Appropriations Committee 11/20/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, November 20, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

All bills and amendments were reported 24-0.

HB 105 - This bill amends the Procurement Code adding a new section that would require the Department of General Services  to enter into cooperative purchasing contracts, making approved supplies available to volunteer fire, rescue and ambulance companies.   A school district is added to the definition of “state-affiliated entity” and requires school districts to follow the procurement procedures set forth in the code.  Sen. Wenger offered A10512 that deletes scholl districts and adds emergency services agencies.  Sen. Wenger also offered A10525 that further provides for escalation of costs of capital projects.

HB 446 - The bill amends the Liquor Code by extending the time a license can be in safekeeping and for limiting the number of retail licenses to be issued in each county.

HB 2296 - This bill is amended by adding unmarried surviving spouses of members of the Pennsylvania National Guard who were killed or died as a result of injuries received while in active duty shall be entitled to a 50% tuition credit at all Pennsylvania state-owned colleges in this Commonwealth for a period not exceeding eight semesters or four years, whichever is greater.  Sen. Wenger offered A10521 that deletes provisions to tuition credit and makes technical changes.

HB 1427 - This legislation amends the Local Tax Enabling Act to further provide for the collection of the Local Earned Income tax as well as audits, suits for tax collection, for penalties and for delinquent tax collection costs. The intent of the legislation is to make the collection of local earned income tax more uniform and comprehensible and to also to mandate a county-wide collection system component.   Sen. Brightbill offered A10535 that prohibits Allentown from imposing an amusement tax on baseball ticket sales.

Appropriations Committee 10/23/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, October 23, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

HB 471 - This bill amends The Administrative Code by requiring the Department of Health to provide the locations of certified primary stroke treatment hospitals to each emergency service provider, medical command center and ambulance companies through emergency service councils in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  Sen. Brightbill offered an amendment that requires the Dept. of Transportation to maintain a daily log of all travel on Commonwealth owned planes.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 2699 - This bill authorizes and directs the Department of Public Welfare to establish and maintain a managed health care program for medical assistance recipients.  It also requires actuarially sound rates for certain managed care organizations, providing for the right of appeal and approval by the General Assembly of changes to the Commonwealth medical assistance plan, associated waivers and repealing inconsistent portions of other acts.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 10/18/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

All bills and amendments were reported 24-0.

SB 1105 - This bill amends the “Medical Practice Act” to provide for a statutory licensing mechanism for perfusionists.   Sen. Wenger offered A9785 that provides for temporary licensing.

SB 1106 - This bill amends the “Osteopathic Medical Practice Act” to provide for a statutory licensing mechanism for perfusionists.  Sen. Wenger offered A10053 that provides for temporary licensing.

SB 1353 - This bill amends Title 62 (Procurement) to add a chapter providing for contracting with veteran-owned businesses and to impose certain duties upon the Department of General Services.

HB 395 - This bill would mandate that no municipal pension or retirement system in a city of the first class (Philadelphia) shall deny any benefit, including pension payments, service-connected death benefits or service-connected health care benefits to any surviving spouse of any firefighter or fire department employee, including fire department pensioners and employees of the fire department, as a result of the remarriage or subsequent marriage of the surviving spouse.

HB 2090 - The legislation amends Title 34 (Game) by allowing the Game Commission to offer advertisements in any of their publications and media information.

HB 2584 - The bill provides for education for expecting parents on the potential benefits of umbilical cord blood and an opportunity for pregnant women to donate and store umbilical cord blood.

Appropriations Committee 10/17/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, October 17, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

All bills and amendments except HB 236 were reported 24-0.

SB 1285 - The bill specifies that the time spent as a representative of the correction officers is to be included as time spent working as a corrections officer for retirement purposes. Credited service would be limited to three terms for officers. 

HB 236 - The legislation would amend the Independent Regulatory Review Act to create  procedures to analyze the impact of regulatory mandates on small businesses before imposing such regulations and further to examine alternatives.  The bill was reported 1509 with Democrats voting against.

HB 552 - The bill amends the fiscal code to remove the sunset date for “prudent person investing” for commonwealth funds and creates a new classification of gift cards called qualified gift cards which will not become abandoned property and therefore escheated to the commonwealth.  Sen. Wenger offered the following three amendments: A9731 that limits extension of prudent person authority to 2008, A9643 that adds provisions regarding disposal of escheated property by municipalities and, A9868 that is technical. 

HB 1112 - This act amends the Crimes Code and Judicial Code creating the offense of “trafficking of persons”.  Sen. Fumo offered A10004 that is technical.

HB 1631 - The bill amends the Vehicle Code to allow maintenance vehicles used by an institution of higher learning to be exempt from registration provided the vehicle does not travel on public roads in excess of one mile and the property on both sides of the public road is owned by the institution.

HB 1902 - The bill amends the “Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act” (Act 101 of 1988) to extend the sunset date for the recycling fee.  Currently, this fee will sunset on January 1, 2009.

HB 2133 - This bill amends Title 75 to provide for Special Registration plates, identification cards, unattended children in motor vehicles, requirements for headlights, flashing or revolving blue lights and the penalty for a violation of restrictions on a posted road or bridge.  Sen. Corman offered A9925 that lowers age of ID card to 10 and makes provisions effective in 3 years.

HB 2282 - This bill amends the Tax Reform Code to provide for an exemption from the state income tax for emergency pay for members of the PA National Guard on active state duty.  Sen. Fumo offered A9993 that delays effective date until 2006.

HB 2447 - The bill amends the Judicial Code clarifying certain costs associated with prosecution and, further adds to the requirements of the Megan’s Law website.

HB 2639 - The bill gives further provisions for testing of a patient’s estimated glomerular filtration rate and requirements. 

HB 2667 - This bill amends the Housing Authorities Law, by further providing for powers of the Authority and mixed-used projects.

SB 668 - The bill amends the Judicial Code extending the master list of prospective jurors.

Appropriations Committee 10/16/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, October 16, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 31 - This bill will add a section to the Administrative Code that will provide for budget hearings for each administrative department.  The bill was reported 23-0.

SB 1232 - This bill would create the Historic Preservation Incentive Grant program within the Department of Community & Economic Development.  Sen. Wenger offered A9737 that was technical, it was agreed to.  Sen. White offered A9531 that eliminate funding for Growing Greener.  Sen. Rafferty made a motion to table the amendment and the vote was 15-8 in favor of tabling.  The bill then went over in its order. 

SB 1263 - The bill gives the board of directors of rural electric cooperatives the decision as to whether to escheat abandoned property to the commonwealth or to use the funds or property to aid their service territory for energy assistance, educational or civic purposes.  The bill was reported 23-0.

SB 1331 - The bill intends to exempt the copying of documents in either paper or electronic form from being taxable under the sales tax.  Sen. Wenger offered A9904 that further clarifies applicability.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

SB 1368 - The bill raises the cap on outstanding obligations for redevelopment assistance capital projects by $250,000,000 from $2,650,000,000 to $2,900,000,000.  The bill was reported 23-0.

HB 854 - This measure is to limit the public disclosure of confidential security information relating to public utilities, including municipal or authority systems, to protect such facilities against acts of terrorism.  Sen. Wenger offered A9716 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

HB 1804 - This bill requires that first class counties set the millage rate on the property tax to be revenue neutral after a reassessment or a change in the predetermined ratio within the city.  The bill also limits any increase in property tax receipts in the first year to 5% higher than the previous year.  Sen. Fumo offered A9871 that limits amount of tax receipts collected after reassessment to 5% increase of the previous year.  The amendment failed 10-13.  The bill was reported 13-10.

HB 2001 - This bill prohibits price gouging during and within 30 days after the termination of a state of disaster emergency declared by the Governor.  Sen. White offered A9802 that further provides for applicability of the act.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

HB 2670 - Pennsylvania is the only state that does not comply with the federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) through which qualifying states can obtain grants for training programs as well as the prevention, treatment and investigation of child abuse/neglect.  This bill will bring the state into compliance.  The bill was reported 23-0.

HB 2738 - This bill amends the Workers’ Compensation Act  by stating that any person injured prior to August 31, 1993 shall now receive a minimum of $100/week in compensation.  Sen. Wenger offered A9739 that provides for funding mechanism for Uninsured Employers Guarantee Fund.  The amendment was adopted 23-0.  Sen Fumo offered A9638 that increases the salaries for Workers Compensation Judges.  Sen. Brightbill made a motion to table this amendment and a vote of 14-9 was taken in favor of tabling.  The bill was reported 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 10/03/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, October 03, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

All the bills and amendments, except HB 881, were reported out 24-0.

SB 19 - This bill amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, further providing for disabled veterans’ real estate tax exemption and for duty of commission.

SB 983 - The bill amends Section 303 of the Vital Statistics Law to further require the local registrars to transmit, for a person who was at least eighteen (18) years of age at the time of death, a copy of the death certificate to the county board of elections of the county in which the person resided at the time of death.  Sen. Tomlinson offered A9619 that further provides for the issuance of burial permits.

SB 1095 - The bill provides clarification that companies (businesses) seeking rail infrastructure improvements to gain access to the rail network would be eligible for grants under this act.  Sen. Madigan offered A6941 which is technical.

SB 1305 - This bill will add a section to the Administrative Code that will apply to transfers between appropriations of State funds.  This shall apply regardless of how the transfer is completed. Sen. Wenger offered A9457 that requires notification of inter-fund transfers and loans and A9653 that makes information regarding transfers subject to Right to Know Law. 

