This Week in State Advocacy: 4 Things to Know

June 08, 2026

The House and Senate return to Harrisburg next week as budget negotiations continue to accelerate ahead of the June 30 deadline.

Here is what happened last week and what to watch for this week:

• Hospital Security Grant Program Advances:  The House Health Committee held a voting meeting last week to amend and advance HAP-supported legislation establishing a Hospital Security Grant Program (HB 2341). The legislation would provide funding to help hospitals implement a broad range of security enhancements aimed at preventing and responding to workplace violence. As incidents of violence against health care workers continue to rise, HAP remains committed to advancing practical solutions that improve safety for hospital staff, patients, and visitors.
• Ryan’s Law Passes the House:  The House passed HAP-opposed legislation known as Ryan’s Law (HB 2254), which would require hospitals to permit terminally ill patients to use medical marijuana in certain forms while receiving inpatient care. While HAP supports patient-centered end-of-life care, the legislation raises significant operational, clinical, and regulatory concerns for hospitals. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
• Adult Protective Services Act Overhaul:  The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee is expected to consider legislation revising Pennsylvania’s Adult Protective Services Act (HB 1611). While the goal of the bill is to expand protections for older adult patients, several provisions pose significant challenges and barriers for the health care workforce across the continuum of care.  
• Nursing Workforce Pipeline:  The Senate Labor and Industry Committee on Thursday will hold a hearing on nursing workforce shortages, and the role private universities can play in developing Pennsylvania’s health care workforce. As workforce challenges continue to impact hospitals and health systems across the commonwealth, improving workforce development remains a key HAP priority.