Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus | News Center

News Center

New bill would create critical pause button for data center development in Pa.

(17 hours ago) Rep. Paul Friel

HARRISBURG, June 17 – A fast-tracking state House bill empowering Pennsylvania municipalities to pause data center projects advanced unanimously from the House Local Government Committee this morning, said the legislation’s sponsor, state Rep. Paul Friel, D-Chester. Under H.B. 2496 , which Friel said is expected to pass the House as early as next week, municipalities could enact up to a 180-day pause on data center application considerations by adopting a resolution. During a pause municipalities could adopt, amend or repeal parts of their land use ordinances relating to data centers. Critically, the pause dates back to the moment the public was notified of the meeting agenda, and any application filed during the pause is subject to the new rules. “This bill gives Pennsylvania officials – who have an extremely tough job right now managing this unprecedented sector growth – the time needed to research, draft and pass comprehensive land-use ordinances updated and fit for data centers,” Friel said . “Data centers are not a customer that all states saw coming. It will allow our local elected supervisors and councilmembers to develop protections for their communities, who face real negative consequences from unchecked development.” In Pennsylvania, a municipality may use its zoning powers to regulate development, but it cannot outright prohibit a specific development. Data centers, which are large Read more

 

House continues efforts to update modern terminology in state law

(18 hours ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

Recognizing the need to change outdated terminology in laws to better reflect modern language, the Pennsylvania House today passed legislation introduced by state Rep. Darisha Parker, D-Phila., that would update references to the agency in charge of providing human services to Pennsylvanians. Read more

 

House Energy Committee advances legislation to optimize electric grid, accelerate interconnection to meet rising energy demand

(18 hours ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 17 – Continuing its efforts to address the root causes of rising energy prices in Pennsylvania, the House Energy Committee voted favorably to advance key bills that leverage the state’s existing grid infrastructure and next-generation technologies to meet rising demand and improve grid reliability.The bills are: •H.B. 2380: Deploying Battery Storage to Meet Peak Demand.•H.B. 2595: Reducing Interconnection Delays by Slashing Red Tape. Read more

 

Friel, Kinkead bill to protect good Samaritans in drug, alcohol overdoses passes House

(18 hours ago) Rep. Paul Friel

HARRISBURG, June 17 – The Pennsylvania House on Wednesday passed H.B. 1944, which would protect individuals who help another person in the event of a drug or alcohol overdose, announced state Reps. Paul Friel and Emily Kinkead, who sponsored the bill. House Bill 1944 , which passed with broad bipartisan support , would protect people, such as college students, from endangerment charges if they are administering aid to a person suffering an emergency overdose. “Creating a culture of safety on campus means removing the threat of disciplinary action so students can step up and help one another without hesitation,” said Friel, D-Chester . “When we eliminate the fear of punishment, we break down the biggest barrier to calling for emergency help, which ultimately saves lives.” “In a life-or-death crisis, hesitation can be fatal. Fear of legal repercussions should never stand in the way of a person doing the right thing,” said Kinkead, D-Allegheny . “This legislation guarantees that anyone who steps forward to help someone experiencing an overdose or alcohol poisoning will be shielded from criminal liability. “By moving this legislation forward, we are ensuring that Pennsylvanians – especially our youth – can protect their peers during an emergency without risking their own futures.” The representatives heard during a March public hearing that this legislation Read more

 

Pielli’s artificial intelligence content disclosure bill approved by Pa. House

(19 hours ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

“The premise of this bill is simple. If it’s AI, it has to say it’s AI,” Pielli said. “People deserve to know if what they’re looking at is real or not when making purchases. Disclosures should be clear and conspicuous in the same medium as the content generated to help consumers make better-informed and more secure purchases. Read more

 

County probation officer body cam bill passes House

(19 hours ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

The barrier to county probation officers wearing body cameras is on the way to being cleared after legislation sponsored by Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) passed the House Wednesday with strong bipartisan support. Read more

 

Kinkead bill for special education funding reform passes PA House

(1 day ago) Rep. Emily Kinkead

Legislation boosting, improving Special Education Contingency Fund advances to Senate Read more

 

Pennsylvania House passes Davidson’s Virtual Power Plant legislation

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

"This bill is about practical solutions, affordability and modernizing our infrastructure without placing a burden on ratepayers," said Davidson. "Pennsylvanians are looking for relief when paying their energy bills. By using technologies many families already have in their homes, we can reduce the strain on our electric grid, prevent costly system upgrades and put money directly back into the pockets of consumers who choose to participate." Read more

