The price of eggs is always a point of contention in election cycles and is often seen as an economic indicator by voters. However, politicians in power are often quick to point out that the price of eggs, like everything else, can be heavily influenced by factors outside of the economy. 

One factor that contributes specifically to the price of eggs is avian diseases, and lately bird flu has been a rampant source of concern for farmers everywhere. In Lehigh County, on the eastern side of Pennsylvania, bird flu was found on a poultry farm in late January, the first case in a commercial flock since February 2024. The flock consisted of 50,000 chickens.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture was quick to quarantine the farm. A statement by the department noted that while bird flu, or HPAI, is highly infectious and deadly for domestic birds there is no risk to the general public. Poultry products from infected animals, including eggs, are safe to eat if cooked properly. 

Bird flu is dangerous because it can spread to humans if they come in contact with an animal’s bodily fluids. It doesn’t spread from human to human. 

The Pennsylvania legislature also passed their first bill of the session on bird flu, focusing on people who want to become licensed poultry technicians in the commonwealth. Licenced poultry technicians are trained by the state Department of Agriculture and collect poultry samples for testing, including for diseases like bird flu. 

The bill that passed the chambers had bipartisan support and if signed by Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro would allow non-U.S. citizens to work as poultry technicians in Pennsylvania. The potential poultry technicians would still be required to be legally allowed to work in the U.S. and go through training by the Agriculture department. 

If you come across a sick or dead wild bird, you should report it to the PA Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-WILD (1-833-742-9453).

Another bill that passed through both chambers so far, is a bill that would also allow a different type of worker easier access to jobs in Pennsylvania — team doctors for international soccer teams. Currently, team doctors would have to get a medical license from the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine to treat their players, even if they’re only treating players for one match. The new bill, if signed by Shapiro, will allow international doctors to practice without a medical license from the commonwealth as long as they only treat their players and don’t practice medicine in health care facilities. 

The bill was sponsored by the youngest senator in the state, Sen. Joe Picozzi R-Philadelphia. His district encompasses the city of Philadelphia which will host the FIFA Club World Cup this summer and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

The team doctor requirement will make it easier for teams to bring a full medical staff to the city, boosting the overall economy. 

The legislature will continue to pass bills culminating with the passage of the budget, due on June 30.