SB 1332 - The bill amends the Public School Code relating to school health services, definitions and for certain medical examinations.  Sen. Wenger offered A9601 which is technical.

HB 881 - This bill would make several amendments to the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act.  Sen. White offered A9500 that waives plumbing codes for the Amish.  Sen. Wenger offered A9546 which is technical.  Sen. Fumo offered A9620 that provides for municipal acceptance of inspection reports by third party inspectors.  The amendments were agreed to and the bill was reported out 23-1 with Sen. Rafferty voting in the negative.

Appropriations Committee 09/25/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, September 25, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 553 - This legislation would enact the Sexual Violence Protection Act relating to the protection of victims of sexual violence by allowing them to petition the court for protection from the defendant.  Sen. Wenger offered A9445 that changes the effective date from 60 to 180 days.

SB 934 - This bill establishes the Medical Safety Automation Account and provides grants to implement medical safety automation systems.  Sen. Wenger offered A9432 that was technical.

SB 972 - The legislation extends the MCARE Abatement Program for one year.

SB 1207 - This legislation amends the Administrative Code by changing all references of “State Police Force” to “Pennsylvania State Police” and changes “men” to “enlisted members”.

SB 1266 - This bill amends the Military Code to make corrective amendments to grant up to an additional 15 days of paid military leave for certain National Guard members.  Sen. Corman offered A9220 that clarifies retroactivity provisions apply only to persons who did not qualify under Act 62 of 2005.

SB 1303 - This bill will amend Title 4 by adding a section that will require the Board of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to submit an annual itemized budget, including administrative expenses, to the General Assembly.

SB 1305 - This bill will add a section to the Administrative Code that will apply to transfers between appropriations of State funds.

HB 1813 - This legislation provides for the allocation of funds to county mental health and mental retardation programs that will provide for Departmental initiatives and for an annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) equal to the Home Health Market Basket Index published in the Federal Register for the prior federal fiscal year.  Sen. Wenger offered A9461 that clarifies budgetary requirements for MH/MR programs.

HB 2134 - This measure establishes a freestanding act to be known as the  “Social Security Number Privacy Act,” providing for alternatives to social security numbers on government documents.  Sen. Wenger offered A9353 that is a technical re-write.

HB 2498 - This measure creates a Gold Star Registration License Plate for members of a family whose family member died while serving on active duty.

All bills and amendments were reported from committee 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 09/19/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, September 19, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 592 - This legislation amends Title 24 (Education) by defining the term ‘alternative investment’ and ‘alternative investment vehicle’ and further providing for the administrative duties of the school employee’s retirement board by implementing limitations on information that is made public.  Sen. Wenger offered A9344 that clarifies confidentiality of information.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 808 - This bill provides for long-term care patient access to pharmaceuticals and conferring powers and duties on the State Board of Pharmacy.  Sen. Wenger offered A9244 sets maximum fees for drugs dispensed.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 922 - This bill amends the powers and duties of the Children’s Trust Fund Board, to accept either directly or indirectly through a nonprofit corporation, federal funds, gifts and donations from individuals, private organizations or foundations.  It also indicates, that the established nonprofit corporation shall solicit funds to receive and manage both private and federal funds.  Sen. Wenger A9215 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0. 

SB 1107 -This bill as amended in the Senate Agriculture Committee adds a definition of “local moneys” and “donated value” to the Agricultural Area Security Law.   The bill was reported 23-1.

SB 1209 - This bill creates the Healthy Farms and Healthy Schools program within the Department of Agriculture.  Sen. Wenger offered A9335 that adds language to clarify school districts and charter schools are the public school entities eligible to apply for funding and A9350 that changes the effective date.  The amendments and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 126 - This bill amends Title 71 (State Government) by further defining the term “alternative investment”, adding the term “alternative investment vehicle” and further providing for the administrative duties of the state employees retirement board by implementing limitations on information that is made public.  Sen. Wenger offered A9331 that clarifies confidentiality of information.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0. 

HB 2472 - This bill creates a grant program designed to encourage the development and expansion of farmers markets.  Sen. Wenger offered A9316 that changes the effective date.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0. 

Appropriations Committee 07/01/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Saturday, July 1, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

HB 509 - The legislation amends the Public School Code by requiring campus police officers at the 14 State System of Higher Education (SSHE) Universities to carry a firearm in the course of duty who have completed firearm training. As of now, four state universities do not allow campus police to carry a firearm.  Sen. Wenger offered A9155 that allows boards of trustees to determine if campus police can carry firearms instead of school presidents.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1746 - The legislation amends the Judicial Code (Title 42) to increase prothonotary fees in Philadelphia by approximately 7-8%.  Fees would also be increased for the Philadelphia municipal court.  The bill was reported 23-1.

HB 1992 - This bill would change the amount that the Department of Community & Economic Development would be authorized to loan an eligible municipality under the program for the purchase of a single piece of equipment from $25,000 to $50,000, or 50% of the total cost, whichever is less.   For the construction, renovation or rehabilitation of facilities, the loan would increase from the present amount of $50,000 to $100,000, or 50% of the project cost, whichever is less.  Sen. Wenger offered A9170 that puts a temporary increase in loan limits.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/30/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Friday, June 30, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

HB 89 - This legislation, the Child Labor Act, would update the current Child Labor Law in order to have the Commonwealth’s standards akin with the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act.  This bill will also update definitions and administrative procedures. Democrats objected to the bill because the bill currently would allow 11 year olds who deliver newspapers start their day at 5:00 a.m.  A vote was taken to report the bill from committee but was defeated 11-13.

HB 700 - This legislation sets forth procedures for the registration of lobbyists, principals, and lobbying firms and the reporting of lobbying activity primarily by principals. The bill vests power over administration of the proposed act with the State Ethics Commission.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 2295 - The legislation would provide special registration plates for recipients of the Korean Defense Service Medal.  The bill was reported 24-0. 

HB 2627 - This bill would clarify legislative intent in Act 59 of 2005, which amended the Emergency and Law Enforcement Personnel Death Benefits Act.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HR 357 - This resolution establishes the Katie Lambert Commission on Child Safety.  Sen. Fumo offered A9102 that changes the establishment of the commission to the establishment of a task force .  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 2504-2533 - These bills would appropriate $734.4 million to those non-state owned institutions known as “non-preferreds.” The bill were amended to increase funding levels for certain institutions.  The amendments for HB 2504-2526 and those bills were reported 24-0.  The amendments for HB 2527-2533 and those bills were reported 21-3.

Appropriations Committee 06/29/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Thursday, June 29, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

HB 2499 - This bill is the proposed General Appropriations spending bill, as amended in the Senate to reflect the original bill as it was introduced in the House.  The bill was reported 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/29/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Thursday, June 29, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 1148 - This bill would allow a surviving spouse of a deceased police officer from a City of the Second Class (Pittsburgh) to continue receiving the pension benefits of the fallen officer, should he/she decide to remarry.  A dependent child who would otherwise qualify to receive the pension of a deceased member would also no longer have these benefits terminated upon marriage.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 2328 - The legislation amends the Crimes Code (Title 18) to increase the maximum fines for criminal offenses, to provide a specific funding source to reimburse the counties for the state share of the salaries of full time district attorneys, and to require the Sentencing Commission to establish sentencing guidelines for fines in criminal cases.  Sen. Fumo offered A7760 that removes the establishment of the Criminal Justice Enhancement Account from the bill.  The was adopted 24-0.  The was reported out 23-1.

HB 2437 - This bill amends Title 51 (Military Affairs) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statues, further providing for the amounts of part-time student assistance grants.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/28/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Wednesday, June 28, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 180 - The bill creates the Credit Reporting Agency Law and provides for consumer report freezes.  Sen. Corman offered A8683 that allows for additional secure ways to receive reports.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.  

SB 1242 - This bill would add the County of Blair to the port district comprising the Port of Pittsburgh Commission.  The counties presently included are Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Clarion, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 1262 - The legislation amends Title 30 (Fish) by changing the blood alcohol content from .10% to .08% making it consistent with the Vehicle Code. The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 247 - The intent of the Health Care Facilities Act is to license home care agencies in order to provide for consumer protection.  This act is established through oversight, requiring criminal background checks and communicable disease screens for individuals to provide care, and by ensuring the physical health and competency of individuals referred by a home care agency to provide care.  Sen. Wenger offered A8649 that provides for the promulgating of regulations by the Dept.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1195 - The legislation amends the Storage Tank and Spill Prevention Act by expanding the eligibility for the Underground Storage Tank Pollution Prevention Program to include reimbursement of eligible tank owners for the permanent or temporary closing of storage tanks which have previously been upgraded to comply with state and federal regulations (currently eligibility is limited to owners with tanks that have not been upgraded). Sen. Wenger offered A8681 that states the board shall perform an evaluation study of the program.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1326 - This bill establishes the At-Risk Elderly Wireless Emergency Telephone Program, conferring powers and duties on the Department of Aging and providing additional powers to the Area Agencies on Aging.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/27/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, June 27, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 993 - The bill streamlines and creates a uniform appeal system for the following taxes:  sales, personal income, corporate net income, realty transfer, mutual thrift and some of the minor taxes such as the pari-mutual wagering tax.  The bill creates a new article to the tax reform code article 27 that contains uniform appeal processes for disputed tax liabilities.                      

HB 185 - This legislation would amend the Public School Code to provide for contracts for competitive food and beverage contracts, the establishment of nutritional guidelines for foods sold in public schools, for advisory health councils, for local wellness policies and for physical education curricula.

