The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from August 25 – 29.  (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget Update

There was no legislative activity surrounding the state budget this week, with both houses in recess, but officials continue their informal negotiations. The budget impasse is expected to extend into mid-September.

Governor Shapiro pitched an amended budget to legislative leaders, which would increase spending by 5% rather than the 8% increase proposed in February. Democrats, including House Majority Leader Matt Bradford, showed a new willingness to help support transit operating budgets through a special trust fund – as pitched by the Senate Republicans earlier in August – if there could be a plan to replenish that fund with new revenue sources. For more perspectives and statements from other legislators on the budget, see this Spotlight PA article.

The House stands adjourned until September 22 and the Senate until September 8. 

Department of Human Services 

The Department of Human Services (DHS) shared several resources from the federal government on how individuals can take action to move their Social Security benefit payments to electronic payments before the September 30, 2025 deadline after which paper checks will no longer be issued to beneficiaries. This action is particularly important for administrators of personal care and assisted living facilities who may be receiving checks on behalf of their residents. DHS will host a webinar for providers on September 10 at 1pm.

DHS updated its Medicaid managed care organization directory for September 2025. 

Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs 

The Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs (DDAP) will kick off Recovery Month next week, with events continuing throughout September. For event details taking place throughout the state click here.

Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority

Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official health insurance marketplace, in coordination with Health Market Connect LLC (HMC), the newly appointed contractor of Pennie’s Assister Network, are launching a new network of regional organizations dedicated to providing localized support throughout the Commonwealth. 

Around the State  

  • An op-ed from a retired county mental health commission member published in PennLive details the risk that the budget impasse poses to Pennsylvania’s behavioral health safety net.
  • WHYY reported on the state of traffic and commute disruptions in light of the current SEPTA service reductions and predicts how the situation will change as more cuts come into place next week.
  • The Pittsburgh area NPR partner, WSEA, hosted a story about how their regional transit authority’s cuts to the paratransit and ride share program will impact individuals living with disabilities. 

Stakeholder Meetings

Patient Safety Authority – Sept 16

The Patient Safety Authority established by the MCARE Act will hold a virtual board meeting on September 16 at 1pm. For registration and meeting instructions, see this PA Bulletin notice.

Pennsylvania Association of Addiction Professionals (PAAP) Annual Conference – Sept 18

The PAAP annual conference will take place in Trevose, PA on September 18 from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. The addiction-specific educational experience will feature immersive training sessions, an exhibit hall, and networking opportunities. For more information and to register, click here.