Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Pennsylvania House passes bill to deliver critical education investments

Pennsylvania House passes bill to deliver critical education investments

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    July 12, 2026 | 4:45 PM

The PA House and Senate have passed legislation (H.B.1505) sponsored by state Rep. Liz Hanbidge, D-Montgomery, that implements key education investments included in the 2026-27 state budget while strengthening access to early childhood education across Pennsylvania.

The legislation amends the Public School Code to expand Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts eligibility to intermediate units, ensuring they remain eligible for funding even if federal changes affect Head Start programs. This provision helps protect learning opportunities for thousands of Pennsylvania children and provides greater stability for providers serving families across the state.

House Bill 1505 also authorizes significant investments in public education, including:

  • $565 million in adequacy and tax equity funding, ensuring every school district receives at least a $50,000 increase, consistent with last year’s investment.
  • $100 million for school safety and mental health grants for public schools.
  • $20.7 million in targeted school safety grants for nonpublic schools.
  • A $58 million increase in Basic Education Funding.
  • A $55 million increase in Special Education Funding, including $5 million dedicated to extraordinary special education expenses at brick-and-mortar charter schools.
  • A $10 million increase for Career and Technical Education.
  • Nearly $5 million in additional funding for Pre-K Counts and Head Start programs.
  • A $41 million increase for Early Intervention services for children ages 3 to 5.
  • $10 million through the State-Related University Performance Fund.
  • Flat funding for public libraries and community colleges.

“Every student deserves access to a high-quality education, regardless of their ZIP code,” Hanbidge said. “This legislation strengthens our commitment to Pennsylvania’s students by investing in classrooms, supporting educators, protecting early childhood education and ensuring schools have the resources they need to help every child succeed.”

The bill now awaits the governor’s signature.

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CONTACT: Molly Peters
House Democratic Communications Office
Phone: 717-787-7895
Email: mpeters@pahouse.net