Wallen Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Tick-Borne Disease Tracking

September 23, 2026

HARRISBURG – Rep. Catherine Wallen (R-Adams/Cumberland) introduced House Bill 2710 aimed at improving Pennsylvania’s ability to track tick-borne diseases and ensuring medical professionals have up-to-date information to diagnose and treat them.

“As someone who lives with Lyme disease, I know firsthand the challenges that come with a tick-borne illness,” Wallen said. “What can begin with a tick bite can lead to months, years and sometimes a lifetime of symptoms, doctor visits and uncertainty. Unfortunately, my story is not unique.”

While Lyme disease is the most recognized tick-borne illness, other diseases are also a growing concern. Babesiosis, which is transmitted by ticks, is not currently included on Pennsylvania’s list of reportable diseases. The Pennsylvania Department of Health has previously supported adding babesiosis to the state’s reportable disease list. Wallen’s bill would require health care practitioners, facilities and laboratories to report cases to the Department of Health.

“Without accurate reporting, we do not have a complete picture of how widespread these diseases are,” Wallen said. “Requiring babesiosis cases to be reported will give public health officials better data to track the disease and respond appropriately.”

House Bill 2710 also would require medical professionals to complete one hour of continuing education focused on tick-borne disease diagnosis and treatment as part of their initial licensure and renewal requirements.

Wallen said action is needed to improve disease surveillance while also giving health care providers the tools they need to recognize tick-borne illnesses.

“If we are serious about addressing the growing threat of tick-borne diseases, we need better data and better education. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference for patients,” Wallen said. “Patients deserve timely diagnoses, appropriate treatment and support. This legislation is about making sure Pennsylvania is doing everything it can to provide that.”

Representative Catherine Wallen
193rd Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Greg Gross
717.260.6374
ggross@pahousegop.com
RepWallen.com /facebook.com/RepWallen