From women’s sports to fertility industry oversight to so-called “hate crimes” proposals, major legislative battles are unfolding in Harrisburg with serious consequences for Pennsylvania families.
Among the bills to watch out for are HB 1902 and HB 1905, which expand so-called “hate crimes” enforcement using vague standards and anonymous complaints, HB 836, which would shield the multi-billion-dollar IVF industry from meaningful oversight at the expense of children, and the continued stalling and delaying of Senate Bill 9, the Save Women’s Sports Act.
PA Family is watching the Capitol for you and keeping citizens informed about the policies and proposals shaping our Commonwealth. This is what Pennsylvania families need to know know right now:
Hate Crimes Bills HB 1902 and HB 1905 Raise Free Speech Concerns
One growing concern involves legislation expanding the scope of so-called “hate crimes” enforcement. House Bills 1902 and 1905, introduced by Rep. Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), are part of a broader package of so-called “hate crimes” legislation being advanced in Harrisburg.
This legislation adds “gender identity” and “sexual orientation” to existing ethnic intimidation law that addresses increased penalties for crimes committed on persons because of their race, color or national origin.
These bills would weaponize personal offense in a society that already treats disagreements as “unsafe” and perceived offense as “violence.” In such a context, a hate crimes package like this subjects reasonable people to anonymous reporting and investigation. Even if the accused is ultimately vindicated, the harm is already done by forcing the accused to fight against the investigation, prosecution, or civil complaint. Many will simply self-censor, which is never an appropriate result in a free society.
IVF “Wild West” Bill HB 836 Would Remove Ethical Guardrails
Another troubling proposal would dramatically limit legislative oversight of the fertility industry. HB 836, introduced by Rep. Jennifer O’Mara (D-Delaware County), seeks to make it nearly impossible for lawmakers to place meaningful safety standards and ethical guardrails around the fertility industry. The bill would make the IVF industry less regulated than fast food.
If passed, lawmakers would face obstacles to enact any new laws or limits to address real concerns involving eugenics practices and the creation and destruction of large numbers of embryos. Scientific experimentation could effectively be placed beyond legislative oversight and regulation. HB 836 will not help families or promote the well-being of children. Instead, it primarily benefits the multi-billion-dollar IVF industry and the desires of adults over children’s rights.
Save Women’s Sports Act SB 9 Continues to Stall in House
Meanwhile, legislation protecting girls’ sports continues facing delays in the House. Senate Bill 9, the Save Women’s Sports Act, introduced by Sen. Judy Ward (R-Blair) and Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York), along with three additional House versions of the bill, continue to be shuffled between committees while House Democrat leadership purposely avoids a full vote.
Meanwhile, girls across Pennsylvania continue losing opportunities, scholarships, privacy protection, and a fair playing field as lawmakers delay action. The Save Women’s Sports Act would ensure that female athletes in Pennsylvania are never again forced to compete against biological males in girls’ sports.
These debates are moving quickly in Harrisburg, and citizens deserve transparency about what is advancing through the legislature and how it could impact families across Pennsylvania.
Citizens cannot afford to tune out while activist-driven policies advance behind closed doors. Stay informed on the latest battles impacting faith, family, life, and parental rights in Pennsylvania. Sign up for PA Family Citizen Action Alerts to receive updates, voter resources, and opportunities to take action.
