HB 401 Pennsylvania House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act designating the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) as the official State reptile of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

HB 401 designates the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) as Pennsylvania's official state reptile. This symbolic designation recognizes the turtle as a native species found across the state in diverse habitats and facing population declines due to habitat loss and other threats. The bill contains no new regulations, funding, or policy changes - only formal recognition to raise awareness about the species. It takes effect immediately upon passage.
Bill status in committee 3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Apr 2025
House Passage
Apr 2025
Senate Passage
Governor
Introduced Jan 28, 2025 Last action Apr 8, 2025
Floor votes · House Apr 8, 2025

How they voted

260
Passed
Total votes 26
Apr 8, 2025
D Democratic14
14 Yea
100% Yea
R Republican12
12 Yea
100% Yea
Vote distribution
All Yea All Nay Mixed No data
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
5
Key actions
2
Committee
2
Apr 8, 2025
House · Passed
House Vote: pass (26-0)
house
Apr 8, 2025
Lower · Passed
Reported as committed
lower
Jan 28, 2025
Committee
Referred to Game & Fisheries
lower
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors

Sponsors