HB 2477 Pennsylvania House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending Titles 40 (Insurance) and 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for behavioral health benefits for justice-involved children; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions and for costs and expenses of care of child, providing for mandatory intake conference and screening in cases alleging delinquency and further providing for informal adjustment and for powers and duties.

This bill requires health insurance policies and government programs in Pennsylvania to cover behavioral health services for children involved in the juvenile justice system. It mandates that insurers provide funding for screenings, assessments, and treatments related to mental health conditions and substance use disorders during specific legal proceedings, such as mandatory intake conferences and informal adjustments. The legislation also establishes clear definitions for terms like "behavioral health provider" and "screening" to ensure consistent application of these coverage requirements. By integrating mental health support into the juvenile justice process, the bill aims to address the needs of youth facing delinquency charges while maintaining a neutral focus on policy implementation.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Apr 29, 2026 Last action Apr 29, 2026