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Bill

HR 492

A Resolution recognizing the month of October 2026 as "Polish American Heritage Month" in Pennsylvania.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Brennan and 14 co-sponsors

Designates October 2026 in Pennsylvania as Polish American Heritage Month to promote awareness and encourage related cultural and educational activities.

Referred to Tourism, Recreation & Economic Development
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 492

Summary of HR 492 (Session 2025-2026) – Pennsylvania

Title

A Resolution recognizing the month of October 2026 as “Polish American Heritage Month” in Pennsylvania.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill declares and designates October 2026 in Pennsylvania as Polish American Heritage Month.
  • The core intent is to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Polish Americans to the Commonwealth’s history, culture, and civic life, and to promote awareness of Polish American heritage among residents.

Key Provisions

  • Designation: October 2026 is officially recognized as Polish American Heritage Month in Pennsylvania.
  • Observance: While the resolution is primarily symbolic, it may encourage activities, educational programs, and cultural events within state institutions, local governments, schools, and community organizations to observe and commemorate Polish American heritage during October 2026.
  • Scope: Applies to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and its agencies, and may serve as guidance for local governments and school districts to acknowledge the designation.

Who/What Is Affected

  • State government: Pennsylvania’s legislative bodies, state agencies, and departments may reference or implement observance in official activities or programming.
  • Local governments and institutions: School districts, municipalities, and state-affiliated organizations may choose to observe Polish American Heritage Month through events, celebrations, or educational programming.
  • Polish American communities: Individuals and cultural organizations throughout Pennsylvania may leverage the designation to promote cultural events, history, and community engagement.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Legislation Type: A concurrent or simple resolution designating a commemorative observance (non-binding, symbolic).
  • Timing: The resolution designates October 2026 specifically; it does not establish ongoing annual designation beyond the stated month unless further legislation is enacted.
  • Sponsorship: A broad list of co-sponsors from both parties indicates bipartisan support and cross-community acknowledgment.

Potential Impact

  • Cultural recognition: Provides formal statewide acknowledgment of Polish American contributions and heritage.
  • Educational and community programming: May encourage schools, libraries, cultural organizations, and local governments to host events, exhibits, or activities during October 2026.
  • Symbolic significance: Helps foster inclusivity and awareness of the diverse cultural makeup of Pennsylvania.

Notes

  • The bill’s text is focused on designation and recognition; it does not authorize new expenditures or create specific programs. Any implementation would rely on local and institutional choices to observe the month.
  • The list of sponsors includes representatives from multiple districts, suggesting broad legislative support.

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

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