Sen. Frank Farry (R-6) today announced his breast cancer imaging legislation passed the House of Representatives and is almost law, marking a major advancement in cancer care and early detection efforts across Pennsylvania.
The legislation builds on the historic progress of Act 1 of 2023, which eliminated out-of-pocket costs for supplemental screening imaging, by now ensuring that follow-up diagnostic mammograms, breast MRIs and ultrasounds are also covered without cost-sharing under state-regulated insurance plans. Senate Bill 88 repeals outdated provisions that prevented many Pennsylvanians from receiving timely diagnostic imaging after abnormal screening, particularly affecting those who could not afford costly out-of-pocket testing.
Farry highlighted that his motivation for introducing the bill was deeply personal, sharing that his wife’s experience with breast cancer illuminated how pivotal access to imaging is in achieving early detection and survival.
“Today is an unbelievable milestone in our fight against breast cancer in Pennsylvania,” Farry said. “My wife’s journey made it clear that no patient should have to delay critical diagnostic imaging because of financial constraints. Act 1 of 2023 was groundbreaking, but this law ensures we complete that work — so that from screening through diagnosis, Pennsylvanians have access to the care they need when they need it.”
Farry received the PA Legislative Champion of 2025 Award from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network this week in recognition of his leadership on Senate Bill 88.
“This award from the American Cancer Society only strengthens my resolve to continue working for patients and families across our commonwealth, and I am humbled to receive it,” Farry said.
Rep. Gina Curry (D-164), who also received Legislative Champion status, was a key partner in advancing the legislation in the House.
“I want to thank Rep. Curry for her leadership and dedication to ensuring all Pennsylvanians have access to comprehensive breast cancer care,” said Farry. “Her partnership was instrumental in getting this across the finish line.”
Farry also acknowledged the PA Breast Cancer Coalition (PBCC) for their unwavering advocacy and support throughout the legislative process.
“Today’s victory belongs not only to our legislators, but also to patients across Pennsylvania who will now have access to the early detection of breast cancer at no cost,” said PA Breast Cancer Coalition President and Founder Pat Halpin-Murphy. “Senate Bill 88 strengthens the coverage provided by Act 1 and takes our state a bold step forward where income does not determine survival of breast cancer. Thank you to Sen. Ward, Sen. Farry, Rep. Gina Curry, House Speaker Joanna McClinton and to every one of our state lawmakers for recognizing the lifesaving importance of this bill.”
The proposal has also garnered strong support from other leading advocacy organizations, including the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society, and is not opposed by insurers.
Senate Bill 88 now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.
