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HR 476

A Resolution recognizing the month of May 2026 as "Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month" in Pennsylvania.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Heather Boyd and 35 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania designates May 2026 as Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to recognize and promote awareness of AAPI contributions statewide.

Adopted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 476

Summary of Bill HR 476 (2025-2026) – Pennsylvania

Title

A Resolution recognizing the month of May 2026 as “Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month” in Pennsylvania.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill designates May 2026 in Pennsylvania as Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month.
  • Its goal is to recognize, celebrate, and raise awareness of the contributions and roles of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities within the Commonwealth.

Key Provisions

  • Official designation: The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is to acknowledge May 2026 as AAPI Heritage Month.
  • Civic and educational emphasis: The resolution typically encourages educational and commemorative activities, public acknowledgment by state and local governments, and recognizing the historical and ongoing impact of AAPI communities in Pennsylvania.
  • No funding authorization: Based on the nature of typical concurrent resolutions, the bill does not appear to authorize spending or create new programs; rather, it serves as an official expression of recognition and intent.

Affected Parties

  • Asian American and Pacific Islander residents and communities in Pennsylvania.
  • State and local government agencies, schools, libraries, museums, and community organizations that may participate in or sponsor related commemorative events.
  • General public, which may see increased awareness and educational programming around AAPI heritage.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction and sponsorship: The bill is sponsored by a broad slate of legislators (see sponsors list) and includes multiple co-sponsors, indicating broad bipartisan/bi-cameral support.
  • Referral: As of 2026-04-09, the bill has been referred to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives committee on Tourism, Recreation & Economic Development.
  • Next steps: The committee would review, potentially amend, and vote on the bill before it could proceed to the full chamber for a floor vote. If passed by one or both chambers, it would typically be sent to the governor for signature or veto.
  • Effective date: As a resolution recognizing a specific month, the impact is largely ceremonial, with the designation becoming effective for May 2026 unless otherwise specified in the final wording.

Scope and Limitations

  • The measure is a ceremonial resolution. It does not create new state laws, modify existing statutory authorities, or authorize new programs or funding.
  • The recognition is for a limited time (the month of May 2026) and is primarily an expression of appreciation and an invitation to observe and participate in related events.

Observations for Readers

  • This bill aligns with broader national and state-level efforts to acknowledge the cultural, historical, and economic contributions of AAPI communities.
  • Its passage would provide a formal platform for AAPI-related events, education, and public recognition statewide during May 2026.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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