Bill > HB27

This bill amends the Health Care Facilities Act to require ambulatory surgical facilities and hospitals to implement policies for mitigating surgical smoke exposure by January 1, 2026, or 90 days after the effective date. These policies must involve using smoke evacuation systems during procedures that generate surgical smoke, and must be developed in consultation with the entire surgical team. The bill defines "smoke evacuation system" as equipment that captures surgical smoke to protect operating room occupants from its harmful effects, and "surgical smoke" as the gaseous byproduct produced when surgical tools or heat-producing equipment interact during surgical or invasive procedures. The facility can choose its own smoke evacuation system, but must ensure it accounts for surgical techniques and patient safety. The goal is to protect healthcare workers from potential health risks associated with surgical smoke, which can contain harmful particles and potentially hazardous byproducts generated during medical procedures. The provisions take effect immediately, giving healthcare facilities time to develop and implement appropriate smoke mitigation strategies.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=27