Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Bill promoting early colorectal cancer detection heads to governor’s desk

Bill promoting early colorectal cancer detection heads to governor’s desk

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    October 21, 2026 | 3:22 PM

HARRISBURG, Oct. 21 – Legislation (H.B. 1123) that would require health insurance policies to cover colorectal cancer screenings beginning at age 45 with no cost-sharing is headed to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk for his signature.

House Bill 1123 would update current law to reduce the age at which colorectal cancer screenings are covered from 50 to 45, update the guidelines referenced in the law to the most recent edition, and update the tests covered by insurance to those recommended by those guidelines.

The bill was introduced by state Rep. Pat Gallagher, D-Phila., who is a survivor of colorectal cancer.

“As a survivor of colorectal cancer, I know firsthand the impact that early detection and proper care can have on an individual's journey through the labyrinth of cancer,” said Gallagher. “This legislation is not just about updating insurance coverage; it's about saving lives and ensuring that no one has to face the challenges of colorectal cancer alone and that every Pennsylvanian, regardless of their circumstances, can access the screenings that could make all the difference.”

Current insurance law requires health insurance coverage for routine colorectal cancer screenings starting at age 50, but that requirement is based on American Cancer Society standards published in 2008. Several other states have updated to the more recent American Cancer Society guidelines from 2018, which state that people should be screened starting at age 45 rather than 50. The Pennsylvania Department of Health also recommends that people begin screening at age 45.

The bill passed both the Pennsylvania House and Senate. It now heads to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s desk to be signed into law.