.

HB 1950, PN 3048 (Ellis) – This bill amends Title 58 (Oil and Gas), pertaining to Marcellus Shale gas drilling.  The Senate adopted a conference committee report on HB 1950 by a vote of 31-19.

Monday, February 6, 2012

HB 1950, PN 2837 (Ellis) – This bill amends Title 58 (Oil and Gas), pertaining to Marcellus Shale gas drilling.  The Senate approved a motion to insist on its amendments which were non-concurred in by the House and sent the bill to a conference committee.  Senators Scarnati, Mary Jo White and Yudichak were named as conferees.

SB 117, PN 1908 (D. White) – This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) by permitting the confiscation of an identification card if it is being used illegally to purchase liquor or malt beverages.  A vote of 48-1 was recorded.

SB 1147, PN 1912 (Argall) – This bill amends the Vehicle Code as it pertains to annual permits.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations:

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 49-0:

John C. Christopher, State Board of Barber Examiners

Joseph J. Mowad, Council of Trustees of Bloomsburg University

Charles E. Schlegel, Jr., Council of Trustees of Bloomsburg University

Kenneth E. Stolarick, Council of Trustees of Bloomsburg University

Charlene R. Shank, Board of Trustees of Ebensburg Center

Barbara C. Chaffee, Council of Trustees of Edinboro University

The Honorable Maureen Lally-Green, State Board of Education

Larry A. Wittig, State Board of Education

William George Harris, State Board of Funeral Directors

Donald J. Murphy, State Board of Funeral Directors

Edward Rudolph, Board of Trustees of Temple University

James Minor, State Board of Vehicle Manufactures, Dealers & Salesperson

William M. Mohler, State Board of Vehicle Manufactures, Dealers & Salesperson

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

HB 1294, PN 3007 (Godshall) – Amends Title 66 (Public Utilities) further providing for the recovery of the costs of distribution system improvement projects.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1582, PN 2999 (Taylor) – Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) to grant authorities that have created business improvement districts (BID) the option of assessing residential condominiums in the same manner they currently assess apartment buildings and office buildings.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SR 216, PN 1913 (Argall) – Directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study of the malt beverage brewing industry in Pennsylvania.  The resolution was adopted.

HB 1458, PN 2996 (Tallman) – Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) as it provides for nonreceiprocity of operational limitations.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 48-1.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 30-19:

The Honorable Terence Farrell, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission

The Senate approved the following nominations by a vote of 49-0:

Ada Rivera, Pennsylvania Cancer Control, Prevention & Research Advisory Board

Susan N. Sutto, Erie County Convention Center Authority

The Honorable Noah W. Wenger, State Harness Racing Commission

Timothy R. Thyreen, Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency

Bart Burne, Ed.D., Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Todd Edward Naylor, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Jeffrey R. Elliott, Esquire, State Board of Physical Therapy

Timothy M. Schell, P.T., State Board of Physical Therapy

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

SB 52, PN 1896 (Greenleaf) – Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to provide for the operation of neighborhood electric vehicles on certain highways within the Commonwealth.  A vote of 41-9 was recorded.

HB 170, PN 114 (Miller) – Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) as it pertains to the proper use of pedalcycles on the roadway and the passing of pedalcycles by motor vehicles.  A vote of 45-5 was recorded.

SB 1019, PN 1300 (Argall) – Amends the Prisons and Parole Code to provide for the salaries of corrections managers in the Department of Corrections.  A vote of 45-5 was recorded.

SB 1147, PN 1346 (Argall) – Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to add the movement of cryogenic liquid to those commodities allowed to obtain an annual permit from PennDOT for movement on the state highway system.  Senator Brubaker offered Amendment A08255, which increases the gross weight of trucks for egg transportation.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill moved up as amended.

HB 1294, PN 2998 (Godshall) – Amends Title 66 (Public Utilities) further providing for the recovery of the costs of distribution system improvement projects.  Senator Boscola offered Amendment A08277, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill moved up as amended.

SR 216, PN 1868 (Argall) – Directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study of the malt beverage brewing industry in Pennsylvania.  Senator Argall offered Amendment A08218, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the resolution went over as amended.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 49-1:

Richard Walter Long, Esquire, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission

Monday, January 23, 2012

SB 1252, PN 1532 (Blake) -Redesignates the Davis Street Bridge over I-81 at Exit  182, Moosic Borough, Lackawanna County as the Andrew A. Pompey and Durando J. Pompey Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1375, PN 1889 (Gordner) -Amends the Unemployment Compensation Law to provide for Pennsylvania’s eligibility to receive the 60-day extension of federal unemployment compensation.  A vote of 47-3 was recorded.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

SB 818 PN 1895 (Baker): Amends Title 42 (Judicial Code) regarding disposition information in juvenile court cases; and registration of homeless offenders. This bill was unanimously approved.

SB 995 PN 1844 (Baker): Amends Title 35 (Health and Safety) to require the operator of each permitted unconventional well within Pennsylvania to post certain 911 response information at the entrance to each well site. This bill was unanimously approved.

HB 169 PN 2961 (Delozier): Amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act to create new definitions, increase prize limits, and provide for additional rules and regulations for licensing of organizations. This bill was approved 44-6.

HB 398 PN 2633 (Stevenson): Requires appraisal management companies to register with the State Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers and become subject to the Board’s regulation and oversight. This bill was unanimously approved.

SB 968 PN 1059 (Dinniman): Requires appraisal management companies to register with the State Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers and become subject to the Board’s regulation and oversight. Senator Costa offered Amendment A04078, which is technical in nature. The amendment was adopted and the bill went over as amended.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

HB 169, PN 2819 (Delozier) – The legislation amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act by clarifying several definitions, details on prize limits, proceeds for club licensees, as well as specifications for enforcement and penalties.  Senator Earll offered Amendment A08093, which makes changes to the fee structure, payout ceilings, reporting requirements and eligible uses for the funds generated; allows for exclusions to payout ceilings in the case of raffles to benefit emergency services organizations; and classifies certain violations of this act to be violations of the liquor code.  A vote of 43-5 was recorded and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1133, PN 1788 (D. White) – This legislation amends the Public School Code of 1949 to allow institutions within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) to offer doctoral degrees under certain conditions.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1308, PN 1732 (Tomlinson) – This legislation creates a new “State System of Higher Education Intellectual Property Act” (Act) that permits State-owned universities to enter into agreements to develop and market intellectual property owned or created by an employee of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE).  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1322, PN 1743 (Smucker) – This legislation amends the Public School Code to allow the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) to enter into an agreement with any entity for the cooperative use of supplies and services.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 1630, PN 2818 (Tobash) – This legislation amends the Motor Vehicle Sales Finance Act, further providing for revocation or suspension of licenses.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

SB 638 PN 1828 (Ward): The legislation amends the Public Welfare Code to provide for mileage reimbursement for individuals being treated for methadone addiction The bill was unanimously concurred.

SB 957 PN 1804 (Tomlinson): The bill amends the Osteopathic Medical Practice Act by providing for the licensure of athletic trainers. The bill was unanimously concurred.

SB 967 PN 1805 (Tomlinson): The bill amends the Medical Practice Act by providing for the licensure of athletic trainers. The bill was unanimously concurred.

HB 332 PN 2874 (Killion): The bill amends the Medical Practice Act of 1985 by providing for licensure of genetic counselors. The bill was unanimously approved

HB 333 PN 2875 (Killion): The bill amends the Osteopathic Medical Practice Act by providing for licensure of genetic counselors. The bill was unanimously approved

SB 344 PN 1847 (Rafferty): This bill serves to authorize public-private partnerships as defined by federal law within Pennsylvania.  These P3’s would be for transportation facilities of the Department of Transportation or of proprietary public entities. The bill was approved 49-1.

SB 375 PN 1039 (Pileggi): This legislation amends Title 53 to provide that municipal authorities may not expend funds for purposes not related to their mission. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 707 PN 694 (Solobay): Provides for spouses of active duty National Guard and Reserves to receive educational leave of absence. The bill was unanimously approved.

HB 1052 PN 2822(Gingrich): This legislation creates the “Long-Term Care Nursing Facility Independent Informal Dispute Resolution Act,” which would regulate the dispute process for long-term care nursing facilities under the purview of the Department of Health. The bill was unanimously approved.

HB 1399 PN 2891 (Perry): This bill will add to the definition of motorcycle to allow the cycle to travel on two wheels in contact with the ground which is modified by the addition of two stabilizing wheels on the rear of the motor vehicle. The bill was approved 36-14.

HB 1950 PN 2837 (Ellis): This bill amends Title 58 (Oil and Gas), pertaining to Marcellus Shale gas drilling. Senator Yudichak offered amendment A07695, which would have removed zoning language, move setbacks on well heads and increase the fee schedule. The amendment was defeated 25-25 after not receiving a majority of the vote. Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A07675, which would provide greater local control. This amendment was defeated 23-27. Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A07679 which would add edge of the wall pad for the measurement for fees. The amendment was defeated 19-31. Senator Boscola offered Amendment A07271, which would place a moratorium of two years on new leasing or issuing of well permits. The amendment was defeated 17-33. Senator Stack offered Amendment A07802, which would increase the fee to $2 million. The amendment was defeated 17-33. Senator Stack offered amendment A07803, which was tabled by a vote on party lines. Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A07370 dealing with owner privileges. The amendment was defeated 20-30. Senator Yudichak offered amendment A07910, which was similar to his previous amendment. The amendment was tabled 27-23. The bill was approved 28-22.

SR 6 PN 1833 (Greenleaf): This resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to establish a task force and an advisory committee to conduct a study of capital punishment in Pennsylvania and to report their findings and recommendations to the Senate. The resolution was approved 38-12.

SB 1249 PN 1862(Pileggi): The bill creates the Congressional Redistricting Act of 2011. Senator Costa offered Amendment A07955 which was the Senate Democrat Reapportionment Plan. The amendment was defeated 20-30. The bill was approved 26-24.

SB 1183 PN 1857 (Orie): Amends Title 18 (Crimes Code), Title 61 (Prisons and Parole Code), Title 23 (Domestic Relations), Title 44 (Law and Justice) and Title 42 (Judicial Code) to substantially comply with the federal Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 and to close the loopholes in Megan’s Law regarding homeless offenders and out-of-state offenders who must register for a lifetime in their home states. The bill was approved 48-2.

SB 732 PN 1851 (Vance): Amends the Health Care Facilities Act (HCFA) to include abortion facilities in the licensure provisions of health care facilities, to apply ambulatory surgical facility regulations, require unannounced inspections and provide exceptions. The bill was approved 32-18

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were unanimously approved.

Dennis Frampton, Trustee, Edinboro University

Ronald A. Steele, Trustee, Edinboro University

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

HB 210, PN 2503:  The legislation amends the Family Caregiver Support Act to permit reimbursements for non-relative caregivers, and removes language that a caregiver must live with the care recipient in order to qualify for reimbursement.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 344, PN 2816:  The bill creates the Gas and Hazardous Liquids Pipelines Act which will allow the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to have general administrative authority to supervise and regulate pipeline operators within this Commonwealth consistent with Federal pipeline safety laws.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 730, PN 1848:  The bill amends the Second Class Township Code to permit a township to transfer real and personal property to a council of governments (COGs) or any other entity created by an intergovernmental cooperation agreement without following public notification and bidding requirements.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 1458, PN 2877:  This bill amends Title 75 (Vehicles) as it provides for nonreceiprocity of operational limitations.  The bill also includes language for the “Automated Red Light Enforcement Program”.  A vote of 34-16 was recorded.

HB 1399, PN 1660:  This bill amends Title 75 to change the definition of “motorcycle.”  Senator Hughes offered amendment A07676 that puts an expiration date on the automatic red light language for Philadelphia only.  A vote of 38-12 was recorded on the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SR 250, PN 1846:   This resolution establishes the Task Force on Child Protection.  The Senate agreed to the adoption.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

John E. Stevens, Ph.D., State Civil Service Commission

Craig R. McKay, Esq., Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole

Michael C. Potteiger, Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole

Monday, December 12, 2011

HB 715, PN 729 (Hickernell) – Amends “The Local Tax Collection Law” to provide for the collection of municipal taxes by a county treasurer in third through eighth class counties.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded

SB 730, PN 1822 (Gordner) – The bill amends the Second Class Township Code (P.L. 103, No. 69 of 1933) by amending Section 1503 to permit a township to transfer real and personal property to a council of governments (COGs) or any other entity created by an intergovernmental cooperation agreement without following public notification and bidding requirements.  Senator Gordner offered Amendment A07342, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

HB 755, PN 846 (Gabler) – Amends the County Code to increase the annual meeting and dues expenses allowed for county directors of veterans’ affairs from a maximum of $100 to a maximum of $400.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 894, PN 911 (Robbins) – Amends the Second Class Township Code, further providing for compensation of supervisors.  A vote of xx was recorded.

