The following is an update of selected state health policy developments in Pennsylvania from September 14 – September 18 (Some of the language used below is taken directly from state documents). 

General Assembly

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

  • Representatives Maureen Madden & Steve Mentzer issued a co-sponsor memo recognizing September 2026 as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) Month in PA.
  • Rep. Keith Greiner circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation to broaden aggravated assault protections for behavioral health workers in their provision of services to patients.
  • Senators Judy Ward and Maria Collett released a co-sponsor memo recognizing September 2026 as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) Month in PA.
  • Sens. Nick Miller and Maria Collett issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation to prohibit the usage of AI in behavioral healthcare with the exception of administrative functions.
  • Sen. Lisa Boscola circulated a co-sponsor memo for legislation requiring the disclosure of PFAS intentionally added to consumer products & packaging.
  • Senators Amanda Cappelletti and Nick Pisciottano issued a co-sponsor memo for legislation providing for paid leave for parents of children in NICUs.
  • Rep. Dan Frankel introduced HB 2770, legislation adding transparency to DHS from pharmaceutical manufacturers on drug acquisition costs for the Medicaid program.
  • Rep. Arvind Venkat introduced HB 2773, legislation prohibiting health insurers from imposing unilateral modification of contract terms and interpretations.
  • Rep. Sean Dougherty introduced HR 618, a resolution to study the state of mental health treatment in county jails. 

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.

DHS announced next steps to protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from skimming and theft by transitioning to chip-enabled EBT cards, which will begin to be automatically mailed to SNAP recipients starting in late Spring 2027.

DHS released a new video explaining upcoming changes for some Medicaid recipients, how they can prepare, and how and where to find more information on the changes.

The Department issued its October 2026 Remittance Advice Date delivery information.

DHS announced its FY26-27 Medical Assistance Day One Incentive payments to non-public Nursing Facilities.

Department of Health

The PA Health Alert Network is moving to a new platform so current users are encouraged to register with the new platform here to continue to receive alerts.

DOH announced on Tuesday, September 16, that 731 measles cases have been confirmed across 38 counties in Pennsylvania so far in 2026.

DOH issued notice of the addition of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP) which will take effect January 1, 2027.

The Department issued a PA Health Alert Network advisory noting an increase in medetomidine withdrawal symptoms observed by hospitals in Allegheny County along with guidance for providers on notifications. 

PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

PHC4 released its 2025 Outpatient Procedures Report detailing the volume of surgeries performed at hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers in PA. 

Independent Regulatory Review Commission

IRRC issued notice of final rulemaking on several packages including healthcare related updates for Massage Therapy, Nursing Home Administrators, and Nursing. 

State Board of Dentistry

The Board of Dentistry issued a statement of policy regarding mobile dental units. 

Stakeholder Meetings

DHS’ Office of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) will host a series of youth suicide prevention trainings held on Tuesdays from 12-1pm beginning on September 29th and concluding in April 2027.

The Department of Health’s HIV Community Prevention Planning Committee will hold its public meetings on Wednesday, November 18th and Thursday, November 19th, both from 9am-2pm. 

Federal Update

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