 

PA House Democratic Leadership issues statement on Pa. Supreme Court ruling on skill games

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 16, 2026 - Pennsylvania House Democratic Leaders issued the following statement on the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s ruling on skill games: “The Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling makes it clear: skill games are illegal slot machines. We are encouraged that Senate Republicans may now be ready to proceed on bipartisan legislation to regulate skill games, and we look forward to seeing what they can pass in a bipartisan fashion in their chamber.” Read more

 

Abney applauds state court’s skill game ruling, calls for stronger oversight

(1 day ago) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 16 – State Rep. Aerion Abney released the following statement regarding Monday’s ruling by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court that skill games are illegal in the commonwealth: “ The Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s decision confirms what many of us have long believed: skill games are illegal under existing Pennsylvania law. This ruling provides long-awaited clarity and presents an opportunity for the Commonwealth to establish a responsible, transparent framework moving forward. “For too long, skill game machines have proliferated across Pennsylvania with little to no meaningful oversight. These machines can be found in communities throughout Pittsburgh and across the Commonwealth, yet there are few safeguards to ensure accountability, consumer protection or transparency regarding how the money generated is managed and distributed. That lack of regulation has created an uneven playing field and left significant revenue on the table. “As the General Assembly considers next steps, we must strike a balance that protects the service organizations, veterans groups, clubs and small businesses that have come to rely on income associated with these machines, while also ensuring appropriate regulation and taxation. Those goals are not mutually exclusive. We can support community organizations and establish the oversight necessary to protect players, strengthen public trust, and ensure revenues Read more

 

Ciresi proposes moratorium on AI chatbots in children’s toys

(Jun 15, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 15 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, majority chair of the House Communications & Technology Committee, today continues to demonstrate leadership on emerging technology issues and consumer protection in Pennsylvania through the introduction of H.B. 2637 that would impose a three-year moratorium on the sale of artificial intelligence chatbot-enabled toys for children to allow for more research on its effects. AI-enabled toys use an Internet connection and a microphone and speaker that allow teddy bears, plushies, robots, and other toys to engage in real-time, dynamic conversations. “Talking toys were once the stuff of children’s literature like The Velveteen Rabbit and Winnie-the-Pooh, but AI-enabled toys are turning those children’s fantasy companions into reality—and that reality is disturbing,” Ciresi said. “Technology is developing so rapidly industry and government need time to better understand how AI-powered toys may affect young kids.” Ciresi said reports by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund and NBC News raised his concerns about the technology after some AI-enabled toys, marketed for children between 3 and 12, discussed sexually explicit topics and provided detailed answers on how to find and use potentially dangerous household objects such as matches and knives. The representative pointed out that the developers of most major AI platforms, such as ChatGPT and Read more

 

Ciresi proposes moratorium on AI chatbots in children’s toys

(Jun 15, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 15 – State Rep. Joe Ciresi, majority chair of the House Communications & Technology Committee, today continues to demonstrate leadership on emerging technology issues and consumer protection in Pennsylvania through the introduction of H.B. 2637 that would impose a three-year moratorium on the sale of artificial intelligence chatbot-enabled toys for children to allow for more research on its effects. AI-enabled toys use an Internet connection and a microphone and speaker that allow teddy bears, plushies, robots, and other toys to engage in real-time, dynamic conversations. “Talking toys were once the stuff of children’s literature like The Velveteen Rabbit and Winnie-the-Pooh, but AI-enabled toys are turning those children’s fantasy companions into reality—and that reality is disturbing,” Ciresi said. “Technology is developing so rapidly industry and government need time to better understand how AI-powered toys may affect young kids.” Ciresi said reports by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund and NBC News raised his concerns about the technology after some AI-enabled toys, marketed for children between 3 and 12, discussed sexually explicit topics and provided detailed answers on how to find and use potentially dangerous household objects such as matches and knives. The representative pointed out that the developers of most major AI platforms, such as ChatGPT and Read more

 

Williams bipartisan bill to protect SNAP benefits unanimously passes House

(Jun 15, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

The state House of Representatives unanimously passed critical bipartisan legislation sponsored by Rep. Dan Williams, D-Chester, and Rep. Doyle Heffley, R-Carbon, to reduce theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Read more

