Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) has ordered 1952 Allegheny Associates LP to pay more than $55,000 in a housing discrimination case, including $45,408.10 to the complainant, a former tenant, following a hearing on damages.
The PHRC served 1952 Allegheny Associates LP with a complaint, which it failed to answer. As a result, the Commission found that 1952 Allegheny Associates LP discriminated against the complainant when it refused to transfer the tenant to another building due to their color and national origin. After Allegheny Associates failed to participate in conciliation, a public hearing was held on the issue of damages.
The PHRC also ordered the landlord to pay $10,000 to the Commonwealth as a civil penalty for emotional distress.
“The PHRC will always defend those who experience illegal discrimination,” said PHRC Executive Director Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW. “Impacts of discrimination are long-term and final orders like this one provide relief to those who file complaints with the PHRC. I am proud of our team at the PHRC for their work.”
A public hearing was held on May 16, 2024, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on the issue of damages. The state’s case was prosecuted by PHRC Assistant Chief Counsel Stacy McNaney, Esq. Although they were notified of the public hearing, 1952 Allegheny Associates LP did not attend.
In its August 26 final order, the Commission ordered 1952 Allegheny Associates LP to:
- cease and desist from acting in a discriminatory manner in the terms and conditions of any lease based on a tenant’s color or national origin.
- pay the complainant the lump sum of $45,408.10 within 90 days.
- pay the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania a civil penalty of $10,000 within 90 days.
- complete Fair Housing Training within 90 days.
- report to the PHRC within 90 days on how it will comply with the order.
“This order should serve as a deterrent for any landlord who disregards complaints of discrimination and refuses to participate in the Commission’s investigative process,” said PHRC Interim Chief Counsel Morgan Williams, Esq. “Because of 1952 Allegheny Associates LP’s unwillingness to participate, the PHRC found that the complainant was discriminated against and found it appropriate to award the maximum civil penalty permitted by law.”
Last month, the PHRC approved guidance on emotional distress damages for housing and commercial property discrimination cases. The guidance provides clarity to all Pennsylvanians regarding how the PHRC will evaluate damages resulting from discrimination in housing and/or commercial property for humiliation and embarrassment. This guidance also clarifies the PHRC’s assessment of civil penalties.
About the PHRC: The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission is the state’s civil rights enforcement agency. Anyone who has experienced acts of discrimination or hate 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, and subscribe to our monthly newsletter.