HB 1458, PN 2838 (Tallman) – This bill amends Title 75 as it provides for nonreceiprocity of operational limitations.  The bill also includes language for the “Automated Red Light Enforcement Program”.  Senator Pileggi offered Amendment A07450, which was technical in nature.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

Executive Nominations:

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 50-0:

Dene Liott, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Jen Martchek, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

William K. Ryan, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Joseph J. Volk, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Stuart A. Wesbury, Jr., Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Michael H. Firestine, Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission

Melvin C. Gehman, Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission

Thomas A. Sollenberger, Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission

William Lehr, Jr. Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts

Robert W. Pullo, Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts

Bruce R. Clash, Children’s Trust Fund Board

Angela Marie Liddle, Children’s Trust Fund Board

Maria DiGiorgio McColgan, M.D., F.A.A.P.; Children’s Trust Fund Board

James Davenport, Board of Trustees of Clarks Summit State Hospital

John E. Dohner, State Board of Crane Operators

David E. Black, State Farm Products Show Commission

Daniel S. DiMucci, RLA, ASLA; State Board of Landscape Architects

Keith E. Loiselle, State Board of Medicine

Diane Howarth, RN, BS, CHPN; State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators

Kerri L. Hample, OTD, OTR; State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure

Gayle A. Cotchen, PharmD, MBA; State Board of Pharmacy

Theresa M. Talbott, R.Ph., State Board of Pharmacy

Feather O’Conner Houstoun, Philadelphia School Reform Commission

Albert M. Geniviva, R.Ph., Board of Trustees of Polk Center

Jayne L. Romero, Board of Trustees of Polk Center

Colleeen A. Stuart, Board of Trustees of Polk Center

David R. Fillman, State Employees’ Retirement Board

The Honorable M. Joseph Rocks, State Employees’ Retirement Board

Kenneth S. Harting, Board of Trustees of Wernersville State Hospital

Carolyn Hausman, Boar of Trustees of Wernersville State Hospital

Wednesday, December 07, 2011

HB 242 PN 2815 (Everett): Amends the Liquor Code (Title 47) to create a limited distillery license and grant new privileges to current retail licensees. Senator Williams offered Amendment A07073 which would have removed an exemption to a specific winery. The amendment was defeated 15-34. The bill was then approved 40-9.

HB 639 PN 640 (Taylor): Removes a date that impedes an increase in the fees that help pay for affordable housing programs in the city of Philadelphia. This bill was approved 46-3.

SB 1237 PN 1837 (Pileggi): Senate Bill 1237, as amended, amends the Keystone Opportunity Zone, Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zone and Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zone Act (Act 92 of 1998) by providing for extensions of unoccupied parcels and for the designation of up to 15 additional Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones. This bill was approved 47-2.

SB 1335 PN 1824 (McIlhinney): Amends the Banking Code (Act 356 of 1965) regarding the names permitted to be used by an institution. This bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1336 PN 1839 (D. White): Establishes the authority for Pennsylvania to review insurance rates for the small group market. Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A07087 regarding a public comment period and other forms of public involvement. The amendment was defeated 15-34. The bill was then approved 48-1.

HB 1458 PN 2817 (Tallman): Amends §6154 of Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to provide for an increase in a fine for a violation of non-reciprocity of operational limitations. Senator Pileggi offered Amendment A06930 which would include language previously in the Senate version of this bill regarding cameras on traffic signals. The amendment was adopted 33-16 and the bill went over as amended.

HB 1792 PN 2295 (Culver): Designates State Route 642, from its intersection with State Route 54 in Montour County to the border of Northumberland and Union Counties, as the United States Army Specialist Zachariah W. Long Highway. The bill was unanimously approved.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

SB 775, PN 1826:  This bill amends Title 44 (Law and Justice) to expand the list of eligible criminal offenses for which DNA testing is required, require the immediate purging of the DNA records of exonerated individuals, ensure the privacy and proper use of DNA records, authorize the use of modified DNA searches to assist investigators in identifying unknown crime scene DNA profiles among other aspects.  A vote of 42-6 was recorded.

SB 1237, PN 1823:  This legislation amends the Keystone Opportunity Zone, Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zone and Keystone Opportunity Improvement Zone Act to allow designation of any unused Keystone Opportunity Expansion Zones and extends tax exemptions to any parcel of land adjacent to a current Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ) if it will create at least 200 new jobs. Senator Argall offered amendment A6971 which adds a section about monitoring data.  Senator Tomlinson offered amendment A06981 that adds language dealing with applications.  In addition, Senator Blake offered amendment A06950 which adds language about extensions or waivers. The Senate agreed to all of the amendments and the bill went over in its order.

HB 1337, PN 1535:  This measure authorizes the turn back of a road to Ward Township, Tioga County by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1336, PN 1825:  This legislation amends the Accident and Health Filing Reform Act by dividing the act into Federal compliance and Commonwealth exclusivity.  Senator D. White offered amendment A07009 which was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendments and the bill went over as amended.

 

Monday, December 5, 2011

SB 539, PN 545 (Rafferty) – This bill would amend Title 75 as it pertains to driving under the influence.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 775, PN 1602 (Pileggi) – This bill amends Title 44 (Law and Justice) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to expand the list of eligible criminal offenses for which DNA testing is required; expand DNA testing to certain arrested individuals; require the immediate purging of the DNA records of exonerated individuals; ensure the privacy and proper use of DNA records; authorize the use of modified DNA searches to assist investigators in identifying unknown crime scene DNA profiles; and codify accreditation requirements for forensic DNA testing laboratories.  Senator Pileggi introduced amendment A06699, which provides requirements for expungement of DNA records and for reporting of the dispositions that require mandatory expungement.  The amendment was agreed to.  Senator Costa introduced amendment A06733, which makes changes to the protocol for criminal charges and arrests, providing for the extraction of DNA at the arraignment state, as well as provides requirements for expungement of DNA records and for reporting of the dispositions that require mandatory expungement.  A vote of 17-32 was recorded and the amendment failed.  The bill went over as amended.

SB 1174, PN 1631 (Yaw) – This legislation amends the Housing Authorities Law of 1937 by providing for changes to the makeup and terms of Housing Authorities in cities of the first class, as well as the appointment of its members.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1630, PN 2751 (Tobash) – This bill amends the Motor Vehicle Sales Finance Act, further providing for revocation or suspension of licenses.  Senator Tomlinson introduced amendment A06617, which makes small changes to the reporting requirements language found in the bill.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 49-0:

Robert M. Allen, Coroner, Monroe County

Christine DeOliveria Carl, AIA, LEED AP; Architects Licensure Board

Darryl R. Hamm, Architects Licensure Board

Michael A. P. G. Magnotto, State Charter School Appeal Board

Ross W. Orner, Jr., State Conservation Commission

Angelina M. Morgan, State Board of Cosmetology

Harris Gubernick, Board of Pardons

Jeffrey J. Johnson, State Real Estate Commission

Laura L. Hinds, MSW, LSW; State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapsts

Freya S. Burnett, State Board of Veterinary Medicine

Mary E. Kushner, Board of Trustees of Warren State Hospital

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

SB 390 PN 1793 (Brubaker) The bill would create a vehicle classification of “custom farm service implement of husbandry” and provide an exemption from registration for this vehicle class when operated within the increased distance limitation of 50 miles between farmers’ farms and between a farm and an agribusiness center. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1264 PN 1779 (Baker) The bill establishes and makes an appropriation for the Supplemental Individual Assistance Program for individuals suffering losses due to Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. The bill was approved, 48-1.

SB 1266 PN 1773 (Gordner) This bill authorizes a bond of no more than $250 million to pay for the damage caused by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1267 PN 1722 (Gordner) Creates the Real Estate Tax Abatement for Properties Damaged by Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee Act. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1268 PN 1794 (Gordner) This bill itemizes capital projects in the category of public highway projects to be constructed by the Department of Transportation. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1269 PN 1795 (Yaw) This bill itemizes capital projects in the categories of bridges to be constructed by the Department of Transportation, and Railroad Disaster Assistance. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1271 PN 1796 (Yudichak) The bill itemizes disaster capital budget projects and disaster mitigation and assistance projects to be constructed by the Department of General Services. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1297 PN 1797 (Baker) The bill would create a Small Business Flood Relief Program for small businesses that are located in a county that has been declared a Federal disaster area as a result of Hurricane Irene or Tropical Storm Lee. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1323 PN 1783 (Yaw) This bill amends Title 3 – The First Industries Program administered by the CFA by reducing the minimum project amount guarantee from $500,000 to zero and removes the 2% fee of the total guarantee amount for loans guaranteed under this program. The bill was unanimously approved.

HB 1644 PN 2730 (Dunbar) This legislation amends §1805(b) of the County Code provisions on the sale of personal property to permit electronic auction sales, and for the advertisement announcing these online sales. The bill was unanimously approved.

HB 1875 PN 2437 (Aument) The bridge that carries SR 462 over NS in Mountville, Lancaster County would be known as the Mountville Veterans Memorial Bridge. The bill was unanimously approved.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

SB 390, PN 1681:  This bill amends Title 75 (Vehicles) by creating a vehicle classification of “custom farm service implement of husbandry” and provides an exemption from registration for this vehicle class when operated within the increased distance limitation of 50 miles between farmers’ farms and between a farm and an agribusiness center.  Senator Brubaker offered amendment A6302 which removed language dealing with securing loads in vehicles.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

HB 735, PN 2093:  This bill amends Title 34 (Game) to provide for non-display of hunting licenses.  A vote of 46-3 was recorded.

SB 923, PN 960:  This bill amends the Housing Authorities Law, further providing for powers of an authority.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1100, PN 1777: This bill amends Title 58 (Oil and Gas), pertaining to Marcellus Shale gas drilling. Several Democratic amendments were offered including A06380 from Senator Hughes that would provide money to LIHEAP.  A vote of 19-30 was recorded on the amendment and it failed.  Senator Stack offered amendment A6386 that would increase the bonding amounts for operators of natural gas wells to $200,000 to $1 million based on the number of wells.  The amendment failed by a vote of 20-29.  Senator Ferlo offered amendment A6387 which would remove the current chapter on local ordinances and reinsert language protecting the right of the local governments to regulate zoning and land development of oil and gas activity.  The amendment failed by a vote of 22-27.  Senator Hughes offered amendment A6416 that would remove certain funding and increase the CFA funding as well as provide for Growing Greener.  The amendment failed by a vote of 20-29.  Senator Hughes also offered amendment A6375 which replaces the current fee structure with the fee structured that has a 14-year step-down in $5,000 increments, starting at $75,000.  The amendment failed by a vote of 24-25.  A passing vote of 29-20 was recorded on the bill.

SB 1183, PN 1778:  This bill amends several titles of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to provide for Pennsylvania’s management of its sex offender population.  The bill re-writes Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law in order to address certain court cases and to bring Pennsylvania into compliance with the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), Title 1 of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1276, PN 1780:  The bill amends the County Code by permitting that following the census, a county of the 3^rd Class having a population over 500,000 inhabitants elect not to become a 2^nd Class County A, they would have the option to remain a county of 3^rd Class that would go into effect by ordinance or resolution of the Board of Commissioners. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1310, PN 1782:  The legislation amends the Unemployment Compensation Law by permitting the Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority to issue bonds if the issuance to repay federal advances, including interest, would result in a savings to the employers of the Commonwealth.  In addition, an Unemployment Compensation Amnesty Program will be authorized for a three month period in 2012 that will partially waive unpaid interest debt in return for outstanding obligations being paid in full.  Senator Tartaglione offered amendment A06402 which provides for a COLA that would be calculated according to the CPI. A vote of 16-33 was recorded on the amendment and it failed.  Senator Tartaglione also offered amendment A06404 that would remove all the language in the bill that lowers the State Adjustment Factor in 2018.  The amendment failed by a vote of 16-33.  Senator Leach offered amendment A06424 which would add a new quarter base period for certain individuals.  The amendment failed by a vote of 16-33.  A vote of 33-16 was recorded on the bill.

SB 1268, PN 1774:  The legislation is the Capital Budget Act of 2011 for Highways Damaged by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.  Senator Gordner offered amendment A06395 that would remove the $75,000,000 and change the amount to $74,066,000.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 1269, PN 1775:  This bill is the Disaster Relief Act of 2011.  Senator Gordner offered amendment A06397 which changed some of the funding amounts.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 1271, PN 1776:  This legislation is the Flood Control and Disaster Mitigation Itemization Act of 2011.  Senator Gordner offered amendment A6398 that added some definitions as well as changed funding amounts.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 1279, PN 1781:  This legislation amends Title 30 (Fish) to further provide for the issuance of free fishing license to disabled veterans.  Senator Baker offered amendment A06383 which adds the language that loan repayments shall be placed in the General Fund.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SR 202, PN 1687:  This resolution urges the oil and gas industry to use acid mine water in hydrofracturing for natural gas.  The use of mine water in this case should only be done if it is economically feasible and environmentally sound.  The Senate adopted the resolution.

Monday, November 14, 2011

SB 473, PN 468 (Vance) – This legislation would amend Title 30 (Fish) to reduce the days deployed service requirement necessary to qualify for a one-dollar resident fishing license.   A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 853, PN 870 (Baker) – This legislation would amend Title 34 (Game) to reduce the days deployed service requirement necessary to qualify for a one-dollar resident hunting license.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded

SB 1228, PN 1716 (Greenleaf) – The bill amends the Automobile Lemon Law by providing a time period extension for manufactures to complete repairs.   A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following Executive Nominations by a vote of 49-0:

Colleen A. Sheehan, State Board of Education

Donna M. Cosmello, State Board of Optometry

Pedro A. Ramos, Philadelphia School Reform Commission

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

SB 444, PN 1737 – This bill amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act by increasing the prize limits for games, and making several additional changes.  A vote of 46-4 was recorded.

HB 563, PN 619 – This bill amends Title 75 by creating an exemption for land owners who authorize the use of his/her property for the purpose of an approved motorcycle safety course.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1095, PN 1736 – The legislation establishes the Long-Term Care Nursing Facility Independent Informal Dispute Resolution Act which creates an informal review process for long-term care nursing facilities to dispute Department of Health findings using an independent agent.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 200, PN 1637 – This bill establishes standards for the management of concussions and traumatic brain injuries to student athletes involved in interscholastic sporting competitions or other athletic events.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 50-0.