 

Rivera’s bill to close EITC reporting gaps introduced

(Jun 12, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 12 – State Rep. Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster, today introduced H.B. 2632 which would improve transparency in Educational Improvement Tax Credit programs by closing reporting gaps to ensure that funds are directed to their intended recipients. Rivera said EITC programs have grown into a $680 million public investment in nonpublic education in fiscal year 2025-26, more than four times the $150 million cap in place a decade ago. However, the Independent Fiscal Office has found that critical data gaps make it impossible to fully evaluate the program's effectiveness. “While EITC funding has quadrupled over the last decade, key reporting gaps have left lawmakers and taxpayers unable to assess whether public funds have reached the students and schools they were intended to aid,” Rivera said. “That should concern everyone. “My legislation would close these reporting gaps and ensure greater accountability so we know that these scholarships have reached the intended students.” House Bill 2632 would: Reallocate credits in 2026-27 to better align with program demand. Create a new program beginning in 2027-28. The new program would: Increase oversight of scholarship granting organizations. Target resources to students living in the attendance area of a low-achieving public school or attending a nonpublic school in a low-income ZIP code. Increase transparency on how scholarship dollars are used, Read more

 

Rivera’s second BUS IT TO MARKET June 27 Event promotes quick, affordable RRTA bus trip, clean air

(Jun 12, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, June 11 – Building on the success of her May event promoting Red Rose Authority’s services, state Rep. Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster, will lead a second “Bus it to Market” trip on Saturday, June 27, to Central Market in Lancaster to raise awareness of the region’s affordable bus transportation system. “Residents on last month’s ‘Bus it to Market’ trip told me how much they enjoyed the ease and affordability of RRTA’s bus ride to Central Market,” Rivera said. “I’m leading a second ride so that more of our residents can experience for themselves how central Lancaster City’s eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind shops and creative restaurants is just a short RRTA bus ride away. And knowledge of how to use our public transportation can lead to new job opportunities.” Rivera said that she hopes her Bus It to Market excursions will show residents that RRTA buses are a fast, reliable, and inexpensive way to get to Lancaster and other places in the region. According to Rivera, Lancaster has unhealthy levels of air pollution. She cited the American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” report, which listed the Lancaster metro area as rejoining the worst 25 cities in the U.S., at 22nd most polluted in the nation and second worst in the Mid-Atlantic for daily particle pollution. The Lancaster area’s year-round pollution went from bad to worse, from 57th to 45th Read more

 

Rivera’s second BUS IT TO MARKET June 27 Event promotes quick, affordable RRTA bus trip, clean air

(Jun 11, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

LANCASTER, June 11 – Building on the success of her May event promoting Red Rose Authority’s services, state Rep. Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster, will lead a second “Bus it to Market” trip on Saturday, June 27, to Central Market in Lancaster to raise awareness of the region’s affordable bus transportation system. “Residents on last month’s ‘Bus it to Market’ trip told me how much they enjoyed the ease and affordability of RRTA’s bus ride to Central Market,” Rivera said. “I’m leading a second ride so that more of our residents can experience for themselves how central Lancaster City’s eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind shops and creative restaurants is just a short RRTA bus ride away. And knowledge of how to use our public transportation can lead to new job opportunities.” Rivera said that she hopes her Bus It to Market excursions will show residents that RRTA buses are a fast, reliable, and inexpensive way to get to Lancaster and other places in the region. According to Rivera, Lancaster has unhealthy levels of air pollution. She cited the American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” report, which listed the Lancaster metro area as rejoining the worst 25 cities in the U.S., at 22nd most polluted in the nation and second worst in the Mid-Atlantic for daily particle pollution. The Lancaster area’s year-round pollution went from bad to worse, from 57th to Read more

 

House Fire & EMS Caucus applauds committee approval of free cancer screenings for firefighters

