May. 26, 2021
HARRISBURG – The House of Representatives has passed legislation authored by Rep. Eric Davanzo (R-Westmoreland).
House Bill 996 would protect the religious liberty of residents in Pennsylvania’s long-term care facilities.
“When the pandemic started, all we knew was that our elderly population was most at risk from COVID-19,” said Davanzo. “Nursing homes shut their doors and loved ones could no longer visit. Our senior citizens faced isolation and depression and had no idea when their lives would again resemble some sort of normalcy.”
Not only were family members and friends no longer allowed to visit, but neither were members of the clergy, except in end-of-life situations. This legislation would ensure that residents would always have full access to members of the clergy to support their emotional well-being, which is just as important as physical well-being.
“I am proud to advocate for the religious liberty of our senior citizens,” Davanzo continued. “They have spent their entire lives caring for their families, friends and communities. When they get to an older stage of life, it is our turn to take care of them.”
The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Representative Eric Davanzo
58th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Michelle Swab
717.260.6325
mswab@pahousegop.com
RepDavanzo.com /
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