SB 614 amends Pennsylvania's Fiscal Code to establish a state-funded initiative supporting workforce development for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), which are community health centers serving rural and underserved areas. The bill directly affects FQHCs by providing funding to recruit and retain primary care staff, addressing documented shortages in these facilities. Key provisions include creating a dedicated funding stream within the state budget specifically for FQHC workforce expansion, with appropriations to cover hiring and training costs. This policy change aims to strengthen primary care access in communities with limited healthcare resources through targeted financial support.
HB 923 amends the State Lottery Law to redirect lottery revenue toward providing pharmaceutical assistance for elderly residents. It directly affects seniors who qualify for prescription drug aid under state programs by modifying eligibility determination procedures. The key provision updates how income and asset thresholds are calculated to determine who qualifies for this assistance. The bill became law on November 24, 2025, after approval by both legislative chambers and the governor.
SB 88 amends Pennsylvania's Insurance Company Law to require health insurance plans sold in the state to cover specific breast imaging services without cost-sharing for policyholders. It mandates annual mammograms for women 40+ and physician-recommended mammograms for women under 40, plus MRI and other breast imaging for those at average or higher risk of breast cancer due to factors like family history, genetic mutations, or dense breast tissue. The law specifies coverage for screening, supplemental, and diagnostic exams but does not require coverage for mastectomies or override standard deductibles/copays beyond the minimum required services. This replaces prior requirements that allowed cost-sharing and excluded MRI coverage.
SB 715 extends the expiration date of Pennsylvania's Rare Disease Advisory Council from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2028. This procedural bill directly affects the council, which advises state departments on rare disease issues, and the departments it collaborates with (Health, Insurance, Human Services, Education). The key provision simply changes the expiration date in the 2017 law without altering the council's structure or duties. This extension provides continued operation of the council for an additional three years.
SB 731 amends the existing Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly (PACE) program to add a new "Needs Enhancement Tier" for determining eligibility. This tier would allow more elderly residents to qualify for prescription drug assistance based on specific financial or health needs. The bill changes how eligibility is assessed under the program, making it easier for seniors with higher needs to access medication support. The bill recently passed final passage on November 12, 2025, and is now referred to Rules & Executive Nominations.
HB 416 establishes a new Child Care Staff Recruitment and Retention Program to support early childhood educators and creates a Rural Health Transformation Program to improve healthcare access in underserved areas. It also streamlines permit processes for economic development projects through the Streamlining Permits for Economic Expansion and Development Program. These provisions are integrated into the 2025 state budget implementation, alongside administrative updates to tax collection procedures, state fund management, and reporting requirements for agencies like the Department of Revenue and Treasury. The bill does not alter existing tax rates or create new funding streams but modifies how current state financial systems operate.
HB 749 updates Pennsylvania's public welfare laws to streamline assistance programs and improve service access. It requires copayments for subsidized child care, changes reporting for SNAP benefits, and mandates reports on transitioning to chip-enabled access cards for benefits. The bill removes regulatory barriers for outpatient behavioral health services provided within clinic facilities, allowing services to be billed as part of the clinic visit. It also requires additional reports to the General Assembly regarding medical assistance eligibility and nonemergency medical transportation services.
SB 69 establishes a temporary pilot program called "Recovery-to-work" within Pennsylvania's Department of Labor and Industry to help individuals recovering from drug or alcohol substance use disorders gain employment. The program requires local workforce development boards to create local pilot initiatives focused on job training, career readiness skills, and recovery support services, partnering with businesses and treatment providers. Businesses that participate receive incentives, and the program leverages existing funds like the Opioid Settlement Account and Reemployment Fund. Local programs must include support services providers, secure business partner commitments, and target in-demand local jobs with industry-recognized credentials. The bill mandates annual reporting to evaluate effectiveness and ensure accountability.
SB 955 creates a new mental health registration plate for Pennsylvania vehicles, featuring the Liberty Bell with a teal and purple ribbon and the phrase "Mental Health Matters." Vehicle owners (motorcycles, passenger cars, trucks under 14,000 pounds, or motor homes) can apply for this plate by paying a $42 fee, with $15 of that fee directed to a new Mental Health Restricted Account. This account, established under the bill, is specifically funded to support the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or its successor through the Department of Human Services. The bill directly affects vehicle owners seeking to display the plate and ensures dedicated funding for mental health crisis services.
SB 114 updates Pennsylvania's Nurse Aide Resident Abuse Prevention Training Act to strengthen training standards for nurse aides working in long-term care facilities. It requires the state department to develop a specific long-term care curriculum, set qualifications for instructors (including RN supervision and facility experience), and establish a train-the-trainer program. The bill also creates three pathways to become a certified nurse aide, including completing approved training with a competency exam (offering remote written testing options), graduating from nursing programs, or meeting equivalent requirements. Additionally, it prohibits the department from imposing waiting periods before online training can be offered in approved programs. These changes directly affect nurse aides, long-term care facilities, and training programs across Pennsylvania.
