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Bill

HB 720

An Act amending the act of July 19, 1979 (P.L.130, No.48), known as the Health Care Facilities Act, in licensing of health care facilities, providing for do-not-resuscitate orders for minors.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Aaron Bernstine and 8 co-sponsors

HB 720 establishes legal procedures for do-not-resuscitate orders for minors in Pennsylvania health care facilities, clarifying decision-making authority and medical protocols.

Referred to Health
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 720

Legislative bill overview

HB 720 would amend Pennsylvania's Health Care Facilities Act to establish legal procedures for do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders for minors. Currently, Pennsylvania law primarily addresses DNR orders for adults; this bill would create a framework allowing minors to have documented DNR directives in their medical records within licensed health care facilities.

Why is this important

DNR orders are critical end-of-life care documents that prevent automatic resuscitation attempts. For minors with terminal illnesses, severe disabilities, or other serious conditions, having clear DNR protocols could reduce unnecessary medical interventions that conflict with family values and the child's medical realities. This also clarifies legal liability and decision-making authority for healthcare providers and families.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental authority vs. minor autonomy: Questions about who decides—parents alone, minors themselves (at what age), or both jointly—and how conflicts are resolved
  • Safeguards against abuse: Concerns that DNR orders for minors could be misused or imposed without adequate independent review and protections
  • Religious and ethical objections: Opposition from groups prioritizing all life-sustaining measures or viewing DNR decisions as inconsistent with their values
  • Implementation specifics: The bill's actual provisions are unknown without seeing the full text; details on age thresholds, consent requirements, and oversight mechanisms remain unclear

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

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