On April 7, 2025, the Pennsylvania Legislature introduced House Bill 350, a significant piece of legislation aimed at reforming the process of establishing parentage through genetic testing. The bill seeks to clarify and streamline the legal framework surrounding genetic testing in cases of disputed parentage, addressing issues that have arisen in family law.

The primary purpose of House Bill 350 is to provide a clear protocol for challenging genetic testing results. Under the proposed legislation, individuals can contest the results only through additional genetic testing that meets specific criteria. This includes tests that either exclude the individual as a genetic parent or identify another potential genetic parent, excluding the individual who gave birth to the child. This provision aims to reduce ambiguity in parentage disputes and ensure that only valid genetic evidence is considered in court.

Another key aspect of the bill is the court's discretion to mandate further genetic testing when multiple individuals are identified as possible genetic parents. This provision is designed to facilitate accurate determinations of parentage, thereby protecting the rights of children and ensuring that legal responsibilities are appropriately assigned.

The bill also addresses the financial implications of genetic testing. It stipulates that the costs associated with initial genetic testing can be covered by various parties, including child-support agencies, the individual requesting the test, or as ordered by the court. Additionally, if a child-support agency pays for the testing, it is authorized to seek reimbursement from the established genetic parent.

While the bill has garnered support for its clarity and potential to improve the legal process surrounding parentage, it has also faced scrutiny. Critics argue that the financial burden of genetic testing could disproportionately affect low-income individuals, potentially limiting access to justice in parentage disputes. Proponents, however, emphasize the importance of accurate parentage determinations for the welfare of children involved.

The implications of House Bill 350 extend beyond legal technicalities; they touch on broader social issues related to family dynamics and child support. By establishing a more structured approach to genetic testing in parentage cases, the bill aims to enhance the integrity of family law in Pennsylvania.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders from various sectors, including legal experts and child advocacy groups, are closely monitoring the bill's progress. The outcome could significantly influence how parentage is established in the state, with potential ripple effects on family law practices and child welfare policies in Pennsylvania.