HB 1641 - The legislation clarifies the process for marine businesses to acquire the rights to abandoned boats and watercraft trailers that are left at their businesses.  Sen. Pippy offered A8474 that updates certain definitions. 

The bills and amendments were reported unanimously 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/26/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, June 26, 2006, and took action as follows:

Reported Out As Committed (Unanimously)

Senate Bill 1121 pn 1891 (Robbins)  This bill provides for a program to address the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine in underground laboratories. This act shall be known and may be cited as the Meth Watch Program Act. Unanimous Vote.

House Bill 1528 pn 4309 (Wilt) The legislation amends Title 3 (Agriculture) by requiring any person who wants to be a taxidermist to register with the Department of Agriculture. The registration shall include at a minimum the person’s name, the business name, the address and telephone number and the person’s or business tax identification number. Unanimous Vote.

House Bill 2504 through House Bill 2533 (Feese)  -  Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Nonpreferred appropriations were all reported out.  Unanimous Vote.

Reported Out As Amended (Unanimously)

Senate Bill 628 pn 693 (Greenleaf) This bill amends Title 18 (Crimes and Offences) and Title 20 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, (Decedents, Estates, and Fiduciaries Code), by amending provisions relating to advanced directives for health care (living wills).  A08158 – Omnibus rewrite.  Unanimous Vote.

Senate Bill 1224 pn 1856 (Wenger)  Amends the Conservation District Law by creating the Conservation District Fund.  A08605 – Technical Amendment.  Unanimous Vote.

House Bill 1285 pn 1966 (McCall)  Amends the Transportation Code regarding jurisdiction of administrative law judges. A07072 – Designate the Executive Board to set salaries.  Unanimous Vote.

Appropriations Committee 06/20/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

Appropriations Committee 06/19/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, June 19, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 451 - This act increases the number of board members to the Center of Rural Pennsylvania.  Specifically, it provides that the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau shall be eligible to be appointed by the Governor to the board.  Additionally, it increases the amount of grants that the Center awards from $50,000 to $60,000.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 772 - This bill amends the Judicial Code to repeal the sunset provision of the Access to Justice Act.  Sen. MJ White offered A8093 that requires the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a performance audit to determine continuing of the Access to Justice Act.   The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 1140 - This bill amends the Judicial Code by adding a new section that 1725.5 which establishes guidelines and authorization for the collection of central or regional booking fees.  Sen. Wenger offered A8180 that caps the booking fee at $200.  The amendment was reported 24-0 and the bill was repoted 23-1.

SB 1188 - This bill coordinates PACE/PACENET prescription benefits with the new Medicare Part D prescription benefit.  Sen. Wenger offered A8203 that allows the Dept. to provide proper notification of the proper plans.  Sen. Pippy offered A8000 that states noninnovator multiple-source prescription drug or generic prescription drug do not apply to sections of the plan.  These amendments were reported 15-9 with Democrats voting against.  The bill was reported 24-0. 

SB 1205 - This legislation adds section 4308.1 to and amends section 4374 of the Domestic Relations Code to provide for the electronic interception of certain awards for the payment of child support arrearages.  Sen. Greenleaf offered A8173 that is a technical re-write of the bill.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 248 - This bill amends section 9511 of the Vehicle Code (Title 75) by increasing the funding for the State Highway Transfer Restoration Restricted Account (Turnback Program) as well as the per-mile reimbursement rate to municipalities. Specifically, the bill increases the overall funding rate from three to four mills and also increases the reimbursement rate from $2,500 per mile to $4,000 per mile. The bill also deletes section 9208 of the Vehicle Code, which requires the House and Senate Transportation committees to hold joint public hearings to review the performance and effectiveness of the highway transfer program.  Sen. Madigan offered A8064 that changes the effective date.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0. 

HB 801 - This bill authorizes the department to establish a cervical cancer task force to evaluate and make recommendations for education, prevention and detection of cervical cancer separate from breast cancer.  Sen. Wenger offered A8146 that provides for clarifying language.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 2003 - This legislation would amend the County Code by striking language that currently requires county commissioners to seek the approval from the court of common pleas when appointing special council.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 2468 - This bill provides for the Highway Capital Budget Itemization Act of 2005-2006.  Sen. Madigan offered A8138 that adds additional projects.  Sen. Stout offered A8171 that adds additional projects.  The amendments and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 2499 - This bill is the proposed General Appropriations spending bill that passed the House in April.  Sen. Wenger offered A7713 that reverts the bill back to a prior printers’ number.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/12/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, June 12, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 414 - The bill would amend the Public School Code establishing the Science Technology Partnership Program and authorizing the creation of science technology partnerships between institutions of basic and higher education.  Sen. Wenger offered A7972 that adds a $2 million appropriation.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 812 - The bill creates a new class of unclaimed property for tangible personal property, other than bicycles, held by municipalities.  This property shall be deemed unclaimed after 3 years and escheated to the State Treasury.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 838 - This bill creates the Telemedicine Act to regulate certain services provided by nonresident physicians.  This bill declares that the practice of medicine is a privilege and the licensure of practitioners outside this Commonwealth is necessary and desirable for the protection of the citizens of this Commonwealth.  Any physician who is physically located in and/or licensed by another jurisdiction but who through the use of telemedicine or teleradiology performs an act that is part of a patient-care service initiated in this Commonwealth shall require a license to practice in Pennsylvania.  Sen. Wenger offered A7978 that limits provisions to the practice of medicine.  The bill and amendment were reported 24-0.

SB 865 - This bill would establish a domestic animal premises registration program to be administered by the Department of Agriculture.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 1134 - This bill exempts from taxation canned software delivered to the final user by electronic means from the sales and use tax.  The bill reverses the decision in Graham Packaging vs. Commonwealth that determined that all prepackaged or canned software was taxable under the sales and use tax.   Canned software is massed produced software that is utilized in the same form by all users.  Word and Excel are examples of canned software. The Department estimates that the Commonwealth would lose $55 million in 06-07 from this bill.  The bill was reported along party lines15-9 with the Democrats voting against.

SB 1158 - This bill allows local governments that levy a residential property tax to provide a credit of up to $2,500 to homeowners that design the house to be assessable to physically handicapped persons.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 1725 - This bill requires local tax collectors to obtain continuing education to renew their certifications.  It reduces the hours of continuing education required from 10 to 6 hours.  The bill also makes specific changes to record keeping once the tax collector has left office.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 2245 - This bill amends Act 1A-the Fiscal Year 2005-06 General Fund budget.  The bill  reduces the Education Assistance Program state appropriation in the Department of Education by $7.305Million. The appropriation would decrease from $66Million to $58.695Million. The Medical Assistance Outpatient state appropriation is increased by $7.305Million. The appropriation would increase from $921.080Million to $928.385Million. The federal Medical Assistance Outpatient appropriation would increase from $1,288,555,000 to $1,297,501,000. Language is also added to the state and federal Medical Assistance Outpatient appropriations which would prohibit implementation of the imposition of a monthly premium requirement on the families of Category PH-95 disabled children (known as ‘loophole kids’). This legislation would restore the projected savings that would be generated by the monthly premium.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 2383 - This legislation amends the Liquor Code by requiring that the Liquor Control Board’s Bureau of Alcohol Education prepare a biennial report to the General Assembly which will address the following issues: current levels and trends of underage and high risk college drinking in Pennsylvania; current programs conducted by state agencies to combat this kind of drinking; and current science that might help in the prevention process.  This bill is nearly identical to Senate Bill 1062.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/07/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Wednesday, June 7, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 944 - The legislation amends Title 18 (Crimes Code) and Title 42 (Judicial Code) further providing for criminal sentences for certain sexual offences and further providing for the registration and public notification of sex offenders and sexually violent predators.  Sen. Orie offered A7499 that makes revisions regarding classification of certain rapists as violent predators and clarifies that State Police must monitor sex offender registrants while on probation.  The amendment was adopted unanimously and the bill was reported 23-1.

SB 1054 - The legislation provides that all persons required to register under Megan’s Law will be subject to the enhanced disclosure of information currently reserved for sexually violent predators.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 06/05/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, June 5, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 439 - The legislation creates the “Sexual Assault Testing and Evidence Collection Act” establishing a procedure for collection of evidence through the use of specific testing procedures.  Sen. Orie offered A6387 that adds child advocacy centers to the program.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0. 

SB 506 - The legislation provides for the codification of various statutes relating to the confinement of county and state criminal offenders as well as the supervision of such offenders on probation or parole.  The bill is the product of efforts to codify Pennsylvania statutes and contains many of the free-standing acts currently in effect unless they are clearly obsolete.  Sen. Greenleaf offered A7727 that would make omnibus technical changes.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 655 - This bill amends the Engineer, Land Surveyor and Geologist Law to provide that the title “engineer” may only be used by an individual licensed as a professional engineer unless the individual is a locomotive engineer, an operating engineer, or an individual who is not offering engineering services or engaged in the practice of engineering as defined in the law.  Sen. Madigan offered A4713 that makes technical changes.  The amendment was adopted unanimously.  Sen. Madigan also offered A7019 that adds continuing education requirements for land surveyors.  That amendment was adopted 22-2.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 816 - The bill would allow a farm credit system institution to qualify as a provider of commercial lending activities without having to offer deposit services.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 917 - This bill amends the Real Estate Appraisers Certification Act to add the new categories of “licensed appraiser” and “appraiser trainee.”  This bill will now recognize the following: Certified Residential Appraisers, Certified General Appraisers, Broker/Appraiser, Licensed Real Estate Appraiser, and Appraiser trainees.  Sen. Corman offered A7717 that provides for continuing education requirements and makes technical changes.  The amendment was adopted 23-1 and the bill was reported 24-0.

