After a two-decade effort, a bill that would add sexuality and gender identity to Pennsylvania’s non-discrimination law passed the House of Representatives on Tuesday, a milestone hailed by LGBTQ+ advocates.
House Bill 300 passed on a 102-98 margin, with all but two Republicans voting against, and all but one Democrat in favor.
The measure now heads to the GOP-controlled Senate, with some proponents expressing optimism that the bill could clear that chamber as well. Gov. Josh Shapiro has voiced support for the bill.
HB300 amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, which governs the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission – the body that investigates and adjudicates complaints of discrimination in housing, employment, and public services. The commission can levy fines, and refer cases to court for further resolution.
In addition to race, religion, and other attributes listed in current law, HB300 would add “sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression” to the list of prohibited types of discrimination.
But supporters of HB300 have said that regulatory rulings and court precedents are not the same as actual law and that many members of the public are surprised to learn that discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals remains facially legal under the PHRA. #LGBTQ+ Civil Rights