SB 274 Pennsylvania Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending Titles 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) and 61 (Prisons and Parole) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in sentencing, providing for alternative sentencing for primary caretakers and further providing for contents of presentence report; and, in medical services, establishing the Maternity Medical Services Program; and making editorial changes.

SB 274 creates two key programs in Pennsylvania law. First, it requires courts to offer non-prison sentencing options for individuals convicted of nonviolent offenses who are primary caretakers of dependent children (including pregnant women or new mothers), mandating community-based rehabilitation programs like parenting classes, job training, or mental health services instead of incarceration. Second, it establishes a Maternity Medical Services Program within correctional facilities, providing pregnancy and postpartum care for eligible incarcerated women at a reduced fee (with no denial of care due to inability to pay). The bill directly affects incarcerated parents, particularly mothers, by prioritizing family unity and maternal health. It amends sentencing procedures and medical services statutes to implement these changes.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 20, 2025 Last action Feb 20, 2025
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Total actions
1
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0
Committee
1
Feb 20, 2025
Committee
Referred to Judiciary
upper
1 primary · 10 co-sponsors

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