Keshet is working with secular LGBTQ+ rights organizations and Jewish organizations to fight for LGBTQ+ equality in Pennsylvania. Along with local synagogues, we are working with HRC and The Trevor Project to mobilize Jewish communities for LGBTQ+ rights. To get involved in Pennsylvania, sign up here.

2023 Bills to Watch

(Information from the ACLU)

HB 300 / SB 150

HB 300 and SB 150 would amend the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) to add explicit, statutory protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. The PHRA currently protects people from discrimination based on race, color, religion, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, disability.

Pro-LGBTQ+ Laws

  • Nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people in employment, housing, and public accommodations
  • Nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ state employees
  • Nondiscrimination law protecting LGBTQ+ students
  • Conversion therapy ban covering LGBTQ+ youth
  • Gender-neutral option on driver’s licenses

Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws

  • No adoption or foster care nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ parents
  • No nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people in credit/lending or jury service
  • Broad religious exemption law which weaponizes religion as justification for LGBTQ+ discrimination
  • No anti-bullying law protecting LGBTQ+ students
  • State curriculum not required to be LGBTQ+ inclusive
  • No nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ youth in the child welfare system
  • No hate crimes law protecting LGBTQ+ people
  • Gay/trans panic defense is not banned
  • State criminalizes transmission of HIV
  • No gender-neutral option on birth certificates