SB 1104 - This bill amends the Underground Utility Line Protection Law for the purpose of reestablishing the law which is scheduled to sunset December 31, 2006.  This bill sets a new ten-year expiration date of December 31, 2016, for the Underground Utility Protection Act.  Sen. Tomlinson offered A7814 that adds definitions and A7815 that clarifies terms.  Both amendments and the bill were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 05/01/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, May1, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 238 - The bill amends the Administrative Code to further provide for fees relating to adoption.  Sen. Wenger offered A7539 that changes the adoption proceeding fee from $2 to $5.

SB 1139 - This bill changes the requirements for becoming a subchapter S corporation to be the same as the federal requirements.  The bill would also make a federal election to be subchapter S corporation an automatic election to be a Pennsylvania S corporation.

HB 153 - The bill would establish a credit for employers equal to the compensation of organ donating employees and any cost of a temporary employee needed to fill that job while the employee is absent from work.  The credit could be used to offset tax liability  the employer incurred under any of the following taxes: personal income, corporate net income, capital stock, bank shares, insurance premiums, title insurance or mutual thrift.

HB 456 - This bill creates the crime of “terrorism” and provides for the forfeiture of assets of persons convicted of “terrorism.”

HB 1992 - The bill would change the amount that the Department of Community & Economic Development would be authorized to loan an eligible municipality under the Local Government Capital Project Loan Fund program for the purchase of a single piece of equipment from $25,000 to $50,000, or 50% of the total cost, whichever is less.   For the construction, renovation or rehabilitation of facilities, the loan limit would be increased from the present amount of $50,000 to $100,000, or 50% of the project cost, whichever is less.

All bills and amendments were reported unanimously 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 04/24/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, April 24, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 255 - This bill amends the Public Welfare Code, by making repeals to eliminate county boards of assistance and providing for an advisory board for county assistance office.  Sen. Hughes offered A5675 that provides for advisory committees for CAO’s in 1^st and 2^nd class counties.  The amendment was approved 21-3 and the bill was reported 23-1.

SB 261 - The Deputy Secretary for Local Government Services within the Department of Community & Economic Development would be responsible for the administration of the Center for Local Government Services as well as other functions and duties authorized by the Governor, including the necessary staff complement and funding to adequately carry out the responsibilities of administering the Governor’s Executive Order 99-1 as it relates to land use issues.  The bill was reported unanimously

SB 809 - The bill amends the second class township code to allow, at their discretion, township supervisors to compensate auditors attending a conference for a maximum of 8 hours.  Current law limits the compensation period to 5 hours.  The maximum hourly amount is left unchanged at $10 an hour.  The bill was reported unanimously.

SB 810 - This bill would eliminate language from the Administrative Code that requires The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to annually provide uniform budget forms to municipalities, and for those municipalities in turn to file those budget forms with the Department.  The bill was reported unanimously.

HB 1580 - This bill amends Title 3 (Agriculture) to provide for the regulation of Cervidae livestock operations.  Cervidae livestock family includes deer, elk, moose, reindeer, caribou and hybrids of these animals, and germ plasm, embryos and fertile ova of these animals.  The bill was reported unanimously.

HB 2380 - This bill amends the General Appropriations act for Fiscal Year 2005-06 by increasing the line item amount to the Housing Finance Agency for the Homeowner’s Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program from $5 million to $8 million. The bill also adds a new line item into FY05-06 appropriations bill for reimbursement to counties for full time District Attorneys as provided in Section 1401 of the act of August 9, 1955 known as the County Code.  Sen. Wenger offered A7440 that adds funding for the WWII Merchant Marine Veterans, makes the DA appropriation continuing and lapses sufficient funds from appropriation in Act 72 to fund provisions in this bill.  The amendment and bill were reported unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 04/18/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, April 18, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 214 - This bill allows for a $35 fee to be charged when municipal police officers execute one or more warrants or effectuates the payment of fines.  The fee shall be paid by the defendant and collected as court costs.

SB 1069 - The legislation establishes the Pennsylvania Innocence Commission.  The purpose of the commission is to study and evaluate the underlying causes of wrongful conviction as they occur in the Commonwealth.  Sen. Greenleaf offered A7142 that removes subpoena power of the Commission.

SB 1114 - The bill would increase the amount that a second class township official, including supervisors, auditors, assessors, tax collectors, managers, solicitors, engineers, treasurers, and secretaries of the board of supervisors, may receive as reimbursement for their attendance at a county association’s annual or semi-annual meeting.  It increases the amount from $35.00 to $50.00 to cover expenses such as registration fees, mileage for the use of personal vehicles or for other transportation costs to and from the meeting, plus any other expenses that the board of supervisors agrees to pay.  Sen. Wenger offered A7332 that was technical. 

HB 15 - The bill will provide up to 20% of grant money awarded annually from the Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction Fund for programs for prevention, intervention, training, treatment and education for substance abuse reduction, may be allocated for victim impact panels.  Sen. Corman offered A6951 that clarifies language pertaining to the disbursement of funds.

HB 137 - Section 3526 of Title 75 currently requires all motorcycles during or after 1973 to display lighted head lamps and other lamps and illuminating devices when operating on a highway. This legislation would make this requirement applicable only to motorcycles manufactured during or after 1986.

HB 218 - This bill would amend the Downtown Location Law, enacted to encourage State agencies to locate facilities in downtown areas of the Commonwealth, to more narrowly define “downtown areas.”  Sen. Wenger offered A7334 that removes preference provisions for distressed munipalities.

HB 1834 - This bill allows PENNDOT to provide organ procurement organizations electronic access to the driver licensing database for the purpose of confirming an individual’s organ donor status.

HB 2380 - This bill would provide a supplemental appropriation of $3 million for the Homeowner’s Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program.  Sen. Wenger offered A7332 that adds a $5.06 million appropriation for reimbursement of to counties for full-time district attorneys.

Appropriations Committee 04/03/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, April 3, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 707 - This bill amends the Cosmetology Law to add definitions and provide various licensing requirements.  Sen. Wenger offered A7099 that is technical.  Sen. Rhoades offered A7114 that provides clarifying language.  The bill and amendments were reported unanimously.

HB 121 - This section would prohibit drivers of vehicles from overtaking and passing to the left of a streetcar traveling in the same direction if doing so requires the driver to drive in a lane that is normally used by traffic traveling in the opposite direction.  Sen. Brightbill offered A6979 that provides for installation of ignition interlock devices and payment of fines.  The amendment was reported unanimously.  Sen. Boscola offered A7034 that sets penalty for ice and snow damage from moving vehicles.  The amendment was adopted 14-10.  The bill was reported from committee unanimously.

SB 997 - In accordance with Act 42 of 2005 (HB 1168) the Department of Public Welfare is permitted to change the rate setting methodology for nursing homes without being subject to the Regulatory Review Act and sections of the Commonwealth Documents Law and the Commonwealth Attorneys Act.  This bill eliminates those exemptions, thereby requiring the Department to follow the established regulatory review process when altering the rate setting methodology.            The bill was reported unanimously.

HB 601 - This legislation would require that the requesting authority pay the cost of chemical testing performed to determine the amount of alcohol or controlled substance in a person’s body if the person is not convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.  Sen. Madigan offered A7035 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported unanimously.

HB 1591 - This bill amends the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (Mcare) Act of 2002, extending patient safety standards to certain abortion facilities.  The bill was reported unanimously.

HB 1820 - This legislation creates a freestanding act that provides for a Persian Gulf Conflict Bonus Program for resident veterans who were awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal for the time period of August 2, 1990, through August 31, 1991.  Sen. Wenger offered A7121 that is technical.  The amendment and bill were reported unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 03/27/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, March 27, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 691 - This bill phases out the gross receipts tax on wireless phone calls and interstate phone calls using land lines.  The bill also repeals the corresponding sales tax credit for call centers that make interstate long distance phone calls. The bill was reported 16-8 with most Democrats voting against.

SB 1007 - This legislation amends the Insurance Company Law of 1921, allowing insurance companies to affix to, or include in, commercial fire insurance policies a written statement that the policy does not cover loss or damage caused either directly or indirectly by an act of terrorism.  Sen. Wenger offered A6913 that further defines terrorism.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 1043 - The children and spouses of members of the Pennsylvania National Guard who are killed or die as a result of injuries received while performing duty in an official duty status authorized under Federal or State law, shall be entitled to a tuition credit waiver of all tuition costs and fees remaining after receipt of other scholarships, education benefits and Federal and State grants.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 58 - This legislation creates a freestanding act that would provide a $500 bonus to Pennsylvanians who are U.S. Merchant Marine veterans who actively served during World War II.  Sen. Wenger offered A6942 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 2157 - This bill allows the Governor to place the Pennsylvania National Guard on active duty when an emergency in this Commonwealth occurs or is threatened or when tumult, riot or disaster shall exist or is imminent.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 03/20/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, March 20, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 592 - This bill clarifies that the school employee’s retirement board may invest in alternative investments and may when required by the partners involved in those alternative investments keep certain terms of the investment confidential.

SB 874 - This bill provides for the Highway-Railroad and Highway Bridge Capital Budget itemization act for 2005-2006.  Sen. Madigan offered A6227 and A6858, both amendments add additional projects.

