HB 1117 amends Pennsylvania's 1929 Administrative Code to redefine the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs' responsibilities for addressing substance use disorders. The department must now develop a comprehensive State plan coordinating prevention, treatment, research, and education across all state agencies and local communities - including health, law enforcement, education, and workforce sectors - to avoid duplication. The plan requires annual review and updates, and mandates the department to provide assistance to local governments while collaborating with medical professionals on drug use guidelines. This change formalizes existing coordination efforts under a unified framework, directly affecting state agencies and local entities managing substance use disorder services.
This bill requires insurance companies in Pennsylvania to contract with behavioral health care providers who meet specific criteria, such as being licensed in good standing and offering services within the state. The law mandates that insurers cannot deny network participation to qualified providers who agree to standard contract terms, ensuring patients have access to a wider range of mental health and substance use disorder specialists. Additionally, the legislation establishes rules for claim handling and prohibits discrimination based on the type of behavioral health service provided. By creating these new requirements, the bill aims to remove barriers that might prevent individuals from finding suitable care within their insurance networks.
This resolution designates September 2026 as "Newborn Screening Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania to highlight the importance of early health testing for infants. The bill does not alter any laws or change how screening is conducted; instead, it serves as a symbolic gesture to encourage public awareness among parents, healthcare providers, and the community. By recognizing this month, the House of Representatives aims to promote education about newborn screening programs that detect rare but serious conditions.
This bill requires health insurance plans in Pennsylvania to credit money that policyholders spend on prescription drugs toward their annual out-of-pocket maximums. The law applies to anyone enrolled in a health benefit plan who pays directly for medications at a pharmacy or through a discount program, regardless of whether the pharmacy has a contract with the insurer. To receive this credit, individuals must submit proof of purchase, and the credit counts toward deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for the year the expense was incurred. The legislation also establishes a process for insurers to submit regulations and outlines penalties for failing to comply with these new requirements.
This Pennsylvania House Resolution designates June 23, 2026, as Dravet Syndrome Awareness Day to highlight a rare genetic form of epilepsy that affects approximately 20,000 people in the United States. The bill does not change laws or allocate funding but serves to raise public awareness about the condition, which often begins in infancy with temperature-sensitive seizures and can lead to developmental delays. By recognizing this specific date, the resolution aims to honor medical professionals and families impacted by the disease while acknowledging the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care.
This bill is a ceremonial resolution that designates the week of September 12 through 18, 2026, as "Neonatal Nurses Week" in Pennsylvania. It aims to honor the work of neonatal nurses who provide specialized care to newborn infants, particularly those in intensive care units with complex health needs. The measure does not change any laws or policies but serves to publicly acknowledge the skills and dedication of these healthcare professionals.
This resolution formally recognizes August 2026 as "National Breastfeeding Month" within the state of Pennsylvania. It serves as a symbolic gesture to raise awareness about the health benefits of breastfeeding for infants and mothers, citing recommendations from major medical organizations. The text does not alter any laws or create new programs, but rather acknowledges existing state protections and insurance coverage related to lactation support.
This Pennsylvania House Resolution designates the week of September 14 through 20, 2026, as "Birth Center Week" to highlight the role of birth centers in maternal healthcare. The measure aims to raise public awareness about these facilities, which offer low-risk, culturally competent care in a home-like setting and are noted for potentially lower costs and reduced cesarean section rates. While the resolution does not alter laws or funding, it formally acknowledges the value of birth centers in addressing maternal health disparities and improving access to care for mothers and newborns.
This House resolution designates June 27, 2026, as PTSD Awareness Day in Pennsylvania to highlight the mental health condition caused by traumatic events. The measure aims to increase public understanding of PTSD symptoms and reduce the stigma surrounding the disorder among all residents, including veterans and first responders. By officially recognizing this date, the bill encourages discussions about available treatments and the importance of seeking help.
This Pennsylvania House Resolution designates September 2026 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month to highlight the importance of early detection and screening for men. The bill includes background information on prostate cancer statistics, symptoms, and recommended screening ages based on risk factors, but it does not create new laws or require specific actions from individuals or organizations. Its primary effect is symbolic, aiming to raise public awareness rather than implementing concrete policy changes or funding programs.