SB 314, PN 1724 – The bill adds a section to Vehicle Code that prohibits the operation of a moving vehicle on a highway while using an interactive wireless communication device to send, read or write a text message.  The Senate concurred in House amendments by a vote of 45-5.

SR 143, PN 1370 – This resolution directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the economic impacts of recreational water trails in the Commonwealth.  The Legislative Budget and Finance Committee shall report its finding and recommendations to the General Assembly within one year of the passage of the resolution.

SR 165, PN 1498 – This resolution directs the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct an efficiency study of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Executive Nomination

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Brenda Hage, Ph.D., DNP, CRNP, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Judith A. Harding, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Estella M. Hyde, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Orla Nugent, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

Gwendolyn M. Ogle, Pennsylvania Council on Aging

John R. Hill, AIA, LEED AP, Architects Licensure Board

Timothy A. Wiggin, State Board of Auctioneer Examiners

Frances M. Cecci, Board of Trustees of Clarks Summit State Hospital

RoseAnn Gaetano, Board of Trustees of Clarks Summit State Hospital

Warren Watkins, Board of Trustees of Clarks Summit State Hospital

Ted A. Nichols, II, Board of Trustees of the Danville State Hospital

Catherine Campbell, State Board of Massage Therapy

William F. Vogel, State Board of Massage Therapy

Denise Chisholm, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure

Christine L. Hischmann, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure

Eleanor A. Rossman, State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure

Jeffrey A. Heebner, D.O., State Board of Osteopathic Medicine

Arvind R. Cavale, M.D., F.A.C.E, F.A.C.P, State Board of Podiatry

Todd B. Narvol, State Board of Psychology

Margaret Y. Keller, Board of Trustees of Selinsgrove Center

Todd B. Roup, Board of Trustees of Selinsgrove Center

Bertin W. Springstead, Board of Trustees of Selinsgrove Center

Jane Riese, LSW, MSW, State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists

James Shafer, Au.D., FAAA, CCC-A, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing

Brian Bentley, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

Kathy L. Glarner, Board of Trustees of White Haven Center

Hon. Gerald L. Feissner, Board of Trustees of White Haven Center

Thomas G. Kashatus, Board of Trustees of White Haven Center

Hon. Tammy J. Martin, Board of Trustees of White Haven Center

Louise Powell-McLafferty, Board of Trustees of White Haven Center

Monday, October 31, 2011

SB 286, PN 1667 (Gordner) – The bill amends the Incorporated Towns Contracts Act (Act 34 of 1953) by increasing the threshold at which these incorporated towns must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 342, PN 549 (Greenleaf) – This bill amends the Occupational Therapy Practice Act further providing for creation of the board and providing for impaired professionals program.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 349, PN 1701 (Browne) – The legislation would create the Indoor Tanning Regulation Act in which a license to operate a tanning device is required among other aspects.  A vote of 48-1 was recorded.

SB 444, PN 625 (Earll) – This bill amends the Local Option Small Games of Chance Act by increasing the prize limits for games, and making several additional changes.  Senator Alloway introduced Amendment A05964, which would mainly affect club license holders by raising daily/weekly prize payout ceilings and allow for 30% of the proceeds to be used for operating expenses.  A vote of 45-4 was recorded and the bill went over as amended.

SB 954, PN 1090 (Eichelberger) – This bill amends the Vehicle Code as it pertains to the offense of driving under the influence.  Senator Wozniak introduced Amendment A05654, which would prohibit methadone clinic patients from driving after they receive treatment.  A vote of 13-36 was recorded and the amendment was defeated.  On final passage of the bill, a vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 1095, PN 1664 (Scarnati) – The legislation establishes the Long-Term Care Nursing Facility Independent Informal Dispute Resolution Act which creates an informal review process for long-term care nursing facilities to dispute Department of Health findings using an independent agent.  Senator Scarnati introduced Amendment A05946, which provides for further clarification of liability and responsibility.  The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Senate Bill 1 PN 1711(Piccola): Senate Bill 1 establishes a new Article XXV-B (Opportunity Scholarships and Educational Improvement Tax Credit) to provide for public to public and nonpublic school choice programs, reestablishes the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program with amendments and makes changes to the Charter School Law. Senator Hughes offered Amendment A05824, which add a 4 year pilot program requiring district operated hope academics in low performing schools where one or more students use a scholarship. The amendment was defeated 20-29. Senator Schwank offered Amendment A05738, which would reduce the State funding to scholarship enrollments from 100% to 50%. The amendment failed 19-30. Senator Leach offered Amendment A05821, which would change terms of handicapped person to person with disability and add sexual orientation to the list of attributes that participating private schools may not discriminate against. The amendment failed 19-30. Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A05830, which would increase the EITC to $200 Million and eliminate the scholarship language from the bill. The amendment was broken up into two parts, which were defeated by 21-28 on each portion. Senator Hughes offered Amendment A05823, which would eliminate scholarship and adds a 4 year Pilot Program for hope academics in low performing schools. It was defeated 17-32. After the defeat of the previous amendments, the bill on final passage was approved 27-22.

Senate Bill 367 PN 1718 (D. White): Establishes the Indigenous Mineral Resources Development Act which authorizes the Department of General Services (DGS) to lease State-owned land and land owned by the State System of Higher Education or grant a right of way for the purpose of removing mineral resources. The bill was approved 47-2

House Bill 1459 PN 1765 (Ross): Amends the Third Class City Code to provide for promotion procedures for civil service employees. The bill was approved 49-0

House Bill 1460 PN 1766 (Ross): Amends the First Class Township Code to provide for examinations, background investigations and promotion procedures for civil service police and firemen. The bill was approved 49-0

House Bill 1461 PN 2625 (Ross): Amends the Borough Code to provide for examinations, background investigations and promotion procedures for civil service police and firemen. The bill was approved 49-0

Real Property Disposition Plan No.1 of 2011; Resolution B was adopted 49-0

 

Executive Nominations 

The following Nominee was approved 49-0:

The Honorable William Ian Gabig, Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

HB 290, PN 2626- The legislation amends the Second Class County Code  to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.   A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 367, PN 1670 – This bill is known as the “Indigenous Mineral Resources Development Act” imposes certain powers on the Department of General Services and the State System of Higher Education (SSHE) when it comes to the development of minerals on state-owned land.  Senator D. White offered amendment A5730 which was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 469, PN 1164 – This bill amends “The Land for Recreation – Limiting Liability of Owner Act” to change and add certain definitions.  The act was passed to make land and water areas available to the public for recreation by limiting liability in connection with its use.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 595, PN 1703  - The bill amends Title 75 by providing for the enforcement of Red Light violations through the use of automated red light enforcement systems in a city of the first class, second class or second class A and certain third class cities.  A vote of 35-14 was recorded.

SB 747, PN 757 – This bill establishes the State Board of Plumbing Contractors within the Department of Labor and Industry and creates the Plumbing Contractors Licensure Account in Treasury.  A vote of 35-14 was recorded.

SB 887, PN 903 – This legislation amends the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951 by adding a section regarding the claiming and disposal of property left behind by a tenant.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Monday, October 24, 2011

HB 278, PN 2419 (Keller) – Amends the Second Class Township Code to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 279, PN 2420 (Keller) – Amends the First Class Township Code to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 284, PN 2424 (Keller) – Amends the County Code to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 288, PN 2426 (Keller) – Amends the Public Auditorium Authorities Law to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 289, PN 2429 (Keller) – Amends Act 38 ½ of 1936 regarding municipal flood improvements to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 290, PN 2551 (Keller) – Amends the Second Class County Code  to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  Senator Costa offered amendment A05702 , which further provides for the descriptions of duties and appointment of Chief Deputy Sherriff, Deputy Sherriff and Clerk in counties of the second class.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

HB 291, PN 2428 (Keller) – Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) regarding intergovernmental cooperation to increase non-bid contract maximums and to provide for the annual indexing and adjusting of these figures for inflation.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 595, PN 1663 (Pileggi) – This bill amends Title 75 as it pertains to the “Automated Red Light Enforcement Program.” Senator Pileggi offered Amendment A05696, which makes changes to the applicability of the law by including a provision for approval of the affected police department prior to installation of red light cameras, and requires that all reports on red light camera use provided to the legislature be made public record under the Right-to-Know law.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

 SB 560 PN 728 (Mensch): Establishes the State Military College Legislative Appointment Program. The bill was approved, 45-5.

SB 850 PN 1691 (Greenleaf): Amends the Crimes Code to establish the criminal offense of cyber bullying. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 961 PN 1074 (Tomlinson): Would allow people the ability to access coroner reports according to the procedures placed in the Right-to-Know Law of 2008. The bill was approved, 45-5.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

SB 1151, PN 1665 – The legislation amends the Municipalities Financial Recovery Act to create a new chapter that provides for fiscal emergencies and receivership for Cities of the Third Class.  The Senate concurred in House amendments, as amended by the Senate, by a vote of 37-13

SB 100, PN 1668 – This bill amends the Judicial Code, Title 42, and the Prisons and Parole Code, Title 61, to make changes relating to the powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing; provide for sanctions for probation violations; modify the eligibility requirements for alternative sentencing and pre-release programs; establish a comprehensive reentry program; and make criminal justice appropriations.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 397, PN 380 – This bill amends the Judicial Code, Title 42, to prohibit the imposition of the death penalty on a person with mental retardation.  A vote of 43-7 was recorded.

SB 834, PN 1669 – The legislation amends Title 16 (Counties), adding provisions for required fiscal security through bonding, blanket bonding and insuring of elected and appointed county officers and employees; providing for determining the form, amount and payment of premiums for and the filing and recording of the required security and for the subsequent issuance of official commissions; and making related repeals.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 850, PN 1582 – This bill amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure), in minors, providing for the offense of cyber bullying; in criminal history record information, further providing for expungement and for juvenile records; and, in relation to summary offenses, further providing for short title and purpose of chapter, for the scope of the Juvenile Act, for inspection of court files and records, for conduct of hearings and for right to counsel.  Senator Greenleaf offered amendment A5567 that is technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

 

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Joseph E. Brion, Esq., Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board

Monday, October 17, 2011

SB 100, PN 1329 (Greenleaf) – This legislation Amends the Judicial Code, Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, and the Prisons and Parole Code, Title 61, to make changes relating to the powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing; provide for sanctions for probation violations; modify the eligibility requirements for alternative sentencing and pre-release programs; establish a comprehensive reentry program; and make criminal justice appropriations.  Senator Greenleaf offered amendment A05494, which includes Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) to the list of statues that the bill amends; provides for further definition of “burglary”, its felony classification and exceptions; and provides for the adoption and administration of local rules.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 354, PN 1354 (Folmer) – This legislation creates the REAL ID Nonparticipating Act which would exempt Pennsylvania from participating in the Federal REAL ID law.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 367, PN 1581 (White, D.) – This bill is known as the “Indigenous Mineral Resources Development Act” and imposes certain powers on the Department of General Services and the State System of Higher Education (SSHE) when it comes to the development of minerals on state-owned land. Senator Don White offered amendment A05515, which is technical in nature. The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

HB 389, PN 353 (Watson) – This bill designates a bridge in Bucks County. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 449, PN 432 (Vance) – This legislation amends the Public School Code by establishing a child abuse recognition and reporting program, by consulting the Department of Education, within the Department of Public Welfare.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 743, PN 756 (Rafferty) – This legislation amends Section 1519 (relating to teaching of Safe Driving of Motor Vehicles) of the Public School Code of 1949 to provide an exemption from certification for driver education teachers. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 834, PN 852 (Eichelberger) – This act amends Title 16 (Counties) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, adding provisions for required fiscal security through bonding, blanket bonding and insuring of elected and appointed county officers and employees; providing for determining the form, amount and payment of premiums for and the filing and recording of the required security and for the subsequent issuance of official commissions; and making related repeals. Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A05249, which is technical in nature. The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

 

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nominations by a vote of 50-0:

David J. Allard, CHP, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Joseph T. Grice, D.C., State Board of Chiropractic

Kathleen G. McConnell, D.C., State Board of Chiropractic

Dr. Jonathan W. McCullough, State Board of Chiropractic

Mark H. Dambly, Board of Trustees of the Pennsylvania State University

Peter A. Khoury, Board of Trustees of the Pennsylvania State University

Joseph L. French, Ed.D., State Board of Psychology

The Honorable Mark S. Reese, Sheriff, Lancaster County

Debra Gentzler, Council of Trustees of Shippensburg University

S. Eugene Herritt, Council of Trustees of Shippensburg University

B. Michael Schaul, Council of Trustees of Shippensburg University

Glenn Martin, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

    

Wednesday September 28, 2011

Senate Bill 957 PN 1535(Tomlinson): The bill amends the Osteopathic Medical Practice Act by providing for the licensure of athletic trainers. The bill was unanimously approved.

Senate Bill 967 PN 1536(Tomlinson): The bill amends the Medical Practice Act by providing for the licensure of athletic trainers. The bill was unanimously approved.

Senate Bill 1167 PN 1604(Baker): Amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) providing for assignment of custody rights during military deployment. The bill was unanimously approved.

