North Central PA Times

A new law has been enacted in Pennsylvania, allowing licensed practical nurses (LPNs) working in hospice settings to make death pronouncements. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27), was signed into law this week.

"I am grateful for the governor’s support of this important legislation," said Culver. "LPNs are with patients and their families until the moment of death, providing essential care during emotional times. Allowing LPNs to make death pronouncements, which was previously only a function of doctors, RNs, physician assistants, and coroners, can alleviate wait times that grieving families often experience."

The bill also includes an amendment introduced in the House of Representatives. This amendment clarifies the waiver of birth and death certificate fees for members of the armed services, veterans, and their families. It specifies whose documents qualify for the waiver and details applicants and scenarios eligible for fee waivers.

"I commend Representative Sheryl Delozier for taking the lead on this important amendment," added Culver. "A State Registrar notice to funeral directors last year upended a longstanding, statutorily provided benefit to those who have served our country and their families, and her amendment rights that wrong."

Senate Bill 1080 was signed into law as Act 137 of 2024 and will take effect in 60 days.

More information about Senator Culver is available online at SenatorCulver.com. Residents can follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SenCulver and on Instagram at Instagram.com/SenatorCulver for updates about legislative action in Harrisburg and news in the 27th District.

For media inquiries, contact Betsy Reichenbach at 717-787-8928.