Representative Daley advocates for child abuse education in Pennsylvania schools

In a pivotal meeting of the Children & Youth Committee on June 3, 2025, members gathered to discuss House Bill 460, a proposed legislation aimed at enhancing child abuse awareness and prevention education in Pennsylvania schools. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as representatives emphasized the importance of equipping students from kindergarten through high school with the knowledge to recognize and prevent abuse.

Representative Mary Jo Daley, who presented the bill, highlighted the need for schools to develop age-appropriate curriculums, drawing inspiration from Jenna Quinn's advocacy. Quinn, a survivor of child abuse, has been instrumental in promoting similar legislation across the country, known as Jenna's Law. Since its inception in Texas in 2009, over half of the states have adopted laws modeled after it, mandating education on child abuse for students, teachers, and parents.

The proposed legislation seeks to align Pennsylvania with these progressive measures, amending existing statutes to include training for students alongside the current requirements for teachers and school staff. This initiative aims to foster a safer environment for children by ensuring they are informed and prepared to handle potentially dangerous situations.

During the meeting, Representative Schlegel underscored the necessity of ongoing discussions about educational topics, suggesting that the training should also extend to homeschool parents. This proposal sparked a constructive dialogue among committee members, who recognized the importance of inclusivity in educational initiatives.

As the meeting drew to a close, the representatives expressed their commitment to continuing the conversation around child safety and education. The committee's work on House Bill 460 reflects a growing recognition of the critical role that informed education plays in protecting vulnerable youth. With the bill poised for further discussion, the future of child abuse prevention education in Pennsylvania hangs in the balance, promising a more informed and proactive approach to safeguarding children across the state.