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

SB 281, PN 1583 – The bill amends the County Code (Act 130 of 1955) by increasing the threshold at which counties must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases. A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 282, PN 1584 – The bill amends the Third Class Cities Code (Act 317 of 1931) by increasing the threshold at which these cities must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 283, PN 1585 – The bill amends the Second Class Township Code (Act 69 of 1933) by increasing the threshold at which these townships must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 284, PN 1586 – The bill amends the First Class Township Code by increasing the threshold at which these townships must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 285, PN 1587 – The bill amends the Borough Code (Act 581 of 1965) by increasing the threshold at which these boroughs must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 286, PN 1588 – The bill amends the Incorporated Towns Contracts Act (Act 34 of 1953) by increasing the threshold at which these incorporated towns must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 287, PN 1589 – The bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) and Title 74 (Transportation) by increasing the threshold at which intergovernmental cooperation agreements, municipal authorities, parking authorities, and mass transit authorities must use competitive bidding and public advertising for purchases and contracts and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 288, PN 1590 – The bill amends the Second Class County Code by increasing the threshold at which second class counties must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 289, PN 1591 – The bill amends the Municipal Flood Improvement Law (Act 38 ½ of 1936 Special Session 1) by increasing the threshold for competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 290, PN 1592 – The bill amends the Political Subdivision Joint Purchases Law (Act 118of 1937) by increasing the threshold at which joint purchases by counties (other than first class counties), cities of the second and third class, boroughs, towns, townships, and school districts must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 291, PN 1593 – This bill amends Public Auditorium Authorities Law by increasing the threshold at which these must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 292, PN 1594 – This bill amends the “Flood Control Law” of 1936 (Special Session No. 46) to increase the dollar amount on work that would be required to be bid.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 293, PN 1595 – Amends the State Public School Building Authority Act to raise the level at which the competitive bidding process must occur in the award of contracts to $25,000.  Additionally, the bill would put in place an adjustment of these requirements based on the CPI cost of living index every five years.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 295, PN 1596 – This bill amends the Housing Authorities Law by increasing the dollar amount for contracts and purchases that are required to undergo the public bidding process.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 296, PN 1597 – Amends the School Code to raise the level at which the competitive bidding process must occur for construction contracts and the purchase of materials, supplies and equipment.  Additionally, the bill calls for an adjustment of these requirements based on the CPI cost of living index every five years.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 361, PN 1598 – The legislation amends the Vital Statistics Law by allowing certain records to be available to the public.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 1167, PN 1399 – Amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) providing for assignment of custody rights during military deployment. Senator Baker offered amendment A05243, which provided for clarification of the definitions of family members as it pertains to the bill. The amendment was agreed to and the bill went over as amended.

Monday, September 26, 2011

HB 9, PN 2179 – This bill amends Title 75, Vehicles, as it pertains to junior drivers and children as passengers.  A vote of 42-7 was recorded.

SB 281, PN 1553 – The bill amends the County Code (Act 130 of 1955) by increasing the threshold at which counties must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5173 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 282, PN 1554 – The bill amends the Third Class Cities Code (Act 317 of 1931) by increasing the threshold at which these cities must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5174 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 283, PN 1555 – The bill amends the Second Class Township Code (Act 69 of 1933) by increasing the threshold at which these townships must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A 5175 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 284, PN 1556 – The bill amends the First Class Township Code by increasing the threshold at which these townships must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5176 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 285, PN 1557 – The bill amends the Borough Code (Act 581 of 1965) by increasing the threshold at which these boroughs must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5177 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 286, PN 1558 – The bill amends the Incorporated Towns Contracts Act (Act 34 of 1953) by increasing the threshold at which these incorporated towns must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5178 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 287, PN 1559 – The bill amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) and Title 74 (Transportation) by increasing the threshold at which intergovernmental cooperation agreements, municipal authorities, parking authorities, and mass transit authorities must use competitive bidding and public advertising for purchases and contracts and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5179 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 288, PN 1560 – The bill amends the Second Class County Code by increasing the threshold at which second class counties must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5180 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 289, PN 1561 – The bill amends the Municipal Flood Improvement Law (Act 38 ½ of 1936 Special Session 1) by increasing the threshold for competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5181 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 290, PN 1562 – The bill amends the Political Subdivision Joint Purchases Law (Act 118of 1937) by increasing the threshold at which joint purchases by counties (other than first class counties), cities of the second and third class, boroughs, towns, townships, and school districts must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5182 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 291, PN 1563 – This bill amends Public Auditorium Authorities Law by increasing the threshold at which these must use competitive bidding and public advertising and providing for annual increases.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5183 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 292, PN 1564 – This bill amends the “Flood Control Law” of 1936 (Special Session No. 46) to increase the dollar amount on work that would be required to be bid. Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5184 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 293, PN 1565 – Amends the State Public School Building Authority Act to raise the level at which the competitive bidding process must occur in the award of contracts to $25,000.  Additionally, the bill would put in place an adjustment of these requirements based on the CPI cost of living index every five years.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5214 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 295, PN 1566 – This bill amends the Housing Authorities Law by increasing the dollar amount for contracts and purchases that are required to undergo the public bidding process.  Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A5186 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 296, PN 1567 – The legislation amends the School Code to raise the level at which the competitive bidding process must occur for construction contracts and the purchase of materials, supplies and equipment.  Additionally, the bill calls for an adjustment of these requirements based on the CPI cost of living index every five years.   Senator Eichelberger offered amendment A A5187 that was technical in nature.  Senator Costa also offered amendment A5241 that was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendments and the bill went over in its order.

SB 361, PN 342 – The legislation amends the Vital Statistics Law by allowing certain records to be available to the public.  Senator Robbins offered amendment A5212 makes it so that records can be become public after 105 years have elapsed from the date of birth instead of 100.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 725, PN 731 – This bill amends the Borough Code to eliminate the elective office of assessor in boroughs.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 726, PN 732 – The legislation would amend The First Class Township Code to eliminate the office of elected assessor.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 49-0:

Robert E. Graybill, V.M.D., Animal health and Diagnostic Commission

Hon. Eli N. Avila, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Charles C. Goodhart, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Lisa M. Hughes, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Hon. Michael Krancer, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Stephen M. Ostroff, M.D., Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Hon. Barry Schoch, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Hon. Allan C. Walker, Appalachian States Low-Level Radioactive Waste Commission

Joshua G. Parsons, Clerk of Courts – Lancaster County

John E. DeFinnis, D.D.S., State Board of Dentistry

Theresa A. Groody, State Board of Dentistry

Norman Dresher, Board of Trustees of Hamburg Center

Andrew E. Masich, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

Ann Moran, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

Richard M. Sand, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

Gregory J. Bittner, O.D., State Board of Optometry

Barbara B. Hassel, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing

Trudy Van Kirk Mosey, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing

Nanette M. Rodgers Wood, M.S., State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing

Clifford N. Steinig, D.O., State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing

William M. Mohler, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers & Salesperson

Aimee L. Tyson, Board of Trustees of Wernersville State Hospital

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

SB 162, PN 1568 – The bill amends the Breach of Personal Information Notification Act by requiring that a State agency, county, school district or municipality notify subjects of breaches of security of their system within seven days of discovery.  Furthermore, the Attorney General’s Office must be notified within three days when it occurs to a State agency or a district attorney when it occurs to a county, school district or municipality.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 1424, PN 1852 – This legislation establishes the Pennsylvania Preferred Act to provide for the registration, licensing and use of the Pennsylvania Preferred Trademark and establishes the Pennsylvania Preferred Trademark Licensing Fund.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

HB 378, PN 342 – This bill amends the Civil Service Act by requiring one member of the Civil Service Commission be a veteran.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

HB 712, PN 726 – This measure designates a portion of SR 997 in Franklin County as the Sgt. Edward W. Shaffer Memorial Highway.  A vote of 48-0 was recorded.

SB 162, PN 167 – The bill amends the Breach of Personal Information Notification Act by requiring that a State agency or political subdivision notify subjects of breaches of security of their system within seven days of discovery of the breach and to notify the Attorney General’s Office within three days. Senator Pileggi offered Amendment A5077 that adds notification of breaches for county, school districts and municipalities.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

SB 151, PN 1426 (Pileggi):  This legislation amends Pennsylvania’s “Air Pollution Control Act” (Act 95 of 1992) to further provide for the distribution of fines and penalties.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1696, PN 2260 (Saccone):  This legislation provides for a temporary moratorium of court-ordered countywide reassessments.  A vote of 38-11 was recorded.

HB 1727, PN 2192 (Adolph):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to the University of Pittsburgh.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1728, PN 2193 (Adolph):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Temple University.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1729, PN 2194 (Adolph):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Infectious Disease.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1730, PN 2195 (Adolph):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Lincoln University.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1731, PN 2222 (Adolph):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Penn State University and also directs moneys from the Agricultural College Land Script Fund be appropriated to Penn State University.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 66, PN 30 (Staback):  This legislation designates the bridge on SR1012 over the Lackawanna River in Archbald Borough, Lackawanna County as the Police Chief Thomas J. Malone Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 345, PN 300 (Petri):  This legislation designates bridge carrying SR 322 over the Shenango River in Jamestown Borough, Mercer County as the Staff Sergeant David M. Veverka Veterans Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 562, PN 2092 (Gillen):  This legislation amends the Agriculture Security Law of 1981 to provide the definition of contiguous acreage and nullifies the existing definition.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 917, PN 980 (Stern):  This legislation designates the bridge carrying SR 2014 over the Beaverdam Branch of the Juanita River in Hollidaysburg, Blair County as the Sgt. 1^st Class Daniel Lightner Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 960, PN 2258 (Gingrich):  This legislation amends the Public Welfare Code to provide for a fraud detection system, mandatory drug testing for public assistance individuals convicted of drug-related felonies, co-payment schedule for children enrolled in subsidized child care, inmate medical costs, expediting rulemaking authority among other aspects.  Senator Costa requested that his remarks from the previous session day – outlining the caucus’ concerns with this legislation – to be forwarded and noted in today’s records.  A vote of 35-15 was recorded as amended.

HB 1219, PN 1329 (Hess):  This legislation designates the bridge carrying SR 2011 over the East Branch of Sideling Hill Creek in Monroe Township, Bedford County as the Donald H. Clark Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1448, PN 1738 (Ross):  This legislation amends Act 566 of 1955 regarding the creation of the office of township manager in an incorporated town and further provide the duties.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1449, PN 1739 (Ross): This legislation amends theBorough Code §1141 and §1142 regarding the creation of and duties of the office of borough manager.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

HB 1549, PN 2221 (Masser):  This legislation amends the County Code to adjust the population thresholds of fifth and sixth class counties and further provide for the election of certain county officers in counties advancing from fifth to fourth class.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 101, PN 1427 (Smucker): This legislation amends the Sunshine Act to increase penalties for violations. A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 260, PN 1400 (Erickson): This legislation amends the Confidentiality of HIV-Related Information Act by allowing individuals to opt out of HIV testing and for documentation requirements.  A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 552, PN 1442 (Brubaker):  This legislation amends the Workforce Development Act by providing that the Department of Labor and Industry work with State and regional workforce and economic development agencies to identify industry clusters that will be targeted for workforce and economic development investments.  A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 419, PN 1405 (Tomlinson): This legislation amends the Board of Vehicles Act by allowing for the sale of motorcycles on Sundays. A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 907, PN 1452 (Browne):  This legislation amends the Fiscal Code adding the 2011-12 budget implementation language and making related repeals.  Senator Costa and other Democratic senators expressed concern and disappointment that no agreement on a Marcellus Shale impact fee was reached for inclusion into this legislation.  A concurrence vote of 33-17 was recorded.

SB 448, PN 1458 (Rafferty):  This legislation amends the Crimes Code provision relating to the purchase, consumption, possession or transportation of liquor or malt or brewed beverages by persons under the age of 21.  A concurrence vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 330, PN 1459 (Scarnati):  This legislation amends the Taxpayer Relief Act (Act 1 of Special Session 1 of 2006) by extends installment payment provisions for school taxes to small businesses and providing for public referendum.  Senator Costa stated his objection to the narrow manner in which the legislation was crafted, noting that it would limit the scope of the school district’s ability to address the problems that it faces.  A concurrence vote of 32-17 was recorded.

Executive Nominations

The Senate unanimously approved the following nomination:

Harris Gubernick, Board of Pardons

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

HB 67, PN 66:  This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) providing for the offense of greyhound race simulcasting.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 78, PN 2241:  This legislation would amend Title 30 (Fish) to increase the grading and penalty for the offense of homicide-by-watercraft while operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  A vote of 49-1 was recorded.

HB 960, PN 2048:  The legislation amends the Public Welfare Code by establishing a fraud detection system within the Department of Public Welfare for each county to identify, investigate and resolve potential cases of fraud prior to determining an applicant’s eligibility for assistance.  The bill also provides for inmate medical costs.  Senator Vance offered amendment A04619 which provides for welfare reform, hospital assessment, hospital payments, nursing homes, inmate medical costs, rulemaking authority and loophole premium.  A vote of 35-15 was recorded on the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SR 130, PN 1292: The resolution honors William Penn and Hannah Callowhill Penn and endorses the construction of a memorial to recognize their contributions to history on the Independence Mall in Philadelphia.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of50-0:

Jay H. Shah, Board of Trustees of Temple University

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

SB 1062, PN 1444 (Corman): This legislation appropriates the total sum of $66,189,000 from the State Gaming Fund and restricted revenue accounts with the State Gaming Fund to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Office of Attorney General for costs related to oversight of the gaming industry for FY 2011-12.   A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 326, PN 1387 (Corman):  This legislation amends the Vital Statistics Law of 1953 by requiring an issuance of a certificate of stillbirth for any fetal death upon the request of a parent.  A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 369, PN 1409 (D. White):  This legislation designates a series of highways in Clearfield County as a scenic byway by amending Title 74. A concurrence vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 1485, PN 2228 (Adolph):  This legislation is General the Appropriations bill for fiscal year 2011-12.  Democratic Senators – led by Senators Costa and Hughes – argued that they have been largely shut out of the budget process.  They noted that this budget was balanced at the expense of working families and students – giving large corporate tax breaks while cutting basic education, HEMAP and funding for the arts and environmental protection.  Democrats also noted that this budget should have included or been voted alongside a provision to assess a tax or fee on Marcellus Shale drilling activity.  Republican Senators argued that this budget was a fiscally-sound, responsible budget that allows the Commonwealth to operate within its means while not increasing taxes on Pennsylvanians.  Senator Corman went on to note that this is the type of budget that the Governor espoused when he was still a candidate.  Both caucuses voted along party lines.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded.

