Prepare for change: New Pennsylvania laws will take effect on January 1, 2025

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In 2024, the Pennsylvania General Assembly introduced a number of laws that would significantly affect citizens of Erie and throughout the state. These legislative initiatives aim to address urgent problems impacting diverse populations, from boosting financing for public education to extending access to healthcare.

Increased Funding for Public Schools

Increased funding for public schools was one of the year’s most important legislative successes. The possible advantages for property owners were highlighted by State Representative Bob Merski (D-District 2).

Merski clarified that we are less dependent on property owners by receiving additional state assistance, which may also help stabilize property taxes.

Expanded Property Tax and Rent Rebates for Seniors

Reducing financial burdens for elderly Pennsylvanians was another top priority for lawmakers. In addition to increasing the number of participants, the enhanced Property Tax and Rent Rebate Program will give eligible seniors extra money.

Representative Ryan Bizzarro (D-District 3), highlighting the advantages for persons with limited incomes, stated, “We were able to increase the available funds and eligibility.”

Healthcare Advances: Biomarker Testing and Doula Services

The following healthcare programs are scheduled to go into action in 2025 with the goal of improving results for vulnerable populations:

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  Biomarker Testing Coverage:
  
  Insurance plans, including Medicaid, will now cover biomarker testing, crucial for early detection and personalized treatment of cancers and terminal illnesses. Bizzarro, a childhood leukemia survivor, underscored its importance.
  
  This helps pinpoint illnesses early and develops effective treatment plans, he noted.
• 
  Doula Care Expansion:
  
  Access to doulas will increase for expectant mothers, particularly in Black and Latino communities, where barriers to care are more pronounced.
  
  Expanding doula services ensures more women and babies achieve optimal outcomes, said Brandy Gentry, lead doula at UPMC Hamot.

Mental Health Support for First Responders

New legislation that recognize the particular strains of first responders’ employment will now allow them to receive compensation if they have been diagnosed with PTSD. “It’s not your normal 9 to 5 job,” Merski explained. It takes a toll to deal with trauma, severe accidents, and shootings.

Consumer Protections and AI Regulations

With an eye toward 2025, lawmakers plan to regulate AI and bolster consumer protections. Merski acknowledged the effectiveness of AI while stressing the need to safeguard individuals from its misuse.

Legislative Challenges and Progress

Merski voiced anger with legislation that has stalled despite tremendous progress, pointing out that the Senate has only approved 10% of the more than 300 bills that the House has enacted. The senator remarked, “People think we’re not working hard, but the House is making progress.”

Pay Raises for Public Officials

Lastly, in 2025, Governor Josh Shapiro, state supreme court judges, and lawmakers will all receive pay increases of 3.4%.

In order to improve everyone’s quality of life, Pennsylvania continues to prioritize affordability, accessibility, and innovation as it navigates these legislative changes.

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