A Resolution recognizing the month of February 2026 as "Blood Cancer Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kerry Benninghoff and 13 co-sponsors

Designates February 2026 as Blood Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania to raise public awareness and encourage education and outreach without creating new programs or funding.

Laid on the table (Pursuant to House Rule 71)

Summary of HR 411 (Session 2025-2026) – Pennsylvania

Purpose and Intent

HR 411 is a concurrent resolution recognizing February 2026 as “Blood Cancer Awareness Month” in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The bill aims to raise public awareness about blood cancers, their impact, and the importance of research, diagnosis, treatment, and patient support.

Key Provisions and Changes

Proclaims February 2026 as Blood Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.

Encourages residents, organizations, and state agencies to observe the month with educational events, outreach, and activities that promote awareness of blood cancers.

May urge state agencies to cooperate with health organizations, advocacy groups, and medical institutions to disseminate information about signs, risk factors, and available resources.

May include instructions for recognizing February 2026 in official calendars, ceremonies, or proclamations at the state and local level.

As a resolution, the bill itself does not create new funding, programs, or mandatory requirements; rather, it expresses the sense of the General Assembly and designates a commemorative period.

Who or What Is Affected

Residents of Pennsylvania generally, through heightened awareness initiatives.

Health care organizations, patient advocacy groups, researchers, and educators who participate in awareness campaigns.

State government and local governments or institutions may reference the resolution in observances, educational outreach, or public health communications.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Referral and committee: Referred to the Health Committee (2026-01-29).

Action: Reported as committed (2026-02-03), indicating it advanced through committee and is slated for floor consideration or further action by the full House.

Legislators: Bill has a broad sponsorship list, including a mix of co-sponsors from the General Assembly, and notably includes Liz Hanbidge as a co-sponsor along with several other members from both parties.

Notes

This measure is symbolic in nature, aiming to formally recognize an observance without establishing new mandates or spending.

The impact relies on public and organizational participation in Blood Cancer Awareness Month and alignment with health education efforts during February 2026.

If you’d like, I can add a brief section outlining typical actions that accompany such resolutions (e.g., educational materials, partner organizations to engage, and example events) based on common practices for awareness designations.