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Bill

HB 964

An Act providing for employment leave for victims and victims' families because of violence; prohibiting certain acts by employers; prescribing penalties; and providing for a cause of action.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Anthony Bellmon and 19 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill requires employers grant leave to violence victims/families with anti-retaliation protections and establishes employer penalties plus private legal recourse for violations.

Referred to Labor & Industry
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 964

Legislative bill overview

HB 964 would require employers in Pennsylvania to provide employment leave for victims of violence and their family members, with protections against employer retaliation or adverse employment actions. The bill establishes penalties for violations and creates a private cause of action, allowing affected individuals to pursue legal remedies against non-compliant employers.

Why is this important

Violence victims often need time away from work for medical treatment, counseling, legal proceedings, and safety planning. Without explicit legal protections, workers may face job loss or discipline for taking necessary time off, creating a barrier to recovery and safety. This legislation directly addresses a practical gap in worker protections for vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and cost concerns: Employers may worry about undefined leave duration, documentation requirements, and business continuity impacts, particularly for small businesses with limited staffing flexibility
  • Definition and verification disputes: Ambiguity around what qualifies as "violence," how victims prove eligibility, and whether incidents must be reported to police could create disputes and administrative burdens
  • Liability and litigation expansion: The private cause of action provision may lead to increased litigation, potentially exposing employers to lawsuits and substantial damages, which could incentivize defensive hiring practices

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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