Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Bill to ensure student access to eyeglasses passed by State House

Bill to ensure student access to eyeglasses passed by State House

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    May 4, 2026 | 3:41 PM

HARRISBURG, May 4 – The Pennsylvania House has passed legislation that would establish a Commission on Children’s Vision to ensure that all students have access to eyeglasses, according to the bill’s prime sponsor, state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks.

House Bill 1077 would establish a commission within the Department of Health, made up of the secretaries of Education and Health, along with several healthcare and community representatives, to create a statewide plan to ensure that all students who need follow-up vision examinations have glasses and ensure this comes at little to no cost for the student or their family.

“Vision problems can have lifelong impacts, especially on our students,” said Cepeda-Freytiz, who wears glasses herself. “Unaddressed vision problems can cause headaches and a lack of focus in class and can even impact grades. Many students are misidentified as having behavioral issues or are placed on IEPs when all they need are eyeglasses.

“The benefits of glasses in the classroom translate to success outside of the classroom. We are working to ensure that our students have access to the resources they need to see a successful future.”

The legislation is similar to the Children’s Vision Strike Force launched in Ohio in 2024, which brings together health and education professionals to ensure that students have access to eyeglasses.

The bill passed the House, 150-51, and now moves to the state Senate for consideration. The commission’s first meeting would be held within 30 days of the legislation being enacted.