This bill amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to enhance the procedures for handling discrimination complaints. Key changes include a stipulation that the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission must complete its investigation within 180 days of receiving a complaint, after which it can make a determination if the investigation is not completed. The bill also modifies the timeline for notifying respondents and requires that hearings occur only if there is probable cause for disparate treatment and the parties do not settle. Additionally, it introduces provisions for reimbursement of reasonable attorney fees for defendants if a claim is found to be unfounded after a hearing.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits the establishment of local human relations commissions with powers similar to the state commission, effectively centralizing the handling of discrimination claims at the state level. It also clarifies that only disparate treatment claims can be brought under this act and establishes that discrimination can be considered a motivating factor in employment practices, even if other factors are present. The bill aims to streamline the complaint process, ensure fair treatment for all parties involved, and eliminate redundancy in local human relations efforts.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 195 (Jan 22, 2025): P.L.744, No.222
Printer's No. 0195: P.L.744, No.222