SB 536 Pennsylvania Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of December 20, 1985 (P.L.457, No.112), known as the Medical Practice Act of 1985, further providing for definitions and for genetic counselor.

This bill amends Pennsylvania's Medical Practice Act to clarify the role of genetic counselors. It adds a definition for "genetic test" (covering DNA/RNA analysis, biochemical tests, and chromosome studies) and specifies that genetic counselors may order these tests, coordinate care, and document medical information for clients' records. Crucially, the bill explicitly states genetic counselors cannot diagnose, test for, manage, or treat genetic conditions. The changes directly affect licensed genetic counselors practicing in Pennsylvania, defining their scope within the state's medical licensing framework. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.
Bill status in committee 3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2025
Committee Review
May 2026
Senate Passage
May 2026
House Passage
Governor
Introduced Apr 2, 2025 Last action Jun 25, 2026
Floor votes · Senate May 6, 2026

How they voted

220
Passed
Total votes 22
May 6, 2026
D Democratic8
8 Yea
100% Yea
R Republican14
14 Yea
100% Yea
Vote distribution
All Yea All Nay Mixed No data
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
9
Key actions
3
Committee
4
May 6, 2026
Senate · Passed
Senate Vote: pass (22-0)
senate
May 6, 2026
Upper · Passed
Re-reported as committed
upper
Jun 23, 2025
Committee
Re-referred to Appropriations
upper
Jun 11, 2025
Upper · Passed
Reported as committed
upper
Apr 2, 2025
Committee
Referred to Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Lisa Boscola
Lisa Boscola
DDemocratic
PA
18