HB 463, PN 2226 (Brooks):  This legislation amends the State Lottery Law by providing for PACE and PACENET members who would have otherwise been disqualified for these programs based solely on Social Security cost-of-living increases.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1128, PN 1434 (Gordner):  This legislation amends the Pennsylvania Conservation Corps Act by transferring the Pennsylvania Conservation Corps (PCC) from the Department of Labor and Industry to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB1151, PN 1447 (Piccola):  This legislation amends the Municipalities Financial Recovery Act to provide new provisions that apply specifically to Cities of the Third Class including the establishment of a management board if a city fails to adopt the coordinator’s plan and a prohibition against filing for bankruptcy.  Senator Blake made several inquiries of Senator Piccola regarding protocol in the bill with regard to dealing cities which engage in Act 47 proceedings and also questioned the constitutional viability of this legislation.  A vote of 29-21 was recorded.

HB 15, PN 2223 (Christiana):  This legislation creates the PennWATCH Act.  This would allow public access to the details on how the Commonwealth is spending their tax dollars.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 38, PN 2224 (Caltagirone):  This legislation amends Title 42 to further provide for jurisdictional amounts in court filings related to the actual fees charged for those filings.  A vote of 41-9 was recorded.

HB 78, PN 912 (Benninghoff):  This legislation amends Title 30 (Fish) to increase the grading and penalty for the offense of homicide-by-watercraft while operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  Senator Wozniak introduced the agreed-to Amendment A04204, which would apply the principles and provisions of the Accelerated Rehabilitation Program to this legislation.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded. This bill went over as amended.

HB 488, PN 2225 (Hutchinson):  This legislation authorizes Venango County to convey a right-of-way over certain Project 70 lands in Oakland Township, Venango County, free of restrictions imposed by the Project 70 Land Acquisition and Borrowing Act; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to the County of Chester, certain lands located in East Vincent Township, Chester County; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to Ohiopyle Borough certain lands located in Ohiopyle Borough, Fayette County, in exchange for Ohiopyle Borough granting and conveying certain lands to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to East Norriton Township certain lands located in East Norriton Township, Montgomery County, in exchange for East Norriton Township’s granting and conveying certain lands to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to be added to the existing lands of the Norristown Farm Park; and authorizing East Norriton Township to convey the property it receives from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania pursuant to this act to Montgomery County for nominal consideration for public highway improvements; authorizing the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey to Kyle A. and Tamara J. Boltz; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to the County of Lackawanna Transit System Authority certain lands located in the City of Scranton, Lackawanna County, in exchange for a certain tract of land from COLTS located in the City of Scranton, Lackawanna County.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 589, PN 573 (Farry):  This legislation designates U.S. Route 1 in Bucks County as the Detective Christopher Jones Memorial Highway.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 870, PN 908 (Everett): This legislation amends the “Recreational Use of Land and Water Act” (Act 586 of 1965) to amend the definition of “recreational purpose.”  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 995, PN 1445 (Baker):  This legislation amends Title 35 (Health and Safety) by providing for emergency plans, GPS mapping, and signage for oil and gas wells.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 1336, PN 2091 (Godshall):  This legislation amends the Home Improvement Act by further providing for procedures for registration as a contractor and establishes a Home Improvement Account.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 1352, PN 2227 (Stephens):  This legislation represents the comprehensive omnibus school code provisions for the Fiscal Year 2011-2012. This includes an amendment adopted by the Senate Education Committee by a unanimous vote. The amendment included provisions relating to annual education funding (e.g., basic education funding distributions, accountability block grant, intermediate unit funding, etc…), legislation that has passed at least one chamber, the transfer of education-related provisions carried in the Fiscal Code for 2009-2010 and 2010-2011, technical clarifications and other policy provisions. A vote of 33-17 was recorded.

SB 1122, PN 1436 (Corman):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Penn State University and also directs moneys from the Agricultural College Land Script Fund be appropriated to Penn State University.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1123, PN 1437 (Corman):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to the University of Pittsburgh.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1124, PN 1438 (Corman): This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Temple University.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1125, PN 1439 (Corman):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Lincoln University.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1126, PN 1440 (Corman): This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Infectious Disease.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Monday, June 27, 2011

SB 1155, PN 1435 (Piccola):  This legislation amends the Municipalities Financial Recovery Act to provide new provisions that apply specifically to Cities of the Third Class including the establishment of a management board if a city fails to adopt the coordinator’s plan and a prohibition against filing for bankruptcy. Senator Piccola introduced Amendment 04412, which would re-apply this legislation to all Cities of the Third Class and makes a technical change in striking a reference to section 606 (which no longer exists).  Democratic Senators urged negative votes, citing that this amendment was a vast overreach of power.  Republican Senators argued that this amendment was a simple reinstating of the original provisions.  Senator Boscola inquired as to the status of Bethlehem (which lies in two counties) if it should apply for Act 47 status.  Senator Piccola noted that application would be the decision of the Department of Community and Economic development.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded. Senator Costa introduced Amendment A04396, which would restore provisions previously removed from this bill to conserve collective bargaining agreements until the contract agreement expires.  A vote of 20-30 was recorded.  Senator Fontana introduced Amendment A04404, which would remove the language authorizing the management board to remove members of the board and replace them with the Board’s own appointees.  A vote of 20-30 was recorded.  Senator Fontana introduced Amendment A04409, which would strike the language regarding that a city would be deemed as failed if it failed to adopt the provisions of the Act 47 report recommendations.  A vote of 20-30 was recorded.  The bill went over as amended.

SB 1122, PN 1436 (Corman):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Penn State University and also directs moneys from the Agricultural College Land Script Fund be appropriated to Penn State University.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded.  As non-preferred appropriation requiring a 2/3 vote, the bill failed.

SB 1123, PN 1437 (Corman):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to the University of Pittsburgh.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded.  As non-preferred appropriation requiring a 2/3 vote, the bill failed.

SB 1124, PN 1438 (Corman): This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Temple University.  Senator Costa argued that the Democrats have been largely shut out of negotiations. He stated that the GOP’s lack of inclusion and input – and uncertainty of the outstanding issues regarding the budget – have caused him to urge the caucus to oppose this legislation.  Senator Hughes echoed the Democratic Leader’s sentiments.  Senator Corman urged an affirmative vote, citing that the figures found in the non-preferred appropriation bills (SB 1122-1126) were the final allocations.  Senator Corman warned that if these bills are not passed by the summer recess, the State-Related Universities may be forced to wait to receive their appropriations until the autumn.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded.  As non-preferred appropriation requiring a 2/3 vote, the bill failed.

SB 1125, PN 1439 (Corman):  This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to Lincoln University.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded.  As non-preferred appropriation requiring a 2/3 vote, the bill failed.

SB 1126, PN 1440 (Corman): This legislation provides for the Commonwealth’s non-preferred appropriations to the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Center for Infectious Disease.  A vote of 30-20 was recorded. As non-preferred appropriation requiring a 2/3 vote, the bill failed.

HB 15, PN 2167 (Christiana):  This legislation creates the PennWATCH Act.  This would allow public access to the details on how the Commonwealth is spending their tax dollars.  Senator Stack introduced Amendment A04341, which would include bonuses as a part of the compensation to be reported for Commonwealth employees and affiliates. A vote of 50-0 was recorded. The bill went over as amended.

HB 38, PN 14 (Caltagirone):  This legislation amends Title 42 to further provide for jurisdictional amounts in court filings related to the actual fees charged for those filings. Senator Pileggi introduced Amendment A04208, which changes the expiry date of the surcharge to December 31, 2014.  A vote of 44-6 was recorded. The bill went over as amended.

HB 145, PN 85 (Marshall):  This legislation designates a portion of SR 18 in Beaver County as the “Vietnam Veterans of America Memorial Highway.”  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 396, PN 1525 (O’Neill):  This legislation amends §2506 of the Crimes Code, Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, relating to the offense of drug delivery resulting in death, to reduce the grading of the offense from murder of the third degree to a felony of the first degree, and §9714 of the Judicial Code, Title 42, relating to sentences for second and subsequent offenses, to add drug delivery resulting in death to the definition of “crime of violence.”  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 438, PN 615 (Harhart):  This legislation expands an existing designation of the “Battle of the Bulge Veterans Memorial Highway” in Northampton County to include Lehigh County.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 488, PN 2180 (Hutchinson):  This legislation authorizes Venango County to convey a right-of-way over certain Project 70 lands in Oakland Township, Venango County, free of restrictions imposed by the Project 70 Land Acquisition and Borrowing Act; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to the County of Chester, certain lands located in East Vincent Township, Chester County; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to Ohiopyle Borough certain lands located in Ohiopyle Borough, Fayette County, in exchange for Ohiopyle Borough granting and conveying certain lands to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to East Norriton Township certain lands located in East Norriton Township, Montgomery County, in exchange for East Norriton Township’s granting and conveying certain lands to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to be added to the existing lands of the Norristown Farm Park; and authorizing East Norriton Township to convey the property it receives from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania pursuant to this act to Montgomery County for nominal consideration for public highway improvements; authorizing the Department f Conservation and Natural Resources, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey to Kyle A. and Tamara J. Boltz; authorizes the Department of General Services to grant and convey to the County of Lackawanna Transit System Authority certain lands located in the City of Scranton, Lackawanna County, in exchange for a certain tract of land from COLTS located in the City of Scranton, Lackawanna County.  Senator McIlhinney introduced Amendment A04175, which strikes voidance language in the event that a conveyance is not executed prior to the deadline.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.  The bill went over as amended.

SB 638, PN 1390 (Ward):  This legislation amends the Public Welfare Code to provide for mileage reimbursement or paratransit services for individuals being treated for methadone addiction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 797, PN 966 (Farry):  This legislation amends the Workers’ Compensation Act by further defining the term “occupational disease” as cancer suffered by a firefighter under certain terms and goes into more details about compensation.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 995, PN 1391 (Baker):  This legislation amends Title 35 (Health and Safety) by providing for emergency plans, GPS mapping, and signage for oil and gas wells.  Senator Baker introduced Amendment A04177, which makes a small typographic change and provides a definition of “Unconventional Oil and Gas Wells” to the legislation. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.  The bill went over as amended.

HB 1173, PN 1279 (Killion):  This legislation amends Title 74, Transportation, authorizing Metropolitan Transportation Authorities (SEPTA) to raise revenues or reduce expenses through alternative means.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SR 57, PN 1397 (Wozniak): This resolution memorializes Congress to reauthorize a provision which would permit states to use toll credits as matching funds with Federal dollars to build highways such as the Appalachian Development Highway System.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

 

Executive Nominations

The Senate unanimously approved the following nominations:

Barry M. Berkowitz, State Board of Accountancy

Donald Burgard, C.P.A., State Board of Accountancy

Albert B. Melone, Jr., C.P.A., State Board of Accountancy

Erik V. Scully, C.P.A., State Board of Accountancy

Alfred L. Whitcomb, State Board of Accountancy

David J. Majernik, Architects Licensure Board

Donna Beaver Rovito, State Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers

Sarah C. Darling, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education

Bonnie L. Keener, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education

Jean Craige Pepper, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

William E. Tunke, O.T.R/L., State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators

Pamela A. Witmer, Public Utility Commission

Frederic M. Wentz, Esquire, State Transportation Commission

Sunday, June 26, 2011

SB 1122 (Corman): provides for the Commonwealth’s nonpreferred appropriation to the Pennsylvania State University for fiscal year 2011-2012. Sen. Corman offered A03769, which restored funding to 19%. The amendment was agreed to, 30-20. The bill went over as amended.

SB 1123 (Corman): provides for the Commonwealth’s nonpreferred appropriation to the University of Pittsburgh for fiscal year 2011-2012. Sen. Corman offered A03770, which restored funding to 19%. The amendment was agreed to, 30-20. The bill went over as amended.

SB 1124 (Corman): provides for the Commonwealth’s nonpreferred appropriation to Temple University for fiscal year 2011-2012. Sen. Corman offered A03771, which restored funding to 19%. The amendment was agreed to, 30-20. The bill went over as amended.

SB 1125 (Corman): provides for the Commonwealth’s nonpreferred appropriation to Lincoln University for fiscal year 2011-2012. Sen. Corman offered A03772, which restored funding to 19%. The amendment was agreed to, 30-20. The bill went over as amended.

SB 1126 (Corman): provides for the Commonwealth’s nonpreferred appropriation to the University of Pennsylvania for fiscal year 2011-2012. . Sen. Corman offered A03773, which restored funding to 19%. The amendment was agreed to, 30-20. The bill went over as amended.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

HB 144, PN 711: This legislation amends the PA Farmland and Forest Land Assessment Act, also known as Clean and Green, to provide for corrective language regarding when roll-back taxes are due when an oil or gas well is drilled on land enrolled in Clean and Green.

HB 143, PN 317:  The bill amends the PA Farmland and Forest Land Assessment Act (Clean and Green), to provide for certain surface mining activities on land enrolled in Clean and Green.  A vote of 47-3 was recorded.

HB 312, PN 267:  U.S. Route 62 in Mercer County would be designated the Mercer County Veterans Highway under this measure.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 386, PN 1040:  This legislation amends Act 130 of 1955, to abolish the office of Jury Commissioner in third through eight counties.  A vote of 34-16 was recorded.

