Bill > HB1311

This bill amends the legal definition of "serious provocation" in Pennsylvania state law by explicitly clarifying that the discovery, knowledge, or potential disclosure of a victim's gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or circumstances involving romantic or sexual advances do not constitute serious provocation. Specifically, the bill prevents defendants from using a victim's gender identity, sexual orientation, or romantic/sexual advances as a legal justification for an intensely passionate response that might mitigate criminal charges. The term "serious provocation" is defined as conduct that would excite an intense passion in a reasonable person, but the bill narrows this definition to exclude scenarios related to a victim's identity or romantic interactions. The amendment appears designed to protect individuals, particularly those in LGBTQ+ communities, from having their identity used as a legal defense in criminal cases. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1311