Sep. 30, 2021
HARRISBURG – Rep. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna) today joined her colleagues in the General Assembly in unanimously supporting legislation to extend for another six months the suspension of nearly 500 state regulations that were paused at the start of the pandemic.
“The difficulties created by COVID-19 over the past 18 months have given us opportunities to relieve some of the more burdensome regulations in Pennsylvania and determine that this does, in fact, improve our way of life. This is especially true when it comes to the quality of care provided by our health care systems during this challenging time,” said Pickett. “I look forward to working with my House colleagues in the months ahead to eliminate many of these unnecessary regulations, resulting in a state government that is able to serve its citizens much more efficiently.”
Some of the waivers in place allow for greater access to telehealth and resumed work for doctors with inactive/expired Pennsylvania licenses otherwise in good standing, thus expanding access to health care providers. Other suspensions will ensure hospitals retain flexibility to implement or adapt emergency plans.
Suspended regulations have also allowed pharmacies and mass vaccination clinics to administer doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, greatly expanding access to the vaccine for those who choose to receive it. Many of these measures are particularly important for rural areas.
House Bill 1861 now awaits the governor’s signature to become law.
Representative Tina Pickett
110th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Andy Briggs
717-260-6474
abriggs@pahousegop.com
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