Latest Updates on Pennsylvania State Legislation 6.16.25

Stay informed with the latest changes and events in Pennsylvania state legislation, including impactful new bills and key discussions.

Highlights from the Capitol Recap

The Capitol Recap for June 16, 2025, provided a comprehensive overview of legislative and executive actions in Pennsylvania. Key highlights include coverage of recent press conferences, committee news, and new legislation. The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) and the Young Professionals of Color (YPOC) hosted a Juneteenth celebration, affirming the legacy of liberation, resilience, and resolve. Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and other notable figures highlighted the importance of safeguarding Black history and combating racial injustice.

The session status for both the House and Senate was also outlined, with the House adjourned until June 17, 2025, and the Senate recessed until June 23, 2025. Upcoming session days and key legislative actions were also detailed, providing a roadmap for the legislative calendar.

PA Momnibus Day: Advancing Maternal Health Legislation

PA Momnibus Day was celebrated in the Main Capitol Rotunda, highlighting the importance of maternal health legislation. The PA Momnibus Legislative Bill Package includes several bills aimed at addressing maternal mortality and improving maternal health outcomes, particularly for Black women. Key legislation includes HB 1234, HB 1088, HB 432, HB 707, HB 526, HB 1192, HB 1212, and future bills HB 1240 and HB 1251.

Speakers emphasized the preventable nature of many maternal deaths and the need for comprehensive measures to address systemic gaps in care. Initiatives such as expanded postpartum screenings, access to doula care under Medicaid, and increased funding for maternal health research were highlighted as crucial steps forward.

Committee News: Regulatory Reforms and More

The House Republican Policy Committee held an informational meeting on 'reining in regulations to unleash Pennsylvania’s potential.' Discussions centered around the REINS Act and other regulatory reforms aimed at enhancing legislative oversight and reducing the regulatory burden on businesses. Key speakers included Rep. Dallas Kephart, Chairman David Rowe, and representatives from Americans for Prosperity and the Commonwealth Foundation.

The committee emphasized the need for accountability in regulation creation and discussed the economic impact of overregulation on businesses and job creation. Proposals for streamlining regulations, modernizing codes, and improving the state's economic environment were also discussed.

New Legislation: Bills to Watch

Several new bills were introduced, reflecting a wide range of legislative priorities. Notable among them is HB 1556, which amends the Tax Reform Code to provide for an advanced clean manufacturing project. Another significant bill is HB 1611, which revises the Older Adults Protective Services Act to enhance protections for abused elderly individuals.

Other important legislation includes HB 1612, which addresses firearms regulations, and HB 1613, which proposes changes to juvenile matters and mandatory counsel. Additionally, HB 1614 aims to repeal provisions related to hunting on Sundays, and HB 1615 establishes a Driving Under the Influence Treatment Program.