House passes bill requiring employers to adopt written anti-discrimination policies
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Summary
Lawmakers approved HB1825, updating the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to require employers to adopt written policies and procedures to prevent harassment, discrimination and retaliation and creating a training fund. Supporters called it a practical step; opponents warned of burdens on small businesses.
The Pennsylvania House approved House Bill 1825 on final passage, a measure amending the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act to require employers to adopt written anti-discrimination and harassment policies and to fund training.
Representative Madden, the bill’s sponsor and a majority chair, told the House the measure updates state law and requires employers to implement written policies, complaint procedures, and regular training. "HB 1825 builds on core principles identified by the EEOC and equips employers with tools to ensure workplaces are free from discrimination," Madden said, citing state and federal complaint statistics.
Representative Jones described the bill as an example of bipartisan cooperation and said amendments reached a compromise that addressed concerns about false reporting. Representative Borowitz raised concerns that the mandate could burden small businesses and some religious nonprofits, warning of fines for noncompliance and objecting to perceived regulatory overreach.
On final passage, the House recorded 110 ayes and 93 nays; the bill passed and will be sent to the Senate for concurrence. The transcript records arguments from both sides about the bill’s regulatory burden and protections for employees; proponents emphasized model policies and a training fund to help compliance.