Bill > HR273

This resolution urges Pennsylvania school districts to adopt later secondary school start times based on substantial scientific evidence about adolescent sleep needs. The resolution highlights that 98% of Pennsylvania secondary schools currently start before the medically recommended time of 8:30 a.m., and according to a 2021 CDC survey, 84% of students are not getting adequate sleep. The document cites research showing that later start times can improve academic performance, reduce tardiness and absenteeism, and help address mental health issues by allowing teenagers to get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep per night. The resolution specifically calls on school districts to collaborate with health professionals, educators, and parents to develop balanced schedules, and it encourages the Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to provide resources and support for districts considering such changes. A 2017 RAND study is also referenced, projecting that statewide implementation could boost Pennsylvania's economy by at least $1.2 billion after five years due to reduced car crashes and increased graduation rates, and noting that 44 Pennsylvania school entities and hundreds of schools in 46 states have already successfully implemented later start times.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=R&bn=273