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Bill

HB 46

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in duties and powers of boards of school directors, further providing for kindergartens and providing for pre-kindergarten programs; and, in pupils and attendance, further providing for age limits and temporary residence and for definitions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 26 co-sponsors

HB 46 establishes state pre-kindergarten program requirements and adjusts pupil age/residency rules in Pennsylvania schools, potentially expanding early education access but raising funding and local control concerns.

Referred to Education
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 46

Legislative bill overview

HB 46 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code to expand early childhood education by establishing state-level authority and requirements for pre-kindergarten programs alongside existing kindergarten provisions. The bill also modifies pupil age limits and temporary residence rules, and updates related definitions in the education code.

Why is this important

Early childhood education access and standardization affect school readiness, educational equity, and workforce participation for families. Changes to age eligibility and residency rules can impact which children can enroll and which school districts must serve them, influencing both educational outcomes and municipal costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Unfunded mandates: Expanding pre-K programs may require significant funding; unclear whether state will fully fund or place burden on districts with limited budgets
  • Local control vs. standardization: School boards may resist state-imposed pre-K requirements that limit their discretion over curriculum, staffing, and resource allocation
  • Age eligibility and residency changes: Modifications could affect property tax burden calculations, inter-district equity, and which families qualify for enrollment

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

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