Bill > SB643

This bill amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to introduce comprehensive "fair chance housing" protections that limit how landlords can use an individual's criminal history when making housing decisions. The bill adds numerous definitions related to criminal history and housing, and establishes that landlords cannot automatically or categorically exclude individuals based on arrest or conviction records. Specifically, landlords are prohibited from requiring disclosure of or taking adverse actions against prospective tenants based on criminal history, with some exceptions for registered sex offenders. The bill requires landlords to provide written notice if they take an adverse action based on criminal history and allows applicants to provide supplemental information about rehabilitation. Landlords must consider factors like the nature and severity of past offenses, time elapsed since conviction (no more than two years), and individual rehabilitation efforts when making housing decisions. The legislation also creates strong anti-retaliation protections, ensuring that individuals cannot be penalized for exercising their rights under these new provisions. The bill applies to most housing situations, with specific exclusions for owner-occupied properties and accessory dwelling units. Violations can result in civil penalties, potential damages, and the requirement to cease discriminatory practices. The new provisions will take effect 60 days after enactment, providing landlords and tenants time to understand and implement the new requirements.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=643