Southwest Allegheny News

The House Education Committee has advanced legislation proposed by Representative Jason Ortitay aimed at increasing awareness of eating disorders among children. This move is part of ongoing efforts by Ortitay, who represents the Washington and Allegheny areas, to address this pressing issue.

"Since 2021, I have been sponsoring legislation to draw attention to this serious issue," said Ortitay. "Last session, my bill passed the House but stalled in the Senate. I am hopeful we can get it to the governor’s desk this legislative session and see it signed into law. There is no time for delay as social media use continues to grow, which contributes to body dissatisfaction and eating disorders. As a father of two young girls, it is vital parents have the tools to quickly identify eating disorders and know what resources are available to get help."

House Bill 190 mandates that schools provide educational information about eating disorders annually to parents of students in grades six through twelve. This information would be distributed via email, first-class mail, or posted on school district websites.

With committee approval secured, the bill will now proceed to the full House for further consideration.

The 46th Legislative District represented by Ortitay includes South Fayette Township and McDonald and Oakdale boroughs in Allegheny County. It also covers Cecil, Chartiers, Mt. Pleasant, and North Strabane townships along with Canonsburg, Houston, and McDonald boroughs in Washington County.

For more information or inquiries regarding this legislation, contact Tracy Polovick at 717-260-6358 or tpolovick@pahousegop.com.