SB 643 Pennsylvania Senate · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of October 27, 1955 (P.L.744, No.222), known as the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, further providing for definitions; prohibiting use of criminal history and retaliation relating to use of criminal history; providing for notice to prospective occupants and tenants relating to use of criminal history and for exclusions and other legal requirements relating to use of criminal history; and further providing for procedure and for civil penalties.

Senate Bill 643 amends the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to regulate how landlords can use criminal history information when making housing decisions. The bill prohibits landlords from denying tenancy or retaliating against prospective occupants and tenants based on certain criminal histories. It establishes "fair chance housing" practices, defining specific "legitimate business reasons" for considering criminal history, generally excluding convictions more than two years old. Additionally, it requires landlords to provide notice regarding their use of criminal history and updates the procedures and civil penalties for violations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Apr 21, 2025 Last action Apr 21, 2025
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Total actions
1
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Apr 21, 2025
Committee
Referred to Urban Affairs & Housing
upper
1 primary · 12 co-sponsors

Sponsors