HB 2209 Pennsylvania House · 2025-2026 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 miscellaneous provisions relating to institutions of higher education, providing for communism and socialism education.

HB 2209 requires all state-funded institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania to implement a mandatory one-credit course on "the dangers and realities of communism and socialism" starting in the 2027-2028 school year. The course must cover specific topics including definitions of capitalism, communism, and socialism; historical examples like China, Cuba, and the Soviet Union; comparisons between free markets and communist systems; and the impact on civil liberties. It applies to all public universities, community colleges, and state-funded private institutions as defined in the bill. The law mandates this curriculum for all students at these institutions, with no exemption for existing courses. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 11, 2026 Last action Feb 11, 2026
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Committee
1
Feb 11, 2026
Committee
Referred to Education
lower
1 primary · 10 co-sponsors

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