HB 390, PN 354:  The bill designates Route 202 Parkway on SR 202 connecting SR 63 in Montgomery Township, Montgomery County, with SR 611 in Doylestown Township, Bucks County as the George A. Penglase Memorial Parkway.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 986, PN  1849:  This bill amends the State Lottery Law to keep the rate of return requirement for the PA Lottery at 27%.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1007, PN 1121:  The legislation amends Title 64 (Public Authorities and Quasi-Public Corporations) to provide that provisions of the First Industries Program do not sunset on June 30, 2011, but are extended through July 15, 2015.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1043, PN 1161:  The bill designates the bridge over Mill Lane on U.S. Route 15 in Lycoming Township, Lycoming County, as the Trooper Gary Rosenberger Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 1255, PN 1664:  The bridge crossing Marsh Creek on Business Route 15 joining Freedom Township and Cumberland Township in Adams County would be named the Wildlife Conservation Officer David L. Grove Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SR 148, PN 1394:  The resolution adopts the population data certified by the Legislative Reapportionment Commission for use in congressional redistricting legislation.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SR 151, PN 1402:  This resolution urges the U.S. Congress to reconsider the proposed establishment of the “National Museum of the United States Army” in the current chosen site of Fort Belvoir, VA and construct this facility in Carlisle, PA.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Hon. Gary Alexander, Secretary of Public Welfare

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Senate Bill 200 PN 1403 (Browne): requires the Department of Health and the Department of Education to develop and post on their Internet websites guidelines and other relevant materials to educate students participating in athletics and their parents or guardians and coaches about the nature and risk of concussion and head injury, including risks associated with continuing to play or practice after an injury. The bill was unanimously approved.

House Bill 385 PN 349 (Boback): This legislation adopts the Honor and Remember Flag, created by Honor and Remember, Inc., as the Commonwealth’s emblem of service and sacrifice of the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have given their lives in the line of duty. The bill requires the Department of General Services (DGS) to arrange and permanently place the Honor and Remember Flag on the grounds of the State Capitol at Soldiers’ Grove. The bill was approved 49-1.

House Bill 440 PN 2084 (Mustio): Amends the Workers’ Compensation Act of 1915 to add a new section which would authorize insurers to voluntarily provide workers’ compensation coverage to sole proprietors, partners in partnerships, and members of LLCs. The bill was unanimously approved.

Senate Bill 458 PN 1299 (Dinniman): This bill would remove any language in the act using the term “mental retardation” and replace it with “intellectual disability.”  The bill was unanimously approved.

Senate Resolution 10 (Folmer): A Resolution establishing principles for technology strategies and broadband mobilization and maximizing Federal and State money for implementing these strategies. The resolution was unanimously approved.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were unanimously approved:

Julia K. Hearthway, Esq., Secretary of Labor & Industry
Lynda J. Bowman, Milk Marketing Board

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

HB 148, PN 2144: The bill amends the Liquor Code (Act 21 of 1951) by adding definitions making happy hour times more flexible, and provides for the creation of a new off-premises catering license. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 200, PN 1332:  This bill establishes standards for the management of concussions and traumatic brain injuries to student athletes involved in interscholastic sporting competitions or other athletic events.  Senator Costa offered amendment A03517 which was agreed to.  The bill went over in its order.

SB 388, PN 1388:  The bill amends the Dental Law providing for professional liability insurance by adding a new section for Professional Liability Insurance.  Senator Vance offered amendment A03320 which is clarifying language.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 800, PN 1324:  The legislation amends the Race Horse Industry Reform Act to provide that not more than two of the commission’s three members shall reside in the same county at the time of the appointment. Senator Wozniak offered amendment A03513 which grants the Harness Racing Commission one more license.  A vote of 16-34 was recorded on the amendment and the amendment failed.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1127, PN 1317:  This legislation amends the Pennsylvania Public School Code of 1949 to prohibit lame duck school boards from voting or taking other official action.  A vote of 33-17 was recorded.

SB 1131, PN 1389:  This bill amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) relating to comparative negligence, specifying when joint and several liability applies to the recovery of damages in a civil action.  A vote of 32-18 was recorded.

Monday, June 20, 2011

HB 40, PN 1038:  The bill amends Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) relating to the use of force in self-protection and the protection of others; provides protection from civil liability for the lawful use of force; amends a provision of the Crimes Code relating to the grading of theft offenses for stolen firearms; and clarifies laws regarding the possession and transportation of firearms.  A vote of 45-5 was recorded.

HB 373, PN 338:  This legislation amends the Borough Code to allow for the sale of personal property by online or electric auction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

HB 374, PN 713:  This legislation amends Act 34 of 1953 relating to Incorporated Towns to allow for the sale of personal property by online or electric auction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 388, PN 1290:  The bill amends the Dental Law providing for professional liability insurance by adding a new section for Professional Liability Insurance.  Senator Vance offered amendment A03320 which is clarifying language.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 1131, PN 1322:  This bill amends Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) relating to comparative negligence, specifying when joint and several liability applies to the recovery of damages in a civil action.  Senator Corman offered amendment A03169 which would take away the exemptions that are currently in the bill. A vote of 28-22 was recorded on the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Eric M. Lehmayer, State Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers

Karie M. Davies, State Board of Cosmetology

Wendy Lee Farrell, State Board of Cosmetology

Elaine M. Gowaty, State Board of Cosmetology

Wendy Rieland, State Board of Cosmetology

Bernard A. Labuskes, Jr., Esq., Environmental Hearing Board

Andrew J. Behnke, M.D., F.A.C.E., State Board of Medicine

John J. Kroll, Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority

Hon. Robert C. Wonderling, Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority

Hon. Katie True, Commissioner of Professional and Occupational Affairs

Kenneth Lawrence, Jr., State Charter School Appeal Board

Angela Marks, State Charter School Appeal Board

Lee Ann Munger, State Charter School Appeal Board

Mitchell J. Yanyanin, State Charter School Appeal Board

Friday, June 17, 2011

SB 1030, PN 1365:  The legislation amends the Unemployment Compensation Law by increasing the amount of credit weeks a claimant must have to be eligible for unemployment compensation benefits as well as the payment threshold.  The bill also requires that an employee must be making an active search for employment as well as register into the PA CareerLink System in order to receive unemployment benefits.  Furthermore, the bill increases the Commonwealth’s look-back period from two to three years allowing for extended unemployment benefits through 2011 among other aspects.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

SB 1006 PN 1304(Vogel): The bill amends the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act by adding subclasses to include Salvia Divinorum, Salvinorin A, Divinorin A, synthetic marijuana, synthetic cocaine/heroin and 2C as Schedule I controlled substances. The Senate concurred in house amendments by a vote of 50-0.

SB 1086 PN 1333 (Piccola): This legislation amends the Library Code by establishing a new section (State-aid for 2011-2012) to provide for the distribution of State-aid to libraries in Fiscal Year 2011-2012. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 828, PN 846:  (Robbins) The bill amends the First Class Township Code by providing for a township manager.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 829, PN 847: (Robbins) The bill amends the Second Class Township Code by providing for a township manager.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 830, PN 848:  (Robbins) The bill amends theThird Class City Code by creating the office of City Administrator or Manager of and duties of the office of manager.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 831 PN 849(Robbins): The legislation amends the Borough Code by clarifying that a borough may create and abolish the office of a borough manager, and that the borough council may hire and replace, at its pleasure, the person holding that position. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 832 PN 850(Robbins): This legislation amends Act 566 of 1955  (Incorporated Towns) by clarifying that a town may create and abolish the office of a town manager, and that the town council may hire and replace, at its pleasure, the person holding that position. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1096 PN 1081(D. White): The bill amends the Insurance Company Law relating to the regulation of surplus lines insurance and independently procured insurance. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 1097 PN 1279(D.White): This bill amends the Insurance Company Law by making consistent with the NRRA reforms and also to allow the Commonwealth to collect tax on 100% of the premium when Pennsylvania is the home State of the insured. A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

SB 1062 PN 1325 (Corman): An Act making appropriations from the restricted revenue accounts within the State Gaming Fund and from the State Gaming Fund to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Attorney General for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2011. This bill was unanimously approved.

HB 442 PN 2083 (Helm): An Act amending Title 68 (Real and Personal Property) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, prohibiting private transfer fee obligations; and providing for notice and disclosure of existing private transfer fee obligations. This bill was unanimously approved.

SB 732 PN 1326 (Vance): An Act regulating certain facilities which perform abortions; imposing powers and duties on the Department of Health, the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee and the Legislative Reference Bureau; and imposing penalties. This bill was approved 38-12.

Monday, June 13, 2011

SB 1062, PN 1198 (Corman): Appropriates the total sum of $66,189,000 from the State Gaming Fund and restricted revenue accounts with the State Gaming Fund to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, the Department of Revenue, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Office of Attorney General for costs related to oversight of the gaming industry. Senator Earll offered Amendment A02873, which would reduce the appropriation on the PA State Police to $16.8 Million and reduce the appropriation of PA Gaming Control Board to $35.5 Million. The amendment was adopted 45-5. The bill is over as amended

HB 442, PN 1750 (Helm): Amends Title 68 (Real and Personal Property) to prohibit the imposition of private transfer fees, require disclosure of existing private transfer fees and provide liability for violation. Senator Fontana offered Amendment A02976, which was agreed to. The bill is over as amended.

SB 704, PN 685 (Gordner): Increases the number of members on the State Tax Equalization Board (STEB) from three members to five. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 732, PN 1310 (Vance): Creates the Department of Health Abortion Facility Oversight Act which will grant the Department of Health the ability to regulate certain facilities performing abortions. Senator Vance offered Amendment A02879, which would require the Legislative Budget & Finance Committee to study the fiscal impact of applying 28 Pa. Code Pt. IV Subpt. F (relating to ambulatory surgical facilities) to existing abortion facilities that currently perform abortions under 28 Pa. Code Pt. IV Subpt. F. The amendment was adopted 31-19. The bill will go over as amended.

SR100 PN 1134 (Pileggi): The Resolution adopting a temporary rule of the Senate relating solely to amendments to the General Appropriation Bill and other appropriation bills for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011, including any amendments offered to or for supplemental appropriations for prior fiscal years. Any amendment offered on the floor of the Senate to the General Appropriation Bill or other General Fund or special fund appropriation bills hat proposes spending from the General Fund or any special fund for the Commonwealth 2011-2012 fiscal year, or any prior fiscal year, at a level different from the amount contained in the 2011-2012 Budget as reported from the Appropriations Committee shall not be in order and may not be considered unless the same amendment, or any “statement of intent” appended thereto, contains sufficient line-item reductions to the 2011-2012 Budget so that the amendment offered does not result in a net increase in the total spending from the General Fund or any special fund contained within such budget. The Resolution was adopted 30-20.

Executive Nominations

The Senate unanimously approved the following nominations:

Laura E. Ellsworth, Esquire, Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts
Jeffrey W. Gabel, Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts
Gayle Isa, Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts
William Lehr, Jr., Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts
Jen Holman Zaborney, Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts
Richard J. Allan, Secretary of Conservation and Natural Resources
John A. Barbour, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Karen Dougherty Buchholz, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Susan Corbett, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
William V. Lewis, Jr., Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Frederick C. Powell, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Richard M. Sand, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
Robert E. Ames, State Board of Nursing

Wednesday, June 08, 2011

SB 314 PN 1295 (Tomlinson): Amends Title 75, Vehicle Code, pertaining to electronic wireless communications devices. The bill was approved 41-8.

SB 366 PN 351 (D. White): Amends the Board of Vehicles Act, further providing for definitions, for licensure and for State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers and Salespersons. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 732 PN 1185 (Vance): Creates the Department of Health Abortion Facility Oversight Act which will grant the Department of Health the ability to regulate certain facilities performing abortions. Senator Mensch offered Amendment A02643, which adds some findings and increases fines for operating without license. It also would insert a section on setting of fees and disposition of fees. The amendment was approved 41-9. Senator Vance offered Amendment A0293 which increases to 14 weeks from 9 to Sen. Mensch’s amendment.  The amendment to the amendment was defeated 20-29. Senator Ferlo offered Amendment A02129 which, which would require the department to conduct inspections so that patient care is not delayed or disrupted and would not jeopardize patient safety and privacy. The amendment was agreed to. The bill went over as amended.

SB 815 PN 833 (Baker): Adds in §6311 of Title 42 that a child who is alleged to be delinquent may appear with counsel at the intake conference conducted by a juvenile probation office following the submission of a written allegation. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 816 PN 834 (Baker): Adds the duty of advocacy to the establishment of the Office of Victim Advocate. As a part of the powers and duties of victim advocate, the bill adds government officials to the list of who the Office can advocate to. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 817 PN 1042 (Baker): Creates §6336.2 Use of restraints on juveniles during court proceedings. Restraints such as handcuffs, chains, shackles, irons or straitjackets are to be removed prior to a court proceeding. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 818 PN 836 (Baker): Adds subsection (c) requiring statement of reasons. This would require the court to state the reasons for its disposition on the record in open court along with the goals, terms and conditions of that disposition. The bill was unanimously approved.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

SB 3, PN 1286:  This legislation prohibits health insurance policies sold through the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange from covering elective abortions.  A vote of 37-12 was recorded.

SB 227, PN 991:  The legislation amends the Public Welfare Code by requiring proof of general liability insurance when applying for a registration certificate as well as the posting and providing in writing certain records at a family day care home.  The bill also provides for emergency closure of family day care homes.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 314, PN 1287:  The bill adds a section to Vehicle Code (Title 75) that prohibits the operation of a moving vehicle on a highway while using a wireless communication device to send, read or write a text message.  Senator Ferlo offered amendment A02712 which would make it a primary offense to send, read or write a text.  A vote of 36-13 was recorded on the amendment.  The bill went over as amended.

