The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors with over 32,000 members is the latest employer to endorse the Pennsylvania Fairness Act, which would prohibit LGBT discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodation.
“We were really enthused to receive their support,” said Lynn Lawson, communications director for Pennsylvania Competes. “It’s one of the largest associations in the state. That’s indicative to us of widespread support across the state.”
Pennsylvania Competes, a bipartisan social-welfare nonprofit working to pass the Fairness Act, announced the news this week, noting that puts the total of employers backing the bill at 977.
“The field team folks did a fantastic job,” Lawson said. “We’re thrilled as we get closer and closer to that four-digit number.”
Pennsylvania Competes started organizing support in April from the business, nonprofit and academic sectors in the state.
Todd Polinchock, president of the state Realtors association, said the local members operate with the National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“We believe it’s critical that Pennsylvania provides a housing and work environment free of discrimination,” Polinchock said in a statement. “The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors is proud to stand with the hundreds of other organizations who support a law that affirms that the right to housing should not be hindered because of sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Lawson said when companies are looking for a place to set up operations, they don’t just want a location with a strong economy, but a place where employees can enjoy a good quality of life.
“It absolutely has a broad impact on if employees feel welcome not only in the workplace, but in housing,” Lawson said.
The Pennsylvania Fairness Act is still in the State Government Committee in the House and Senate and cannot move forward until the chairman in either body schedules it for a vote. The bill was reintroduced in August after stalling in committee for years.
For more information, visit www.pennsylvaniacompetes.org.