Harrisburg, PA – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro was joined by former NBA star Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Representative Brandon Markosek for a ceremonial signing of HB 2268, which ensures that children who stutter can access speech therapy without financial barriers.
Governor Shapiro officially signed the bill into law last week, ensuring children who stutter can access speech therapy and overcome social and emotional challenges associated with stuttering. Kidd-Gilchrist, a former University of Kentucky and NBA star, is a leading advocate for stuttering awareness and met with state legislators earlier this summer during a visit to the Capitol.
“By signing this bill into law, we’re ensuring that Pennsylvania children who stutter can access the critical support they need without worrying about affordability. For too long, financial barriers have prevented many families from getting their children the speech therapy services that can make a world of difference in their lives,” said Governor Shapiro. “Speech therapy can be life-changing for kids facing this challenge, giving them the tools they need to find their voice, overcome obstacles, and thrive. I’m proud that Pennsylvania is leading the way in removing these barriers and standing up for our children’s right to the care they need. Today, we are taking an important step toward creating a more inclusive, supportive future for all kids across the Commonwealth.”
Childhood stuttering is a neurological speech disorder that typically develops between the ages of two and six, characterized by repeated sounds, syllables, prolonged speech, and interruptions. It affects 5 to 10 percent of American children, impacting around 3 million people across the country.
The new law requires health insurance companies to cover speech therapy for children in this age group diagnosed with stuttering, offering significant relief to families. With therapy sessions costing between $75 and $250, and months of treatment often required, this financial support is crucial for those affected by stuttering.
Kidd-Gilchrist, a standout basketball player who won a national championship with the University of Kentucky before a successful NBA career, has openly discussed his lifelong struggle with stuttering. He has become a prominent personal advocate for stuttering awareness, supporting similar legislation across the country.
This marks Kidd-Gilchrist's second visit to the Pennsylvania State Capitol. In June, he joined Representative Brandon Markosek – who has been open about his own experiences with stuttering – in addressing the House of Representatives about their personal journeys with the disorder.
At the signing, Kidd-Gilchrist emphasized the importance of this legislation, noting that his home state of Kentucky recently passed a similar law.
“Special thanks to Governor Shapiro, Representative Markosek, and the Pennsylvania House and Senate for their support of House Bill 2268 that will help young children who stutter receive the speech therapy they need and deserve,” said Kidd-Gilchrist, stuttering champion and NBA Veteran. “I’m honored to have played a small part in this process that will have such a huge impact in their lives.”
“When I was growing up and struggling with a speech disorder, I had a lot of bad days feeling like things weren’t going to get better. I also know how important speech therapy can be, not only in improving speech but also in boosting confidence,” said Representative Markosek. “Today I am so proud to say this new law will ensure that kids will have better access to speech therapy. I can’t thank my fiend Michael Kidd-Gilchrist enough for his advocacy and Governor Shapiro for his support. It’s a great day.”
The social impact of stuttering can be significant, with many children experiencing bullying, which can lead to poor academic performance, mental health struggles, and career challenges later in life. This law reflects broad recognition of the importance of early intervention in treating speech disorders. Research shows that access to speech therapy in early childhood leads to improved outcomes and greater confidence for children who stutter.
The new law will take effect in 60 days, providing immediate relief to families seeking speech therapy for their children.
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