SB 389, PN 1200: This legislation amends the Public School Code by defining vocational agricultural education.  Senator Wozniak offered amendment A02555 which would base the “as be” formula by county instead of by school district.  After some discussion, Senator Wozniak agreed to withdraw the amendment.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded on the bill.

SR 32, PN 1284:  This resolution provides the general operating rules for the Senate.  A vote fo 49-0 was recorded.

SR 33, PN 1285:  The resolution provides for the adoption of Financial Operating Rules of the Senate and repeals SR 2 of 2011.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

Monday, June 6, 2011

SB1055, PN1191 (Corman): Appropriates the Governor’s requested amount to fund the administrative costs of the State Employees Retirement System (SERS) for the 2011-12 fiscal year. The bill would appropriate $27,320,000 for the general government operations of SERS.  This appropriation is at the Governor’s requested amount contained in his March budget proposal. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1056, PN 1192 (Corman): Appropriates the Governor’s requested amount to fund the administrative costs of the Public School Retirement System (PSERS) for the 2011-12 fiscal year. The bill would appropriate $44,107,000 for the general government operations of PSERS.  This appropriation is at the Governor’s requested amount contained in his March budget proposal. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1057, PN 1193(Corman): Makes an appropriation from the Professional Licensure Augmentation Account and from restricted revenue accounts within the General Fund to the Department of State for operations. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1058, PN 1194 (Corman): Appropriates funds from the Workmen’s Compensation Administration Fund to the Department of Labor and Industry for expenses necessary to administer the Workers’ Compensation Act and the Pennsylvania Occupational Disease Act.. The bill was unanimously approved

SB 1059, PN 1195 (Corman): Appropriates $58,898,000 in state funds from a restricted revenue account within the General Fund.  The total of $3,900,000 in federal funds is appropriated as follows: $1,501,000 for natural gas pipeline safety, $1,888,000 for motor carrier safety, and $511,000 under ARRA for electric regulatory assistance. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1060, PN 1196 (Corman):Appropriates $5,189,000 from a restricted revenue account within the General Fund to the Office of Consumer Advocate (OCA) in the Office of Attorney General.  The funding for the OCA comes from the assessment on utilities regulated by the PUC. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1061, PN 1197 (Corman): Appropriates $1,092,000 to the Office of Small Business Advocate in the Department of Community and Economic Development to provide for the operation of that office for Fiscal Year 2011-12. This bill was approved 48-1.

SB 3, PN 218 (D. White): Prohibits health insurance policies sold through the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange from covering elective abortions. Senator Leach offered Amendment A02629, which adds an exclusion to not apply to a qualified health plan offered in PA through a health insurance exchange. This amendment was defeated 16-33. Sen. McIlhinney offered Amendment A02560, which includes treatment of any miscarriage or complication related to a miscarriage. This amendment was approved 49-0 and the bill will be over as amended.

SB 263, PN 240 (Erickson): Amends the statute that created the Independent Regulatory Review Commission. It adds a definition of ‘acceptable data’ and defines it as “Empirical, replicable and testable data as evidenced in supporting documentation, statistics, reports, studies or research.” This legislation would also require a detailed explanation of any data, which is included in proposed regulations. This explanation would need to include how the data was obtained and why the data is acceptable. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 314, PN 1208 (Tomlinson): Adds a section to Vehicle Code that prohibits the operation of a moving vehicle on a highway while using a wireless communication device to send, read or write a text message.  Senator Tomlinson offered Amendment A02372, which clarifies interactive hands free mode communications mode. The amendment was unanimously adopted. Senator Rafferty offered Amendment A02589, which clarifies primary offense for no seat belt under the age of 18 and no hands free-mode for the violation. The amendment was approved 46-3. The bill went over as amended.

SB 460, PN 1163 (Yaw): Amends Act 60 of 1979 that deals with Oil and Gas Leases. The bill would require that whenever payment is made for oil or gas production to an interest owner, certain information shall be included on the check stub or on an attachment, such as the lease identification number and the total barrels of oil or MCF of gas purchased. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 1054, PN 1190 (Corman): Provides for the Capital Budget Act of 2011-2012. The bill specifies the maximum principal amount of additional debt to be incurred during the 2011-2012 fiscal year for capital projects itemized in a capital projects itemization bill. The bill was unanimously approved.

Executive Nominations

The Senate unanimously approved the following nominations:

Donald R. Yost, State Board of Barber Examiners
Paulette A. Burnside, State Board of Crane Operators
Jason C. Giurintano, State Board of Crane Operators
Ronald G. Henry, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission
Roger W. Richards, Erie County Convention Center Authority
Timothy R. Thyreen, Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance
Kimberly D. Cobaugh, State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators
Robert DeJesus, M.D., State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators
Margaret Davison Matisko, State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators
William B. McIlwaine, Ed.D., State Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators
Michael F. Brinkash, PLS, State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
Robert E. Garlitz, PLS, State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
Thomas D. Gillespie, P.G., State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
David Pennoni, P.E., State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
Carol D. Sides, State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
James J. Szalankiewicz, PE, State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyor
Theresa A. Craley, State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors
Jennifer Easter, MBA, MPH, State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors
Jeane Violon Singer, PhD, State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language & Hearing

 

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

SB 1030, PN 1239 (Gordner): Amends the Unemployment Compensation Law. The bill adds Section 302.1 which specifies the provisions by which employers are granted relief from charges for benefits that were awarded to ineligible claimants. Sen. Boscola offered Amendment A02416, which would not accept debit cards or benefit cards issued by a federal or state government agency for unemployment compensation benefits. The amendment failed 13-36. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 9, PN 1240 (Scarnati): Requires identification of lawful presence in the United States as a prerequisite to the receipt of public benefits. The bill also requires the person to execute an affidavit stating that the person is a United States citizen, legal permanent resident or otherwise lawfully present in the United States. The bill was approved 40-9.

SB 27, PN 1241 (Greenleaf): Amends what is commonly referred to as the Puppy Lemon Law. The bill makes changes to the current law about sick animals and extends time periods to report illnesses based on recommendations by the Office of the Attorney General who is charged with administering the law. The bill was approved unanimously.

HB 218, PN 168 (Saylor): Designates State Route 462 in West Manchester Township, York County, from its intersection with U.S. Route 30 to its intersection with State Route 24 in Springettsbury Township, as the Korean War Veterans Memorial Highway. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 328, PN 305 (Dinniman): Adds section 1338.1 to provide for the restoration of operating privileges prior to the expiration of the statutory suspension period.  Operating privileges shall be restored prior to the expiration of the period of suspension upon receipt of a certified record from the court. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 450, PN 433 (D. White): Amends Title 30 (Fish) to provide for the terms of office for members of the Fish and Boat Commission. This legislation removes the 6-month language, and would allow a sitting Commissioner to continue his term beyond eight years until a successor is appointed. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 566, PN 1032 (Solobay): The Donora-Monessen Bridge carrying the C. Vance Deicas Memorial Highway (S.R. 1077) over the Monongahela River will be named the “Stan the Man Musial Bridge.”  The bridge connects Washington County (Donora) and Westmoreland County (Monessen).The Department of Transportation will place the appropriate signs in both directions on the bridge. The bill was approved unanimously.

SB 637, PN 1242 (Ward): Amends Title 62 (Procurement) by requiring that, as a precondition for a contract award for a state project, contractors must submit a statement to the applicable state agency affirming that they have verified the Social Security numbers of employees of the contractor or subcontractors. The bill was approved 42-7.

SB 907, PN 1243 (Browne): Amends §1732-A of the Fiscal Code to extend the expiration date of the provisions governing the authority of the State Workers’ Insurance Board to invest money. It extends the expiration date of the provisions governing the authority of the State Workers’ Insurance Board to invest money. The bill was approved unanimously.

Monday, May 23, 2011

SB 9, PN 152:  This bill requires that individuals prove that they are legal residents of the United States before receiving public benefits.  Senator Scarnati offered amendment A02350 which adds exemptions for older adults and clarifies applicability to the law.  Senator Ferlo also offered amendment A02020 that was technical in nature.  Senator Washington offered amendment A02399 which provides for the victims of domestic violence.  Senator Kitchen offered amendment A02032 that clarifies the exemption for programs for women and children.  Furthermore, Senator Leach offered amendment A02394 which provides an additional exemption for people dealing with human trafficking.  Senator Stack offered amendment A02028 that adds the definition affidavit.  Finally, Senator Solobay offered amendment A02030 which includes National Guard Members’ ID as a valid ID.  All of the amendments were agreed to and the bill went over in its order.

SB 27, PN 1041:  This legislation amends the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law dealing with the section commonly referred to as the Lemon Puppy Law.  Senator Greenleaf offered amendment A02233 which was technical in nature.  The senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 104, PN 1214:  This legislation amends the Fiscal Code to provide for the use of state owned vehicles.  The Department of General Services shall post and maintain on its website a list of vehicles assigned to agency motor pools, state employees, contract employees, independent contractors and the temporary fleet.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 151, PN 125:  This bill amends Pennsylvania’s “Air Pollution Control Act” (Act 95 of 1992) to further provide for the distribution of fines and penalties.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 326, PN 1176: The legislation amends the Vital Statics Law of 1953 by requiring an issuance of a certificate of stillbirth for any fetal death upon the request of a parent.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 448, PN 431:  The bill amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) provision relating to the purchase, consumption, possession or transportation of liquor or malt or brewed beverages by persons under the age of 21.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 637, PN 992:  The bill amends Title 62 (Procurement) by requiring public work contractors or subcontractors to verify employment eligibility for employees.  Senator Ward offered amendment A02363 which removes some “Commonwealth agency” and replaces it with “public body.”   The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 907, PN 943: This bill amends the Fiscal Code by extending the expiration date of the provisions governing the authority of the State Workers’ Insurance Board to invest money.  Senator Browne offered amendment A02304 that changes the amount of the State Workers’ Insurance Fund assets.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Stephen J. Harmelin, Esq., Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts

Justin Laing, Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts

James A. West, Jr., Commonwealth of PA Council on the Arts

Hon. Tony L. Phillips, Controller – Northumberland County

Ronald G. Henry, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education

Robert S. Taylor, Esq., Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education

Hon. Paula M. Palmer, Prothonotary and Clerks of Courts – Venango County

Joseph Szafran, Recorder of Deeds – Bucks County

Hon. Kevin P. Gilroy, Treasurer – Northumberland County

Linda L. Kelly, Attorney General

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

SB 104, PN 1187:  This legislation amends the fiscal code to provide for the use of state owned vehicles.  Senator Boscola offered amendment A02143 which deals with reporting to the department.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over in its order.

SB 468, PN 723:  This bill amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to allow for special registration plates for recipients of certain Medals.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 612, PN 1209:  This legislation amends the Public School Code by adding economic reasons as part of a plan to reduce or control school district costs as a permitted reason for furloughing teachers.   A vote of 38-12 was recorded.

SB 631, PN 1033:  The bill designates the section of State Route 23 between the Chester County Border with Montgomery County and State Route 100 as the Medal of Honor Grove Highway.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 728, PN 734:  The bill designated the bridge located on I-99 at mile marker 19 in Freedom Township, Blair County as the Cpl. Harry Raymond Harr Memorial Bridge.  The bridge passes over old State Route 220 near the Greenfield Township line.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Jeffrey F. Smith, Esq., Board of Claims

Wallace H. Nunn, State Employees’ Retirement Board

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Senate Bill 330 PN 980 (Scarnati): This legislation requires that a school board adopt a resolution to authorize the collection and payment of school real property taxes from small business owners in installments. The bill was approved unanimously.

Senate Bill 612 PN 1188 (Folmer): Amends the Act of March 10, 1949 (P.L. 30, No. 10), known as the Public School Code of 1949 for the suspension of teachers due to economic reasons. Sen. Piccola offered Amendment A02144, which would allow for suspension of a teacher for consecutive unsatisfactory performance ratings; deliver a written report of its findings including recommendations for changes, and others. The amendment was adopted (49-1) and the bill went over as amended.

Senate Bill 791 PN 821(Earll): Repeals section 2502.49 (relating to Accountability to Commonwealth Taxpayers) of the Public School Code of 1949. This section applied to the 2008-2009 basic education funding increases. The bill was approved unanimously.

Senate Bill 857 PN 882(Smucker): Amends section 1003 (relating to Eligibility) of Article X (relating to district and assistant superintendents) of the Act of March 10, 1949 (P.L. 30, No. 10), known as the Public School Code of 1949. The bill was approved 48-2.

Senate Bill 858 PN 977(Waugh): Amends section 1003 (relating to Eligibility) of Article X (relating to district and assistant superintendents) of the Act of March 10, 1949 (P.L. 30, No. 10), known as the Public School Code of 1949. The bill was approved 35-15.

Senate Bill 872 PN 956(Brubaker): Removes the requirement for school entities seeking grants under the Department of Education’s Concurrent Enrollment (a/k/a Dual Enrollment) program to have a concurrent enrollment committee. Sen. Wozniak offered Amendment A02122, which would insert a school district efficiency and consolidation section. It would consolidate school districts in Pennsylvania. The amendment failed 13-37. Sen. Wozniak offered Amendment A02084, which would allow for 1 county wide, superintendents, financial accounting, vendors, etc. It would allow for schools to stay as they are. The amendment failed 18-32. The bill was approved unanimously.