SB 1159 - This bill appropriates $4.899 million from the restricted account in the General Fund to the Office of Consumer Advocate for its operation and administration in the 06-07 state fiscal year within the Attorney General.

SB 1160 - This bill would appropriate funds through the Department of Community and Economic Development for the Small Business Advocate for the 2006-07 fiscal year.

SB 1161 - This legislation makes an appropriation from the Workmen’s Compensation Administration Fund to the Department of Labor and Industry and the Department of Community and Economic Development. 

SB 1162 - The sum of $51.63 million has been appropriated  by this bill to the PUC for it’s operation during the 06-07 state fiscal year.  It also appropriates federal funds to “Natural Gas Pipeline Safety” and Motor Carrier Safety to enforce federal law for the 06-07 fiscal year.

SB 1163 - This measure makes an appropriation from the Professional Licensure Augmentation Account and from the Restricted Account in the General Fund to the Department of State for the operation of professional licensure boards in the 06-07 fiscal year.

SB 1164 - This bill appropriates $39.5 million for the general government operations of the school employee’s retirement fund.

SB 1165 - This bill appropriates $24.9 million for the general government operations of the state employee’s retirement fund.

SB 1166 - This bill provides for the Capital Budget Act of 2006-2007. 

All bills and amendments were reported unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 03/14/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, March 14, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

HB 893 - This measure amends Title 66 requiring local and state approval for terminations and the transfers of municipal authorities.  Sen. Brightbill offered A6311 that would remove provisions of the bill from the Public Utilities Code.

HB 983 - This bill would amend Title 12 (Commerce and Trade) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to make several procedural changes in the Infrastructure and Facilities Improvement Program and require an annual report to the General Assembly on the film production tax credit be publicly accessible on an Internet website of the Department of Revenue.  Sen. Wenger offered A6394 that would allow non-governmental agencies to hold title to a project.

Appropriations Committee 03/13/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, March13, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 873 - This bill provides for the highway capital budget project itemization act for fiscal year 2005-2006.  Sen. Madigan offered A6243 and A6374, both amendments add additional projects. 

HB 200 - This bill establishes the Ounce of Prevention Program to provide grants to certain entities that provide home visitation and other services to low-income, at-risk expectant first-time mothers and their newborn children and families.  It also provides for the powers and duties of the Department of Public Welfare.

All amendments and bills were reported from committee unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 02/13/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, February 13, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 243 - This bill amends the Enforcement Officer Disability Benefits Law by extending the payment of salary, medical, and hospital expenses to sheriffs and deputy sheriffs under certain circumstances.

SB 845 - This bill amends Title 23 (Domestic Relations) providing for court-appointed child custody health care or behavioral health practitioners. 

SB 1000 - This bill provides for the regulation of home improvement contracts and the registration of contractors, including a subcontractor or employee of another contractor, who owns and operates a home improvement business or who undertakes, offers to undertake or agrees to perform any home improvement.

HB 213 - This legislation amends the Crimes Code and the Judicial Code relating to the offense of ecoterrorism.

HB 893 - This bill amends Act 98 of 1949, entitled “Allowing Water Companies to Suspend Service for Non-Payment Act,” by inserting an additional notice requirement and adding a section providing for compliance of the provisions listed in the “Utility Service Tenants Rights Act” prior to discontinuing service to tenants in a residential building.  Sen. Brightbill offered A5950 that applies the act to 3^rd class cities with home ruled chaters.

HB 1467 - This legislation would provide for an alternative dispute resolution procedure relating to residential construction defects between contractors and homeowners.  Sen. Corman offered A5861 that is technical.

All bills and amendments were reported unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 02/06/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, February 6, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SS HB 39 - This bill amends the Local Tax Enabling Act by adding a section indicating that the authority of any school district of the second, third and fourth class including any independent school district, to levy, assess and collect any tax under the act shall expire at midnight on December 31, 2007.

Sen. Brightbill offered A5818 that guts the current language and establishes the Pennsylvania Taxpayer Relief Act.  It would provide for an average statewide property tax reduction of 41 percent after four years.  This bill would include immediate help for senior citizens by doubling the number of households eligible for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate program.  This legislation would also provide for an average statewide property tax reduction of 18 percent in the first year.  These property tax reductions would be funded through increases in local earned income tax rates, with local decision-making preserved.  This legislation would also place spending controls on school districts.  The amendment passed 18-5.  Sen. Boscola offered two amendments. The first eliminates property taxes for seniors over 65 and make less than $65,000.  The amendment failed 1-22.  The second would require that property taxes be eliminated by Jue 30, 2006.  The amendment failed  5-18.  The bill was reported from committee 16-7.

Appropriations Committee 02/06/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, February 6, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 733 - This bill would amend the Pennsylvania Occupational Disease Act.  To further provide for these benefits an appropriation would be made to the Department of Labor & Industry in the amount of $250,000. Sen. Tomlinson offered A5785 which is technical.

SB 1062 - This legislation amends the Liquor Code by requiring a biennial report on underage and high risk drinking to the General Assembly.  Sen. Tomlinson offered A5785 and Sen. Rafferty offered A5782.  Both amendments were technical.

SB 1081 - This bill ensures that former members of the National Guard who were disabled in the line of duty remain eligible for the National Guard Educational Assistance Program.  Sen. Tomlinson offered A5755 which clarifies eligibility period for persons discharged after Sept. 11, 2001. 

HB 1525 - This legislation amends the Liquor Code by allowing for certain licensed hotels to no longer maintain rooms for public accommodation.

The bills and amendments were reported from committee unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 01/31/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, January 31, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 939 - This bill amends Act 78 of 1990, known as the Public Safety Emergency Telephone Act.  It provides for interconnected Voice over the Internet Protocol service, and establishes the VoIP Emergency Fund.  Sen. Corman offered A5601 that was technical.

HB 2317 - This bill provides for the Capital Budget Project Itemization Act of 2005-2006.  Sen. Tomlinson offered A5685 and A5686.  Sen. Fumo offered A5566 and A5712.

The bills and amendments were reported from committee unanimously.

Appropriations Committee 01/23/06

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on January 23, 2006 and reported out the following bills:

SB 303 - This legislation revises the fees that constables may levy for services rendered to the judiciary.  It also allows for constables to be accompanied by a second certified constable when serving any judicial process on a juvenile defender.   Further, it provides for the pre-payment of fees in landlord-tenant actions in addition to civil actions.  The bill was reported 22-1 with Sen. MJ White voting against.

HB 459 - This bill effects real estate tax sales for all classes of counties except for first, second and second class A.   It allows a property owner to donate the property to one of the local jurisdictions in which the property is located and the owner’s delinquent taxes and all claims resulting from the delinquent payment are forgiven should the jurisdiction accept the donation.  Sen. Tomlinson offered A5594 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

HB 1114 - This bill changes the liability for the owner of any property where DEP issues a grant to clean up a discarded tire pile.  Current law allows for collection of clean up costs equal to the increase in the market value of the property due to the clean up.  House bill 1114 allows for the direct collection of the amount of the grant to clean up the used tire pile.  The bill was reported 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 12/14/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on December 14, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

HB 2041 - The bill amends the MCARE legislation of  2002 (Act 13) to reenact the MCARE Abatement Act which had  been part of the Public Welfare Code and to amend provisions relating to the Patient Safety Authority.  Sen. Scarnatti  offered A5295 that provides for the patient safety authority and provides an assessment abatement for calendar year 2006 and establishes a commission on the Mcare fund.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1318 - The bill amends the Election Code to provide changes relating to voter identification, qualifications of electors at primaries, voting procedures, applying to vote, canvassing of official absentee ballots, for violations relating to absentee ballots and for polling places.  Sen. Thompson offered A5306 that was mostly technical but also adds an additional form of required identification.  The amendment was reported 24-0.  Sen. Hughes offered  A5269 that would grandfather existing polling laces that do not have a separate entrance.  This amendment failed 9-15 with Democrats voting in favor.  The bill was reported 15-9 with Democrats voting against.

HB 1826 - This bill amends Title 68 allowing an individual to obtain a corporate surety bond or a letter of credit in lieu of escrowing deposits.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 12/12/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on December 12, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 398   Section 3105 of the Code provides for a voluntary group life insurance program for members of the National Guard.  Senate Bill 398 increases the maximum coverage under the voluntary program from $100,000 to $400,000 per individual insured Guard member and from $25,000 to $100,000 per insured spouse or dependent.  Section 3105 is further amended by adding a new subsection (b) to establish a group life insurance program for eligible members of the National Guard.

SB 437   This bill would make technical changes to the Enforcement Officer Benefits Law.  This bill would change state corrections “officers” to “employees.”

HB 603   The bill amends Section 5102 of Title 71 to expand the definition of enforcement officer to include full-time Pennsylvania Game Commission officers and other commissioned law enforcement personnel employed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Deputy Game Commission officers are specifically excluded from the definition of enforcement officer. The inclusion of Game Commission officers as enforcement officers provides the Game Commission law officers with Age 50 retirement benefits, meaning that these officers would be eligible to retire at age 50 with full retirement benefits. Normal retirement age (superannuation age) for the majority of State Employees’ Retirement System active members is age 60 or any age with 35 years of service.

All bills were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 12/06/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on December 6, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 736   This bill would amend the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act to grandfather commercial structures that did not obtain certificates of occupancy under the previous Fire and Panic Act.  Sen. Brightbill offered A4825 that requires Labor and Industry to adopt regulations requiring temporary occupancy.  The bill and amendment were reported 24-0.

