Discover the latest updates on Pennsylvania's education legislation, highlighting key actions and upcoming events that shape the state's educational landscape.
House members and advocates rallied in the East Wing Rotunda to support a proposed $55 million budget for home-based child care funding. Carol Austin, executive director of First Up, emphasized the unique value of home-based child care and the urgent need for funding to stabilize the system.
Rep. Milou Mackenzie (R-Lehigh) and several child care providers highlighted the critical role of home-based child care in offering flexibility and personal attention. They urged the General Assembly to approve the funding to support educators and maintain the quality of care.
The Pennsylvania Child Care Association (PACCA) and Start Strong PA held a press conference to draw attention to the workforce shortages and low wages in the child care teaching industry. Mary Graham of Children's Village Child Care Center highlighted the systemic issues contributing to the shortage, including insufficient pay and respect for educators.
Legislative allies, including Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-Northumberland) and Rep. Jeanne McNeill (D-Lehigh), emphasized the importance of supporting early childhood educators in the upcoming state budget. They introduced bills aimed at providing recruitment and retention bonuses to address the staffing crisis.
The House Appropriations Committee considered several bills, including HB 30, which amends the Real Estate Appraisers Certification Act, and HB 1405, which pertains to career and technical instructional certificates for veterans. Both bills were unanimously reported as committed.
The Senate Education Committee discussed SB 375, which aims to improve school safety by providing AED and CPR instruction and establishing an Automated External Defibrillator Program. The bill was reported as amended and will proceed to further consideration.
The House stands adjourned until June 16, 2025, while the Senate will reconvene on June 23, 2025. Key upcoming session days include June 16-18 and June 23-30 for the House, and June 23-30 for the Senate.
Scheduled events include a House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee voting meeting on June 16, 2025, and a House Children and Youth Committee voting meeting on June 17, 2025.
HB 179, known as the Whole Milk in Pennsylvania Schools Act, aims to authorize the provision or sale of Pennsylvania milk in schools. The bill is scheduled for discussion in the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee.
HB 681, introduced by Rep. Danielle Friel Otten (D), proposes amendments to the Public School Code to ensure student confidentiality in health services and physical education. The bill has been placed on the House voting schedule for further consideration.