SB 473, PN 1052 (Scavello) – Raising the age of purchase of tobacco products to 21 and creating additional penalties. Senator Farnese offered amendment A02549 which would clarify that the definition of a tobacco product does not include devices sold by a dispensary under the Medical Marijuana Act. The amendment was agreed to by a voice vote and the bill went over in its order.
SB 586, PN 644 (Argall) – The bill amends the Cosmetology Law by striking the ‘good moral character’ qualification for license applicants. A vote of 49-0 was recorded.
SB 694, PN 832 (Yaw) – Amends the Oil and Gas Act to allow for cross unit natural gas drilling. Senator Bartolotta offered amendment A02554 which makes technical changes. The amendment was agreed to by a voice vote and the bill went over in its order.
SB 352, PN 1021 (Ward) – This legislation establishes the Tax Exemption and Mixed-Use Incentive Program Act. This program would allow local taxing authorities to provide for tax exemption incentives for improvements and new construction in deteriorated areas of communities including industrial, commercial, business and residential properties. The bill would also allow for mixed-use housing and development in accordance with zoning ordinances within designated areas. Senator J. Ward offered amendment A02753 which would allow a local taxing authority to rescind a blighted area designation. The amendment was agreed to by a voice vote and the bill was re-referred to the Appropriations committee.
The Senate confirmed the following executive nominations by a vote of 49-0:
Mary F. Jensik, State Board of Accountancy (new appointment)
Andrew S. Goulet, State Board of Crane Operators (new appointment)
Brian M. Schmoyer, State Board of Crane Operators (new appointment)
Aven O. Bittinger, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education (new appointment)
Nicole L. Dunlop, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education (new appointment)
Alexander H. Fefolt, Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education (new appointment)
Alex Hartzler, Board of Trustees of the Pennsylvania State University (reappointment)
David M. Kleppinger, Board of Trustees of the Pennsylvania State University (reappointment)
Thomas P. Carey, State Board of Pharmacy (new appointment)
Geraldine Grzybek, State Board of Physical Therapy (reappointment)
Krista M. Wolfe, State Board of Physical Therapy (new appointment)
Dia D. McCaughan, State Board of Podiatry (new appointment)
Joseph Tarantino, State Real Estate Commission (reappointment)
Dale J. Yingst, State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers and Salespersons (new appointment)