HARRISBURG, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro signed two critical pieces of legislation Thursday, introducing updates to improve Pennsylvania’s agricultural workforce and facilitate international sports medicine ahead of global events set in the state.
House Bill 324, now Act No. 1 of 2025, updates the Poultry Technician Licensure Law to expand eligibility for becoming Certified Poultry Technicians. Sponsored by Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, the bill allows legal residents to qualify for certification upon completing Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture training. The updates aim to address workforce shortages critical to combatting Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), a continuing threat to poultry operations.
HPAI has swept across multiple states since 2022, including cases in neighboring Ohio. Certified Poultry Technicians play a vital role in testing flocks and containing the spread of the virus. State officials emphasize that this reform will bolster biosecurity measures while supporting Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry, where poultry remains the top animal production sector.
The legislation also ensures that technicians working on their own farms can legally collect avian samples, streamlining efficiency in testing and preventative measures. Fees for certifications remain unchanged from their 1981 rate, providing no added financial burden to workers or businesses.
Senate Bill 184, now Act No. 2 of 2025, addresses the licensing requirements for international team physicians visiting Pennsylvania during global tournaments. With the FIFA Club World Cup arriving this summer and the FIFA World Cup slated for 2026, the state expects an influx of athletes and medical staff from around the globe. The law exempts visiting team doctors from securing Pennsylvania-specific medical licenses while limiting their practice to treating only their respective players.
Previously, international physicians faced lengthy and complex licensing processes under existing state regulations. The legislation streamlines care for athletes participating in major tournaments, such as the upcoming matches in Philadelphia, which will welcome millions of spectators and teams from across six continents.
“By signing these bills into law, we are addressing key challenges — from supporting our agricultural workforce in the fight against Avian Influenza to ensuring high-quality care for international athletes preparing for world-class events in Pennsylvania,” said Governor Shapiro on Friday.
Chris Herr, Executive Vice President of Penn Ag Industries, welcomed the changes, noting that HB 324 delivers necessary workforce solutions for an industry facing ongoing challenges from the avian flu crisis.
Together, these legislative actions exemplify Pennsylvania’s effort to safeguard its economic pillars, promoting innovation in agriculture, and showcasing readiness for international collaboration and events. Gov. Shapiro’s administration highlights these measures as important steps to strengthen the state’s infrastructure, reputation, and global engagement.
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