Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Abney bill to help child welfare providers manage insurance costs passes House

Abney bill to help child welfare providers manage insurance costs passes House

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    September 29, 2026 | 4:15 PM

HARRISBURG, Sept. 29 – The Pennsylvania House of Representatives today passed legislation sponsored by state Rep. Aerion Abney that would help child welfare providers manage insurance costs so they can afford to continue their important work.

A licensed social worker, Abney said H.B. 2490 will help child welfare providers maintain affordable insurance coverage and serve children, families and communities across Pennsylvania.

“Child welfare providers are facing a serious insurance crisis, with premiums rising sharply and some providers struggling to find coverage at all,” Abney said. “We need to make sure the people and organizations caring for our children can focus on that work instead of being pushed out by insurance costs. This legislation creates a fairer approach to liability and helps protect the stability of these essential services.”

Under the bill, counties would not be allowed to require a child welfare provider to waive an insurer’s right to recover money from a party responsible for a claim as a condition of receiving a county contract.

The legislation addresses a growing problem for providers. Rising insurance premiums and limited coverage options can make it more difficult for organizations to provide child welfare services.

Preventing contract requirements that further increase insurers’ risk can help create greater stability for providers and the children and families who depend on them.

“Pennsylvania’s child welfare system depends on strong providers that can stay open, hire qualified staff and serve families safely,” Abney said. “This bill is about making sure these organizations have the stability they need to continue doing this critical work.”

The bill now heads to the Pennsylvania Senate for further consideration.

Abney represents the 19th Legislative District, which includes Pittsburgh’s Hill District, North Side, South Side, Allentown, Hazelwood, Downtown, The Bluff, Knoxville, Beltzhoover, Manchester, Windgap, Chartiers, Sheraden, Elliott, and North, South and West Oakland neighborhoods.

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CONTACT: Ryan Bevitz
House Democratic Communications Office
Phone: 717-787-7895
Email: rbevitz@pahouse.net