HB 163   This bill would remove the pension-offset provision in Pennsylvania’s unemployment compensation law and prohibit employees from receiving unemployment compensation while receiving severance.  Sen. Scarnatti offered A4868 that changes the effective date until after Dec. 31, 2006.  The amendment was reported out 16-8 with Democrats voting against.  Sen. Logan offered A 4407 that would remove the severance pay offset provisions.  The amendment failed 8-16 with Democrats voting in favor.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 12/05/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on December 5, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 656   This bill creates the Residential Construction Dispute Resolution Act, providing for dispute resolution procedures relating to residential construction defects between contractors and homeowners or members of associations.  Sen. Thompson offered A3984 further provides for destructive testimony and provides for a claimants ability to contract for immediate repairs when defects effect the health and safety of occupants. 

SB 811   The bill provides for prospective and retroactive option benefit enhancements for retirement systems governed by the County Pension Law.

SB 1034   This bill increases the appropriation for the law enforcement officers and emergency response personnel death benefits to pay for an increase in the benefit passed in Act 59 of this year.

HB 894   This bill would allow a professional educator who is an annuitant to maintain an active teacher certificate without the constraints of Professional Development requirements under Act 48 of 1999.

HB 1690   Currently, Title 34 does not specifically provide an exception for the utilization of nonliving bait for the hunting and trapping of coyotes.  This legislation adds to the enumerated list of exceptions, to permit the use of any natural or manmade nonliving bait for coyote hunting or trapping.  Sen. Corman offered A4221 that clarifies that an electronic or mechanical device may be used for the trapping of coyotes.

All bills and amendments were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 11/22/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on November 22, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 995   This legislation amends the non-resident ATV and snowmobile registration law, allowing for non-resident riders to be able to ride in Pennsylvania without obtaining a Pennsylvania registration.  Sen. MJ White offered A4470 that would provide for special event passes instead of registrations.  The amendment was reported 24-0 and the bill was reported 23-1.

The Special Session Committee also met and reported out the following bill:

SB 30   The bill would enact the State and Local Funding for Property Tax Relief Act, potentially increasing state sales and income taxes by an estimated $2.62 billion annually, and would repeal Act 72 of 2004 (the Homeowner Tax Relief Act).  This bill provides for a special election to be held on March 14, 2006, for the purpose of authorizing an increase in the state personal income tax and the state sales and use tax.  If approved the increase would be used to provide a reduction in school property taxes, an exemption from school property tax increases for certain eligible taxpayers, and an expansion of eligibility and benefits under the Senior Citizens Rebate and Assistance Act.  Sen. Thompson offered A4520 that guts the bill and leaves only the backend referendum.  The amendment and bill were reported out 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 11/21/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on November 21, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

HB 2082   This bill would limit the growth of general fund budgets to a level of the lesser of the average growth in personal income for the previous three years or the average change in inflation plus the change in population over the previous three years.  Sen. Thompson offered A4435 that makes a variety of changes to the bill, they include:

• defines more clearly how the average percent change in inflation and average percentage change in personal income and population are to be calculated;

• if an excess spending level is approved for a recurring excess spending level that amount would be added to next year’s limits;

• the Secretaries of the Budget and Revenue are to certify and publish the new temporary tax reductions of the PIT by Sept. 30^th of each year;

• no distribution shall be made unless the reduction could be at least .1%; and

• changes the distribution to the new rainy day fund from 50% of the surplus to 35% and that the extra 15% or 65% would go to the tax reduction fund.

The amendment and bill were reported from committee by a 16-8 vote with the majority of Democrats voting against both.

Appropriations Committee 11/16/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on November 16, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

HB 1956   This bill repeals the salary increase for the General Assembly, the Judiciary and members of the Executive Branch.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 11/15/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on November 15, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 881   The bill amends the Eminent Domain Code providing for certain limitations on the use of eminent domain.  Under the measure, the use of eminent domain is prohibited by any condemnor to take private property in order to use it for private commercial purposes.  Certain exceptions to this include: when the condemnee consents, when the property is transferred or leased to a common carrier, when a private entity occupies an incidental area within a public project; when the property taken is a threat to public health or safety, when the property is abandoned, and when the property meets the description of “blight”.  Sen. Thompson offered A4254 that makes omnibus changes to the bill.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 897   The Special Session Act 6 of 1964 known as the Eminent Domain Code is repealed in order to add a new complete and exclusive procedure and law to govern all condemnations of property for public purposes and the assessment of damages.  The legislation was prompted by a June decision ((Kelo v. City of New London) by the U.S. Supreme Court which ruled that the city of New London, Conn. could take private homes so Pfizer pharmaceutical company could build a research facility.  Sen. Brightbill offered A4259 that prohibits extraterritorial takings and provides for defrayal of attorney fees in certain cases.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 995   This legislation amends the non-resident ATV and snowmobile registration law, allowing for non-resident riders to be able to ride in Pennsylvania without obtaining a Pennsylvania registration.  Sen. MJ White offered A 4240 that makes the provisions of the bill effective for one year.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 11/14/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on November 14, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 394   This bill amends the Municipal Police Pension Law to further provide for service increments to pensions of police officers.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 713   This bill will create the Telephone Subscriber Directory Express Consent Act.  Sen. Thompson offered A2989 that is a technical re-write of the bill.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 868   The bill would increase the payment in lieu of taxes (ILOT) for forestlands owned by the commonwealth.  Currently, the payment to counties, townships and school districts is 40 cents an acre.  Senate Bill 868 would increase the payment to $1.20 an acre.  Sen. Thompson offered A4156 which was technical.  The amendment was reported 24-0 and the bill was reported 23-1, with Sen. Fumo voting against.  

HB 1057   This bill creates the “Retired Law Enforcement Act”.  This act provides for the issuance of identification and certification cards to retired law enforcement officials who have complied with the requirements established by this act.   It further provides for the powers and duties of law enforcement agencies and the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission.  Sen. Thompson offered A4210 that provides for a unique approval number.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 11/02/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on 11-2-05 and reported out the following bills:

HB 1539   This bill establishes an Emergency Energy Assistance Fund to provide a funding source for emergency heating or cooling bills by citizens.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 11/01/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on November 1, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 862   The bill amends Title 4 (Amusements) prohibiting public officials from having financial interest relating to slot machines or horse racing, and further providing for definitions, applicability of other statutes, providing for powers and duties of the board, for licensed entity application appeals from the board, for license or permit application hearing process, for board minutes and records, for collection of fees and fines, and for gross terminal revenue deductions.  Sen. Thompson offered A3748 that places a gaming unit in the Attorney General’s office.  He also offered A3768 which is an omnibus agreed to amendment.  The amendments and bill were reported 24-0.    

HB 515   This bill amends the Tax Reform Code in two ways.  It institutes a single sales factor apportionment formula for the corporate net income tax (CNI).   It also exempts purchases made to set up clean rooms from the sales tax.   Sen. Thompson offered A3898 that reduces the PTI and CNI, increases NOL caps and increases sales factor for apportionment of income.  The amendment and bill were reported 16-8.

HB 1743   This bill amends the Second Class County code to provide that following a county-wide reassessment of property a separate vote is required to raise additional revenues during the first year following the county-wide assessment.  The bill was reported out 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 10/31/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on October 31, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 925   This bill will extend the sunset provision of Act 126 of 1988, known as the Pennsylvania Cancer Control Prevention and Research Act.

SB 929   This bill creates the Truth in Music Advertising Act to make it a violation to mislead the public with respect to an original musical group and any performing tribute group.

SB 940   This bill creates the Land Trust Reimbursement Program.  Sen. Waugh offered A3540 that deletes language establishing a segregated account and makes technical changes.

HB 111   The legislation amends the Liquor Code by clarifying how proximity issues, including proximity to restrictive institutions such as churches, schools or hospitals and other licensed establishments, can be used by the Liquor Control Board to deny an application because of an adverse effect on the welfare, health, peace and morals of the inhabitants of the community.  This legislation would expand this criteria to include all extension and secondary service applications.  Sen. Rafferty offered A3204 that further provides for licenses in safe keeping.

HB 603   The bill amends Section 5102 of Title 71 to expand the definition of enforcement officer to include full-time Pennsylvania Game Commission officers and other commissioned law enforcement personnel employed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

HB 1361   This bill would amend the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act to extend the expiration date for the program.

HB 1606   This Act shall establish the Pennsylvania Breast and Cervical Cancer  Early Screening program within the Department of Health.  This program provides for the availability of annual breast and cancer early screening services for low-income women.

All amendments and bills were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 10/25/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on October 25, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 4   This bill  attempts to place limits on the growth of the general fund budget by requiring the budget grow by not more than the rate of inflation adjusted for population growth.  Sen. Thompson offered A3325 that provides for distribution of funds from the Taxpayer Fairness Fund.  The amendment and bill reported 24-0.

SB 660   This bill is the product of the Joint State Government  Commission through the Decedents Task Force Report.  It makes numerous updates and codifications to Title 20.  Many of the changes are either technical in nature or put into law what is currently common practice.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 884   This bill would amend the constitution to limit the growth of general fund budgets from the previous year to a level of the lesser of the average growth in personal income for the previous three years or the average change in inflation plus the change in population over the previous three years.  Sen. Thompson offered A3324 that provides for creation of a fund for tax relief purposes.  The amendment and bill were reported out 24-0.

