The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) has indicated to their partners that they intend to take a person-centered approach to H.R. 1 implementation and will work to mitigate and minimize harm where they can.
To help accomplish those goals, DHS put together an H.R. 1 Workgroup to review upcoming changes and to work with DHS to prepare and engage with leaders on ways partners can help affected Pennsylvanians prepare for these changes and maintain their benefits. The workgroup held their first meeting earlier this week. Here are some key items of interest:
- DHS launched the Human Services Helpers Substack in October 2025 to improve information and resource sharing for H.R. 1 implementation and other DHS updates. Providers are encouraged to subscribeto receive the latest information and updates.
- Work requirements are back in place for many SNAP recipients. Work requirements for Medicaid expansion recipients will not go into effect until January 1, 2027.
- To help individuals comply with work requirements, DHS launched http://www.dhs.pa.gov/work, which offers a comprehensive overview of new work requirements and information on how Pennsylvanians can meet requirements through work, volunteering, or education/training.
Pennsylvanians can use PA Navigate to search for volunteer opportunities.