Three people are dead and nearly 20 more injured after a gas explosion tore through Bristol Health and Rehab Center in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This tragedy was preventable.

Among the victims were two elderly residents and a nurse who had dedicated her life to caring for others. Dozens more, including a paraplegic resident and several staff members, suffered trauma and serious injuries when the building suddenly exploded, collapsing part of the structure into the basement.

Attorneys for the victims have already filed a lawsuit, citing “overwhelming negligence” by PECO and the facility’s operators. According to their findings, PECO was reportedly on-site investigating a known gas leak but failed to repair it or evacuate the building. Moments later, lives were lost.

This should never happen again.

We are calling on the Pennsylvania General Assembly to take immediate action by:

• Requiring enhanced inspection standards and reporting for gas infrastructure in all licensed nursing homes, rehab centers, and long-term care facilities
• Mandating automatic evacuation procedures when gas leaks or strong odors are detected on site
• Increasing emergency response readiness in residential care settings, including staff training and drills
• Publishing updated guidance and accountability measures for utility providers that respond to potential gas leaks in vulnerable facilities
  Nursing home residents and care staff deserve to feel safe in the places where they live and work.

Pennsylvania has a duty to act before another tragedy occurs.

Sign this petition to demand stronger safety and emergency standards for nursing and rehab facilities across the state. Lives depend on it.