SB 862   The bill amends Title 4 (Amusements) prohibiting public officials from having financial interest relating to slot machines or horse racing, and further providing for definitions, applicability of other statutes, providing for powers and duties of the board, for licensed entity application appeals from the board, for license or permit application hearing process, for board minutes and records, for collection of fees and fines, and for gross terminal revenue deductions.

SB 869   This bill amends Title 51 further providing for extension of health insurance benefits for certain military personnel who were full-time students at the time of deployment.

SB 875   This bill amends Title 4 (Amusements) providing for the prohibition of emergency procurement. 

HB 127   Creates a freestanding act, the Foster Parent Consideration Act, providing foster parents the right to be interviewed as prospective adoptive parents in adoption proceedings.

HB 1579   This free standing act, known as the Resource Family Care Act, provides certain rights and information to be given to resource families working with both private and county agencies.

Appropriations Committee 10/24/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on October 24, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 235   This measure amends “The Professional Nursing Law” further providing for continuing nursing education.  Sen. Thompson offered 3262 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0

HB 1717   To amend the Domestic Relations Code and the Crimes Code to provide specific procedures and penalties relating to the surrender of firearms and other weapons to authorities by a defendant in a protection from abuse proceeding, and amend various other provisions relating to protection from abuse and firearm possession.  Sen. Thompson offered A3288 that was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 10/18/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Tuesday, October 18 ,2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 178   The legislation  amends the Crimes Victims Act to include identity theft within the definition of “personal injury crime” so that the victim has the right to certain victim services and notices.  Sen. Thompson offered A3079 that is a technical re-write of the bill.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0. 

SB 665   The bill amends the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code, Title 20, to add redevelopment authorities to the list of persons who may seek letters of administration.  Sen. Thompson offered A3100 that further provides for letters of administration.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

SB 775   The legislation amends the Interstate Compact for the Supervision of Adult Offenders Act (Act of June 19, 2002 (P.L. 377, No. 56)) by establishing the Interstate Compact for the Supervision of Adult Offenders Fund as a restricted receipts account in the state treasury.  The bill was reported 23-0.

SB 854   The legislation brings the state tax laws into compliance with federal tax laws regarding the treatment of Health Savings Accounts and Medical Savings Accounts.  Specifically, Contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and distributions from HSAs for qualified medical expenses will be tax-free. The legislation further clarifies that distributions from HSAs and Medical Savings Accounts for non-qualified medical expenses will be taxed as interest income.  The bill was reported 23-0.

HB 87   This legislation makes changes to the ways in which municipalities acquire land for open space.  The bill was reported 23-0.

HB 859   This bill amends the Tax Reform Code to allow a person selling new or used motor vehicles to pay use tax on the fair rental value of a vehicle for more than one year.  Sen. Thompson offered A3121 that attempts to fix the Pittsburgh Realty Transfer tax.  The amendment and bill were rported 22-1.

HB 1179   An Act amending Title 51 (Military Affairs) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, establishing the Military Family Relief Assistance Program and the Military Family Relief Assistance Fund.  Sen. Thompson offered A3093 that further establishes the program.  The amendment and bill were reported 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 9/19/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on 9-19-05 and reported out the following bills:

SB 74   This legislation rewrites Chapter 53 of the Domestic Relations Code, Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, relating to child custody.  The legislation provides the court with a variety of options: sole legal custody, shared legal custody, sole physical custody, shared physical custody, primary physical custody, partial physical custody, visitation and supervised visitation.  The legislation makes clear that there should not be a presumption that a child should be awarded to a particular parent.  A1073 was a technical amendment offered by Sen. Greenleaf.  The amendment and bill were reported from committee 23-0.

SB 450   This legislation creates an independent act known as the Price Gouging Act.  This act would apply only during a state of disaster emergency declared by the Governor.  A Seller of consumer goods or services would be prohibited from selling or offering for sale goods to a consumer at an excessive price.  A2892 was offered by Se. M. J. White, it defines specific and stricter penalties and fines.   The amendment and bill were reported from committee 23-0.

SB 711   This legislation creates an act known as the Consumer Protection Against Computer Spyware Act prohibiting the deceptive installation of spyware and providing civil relief.  A2886 was offered by Sen. Thompson, it incorporates the Attorney Generals’ recommendations into the bill.  The amendment and bill were reported from committee 23-0.

HB 619   This bill amends the Agricultural Area Security Law to include a definition for “commercial equine activity” and to allow such activities to be eligible when including land in an agricultural security area and on preserved farmland.  A2875 was offered by Sen. Thompson, it is technical in nature.  The amendment and bill were reported from committee 23- 0.

HB 875   This legislation puts Pennsylvania in line with the recently passed federal law that considers heart attacks and strokes within a 24-hour period to be considered as an “in the line of duty” related death and thereby the death benefit would be applicable.  The Office of Administration reviews claims for death benefits on a case-by-case basis.  This legislation would assist in more clearly defining the criteria as to whether the death was duty related.  It would also increase the state death benefit to $100,000 (up from the current $62,000).  A2884 was offered by Sen. Thompson and A2883 was offered by Sen. Fumo, both are technical in nature.  The amendments and bill were reported from committee 23-0.

Appropriations Committee 7/6/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on 7-6-05 and reported out the following bills:

HB 3  The bill would authorize the spending of up to $625 million of authorized bonds for environmental programs as part of Growing Greener II.  Sen. M. White offered A2825 which is an omnibus amendment.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 823  This bill provides for the Capital Budget for fiscal year 2005-06.  Se. Mellow offered A2823 that adds additional projects.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1802  The bill raises the cap on outstanding obligations for redevelopment assistance capital projects by $500 million, from $2,150,000,000 to $2,650,000,000.  Sen. Thompson offered A2710 that adds rporting requirements.  Sen. Fumo offered A2715 that authorizes refunding of debt.  Sen. Fumo offered A2807 carves out housing set aside in redevelopment assistance program.  The amendments and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1717  This bill addresses prohibits people from having firearms when there is a protection from abuse order against them.  Sen. Thompson offered A2621 that is clarifying language.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 63  This bill will require caseworkers at county Children and Youth agencies to include photo identification of each child from a family that maintains a case record.  Additionally, the legislation will mandate that the photo is included upon the transfer of the record to another jurisdiction.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 139  This bill codifies the provisions of the Optional County Affordable Housing Funds Act (Act 137 of 1992) into Chapter 60 of Title 53 (Municipalities Generally).  This allows every county to raise revenues on a local level for affordable housing efforts.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB176  This bill would require the Department of Revenue to collect delinquent local realty transfer taxes, penalties and interest at the same time it is making such delinquent collection on the state realty transfer tax.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 182  This bill amends the Fiscal Code to further provide investment powers for the State Workers’ Insurance Board.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 628  The bill amends the Public School Code to require that school district budgets be prepared in the format required by the Department of Education and adds further requirements.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 1304  The legislation amends the Library Code to further provide for waiver of standards.  Se. Thompson offered A2776 that distributes the FY 05-06 appropriation.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1521  This bill requires that no executive branch official will be paid more than the Governor.  Sen. Thompson offered A2679 that changes the effective date.  This bill eventually became the vehicle for the legislative pay raise.  The amendment was reported 24-0.  The bill was reported 18-6.

Appropriations Committee 7/5/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on July 5, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

HB 824-826, HB 828-840, HB 842-845, HB 847-853   The non-preferred appropriation bills were reported from committee with amendments that added additional funding to the bills.

HB 827, 841, 846   Additional non-preferred appropriation bills reported from committee as committed

All the bills and amendments were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 7/3/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on July 3, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 726   This legislation amends the Second Class County code to allow for limitations on county assessments, as well as allowing for the opportunity for appeal, escrow and payment under protest. 

HB 86   The legislation immunizes the Army Corp of Engineers from damages arising from construction, operation and maintenance of projects on the Delaware River Canal that it performs in conjunction with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

HB 1646   This bill is the ACRE proposal.  The Act amends Title 3 (Agriculture) provides that unauthorized political subdivisions do not have the ability to create an ordinance that may adversely effect normal agricultural operations.  This Act consolidates certain provisions of the Nutrient Management Act.  Furthermore, this Act establishes a nutrient  management and odor management certification program.  This bill provides a  Nutrient Management Advisory Board. 

