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HB 156

An Act amending the act of June 13, 1967 (P.L.31, No.21), known as the Human Services Code, in departmental powers and duties as to licensing, providing for carbon monoxide alarm standards in child care centers and family child care homes.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 28 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania law now requires child care facilities to install and maintain carbon monoxide alarm systems to protect children from this deadly, undetectable gas.

Referred to Health & Human Services
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 156

Legislative bill overview

HB 156 amends Pennsylvania's Human Services Code to establish mandatory carbon monoxide (CO) alarm standards for child care centers and family child care homes. The bill requires licensed facilities to install, maintain, and test CO detection equipment according to specified safety standards.

Why is this important

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that causes approximately 400 deaths annually in the U.S., with children being particularly vulnerable due to their smaller body size and higher respiration rates. Mandating CO alarms in child care settings directly addresses a preventable health hazard for thousands of Pennsylvania children in regulated care.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Child care facilities, particularly smaller family operations, may face financial burden installing and maintaining new equipment and systems
  • Standard specification details: Ambiguity over which specific CO alarm standards apply (NFPA, UL certifications, etc.) and whether existing alarms meet requirements could create compliance disputes
  • Regulatory scope: Questions about whether standards should apply equally to all facility sizes and types, and enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance

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

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