In 2026, Pennsylvania will witness significant updates to essential laws that affect healthcare, law enforcement, and individual rights. These changes are encapsulated in three key pieces of legislation: the Breast Cancer Screening Extension, the CROWN Act for hair protection, and new regulations concerning body cameras for park rangers.
Breast Cancer Screening Extension
Senate Bill 88 amends the Insurance Company Law of 1921. This law allows patients at average or higher risk for breast cancer to receive supplemental screenings without cost-sharing. Senators Frank Farry and Kim Ward emphasized the importance of this legislation: removing financial barriers ensures earlier detection and necessary follow-up care.
The bill was introduced on June 6. It progressed smoothly through the Senate, receiving unanimous approval before moving to the House, where it was passed with a vote of 196-7. Governor Shapiro signed the bill into law on November 24, and it will take effect on January 23, 2026.
New Body Camera Regulations
Senate Bill 520 updates the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, permitting park rangers and officers from multiple agencies to wear body cameras. Senator Lisa Baker highlighted the benefits of these devices, noting they provide unbiased accounts of interactions and enhance transparency.
While the law does not mandate the use of body cameras, it empowers the respective agencies to decide on their implementation. Introduced on March 26, the bill passed through both chambers and was signed into law by Governor Shapiro on November 24. It is also set to take effect on January 23, 2026.
CROWN Act: Protecting Hair Rights
House Bill 439, known as the CROWN Act, amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to prevent discrimination based on hair texture, type, or style. State Representative La’Tasha Mayes championed this bill, stressing the need to keep anti-discrimination laws current with societal changes.
The legislation allows individuals to wear their natural hairstyles without fear of discrimination. It was first proposed in the House on January 30 and received overwhelming support, passing with a 194-8 vote. The Senate later approved it with a vote of 44-3. Governor Shapiro signed the bill into law on November 25, and it will take effect on January 24, 2026.
Summary of Key Updates
- Breast Cancer Screening Extension: Patients can receive screenings without cost-sharing (Effective: Jan. 23, 2026)
- Body Cameras for Park Rangers: Agencies may choose to implement body cameras (Effective: Jan. 23, 2026)
- CROWN Act: Protects against discrimination based on hair characteristics (Effective: Jan. 24, 2026)
These legislative updates reflect Pennsylvania’s commitment to improving healthcare access, enhancing law enforcement practices, and ensuring equality in personal expression. The effective dates offer a timely opportunity for residents to familiarize themselves with these changes ahead of their implementation.
