January 2, 2020 – Harrisburg, PA

Some pretty big Pennsylvania laws passed will go into effect in 2020. Here’s what new laws you can expect in 2020.

Election Reform

Some “voter friendly” election reforms will be going into effect this year. They are expected to be in place by the April 2020 election in Pennsylvania. Act 77 allows PA residents to vote up to 50 days before an election via mail. Voters can choose to be placed on a list that will receive their ballot in the mail and vote. Voter registration times will also be extended and a $90 million bond will be used to help counties purchase new electronic voting systems.

Smoking Age

As of July 2020, the age to purchase tobacco in Pennsylvania will be raised from 18 to 21. This includes the purchase of e-cigarettes and vaping devices.

Criminal Justice Reform

Sentencing guidelines will also be reformed in 2020. In addition to these, we will also see more drug treatment programs go into effect in an attempt to keep people out of prison.

Sunday Hunting

A new law allowing for hunting during three Sundays in February will begin in 2020. With the new law, one day of Sunday hunting will be scheduled during deer rifle and archery seasons and a date TBD by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

GI Bill

Pennsylvania National Guard members will now be able to apply to tuition assistance programs. The new program provides free education to family members of National Guard members. PA National Guard members who enlist for an additional 6 years will receive 5 years or more of educational benefits for their children. 10 semesters of tuition free education will be provided for the family member.

Licensure Reform

A new law will make it easier for new Pennsylvanians with out of state occupational licenses. The law will make it easier for people to work and get approved to work in PA.

Online Training for Firefighters

A bill permitting online training for firefighters will go into effect early this year.