An Act prohibiting discrimination against individuals based on unemployment status; providing for powers and duties of the Department of Labor and Industry; and imposing a penalty.

SB 29, the Fair Chance for Employment Act, prohibits employers (including government entities and businesses with 5+ employees) from considering an applicant's unemployment status when making hiring or pay decisions. The law explicitly bans using current or recent joblessness as a factor, though it allows employers to require specific licenses, education, or experience as job qualifications. Violations can result in a $500 penalty assessed by the Department of Labor and Industry after an investigation. The bill takes effect 90 days after passage and directly affects job applicants and employers across Pennsylvania.