Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB643

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/21/25
• Refer: 4/21/25

Caption

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.

Impact

The impact of SB 643 is significant as it challenges existing practices that often lead to housing discrimination against individuals with a criminal history. By curbing landlords' ability to use such histories as a blanket disqualification criteria, the bill aims to facilitate access to housing for a segment of the population that frequently struggles to secure safe and affordable living conditions. Additionally, the bill stipulates that landlords must provide applicants with an opportunity to present supplementary information about their rehabilitation, thus fostering an environment where tenants can demonstrate their readiness for responsible tenancy.

Summary

Senate Bill 643 aims to amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act by enhancing protections against discrimination based on criminal history in housing practices. Specifically, it prohibits landlords from automatically excluding individuals with criminal records from rental opportunities, thus promoting 'fair chance housing' initiatives. The bill requires landlords to provide written notice to prospective tenants detailing their rights and the limitations on the use of criminal history in decision-making processes related to housing. This legislative effort seeks to create a more equitable housing landscape for individuals who may have previously faced systemic barriers due to past criminal convictions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 643 is largely positive among advocates of criminal justice reform and housing rights, who see it as a crucial step towards dismantling barriers that perpetuate inequities in housing access. Proponents argue that the bill supports the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into society, ultimately benefiting communities by reducing homelessness and the related social challenges. Conversely, concerns have been raised by some landlord associations and property owners who argue that the bill could complicate their screening processes and might lead to increased risk regarding tenant reliability and property safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 643 include debates over the balance between promoting social justice and maintaining the rights of landlords to enforce screening criteria. Critics express concerns that restricting the use of criminal history could lead to potential risks in rental situations, with complications for landlord liability and property management. The bill also raises questions about how 'legitimate business reasons' are defined and interpreted, which could lead to disputes between tenants and landlords regarding what constitutes acceptable grounds for adverse actions undertaken during the rental process.