All the bills were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 7/2/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on July 2, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

HB 612   This bill amends the PENNVEST Act to allow security measures to be eligible as a project.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 1650   The bill provides for a one-day tourist fishing license.  Specifically, a person purchasing this license would be permitted to fish in any of the waters of the commonwealth or boundary waters for a period not to exceed 24 hours.  Rep. Thompson offered A2061 that allows charter boat/fishing guide permit holders to sell one day tourist fishing licenses.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0

Appropriations Committee 7/1/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on July1, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 712   This measure would provide notification to residents whose personal and/or financial information was not authorized to be accessed or acquired.   Sen. Thompson offered A2576 that added additional ways to be notified.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 1802   This bill increases limitation on redevelopment assistance capital projects.  The bill was reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 6/30/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on June 30, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 565   This bill makes the position of District Attorney full time in counties of the third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh class and counties of the eighth class under certain circumstances.  Sen. Thompson offered A2503 that provides a transition rule for full time DA’s.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

SB 639   This bill allows for property owners who have delinquent taxes to satisfy the debt owed by donating the property to the local jurisdiction.  This bill effects real estate tax sales for all jurisdictions except for cities of the  first, second and second class A and boroughs of the first class and school districts of the first class and school districts located within cities of the second class A.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 640   This bill allows for property owners who have delinquent taxes to satisfy the debt owed by donating the property to the local jurisdiction.  This bill effects real estate tax sales for all counties, cities, boroughs, incorporated towns, townships and home rule municipalities.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 136   Second class townships would have the specific power to make appropriations to nonprofit watershed associations.  The watershed would not be allowed to undertake any litigation against any municipal corporation or individual.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 157   The bill is intended to clarify the purpose for which revenues generated by various counties through hotel room taxes may be utilized for tourism related activities as required by existing law.  Sen. Thompson offered A2415 that provides for penalties for late submission of the hotel tax.  Sen. Boscola offered A2419 that allows Northampton and Lehigh counties  to increase the tax by .50 %.  The amendments and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 182   This bill amends the Administrative Code to give the State Workers’ Insurance Board the power to invest a greater portion of the State Worker’s Insurance Fund (SWIF) assets in equities (securities including common stock).  Sen. Thompson offered A2509 that adds SWIF investment practices to the Fiscal Code.  %.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 266   This bill amends the borough code to allow the borough council to make appropriations of general funds to watershed properties.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 267   This bill amends the first class township code to allow the board of supervisors to make appropriations of general funds to watershed properties.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 279   The bill amends Section 112 of the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement Law to extend the time period for which the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System may use interest  earnings in excess of regular interest to support administrative expenses not covered by the $20 per member annual assessment.  Sen. Thompson offered A2520 which was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 489    The bill establishes three specialty license plates for automobiles and light trucks: the Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans’ plate; the Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) veterans’ plate; and a special plate for veterans of no specific war.  Sen. Madigan offered A2341 that exempts vehicles with valid federal inspection certification from having PA inspection certification.  The amendment was adopted 24-0.  Sen. Madigan offered A2384 that regulates motorcycle marshals.  The amendment was adopted 24-0.  Sen. Madigan offered A2394 that allows for the suspension of registration for anyone who has 6 or more unpaid parking tickets in Philadelphia.  The amendment was adopted 14-10.  Sen. Madigan offered A2527 that reduces the number of pilot cars for manufactured homes from two to one.  The amendment was adopted 24-0.  Sen. Thompson offered A2249 that lowers the age from 10 to 8 for those who can ride ATV’s.  The amendment was adopted 13-11.  The bill was reported 15-9.

HB 816-HB 822   are special fund appropriation bills.  (housekeeping bills)  the bills were reported out 24-0.

HB 1168   Amends the Public Welfare Code and requires nursing facilities to be inspected twice annually by the department.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 823   This bill is the Capital Budget Act for FY 2005-06.  The was reported out  24-0.

HB 828-853   These bills are the non-preferred appropriation bills excluding the State Related Institutions.  HB 828-846 were reported 24-0.  HB 847-853 were reported 23-1.

HB 824-827   These are the non-preferred appropriation bills for the four state related universities.  The bills were reported 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 6/28/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on June 28, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 669   The legislation directs the Court Administrator and the Department of Labor and Industry to establish a program for identifying certified and otherwise qualified interpreters for persons with limited English proficiency and persons who are deaf.  The bill was reported 24-0.

SB 709   The bill would require school districts of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th classes to pass a resolution by July 1, 2006 to allow for equal installment payments of the property tax.  Payment of an amount that equals one installment payment will provide evidence that the taxpayer is paying in installments not underpaying the tax.  Sen. Thompson offered A2208 which was technical.  The amendment and bill were reported 24-0.

HB 129   The bill creates Chapter 65 “Flying While Impaired” within Title 74 (Transportation) of the Consolidated Statutes. The Chapter establishes the offense by making it illegal to operate any aircraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in the Commonwealth.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 489   The bill establishes three specialty license plates for automobiles and light trucks: the Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans’ plate; the Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) veterans’ plate; and a special plate for veterans of no specific war.  The bill was reported 24-0.

HB 599   This bill, similar to Act 17 of 2003 and Act 80 of 2004, establishes a “one-time” grant program for volunteer fire and ambulance service departments to help improve the capabilities and infrastructure of these various departments across the Commonwealth.  Grants to volunteer fire and rescue companies shall not be less than $2,500 and not more than  $15,000 and may be used for: construction or renovation of the fire company’s primary structure; purchase or repair of firefighting, ambulance or rescue equipment; training of members; or debt reduction related to construction or equipment costs.  The bill was reported 23-1 with Sen. M. White voting against.

Appropriations Committee 6/27/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on June 27, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

HB 628   This bill would amend the Public School Code to require that school district budgets be prepared in the format required by the Department of Education and adds further requirements.

HB 1180   This bill places a  check off on the income tax return so that taxpayers may donate their refund or additional money to a newly created Military Family Relief Assistance Fund.  

The bills were reported from committee 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 6/22/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on June 22, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 511  The legislation amends the Job Enhancement Act of 1996 to allow master’s degree students to participate in the Technology Work Experience Internship Program. Courses approved under the program for undergraduate students would be the same as currently utilized under the New Economy Technology Scholarship Act.  Sen. Thompson offered A1769 that lengthens the time for eligibility by an emerging technology company.

SB 815  This is the budget bill for the 05-06 fiscal year.  Sen. Thompson offered A 1988 that strips the House language out of the bill and reverts the bill back to the bill as proposed by the Governor and adds additional spending.

The amendments and bills were reported from committee 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 6/20/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on June 20, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 150   The bill would be known as the Opportunities for Educational Excellence Act.  The legislation would provide for high school students to earn both high school and college credits by completing college courses during high school.  Public schools and nonpublic schools that establish concurrent enrollment programs would be eligible for state grants to support the programs.  A participating school is prohibited from reducing its staff complement due to student participation in this program.  Sen. Thompson offered A1762 that relates to creditable school service for retirement purposes.

SB 197   The bill would require operators of solid waste facilities to go through the permit process if they are seeking a major modification of an existing facility.  All applications would be rejected if the facility has an outstanding violation of the Solid Waste Management Act.  If the operator has entered into an agreement to remedy the violation the application may be approved.  The bill also gives the Department of Environmental Protection the power to levy a fine of up to $50,000 per violation for repeat offenders.  Sen. Rafferty offered A1579 that inserts technical language in the bill.

SB 210   This measure provides that charitable organizations that raise more than $250,000 in a given fiscal year must submit to an audit and report those specific findings.  Previously, audits were required when these organizations raised more than $125,000.

SB 361   The bill would require school districts to permit students enrolled in home education programs to participate in extracurricular activities.  This bill was reported out 22-2 with Sens. Mellow and Rhoades voting in the negative.

SB 582   The bill would allow car dealers to pay sales tax on the rental value of vehicles, being used by the dealer or employees, which were purchased to be resold to retail customers even if the vehicle were used for more than one year.  Currently dealerships may pay sales tax on the rental value of the vehicle if it is used for less than one year.

SB 652   This legislation would amend the Public School Code to clarify that school districts that receive grant funding through the educational assistance program or the accountability block grant program may utilize such funds for tutoring programs offered to eligible students during the school day.  Sen. Wenger offered A1828 that states tutoring services can not conflict with an eligible students’ normal instruction.

SB 672   This bill would amend the Public School Code to require that school district budgets be prepared in the format required by the Department of Education and adds further requirements.

SB 686   This legislation would amend the Public School Code to clarify certain provisions relating to the payment and auditing of approved private schools and chartered schools for the deaf and blind.  Sen. Erickson offered A 1921 that provides for further bookkeeping by private schools.

SB 723   This law would encourage financial partnerships between state and local governments with nonprofit entities in order to increase the funds available for agricultural conservation easements in the state’s Farmland Preservation program.  Sen. Wenger offered A1911 which was technical.

SB 724   This measure amends Title 75 (Vehicles) to bring Pennsylvania into compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act (MCSIA) of 1999.

HB 887   The bill would add a section to the Game Code which entitles former prisoners of war to purchase a license for $1.

HB 1076   The bill entitles a Pennsylvania resident who served overseas in the PA Army or Air National Guard under federal orders for a period of at least 180 days to purchase a PA National Guard license for $1.

HB 1077   The bill would entitle a Pennsylvania resident who served overseas in the PA Army or Air National Guard for a period of at least 180 days to purchase an adult resident fishing license for $1.

All bill and amendments except SB 361 were reported from committee unanimously 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 6/13/05

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on June 13, 2005 and reported out the following bills:

SB 251   The bill amends the CPA Law further providing for definitions, for the State Board of Accountancy, for administrative powers, fees, and licensing and peer review.  Sen. Thompson offered A01536 that added a definition. 

SB 457   Senate Bill 457 amends the third class city code to allow for elected officials who are also retired city employees to receive their previously earned pension if the office they were elected to does not pay a salary.  Se. M. White offered amendment A01196 that clarified language for beneficiaries.

SB 509   The bill amends the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code to give state and local government claims a priority when the assets of an estate are insufficient to pay all of the debts of the estate and gives medical assistance a priority before the cost of a grave-marker and rents for the occupancy of the decedent’s residence for six months prior to his death.

SB 651   The Library Code currently provides for a mandate waiver, which expires on June 30, 2005.  This legislation extends the authority of the State Librarian to waive certain mandates upon the request of a local library to June 30, 2006.

SB 679   This bill would amend the Public School Code to extend the Act 48 compliance deadline for certain
Pennsylvania certified professional educators.

SB 722   Senate Bill 722 extends the sunset date of the underground storage tank indemnification program additional allocation from June 30, 2005 to June 30, 2010.  Sen. Musto offered A01500 that changes the sunset date from 2010 to 2007.

All amendments and bills were reported from committee 24-0.

Appropriations Committee 5/10/05