PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB2615

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2615

Introduced
10/21/24  

Caption

Further providing for unlawful discriminatory practices; and providing for unlawful discriminatory practices against certain religions.

Impact

The implications of HB 2615 for state laws are significant, as it aims to modify existing legal protections surrounding religious discrimination. If enacted, the bill would introduce stricter consequences for entities that engage in unlawful discriminatory practices, thus reinforcing the principle of equal treatment under the law for religious groups. This change could lead to broader interpretations of civil rights laws as they pertain to religion, potentially impacting not only private companies but also public institutions that must adhere to anti-discrimination mandates.

Summary

House Bill 2615 seeks to address unlawful discriminatory practices against certain religions. The bill intends to establish clearer guidelines and legal recourse for individuals who experience discrimination based on their religious beliefs. Proponents of the bill argue that it is essential to ensure protections for religious individuals and groups, citing the need for legal frameworks that respond to ongoing issues related to religious discrimination in various aspects of public and private life. By reinforcing legal protections, supporters believe that the bill will enhance the rights and freedoms of individuals to practice their faith without fear of discrimination.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2615 appears to be mixed but leans towards support from various advocacy groups championing religious freedoms. Supporters, including certain lawmakers and faith organizations, frame the bill as a necessary step to combat discrimination and uphold constitutional rights. However, there are also voices of concern that express apprehension about the practical implications of the bill. Critics argue it could lead to unintended consequences, including the potential for misuse by individuals or organizations to justify discrimination under the guise of religious freedom.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include the interpretation of what constitutes discrimination and the balance of rights between religious freedoms and other civil rights. Debate has arisen around the potential for the bill to conflict with existing laws that protect against discrimination on a broader scale. Opponents worry that without careful wording and conditions, the bill could inadvertently sanction discriminatory practices under the pretext of religious belief, which may undermine protections coordinated across state and federal levels.

Latest HB2615 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB85

Further providing for unlawful discriminatory practices; and providing for unlawful discriminatory practices against certain religions.

PA SB619

Further providing for unlawful discriminatory practices.

PA HB1836

Further providing for definitions and for unlawful discriminatory practices.

PA HB826

Further providing for definitions and for unlawful discriminatory practices.

PA SB124

Further providing for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices.

PA HB2148

Providing for right to provide verifiable alternative evidence of ability to pay and further providing for unlawful discriminatory practices.

PA SB238

Further providing for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions and for unlawful discriminatory practices.

PA HB300

Further providing for the title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of the commission and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.

PA HB300

Further providing for the title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of commission and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.

PA SB150

Further providing for title of the act, for findings and declaration of policy, for right to freedom from discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation, for definitions, for unlawful discriminatory practices and for prohibition of certain real estate practices; providing for protection of religious exercise; and further providing for powers and duties of the commission, for educational program and for construction and exclusiveness of remedy.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.