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Bill

HB 453

An Act amending Title 35 (Health and Safety) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in Commonwealth services, further providing for definitions relating to intrastate mutual aid; and, in emergency responder mental wellness and stress management, further providing for definitions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jessica Benham and 29 co-sponsors

HB 453 refines definitions in Pennsylvania health law governing emergency responder mental wellness, mutual aid services, and general health provisions without creating new substantive programs.

Laid on the table (Pursuant to Senate Rule 9)
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Bill Summary · HB 453

Legislative bill overview

HB 453 amends Pennsylvania's health and safety code to refine definitions in three areas: general health provisions, intrastate mutual aid commonwealth services, and emergency responder mental wellness programs. The bill appears to be a technical/definitional update rather than creating new substantive policies.

Why is this important

Definitional clarity in statutory language directly affects how agencies implement programs and how courts interpret legal obligations. For emergency responders and mutual aid coordination, precise definitions can determine eligibility for services, funding allocation, and interstate cooperation mechanisms—areas critical during public health emergencies or disasters.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill summary doesn't specify which definitions are being changed or added, making it impossible to assess whether changes expand or restrict existing protections or services
  • Mental wellness resource implications: Changes to emergency responder mental health definitions could affect whether certain programs, counseling services, or peer support initiatives qualify for state funding or mandates
  • Mutual aid coordination: Definitional changes around intrastate mutual aid may impact how resources flow between municipalities during emergencies, potentially favoring or burdening certain communities

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

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