With the 2020-21 school year rapidly approaching, the state House of Representatives Education Committee on Aug. 20 approved two bills aimed at reaffirming school districts' authority to make decisions about athletic activities, and allowing parents and students to continue in school for an extra year to make up for deficiencies caused by COVID-related closures.

House Bill 2787, sponsored by state Rep. Mike Reese, R-Westmoreland, would make it clear that Pennsylvania's local school districts have final decision-making authority regarding fall sports and activities.