Bill > SB829

This bill designates the Hynerpeton bassetti as Pennsylvania's official state fossil, recognizing a unique prehistoric vertebrate discovered in 1993 near Hyner, Pennsylvania. The Hynerpeton bassetti was an early four-limbed animal that resembled a modern amphibian, characterized by a robust shoulder structure that likely enabled powerful walking and swimming movements. The fossil remains of this species have been found exclusively at the Red Hill fossil site, making it particularly special to Pennsylvania. By officially adopting this fossil as the state fossil, the legislation aims to promote greater public appreciation and educational understanding of paleontology within the Commonwealth. The bill also includes a provision to repeal a previous act from December 5, 1988, and specifies that the legislation will take effect immediately upon passage.

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https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=829