Age discrimination - Pennsylvania

Summary of differences between federal and state regulations

Employer defined

The term “employer” with respect to discriminatory practices based on race, color, age, sex, national origin or non-job related handicap or disability, includes religious, fraternal, charitable and sectarian corporations and associations employing four or more persons within Pennsylvania.

Unlawful employment practices

The unlawful employment practices and exemptions are similar to those under the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act. For example, the state law includes an exemption for a bona fide occupational qualification, as well as an exemption for a seniority or merit system.

A political subdivision may, by ordinance or resolution, authorize the establishment of membership in and support of a Local Human Relations Commission.

Posting

Every person subject to the act must post and exhibit prominently in his place of business any fair practices notice prepared and distributed by the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

State

Contact

Human Relations Commission

Regulations

Pennsylvania Human Relations Act of 1955, P.L. 744, No. 222, as amended June 25, 1997 by Act 34 of 1997, 43 P.S. §§ 951-963

Federal

Contact

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

Regulations

29 CFR Part 1625, Age Discrimination in Employment Act

29 CFR 1626, Procedures — Age Discrimination in Employment Act

29 CFR 1627, Records to be Made or Kept Relating to Age: Notices to be Posted: Administrative Exemptions