(Jun 11, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

HARRISBURG, June 11 – Members of the Pennsylvania House Fire & EMS Caucus today issued the following statements on the Pennsylvania House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee’s approval of H.B. 2394 : “Our volunteer and professional firefighters put their lives on the line every time they respond to an emergency call. There are obvious risks when your job is to run toward a fire instead of away from it, said Rep. Greg Scott, D-Montgomery. “Still, among the leading causes of death for firefighters is not just fire-related injury, but cancer. Cancer we now know is caused by repeated exposure to cancer-causing chemicals, like PFAS, found in firefighting foams and protective gear. “Today’s committee approval of Representative Ciresi’s legislation to ensure all firefighters have access to annual cancer screenings is an important step in protecting our firefighting community and their families. I applaud the committee’s recognition of this often-invisible occupational hazard and their dedication to our volunteer and professional firefighters statewide.” "Cancer is a devastating diagnosis. But if caught early and treatment can start, outcomes can be greatly improved,” said Rep. Lisa Borowski, co-chair of the caucus. “Our first responders put their lives on the line every time they respond to Read more

 

Salisbury to introduce legislation that would reduce barriers to security grants

(Jun 11, 2026) Rep. Abigail Salisbury

HARRISBURG, June 11 – Saying that residents should never have to fear for their safety where they gather to worship, celebrate shared culture, or collaborate on community projects, state Rep. Abigail Salisbury is preparing to introduce legislation that would eliminate a funding match requirement that makes it difficult for smaller, lower-income organizations to secure funding. Salisbury said she drafted the legislation, which would remove the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund’s 33% funding match requirement for groups below a certain revenue threshold, to address a funding challenge that can be an insurmountable obstacle for smaller groups. “Small faith-based and other nonprofit groups are just as vulnerable as larger organizations to targeted threats of violence, but they often don’t have the resources to come up with the matching funds required for a security grant,” said Salisbury, who is co-chair of the bicameral, bipartisan Pennsylvania Charitable Nonprofit Caucus. “My legislation would remove the 33% match requirement for grants ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 if the nonprofit’s annual revenue is less than $250,000. It’s time to ensure that these smaller groups have the protection they need and deserve.” Salisbury cited the 2024 attempted shooting at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock and the challenges the church has faced in the aftermath of that incident in attempting to raise Read more

 

House OKs two Neilson bills to promote safer roads

(Jun 10, 2026) Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus

House Bill 2336 would require PennDOT to include information for new drivers about safe driving habits in work zones, including a question on the driver’s license examination test. House Bill 2337 would give cities in Pennsylvania the option to enact local ordinances with stronger penalties for off-road vehicles used on city streets, improving quality of life and safety for residents. Read more

 

Kinkead bill to combat image-based sexual abuse clears PA House

(Jun 10, 2026) Rep. Emily Kinkead

Legislation cracking down on nonconsensual sharing of intimate images advances to Senate Read more

 

New bill would create critical pause button for data center development in Pa.
17 hours ago

House continues efforts to update modern terminology in state law
18 hours ago

House Energy Committee advances legislation to optimize electric grid, accelerate interconnection to meet rising energy demand
18 hours ago

Friel, Kinkead bill to protect good Samaritans in drug, alcohol overdoses passes House
18 hours ago

Pielli’s artificial intelligence content disclosure bill approved by Pa. House
19 hours ago

County probation officer body cam bill passes House
19 hours ago

Kinkead bill for special education funding reform passes PA House
1 day ago

Pennsylvania House passes Davidson’s Virtual Power Plant legislation
1 day ago

PA House Democratic Leadership issues statement on Pa. Supreme Court ruling on skill games
1 day ago

Abney applauds state court’s skill game ruling, calls for stronger oversight
1 day ago

Ciresi proposes moratorium on AI chatbots in children’s toys
Jun 15, 2026

Ciresi proposes moratorium on AI chatbots in children’s toys
Jun 15, 2026

Williams bipartisan bill to protect SNAP benefits unanimously passes House
Jun 15, 2026

Rivera’s bill to close EITC reporting gaps introduced
Jun 12, 2026

Rivera’s second BUS IT TO MARKET June 27 Event promotes quick, affordable RRTA bus trip, clean air
Jun 12, 2026

Rivera’s second BUS IT TO MARKET June 27 Event promotes quick, affordable RRTA bus trip, clean air
Jun 11, 2026

House Fire & EMS Caucus applauds committee approval of free cancer screenings for firefighters
Jun 11, 2026

Salisbury to introduce legislation that would reduce barriers to security grants
Jun 11, 2026

House OKs two Neilson bills to promote safer roads
Jun 10, 2026

Kinkead bill to combat image-based sexual abuse clears PA House
Jun 10, 2026