HB 481 Pennsylvania House · 2023-2024 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in certification of teachers, providing for "What is your Pennsylvania Story" continuing professional development course; and, in terms and courses of study, further providing for Holocaust, genocide and human rights violations instruction.

This bill requires Pennsylvania schools to offer a voluntary, free online training course for teachers and staff focused on student identity and cultural awareness. The program aims to help educators teach students about their unique backgrounds, religious freedom, and how to navigate cultural differences while rejecting biases. Additionally, the legislation mandates that school curricula include instruction on the Holocaust, genocide, and human rights violations. The Department of Education must develop these materials, submit annual progress reports to state lawmakers, and review the content every two years to ensure best practices.
Bill status in committee 3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2023
Committee Review
Jul 2024
House Passage
Jul 2024
Senate Passage
Governor
Introduced Mar 16, 2023 Last action Oct 22, 2024
Floor votes · House Jul 10, 2024

How they voted

270
Passed
Total votes 27
Jul 10, 2024
D Democratic13
13 Yea
100% Yea
R Republican14
14 Yea
100% Yea
Vote distribution
All Yea All Nay Mixed No data
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
7
Key actions
3
Committee
3
Amendments
1
Jul 10, 2024
House · Passed
House Vote: pass (27-0)
house
Jul 10, 2024
Lower · Passed
Re-reported as committed
lower
Jul 1, 2024
Committee
Re-committed to Rules
lower
Jul 1, 2024
Lower · Passed
Reported as amended
lower
Mar 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to Education
lower
1 primary · 9 co-sponsors

Sponsors