The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 17 – August 21 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

While a recount is still possible as some provisional and overseas ballots are counted, Democrat Brandon Dukes won the special election to fill the vacancy in the 12th Legislative District within Butler County. This win places the balance of power in the House at 103 Democrats – 100 Republicans.

The following are healthcare-related bills or cosponsor memos released by legislators this past week

  • Sen. Elder Vogel circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring additional educational resources for EMS staff in the treatment of laryngectomy patients.
  • Sen. Tracy Pennycuick introduced SB 1439, which would create an Office of Fraud Prevention at Pennie®, Pennsylvania’s State-based insurance exchange, as well as require additional residency checks and fraud reporting requirements.
  • Rep. Kyle Donahue released HB 2733, legislation to allow for guaranteed paid leave for prenatal related appointments.
  • Rep. Kyle Mullins introduced HB 2734, legislation requiring coverage of FDA approved Alzheimer’s treatments. 

Department of Human Services

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, stay plugged in to DHS updates for managing HR 1, new rules and regulations, among others. DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – covers DHS program updates, agency news, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

The Department issued its September 2026 Remittance Advice Dates.

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC has published a notice of comments issued in response to DHS’ proposed regulations for Residential Services for Children & Youth.  DHS must consider these comments, which reflect input from the IRRC, legislators, and other affected parties in preparing the final-form regulations. 

Stakeholder Meetings

The Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council will hold a public council meeting on September 3rd at 10am.

The Patient Safety Authority will hold a public board meeting on September 15th at 1pm. 

Federal Update

Click here for a review of this week’s federal activities.