February, 2026

Written by Bob Mason and Walter Tsou, MD, MPH; updated by Cindy Purvis, OPS-bp

State-based SP organizations

Healthcare for All PA  https://www.healthcare4allpa.org/

National Affiliations

Board members w/ affiliations in Physicians for a National Health Program, Health Care—Now,

One Payer States, Progressive Democrats of America, Democratic Socialists of America

State-based SP bills

Announcement of intent (2/16/2026) by Reps. Greg Scott and Lindsay Powell (with 13 other co-sponsors) to introduce in the House for 2026 in late March or April, an act to guarantee health insurance to all Pennsylvania residents, similar to Medicare for All proposals on the federal level.

(Prior session, 2017-18 HB 1688/SB 1014 “Pennsylvania Health Care Plan,” never voted; 2023-24 Family and Business Health Security Act was in preparation with two members of the house, but was never introduced.)

Summary: Covers all medically necessary treatment including outpatient services, hospitalization, mental health, D&A, prescriptions, dental, vision, medical devices, and long term care for all Pennsylvania residents who file a state income tax form.  No premiums, no copays, no deductibles. Freedom to choose any willing provider.  Revenue to come from income tax (for income over $20,000) for individuals and businesses.  Doesn’t require section 1382 waiver under the ACA. 

Status: Not voted on in 2017-18; anticipated re-introduction for 2023-4 session did not succeed.

Advantages to SP in the current context

We finally have a Democratic majority in the state house.  (And Democratic representation in both houses of Congress.)

Obstacles to SP in the current context

Conservative Republican majority in the state senate;

Partnership for America’s Health Future running a disingenuous corporate Public Relations campaign.

Where can people find news about Single Payer in your state and/or join a group?

Information:  President at Healthcare 4 All PA.    healthcareforallpa@gmail.com