6 New Laws Signed In PA, Including Cursive Handwriting Mandate

HARRISBURG, PA —Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has signed six bills into law that mandates cursive handwriting instruction in state schools, creates a statewide vehicular insurance database and makes structural changes to several existing laws.

A closer look at the new laws:

House Bill 17: Requires cursive handwriting to be taught in Pennsylvania schools. According to the bill's primary sponsor, Rep. Dane Watro of Luzerne County, "The linked, flowing motions of cursive writing help reinforce neural connections and build hand-eye coordination in developing brains.

Students who learn cursive may show improved language fluency, enhanced creativity and better recall."

House Bill 710: Requires PennDOT to establish an online verification system for automobile insurance coverage. The system will essentially be a searchable database accessible to

PennDOT and law enforcement that will allow real time verification of insurance coverage. The system - already employed by 17 other states - would be routinely updated through the mandatory reporting of policy information by insurance providers.

House Bill 1934: Amends an existing law clarifying who has access to state agency records.

Senate Bill 327: Prevents Fort Indiantown Gap police officers from having to retake a certification exam if they transfer to any other police department.

Senate Bill 467: Addresses the release of property restrictions on lands owned by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission in West Mifflin, Allegheny County.

Senate Bill 1036: Makes procedural changes to the state's First Class Township Code.