The bill amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to enhance protections against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations by adding new categories of protected characteristics, specifically sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. It emphasizes the need for an inclusive environment that fosters economic growth and ensures equal opportunity for all individuals. The bill also clarifies definitions related to discrimination, prohibits denial of employment or housing based on actual or perceived characteristics, and expands the definition of "employer" to include religious, fraternal, charitable, and sectarian organizations with four or more employees, thereby broadening accountability. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that protect religious exercise, ensuring individuals or religious entities are not compelled to act in ways that substantially burden their free exercise of religion without a compelling interest. It outlines the responsibilities of the Commission tasked with enforcing these provisions, including the establishment of advisory agencies to study discrimination issues and promote goodwill. The bill also specifies that employers can enforce reasonable dress or grooming standards, provided they do not conflict with employees' gender identity or expression. The act is set to take effect 30 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1797 (Jun 02, 2025): P.L.744, No.222, P.L.6, No.2