Harrisburg, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) celebrates the signing of House Bill 344 and House Bill 558 into law as Act 64 and Act 67 of 2026. These new laws update the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1951, expanding transparency for renters and strengthening clarity around housing conditions and rental expectations.
Act 64 requires greater clarity in lease agreements regarding parking provisions, which is an often‑overlooked but significant cost factor for many tenants. Act 67 standardizes what must be communicated by a landlord during the rental application process, ensuring that prospective renters understand fees, requirements, and conditions upfront. Together, these measures help create clearer, more predictable housing expenses for individuals and families across the Commonwealth before any agreements are signed.
“Fair housing begins with fairness in the process,” said Executive Director Amber J.E. Harris. “Transparency is not a courtesy, but it is a fundamental component of a fair and accountable housing market. Housing is more than a financial transaction. It is the foundation of stability and opportunity. No Pennsylvanian should face unexpected financial burdens or unclear requirements simply because they are seeking a place to call home. Clear and consistent rental practices empower renters, promote accountability, and help remove unnecessary barriers to housing opportunities. These laws represent meaningful progress toward a Commonwealth where fairness is not just an expectation, but the standard.”
“The provisions of the new laws help address the barriers facing many tenants in the Commonwealth by improving transparency around rental applications and housing conditions” said PHRC Director of Policy & Intergovernmental Affairs Alana Burman. “The PHRC worked closely with legislators to ensure these measures complement our recommendation that the Commonwealth modernize the Landlord & Tenant Act and expand investments in affordable and middle‑market housing.”
Thes provisions of Acts 64 and 67 align with the findings of the PHRC’s 2025 State of Fair Housing in the Commonwealth report, which emphasizes the need for consistent, accessible information to prevent discriminatory practices and reduce hidden or unexpected housing costs.
“Acts 64 and 67 reflect a growing recognition of how critical clarity, access, and accountability are to fair housing,” said PHRC Fair Housing & Commercial Property Director Brittany Mellinger. “As highlighted in the 2025 State of Fair Housing report, expanding housing availability and ensuring safe housing conditions are essential steps toward equity. PHRC remains committed to educating the public, supporting housing providers, and enforcing civil rights protections to ensure every resident has a path to safe, fair, and accessible housing.”
About the PHRC:
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission enforces state laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equal opportunity for all people. The PHRC investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. Anyone who has experienced discrimination is urged to file a complaint by calling 717-787-4410. Information and resources are also available on the PHRC website. Follow the PHRC on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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