Senate Bill 1006 PN 1120(Vogel): The legislation adds to Schedule I Salvinorin A and Divinorin A which are the chemical compositions for Salvia Divinorum, which is also added to the list.  The chemical compounds for synthetic marijuana and synthetic cocaine and heroin (also known as concentrated bath salts) are added as well. The bill was approved unanimously.

Monday, May 9, 2011

SB 224, PN 1169:  The bill amends the Public School Code by expanding the list of convicted offenses that prohibit a person from being employed in a public or private school, intermediate unit or area vocational-technical school.  The bill also requires school employees to report convictions for criminal offenses immediately to school administrators.  Senator Kitchen offered amendment A01955 which reduces sentences for crimes.  The amendment was defeated by a vote of 17-32.  A vote of 47-2 was recorded on the bill.

SB 104, PN 87:  This legislation amends the fiscal code to provide for the use of state owned vehicles.  Senator Folmer offered amendment A2048 which includes all state agencies and clarifies by posting on its internet website.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded on the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 552, PN 619:  The legislation amends the Workforce Development Act by providing that the Department of Labor and Industry work with State and regional workforce and economic development agencies to identify industry clusters that will be targeted for workforce and economic development investments.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 612, PN 1033:  The bill amends the Public School Code by allowing school entities to make the determination of which employees to furlough using a number of factors.  Senator Piccola offered amendment A1990 which would allow administrative staff to be furloughed.  A vote of 46-3 was recorded on the amendment. Senator Boscola requested that the five administrative staff positions that would be exempt under the Piccola amendment would be removed from the amendment.  A passing vote of 30-19 was recorded on the amendment.  Senator Blake also offered amendment A2037 which specifies conditions of when furloughs may occur.  The amendment was defeated by a vote of 23-26.  The bill went over as amended.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 49-0:

Hon. Karen Bishop, Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts & Clerk of Orphans’ Court – Wyoming County

Hon. Christie L. Krzysiak, Treasurer- Crawford County

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

SB 419, PN 405: The bill amends the Board of Vehicles Act by allowing for the sale of motorcycles on Sundays.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

SB 5, PN 989:  The legislation establishes the Community-Based Health Care (CHC) Program in the Department of Health to provide grants to community-based health care clinics.  The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 224, PN 193:  Eliminates the five year prohibition from working with a public school for a person convicted of certain criminal offenses enumerated in the law in order to allow older convictions to prohibit employment. Senator Piccola offered Amendment A01777, which was a technical amendment was adopted.

SB 109, PN 1106:  The legislation provides for public notification when Commonwealth agencies pay for advertising.  The bill was unanimously approved.

Executive Nominations

The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 50-0:

Major General Wesley E. Craig, Adjutant General of Pennsylvania

Brian M. Duke, Secretary of Aging

George D. Greig, Secretary of Agriculture

Glenn Moyer, Secretary of Banking

Hon. John Wetzel, Secretary of Corrections

Hon. Eli Avila, Secretary of Health

Hon. Daniel Meuser, Secretary of Revenue

Monday, May 2, 2011

SB 58, PN 43:  This bill would establish the Sexual Violence Victim Protection Act that authorizes a victim of sexual violence to petition the court for relief requesting protection from a defendant.   A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 274, PN 250:  The legislation allows for the transfer of a permit between a licensed mentor hunter and a youth hunter who is participating in the mentored hunting program.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 343, PN 335:  This legislation amends the Public School Code by adding to address the collection of personally identifying student information from institutions of higher education.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

SB 260, PN 237:  The legislation amends the Confidentiality of HIV-Related Information Act by allowing individuals to opt out of HIV testing and for documentation requirements.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 745, PN 744:  This bill amends the Rail Freight Preservation and Improvement Act (Act 119 of 1984) to add broadening language as it pertains to grant work.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Tuesday April 26, 2011

Senate Bill 101 PN 153 (Smucker): The legislation amends the Sunshine Act to increase penalties for violations. The legislation was approved 48-2.

Senate Bill 105 PN 982 (Browne): Establishes the Pennsylvania Web Accountability and Transparency Act, or PennWATCH. The legislation provides for the establishment of a searchable budget database-driven Internet website detailing certain information concerning taxpayer (i.e. state) expenditures and investments. The legislation was approved unanimously.

Senate Bill 916 PN 949 (McIlhinney): Amends the Election code by adopting voting standards developed by the Voting Standards Development Board to all elections in 2011 and 2012. The legislation was approved unanimously.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were unanimously confirmed:

The Honorable Carol Aichele, Secretary of the Commonwealth

The Honorable Ronald J. Tomalis, Secretary of Education

The Honorable Michael Krancer, Secretary of Environmental Protection

The Honorable Michael F. Consedine, Insurance Commissioner of Pennsylvania

The following nominee was confirmed 30-20:

Eileen Whalon Behr, Sheriff, Montgomery County

Tuesday, April 13, 2011

SB 357, PN 347: This legislation amends the Borough Code to allow for the sale of personal property by online or electric auction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 358, PN 348:  This legislation amends the First Class Township Code to allow for the sale of personal property by online or electric auction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 359, PN 349:  This legislation amends Act 34 of 1953 relating to Incorporated Towns to allow for the sale of personal property by online or electric auction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 360, PN 350:  This legislation amends the Third Class City Code to allow for the sale of personal property by online or electric auction.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Tuesday April 12, 2011

Senate Bill 377 PN 1520 (Everett): Amends the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) to add provisions related to manufactured housing and log walls of residential structures. The bill also revises the process by which the latest triennial revisions of the UCC are reviewed and adopted by the UCC Review and Advisory Council (RAC). The bill removes the requirement for the installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems in residential structures but requires the use of increased floor standards in homes without sprinkler systems. The bill also removes the wall bracing requirements of the 2009 International Residential Code (IRC). The bill was approved 33-17.

The following amendments failed on the floor:

A01436 (Tartaglione):  This amendment permits subcontractors in the nonresidential construction industry to serve on the Review and Advisory Council; removes the required 2/3 vote for the RAC; and permits the retention of the prior triennial version if no changes are adopted. The amendment failed 22-28.

Sen. Solobay offered the following amendments:

AO1441: This amendment permits municipalities to adopt a resolution adopting the automatic fire sprinkler system provisions of the International Residential Code. No challenge of the ordinance, the Secretary’s ruling or an appeal of the Secretary’s ruling is authorized. The amendment failed 18-32.

A01428: This amendment strikes out the repeal of the automatic fire sprinkler requirement and establishes a 2-year moratorium and a study by the review and advisory council (RAC) on the automatic fire sprinkler requirement. The amendment failed 16-34.

A01429: This amendment requires the design, creation and posting of a sign warning of light floor construction for emergency personnel. State Fire Commissioner will design the sign, the builder has the signs produced and the buyer posts the sign. The amendment failed 16-34.

AO1431: This amendment adds the Secretary of Health and the State Fire Commissioner to the Uniform Construction Code Review and Advisory Council. The amendment failed 20-30.

A01501 (McIlhinney): This amendment permits a second class A county, within 6 months of the effective date of the act, to adopt a resolution adopting the automatic fire sprinkler system provisions of the International Residential Code. No challenge of the ordinance, the Secretary’s ruling or an appeal of the Secretary’s ruling is authorized. This amendment failed 18-32.

AO1482 (McIlhinney): This amendment provides for the E-verification of employees for the construction industry. This is broader than other pieces of legislation which only applied to public works contracts. This amendment failed 23-27.

Senate Bill 654 PN 654 (Argall): This bill amends the Workers’ Compensation Act by further defining the term “occupational disease” as cancer suffered by a firefighter under certain terms and goes into more details about compensation. The bill was unanimously approved.

Executive Nominations

The following nominees were approved unanimously, 50-0

C. Allan Walker, Secretary of Community and Economic Development

Sheri Phillips, Secretary of General Services

Frank Noonan, Commissioner of PA State Police

Barry Schoch, Secretary of Transportation

Monday, April 11, 2011

SB 264, PN 241:  The legislation amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) by allowing for the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs to arrange for burial details for veterans at the Washington Crossing National Cemetery.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 456, PN 443:  This bill amends the County Code by mandating that flag holders may not be removed unless they are immediately replaced with new flag holders.  A vote of49-0 was recorded.

SB 723, PN 707:  This legislation provides that the Market Street Bridge carrying Route 15 over the Susquehanna River in Loyalsock Township, Lycoming County be designated as the Carl E. Stotz Memorial Little League Bridge.  A vote of 49-0 was recorded.

SB 566, PN 576:  The bill designates the Donora-Monessen Bridge carrying the C. Vance Deicas Highway over the Monongahela River as the “Stan Musial Bridge.”  Senator Solobay offered amendment A01314 which designates the bridge as “Stan the Man.”  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 631, PN 638:  The legislation designates the section of State Route 23 between the Chester County Border with Montgomery County and State Route 100 as the Medal of Honor Grove Highway.  Senator Dinniman offered amendment A01144 that was technical in nature.

Wednesday April 6, 2011

SB 304 PN 281 (M. White): Amends the act of January 8, 1960 (1959 P.L.2119, No.787), known as the Air Pollution Control Act, further providing for public review of State implementation plans. The bill was unanimously approved.

SB 325 PN 981 (Baker): An Act providing for gas and hazardous liquids pipelines and for powers and duties of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission; and imposing civil penalties. The bill was approved 49-1

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

SB 302, PN 279: This bill amends the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund Act (Act 50 of 1993) to provide for additional reporting requirements.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 303, PN 280: This bill amends the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Act (Act 108 of 1988) to provide for additional funding from civil penalties.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

SB 325, PN 710:  The bill creates the Gas and Hazardous Liquids Pipelines Act which gives the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission general administrative authority to supervise and regulate pipeline operators within this Commonwealth consistent with Federal pipeline safety laws.  Senator Baker offered amendment A0966 that adds the definition for “unconventional well” among other aspects.   Senator Alloway also offered amendment A01258 which states that the assessment will not apply to boroughs.  The Senate agreed to the amendments and the bill went over its order.

SB 508, PN 508:  This legislation designates U.S. Route 62 in Mercer County as the Mercer County Veterans Highway.  A vote of 50-0 was recorded.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

SB 71, PN 56:  This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) to prohibit the simulcasting of greyhound racing within the Commonwealth.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 242, PN 209:  The legislation designates the bridge over Barclay Run in the Borough of Somerset as the Trooper Stephen R. Gyurke Memorial Bridge.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 606, PN 770:  The measure designates the portion of all routes comprising the Crawford Lakelands Byway as a scenic byway.  This will prohibit outdoor advertising devices along the byway.  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

SB 79, PN 64:  Amends the Judicial Code (Title 42) to enact the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA).  A vote of 47-0 was recorded.

SB 273, PN 769:  An act also known as the “Castle Doctrine” to amend titles 18, (Crimes Code), and 42, (Judiciary Code), for use of force in self protection, for use of force for the protection of other persons, for grading of theft offenses and for licenses to carry firearms; and providing
verification of residence, and for penalties for failure to do so.  A vote of 43-4 was recorded.

Monday, March 07, 2011

SB 159 PN 440 (Robbins): An Act authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children; providing for the form and enforcement of the compact; imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the compact commissioner; and establishing the State Council on Interstate Educational Opportunity for Military Children. The Senate approved
this bill unanimously.

SB 273 PN 271 (Alloway): The Castle Doctrine. An Act amending Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general principles of justification, further providing for definitions, for use of force in self-protection, for use of force for the protection of other persons, for grading of theft offenses and for licenses to carry firearms; and providing for civil immunity for use of force. Senator Alloway offered amendment A00910 which added some terms to the exceptions for the duty to retreat and other amendments. The Senate approved this amendment. SB 369 PN 392 (D. White): An Act amending Title 74 (Transportation) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in scenic highways, providing for the designation of a portion of U.S. 219, S.R. 969, S.R. 879, S.R. 153, S.R. 453, S.R. 1001, Bilger’s Rocks Road and the Greenville Pike in Clearfield County as scenic byways. The Senate approved this bill.

SB 606 PN 610 (Robbins): An Act amending Title 74 (Transportation) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for the designation of the Crawford Lakelands Byway as a scenic byway. Senator Robbins offered amendment A00871 which was technical in nature. The Senate approved this amendment.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

SB 199, PN 170 – The bill designates a section of Interstate 78 in Berks County as the CMSgt. Richard L. Etchberger Memorial Highway.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded. 

SB 265, PN 242 – This bill amends the “Coal and Gas Resource Coordination Act” (Act 214 of 1984) to add definitions, change minimum distance requirements between producing gas wells, and coordinate gas well drilling through active coal mines.  The bill also requires the Department of Environmental Protection to complete a pillar support study.  A vote of 45-0 was
recorded.

SB 353, PN 447 – The legislation amends Title 68 to create the Private Transfer Fee Obligation Act.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Senate Bill 110 PN 174 (Smucker): This bill amends Title 74, Transportation, as it pertains to public logs of flights on State owned or operated aircraft. The Senate approved this bill unanimously.

Senate Bill 163 PN 148 (Baker): This bill names a bridge in Wayne County. The Senate approved this bill unanimously.

Monday, February 28, 2011

SB 110, PN 174 – This bill amends Title 74, Transportation, as it pertains to public logs of flights on State owned or operated aircraft. Senator Smucker offered amendment A0709 which was technical in nature.  The Senate agreed to the amendment and the bill went over as amended.

SB 387, PN 373 – The legislation allows all licensing agents to sell reduced-fee military specific hunting licenses.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded. SR 45, PN 658 – The resolution amends the Senate Rules by authorizing the creation of a new standing committee.  A vote of 45-0 was recorded.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Executive Nominations
The Senate approved the following nomination by a vote of 46-0:

• Morgan K. O’Brien, Commonwealth Trustee of the University of Pittsburgh

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