The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from February 9 – February 13 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

Governor’s Office

As highlighted in the Governor’s Budget Proposal, Governor Shapiro released his Housing Action Plan this week proposing strategic initiatives to compact housing instability and increase affordability. 

General Assembly

Beginning next week, the Senate Appropriations Committee will begin their work reviewing the Governor’s Budget Proposal inviting Commonwealth Agency heads to testify on their respective budget proposals. The House Appropriations Committee will begin their hearings the following week. Key hearings are as follows:

  • Insurance Department: House – Feb. 24th at 10am
  • Department of Health & Department of Drug & Alcohol Programs: House – Feb. 24th at 1pm
  • Department of Human Services: Senate – Feb. 25th at 10am; House – Mar. 4th at 10am
  • Department of Aging: House – Mar. 10th at 1pm
  • Governor’s Budget Office: Senate – Mar. 4th at 1pm; House – Mar. 12th at 10am

On Wednesday, the House Democratic Policy Committee held a hearing in Scranton which can be viewed here on threats and strains on community hospitals across the Pennsylvania.

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

  • Rep. Melissa Shusterman and Rep. La’Tasha Mayes issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation placing restrictions on the activities of US Immigration & Customs Enforement (ICE) in Pennsylvania hospitals.
  • A co-sponsor memo released by Rep. Maureen Madden and Rep. Darisha Parker for a bill that would broaden PA’s age requirements for the flu vaccine from age 65 to age 50.
  • Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and Rep. Mike Schlossberg circulated a co-sponsor memo for a resolution designating May as Mental Health Awareness Month in PA.
  • Sen. Judy Ward released a co-sponsor memo designating March 7th as Suddenly Sleepy Saturday for Narcolepsy Awareness in PA.
  • Rep. Joe Hogan introduced House Bill 2201, which would create the PA Physical Health Improvement Tax Credit program.
  • House Bill 2212, introduced by Rep. Steve Malagari would require health insurers in integrated delivery networks to allow patient access to physician-owned facilities that meet certain standards.
  • Reps. Jeanne McNeill, Chris Pielli, and Greg Scott issued House Bill 2215 which regulates the use of AI by minors through implementing age verifications for use, prohibiting sexually explicit content, and prohibiting encouragement of self-harm or sexual violence.

Department of Human Services

Check out DHS’ Human Services Helpers, on the Substack platform – a media platform for video, podcasts, etc. – that will cover updates on DHS programs, news from the agency, and how organizations and partners can help their communities.

DHS’ Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services is seeking new members for its Mental Health Planning Council. Applications must be received by March 31st. More information on how to apply can be found here.

Independent Fiscal Office

The IFO released its long-term budget outlook this week once again highlighting concerns with projected deficits in the coming fiscal years. 

Federal Update

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